A faux fur coat adds instant warmth and style to any outfit, but cleaning it can feel tricky. One wrong move can flatten its texture or leave it looking dull. The good news is that faux fur, unlike real fur, is easier to maintain as long as you follow the right cleaning steps.
If you’ve been wondering how to wash faux fur in washing machines or how to clean faux fur coats safely at home and keep them soft and fluffy, this guide walks you through everything you need to know.
Can You Wash a Faux Fur Jacket or Coat in the Washing Machine?
Most faux fur coats can be machine washed, but only under gentle conditions. Always check the care label first. If the tag says “machine washable,” use cold water and select the delicate or handwash cycle.
Before washing, turn the coat inside out and place it in a large mesh laundry bag to reduce friction. Use a mild detergent that’s free from bleach and fabric softeners. These chemicals can strip the fibers and leave your coat stiff.
Once the cycle is done, skip the spin or tumble-dry setting. Instead, remove excess water by pressing the coat gently between towels. Machine washing can work well for sturdy faux fur pieces, but handwashing remains the safest option for delicate ones.
How Do You Wash Faux Fur by Hand for Best Results?
Handwashing gives you more control and keeps faux fur looking fresh and fluffy. Here’s how to do it right:
Prepare Cool Water and Mild Detergent
Fill a basin with cool water and add a small amount of gentle detergent made for delicate fabrics. Avoid hot water, which can melt or distort synthetic fibers.
Submerge the Coat Gently
Place the faux fur coat in the water and move it slowly with your hands. Focus on lightly swishing the fabric instead of rubbing or twisting it. Allow it to soak for about ten minutes to loosen dirt and oils.
Rinse Until the Water Runs Clear
Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cool water. Rinse thoroughly to remove all detergent. Repeat if necessary until the coat feels clean and residue-free.
Remove Excess Water Carefully
Lift the coat gently and press it against the side of the basin to release extra water. Do not wring or twist. Lay the coat flat on a towel, roll it up, and press lightly to absorb moisture.
Air Dry Naturally
Spread the coat flat on a new dry towel or drying rack in a shaded, well-ventilated space. Allow it to dry completely before brushing or wearing. Avoid heat sources, as they can cause the fibers to clump or melt.
What Is the Safest Way to Clean Faux Fur Without Washing?
Cleaning faux fur? If your coat just needs a refresh rather than a full wash, spot cleaning or steaming is the best option.
Use a soft, damp cloth with a small amount of mild detergent to dab any dirty spots gently. Wipe in the direction of the fur to avoid tangling the fibers. After cleaning, blot with a dry towel and let it air dry completely.
For overall freshness, hang your coat in a steamy bathroom for a few minutes. The light moisture helps fluff the fur and remove wrinkles without soaking it. A fabric brush can also help lift matted areas and restore volume.
Can You Wash a Coat with Faux Fur Lining or Trim?
Yes, but with extra care. Faux fur linings or trims are usually attached to materials that react differently to water. If possible, detach the fur section before cleaning.
If the fur cannot be removed, handwash the entire coat gently or use the delicate machine cycle in a laundry bag. Avoid soaking the lining for too long, and dry the coat flat afterward to prevent stretching or misshaping.
For coats with fur collars or hoods, spot cleaning is often the safest approach. Use a damp cloth to clean only the affected area, then brush the fur back into place once dry.
How to Maintain Faux Fur After Washing
Proper maintenance keeps faux fur coats looking new even after multiple washes. Here are tips to remember to keep your fur in its best condition.
Brush the Fur
Once dry, use a wide-tooth comb or soft garment brush to gently separate fibers and restore volume. Brush in the direction of the fur’s grain to avoid tangling.
Shake Out Dust and Debris
Give your coat a gentle shake after each wear to prevent dust buildup and maintain its natural bounce.
Avoid Heavy Friction
Be mindful of seatbelts, bag straps, or rough surfaces that can flatten faux fur fibers over time. Lightly brushing them afterward helps maintain their texture.
Store with Space
When hanging your coat, use a sturdy, broad-shouldered hanger to maintain shape and allow air circulation between garments.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Washing Faux Fur?
Even synthetic fur requires careful cleaning. Here are a few mistakes that can cause lasting damage when you’re washing a faux fur item, and how to avoid them.
Using Hot Water or High Heat
Heat is the fastest way to ruin fau fur. It can melt fibers and cause permanent matting. Always use cool water and avoid dryers or direct sunlight.
Rubbing or Wringing
Rubbing the fabric creates tangles, while wringing can pull the fibers loose from their base. Instead, handle the coat gently and let gravity do the drying.
Skipping the Rinse
Leaving detergent behind can make the fur stiff and dull. Always rinse until the water runs clear.
Using the Wrong Detergent
Choose mild, gentle detergents without bleach or softeners. Harsh chemicals can cause color fading and weaken fibers.
Ignoring the Brushing Step
A faux fur coat looks its best when brushed after drying. Skipping this step leaves the fur clumped and flat, reducing its softness and shine.
Machine-Drying or Ironing
Never put faux fur in the dryer or under an iron. High temperatures can warp synthetic strands, making the texture uneven or rough.
Should You Use a Professional Cleaner for Faux Fur Coats?
If your faux fur coat is expensive, vintage, or heavily soiled, professional cleaning is the safest choice. Some stains, especially oil-based or makeup marks, need special treatment that home cleaning cannot handle.
Professional cleaners have the right tools and techniques to preserve the coat’s texture and shape. SpinXpress, in particular, is known as the best laundromat in Dallas for handling specialty fabrics like faux fur. We provide gentle garment care using safe, fiber-friendly methods that bring back the coat’s softness and sheen without damage.
How to Store and Preserve Faux Fur Coats During Off-Season
Faux fur needs to breathe, so proper storage is key to keeping it fluffy and odor-free between seasons.
Clean Before Storing
Always clean your coat before putting it away. Even small traces of dirt or oil can attract dust and odors over time.
Hang with a Wide Hanger
Use a broad, padded hanger to keep the shoulders in shape. Avoid wire hangers that can cause indentations.
Cover with a Cotton Garment Bag
Store your coat in a breathable cotton bag rather than plastic. Plastic traps moisture, which can lead to mildew or odor.
Keep in a Cool, Dry Place
Store your coat in a dark closet or a temperature-controlled space away from sunlight, which can fade colors and weaken fibers.
Refresh Occasionally
Every few months, take your coat out, shake it gently, and brush the fur to maintain its softness and natural fluff.
Keep Your Faux Fur Coat Fresh with SpinXpress
Faux fur coats bring luxury and warmth, but they also deserve gentle care. When you want your coat to look and feel brand new again, trust SpinXpress, the best laundromat in Dallas, for reliable cleaning and expert garment handling.
We’re located in Dallas, TX, SpinXpress and we offer professional laundry care for delicate fabrics, including faux fur, wool, and cashmere. Our advanced wash and fold services use gentle cleaning methods that preserve your coat’s softness, color, and structure.
Skip the worry and let SpinXpress handle the details. Visit SpinXpress today to learn more about our full range of services and keep your favorite faux fur coat looking great all year round.
