If you inherited a mink stole from your great grandmother or you have recently purchased one to add to your wardrobe, it is important to know how to care for it to retain its beauty and longevity. Even a stole that is many years old can be a beautiful addition to your wardrobe with the proper care and storage.
Hang with Care
Your stole needs plenty of room in the closet; this means you need to avoid cramming it in with the rest of your clothing. It needs room to breathe. If this means storing it on its own, it would be much better off. Avoid the use of moth balls near it and always hang it upright in a closet, rather than in a trunk or chest.
Taking It Out of the Closet
On the occasions you wear your mink stole, avoid brushing it when you take it out of the closet, even if it looks matted. If the fur looks a little rough, you can gently comb through it with clean fingers to bring the soft look back to it. If the damage is too severe, it is best to leave it alone and bring it to a professional furrier to properly clean it and make it look fresh again before wearing it.
Wearing Your Stole
Try to put your stole on as the last thing you do before leaving the house. This avoids the risk of getting perfume or hairspray on it as you take your last steps to primp before leaving the house. The alcohol in these items can dry your fur out. When you are in the car, avoid crushing the fur with the seatbelt. If you can’t position yourself to keep the stole safe, it is best to take it off while in the car. You should also avoid placing your purse strap on the fur because it could crush it, ruining its beauty.
Cleaning
Fur easily captures dust and dirt, which makes it necessary to have it professionally cleaned at a reputable furrier at least once per year or more as necessary. You should definitely have it cleaned before storing it for the summer and should consider having your mink stole professionally stored during the warmer months to preserve its beauty, rather than trying to regulate the temperature and humidity in your home to ensure its beauty.
