How to Care for Faux Fur Clothing and Accessories

Faux fur has become a staple of cool-weather fashion — from plush coats and jackets to collar trims, vest details, and accessories. Unlike real fur, faux fur is made from synthetic fibers (typically acrylic or polyester), which means it responds differently to cleaning, heat, and storage. Here's how to keep it looking fluffy and luxurious.

Can You Machine Wash Faux Fur?

Some faux fur items can be machine washed, but many cannot — and the care label is your first source of truth. Look for the care label before attempting any home cleaning.

If machine washing is permitted:

• Use cold water only — heat melts and mats acrylic fibers permanently
• Use a gentle or delicate cycle with minimal agitation
• Mild detergent, no fabric softener (softener can coat fibers and reduce the fluffy texture)
• Place in a mesh laundry bag to protect the pile during washing
• Never wring — squeeze gently and roll in a towel to remove excess water

Never machine wash:

• Structured faux fur coats with interfacing or padding
• Items with mixed materials (leather trim, sequins, embellishments)
• Vintage faux fur or items where the backing fabric is unknown
• Any item labeled "dry clean only"

Drying Faux Fur: The Critical Step

Heat is faux fur's biggest enemy. Never put faux fur in a hot dryer. Heat melts synthetic fibers, matting the pile permanently and destroying the texture that gives faux fur its appeal.

• Air dry flat or on a padded hanger away from direct sunlight and heat sources
• Once nearly dry, shake gently to restore pile
• Use a soft pet slicker brush (with fine wire bristles) or a wide-tooth comb to gently restore the fluffy texture while still slightly damp

Spot Cleaning Faux Fur

For small spills or surface dirt:

• Blot immediately with a clean dry cloth — don't rub
• Dampen a cloth with cold water and a small amount of gentle detergent
• Work from the outer edges of the stain toward the center
• Rinse with a clean damp cloth, then air dry
• Brush gently when dry to restore the pile direction

When to Bring Faux Fur to a Professional

Professional dry cleaning is the safest option for:

• Full-size faux fur coats and jackets
• Items with "dry clean only" labels
• Severely matted or compacted pile that home brushing hasn't restored
• Items with staining or odor that require deeper cleaning

Our team at River Oaks Cleaners understands synthetic fiber cleaning chemistry. We can safely clean faux fur garments and restore pile texture without the heat damage that can occur from improper home care.

Storing Faux Fur

• Store in a cool, dry location — not a hot Houston attic
• Hang on a wide padded hanger to preserve shape
• Use a breathable garment bag, not plastic (plastic traps moisture)
• Store away from heavy garments that can compress and mat the pile

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River Oaks Cleaners handles specialty garments with care. Free pickup and delivery available across Houston. Call (713) 523-7474.