Quick Answer
To freshen faux fur, begin with gentle surface brushing, then remove debris with a soft bristle brush, followed by targeted cleaning using a mini handheld vacuum for upholstery. For stubborn dirt, use a garment steamer nozzle to lift fibers, and finish with a pet hair remover roller to collect remaining hair from fibers. Regular maintenance prevents matting and keeps faux fur looking plush.
What You’ll Need
- Faux fur lint brush for clothing — for quick surface lint and hair removal
- Mini handheld vacuum for faux fur upholstery — for light suction on upholstery and garments
- Pet hair remover roller for faux fur — for tracing over nap to lift hair
- Garment steamer nozzle for faux fur cleaning — for gentle steam to lift dirt and refresh fibers
- Soft bristle brush for faux fur cleansing — to loosen dirt without damaging fibers
Before You Start
Prepare a clean, well-lit workspace. Test a hidden area of the faux fur first to ensure no color transfer or fiber damage occurs. Avoid soaking faux fur; water can seep between fibers and backing. Time estimate: 20–40 minutes depending on the piece size. If the item is delicate or expensive, consider professional cleaning to prevent wear.
Step-By-Step: How To Clean Faux Fur
- Lay the faux fur item flat on a clean, dry surface. If it’s a garment, turn it inside out to protect the outer nap during cleaning.
- Gently brush the fur with a soft bristle brush for faux fur cleansing in the direction of the nap to remove surface dust and loose hair.
- Use the faux fur lint brush for clothing to lift any remaining lint or hair from the surface, keeping strokes light.
- For embedded pet hair or fibers, run a pet hair remover roller for faux fur over the nap to pick up stubborn hair without pulling fibers.
- Lightly vacuum with a mini handheld vacuum for faux fur upholstery along the nap, avoiding heavy suction that could flatten the texture.
- If you notice deeper dirt or odors, use a garment steamer nozzle for faux fur cleaning to apply a gentle, even steam from a safe distance. Allow the fur to air-dry completely.
- Brush again after steaming to restore fluff and direction of the nap. This helps blend steamed areas with the rest of the fur.
- Check for missed spots and repeat only the necessary steps. Finish with a final light brush to maintain uniform texture.
Troubleshooting
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Fix | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nap looks matted after cleaning | Over-brushing or moisture exposure | Lightly brush in the nap direction; allow to dry completely | Use gentle tools; avoid saturating with water |
| Streaks after steaming | Uneven heat or moisture | Steamer at a safe distance; use moving strokes | Test first on a hidden area |
| Discoloration or color transfer | Inactive dye or improper cleaners | Cease cleaning; seek professional/spot-test option | Always test in a hidden area |
| Excess lint reappears | Loose fibers shed over time | Regular gentle brushing and lint removal | Store properly to minimize shedding |
Common Mistakes
- Using hot water or soaking the fabric, which can damage backing
- Over-wetting the fur, causing stiffness or shrinkage
- Rubbing aggressively, leading to fiber loss or matting
- Using harsh cleaners not intended for faux fur materials
Tips For Best Results
- Keep faux fur items stored in a cool, dry place to prevent odors and moisture buildup
- Brush regularly to maintain fluff and reduce pilling on high-use garments
- Rotate cleaning tools to avoid rough fibers contacting delicate nap
- For pet owners, establish a routine cleaning schedule to minimize hair buildup
- When in doubt, start with the mildest method (brushing) before moving to vacuuming or steaming
Call A Professional
Consider professional cleaning if the faux fur shows persistent staining, heavy matting, or backing damage. Stop cleaning and consult a cleaner if:
- The item is labeled as dry-clean only or requires special care
- There is significant color fading or dye transfer
- There are visible rips, bald spots, or backing deterioration
FAQ
Can I wash faux fur in a washing machine?
Most faux fur items should not be machine-washed. Use surface cleaning methods or spot cleaning, and air-dry to protect fibers.
Is it safe to use steam on faux fur?
Yes, a garment steamer nozzle at a safe distance can refresh fibers. Avoid direct contact with heat to prevent damage.
How do I remove stubborn pet hair from faux fur?
Try a pet hair remover roller followed by a light brushing to lift remaining fibers and hair.
How often should faux fur be cleaned?
Frequency depends on use; routine brushing and light cleaning once a week for active items helps maintain nap and appearance.
What should I avoid when cleaning faux fur?
Avoid soaking, hot water, harsh solvents, and aggressive scrubbing which can damage fibers and backing.
Can I use a lint roller on all types of faux fur?
Lint rollers are generally safe, but test on a hidden area first to ensure nap integrity.
Is professional cleaning necessary for all faux fur items?
Not always, but items with long nap, delicate backing, or persistent stains may benefit from professional care.
Buying Guide
When selecting tools to clean faux fur, consider size, heat exposure, and compatibility with delicate fibers. For most households, a small kit including a soft bristle brush for faux fur cleansing, a faux fur lint brush for clothing, and a mini handheld vacuum for faux fur upholstery provides balanced maintenance. A garment steamer nozzle for faux fur cleaning is helpful for refreshing fibers between wears, while a pet hair remover roller for faux fur tackles embedded hair without harsh rubbing. Look for tools with soft materials, gentle suction options, and easy storage. Consider the size of the faux fur item (garment vs. throw), noise levels if used around pets, and whether you prefer dry methods (brushing and lint rolling) or occasional damp cleaning with light steam. For shared living spaces, compact tools are easier to store and reduce clutter, while larger, more powerful units may suit couches or blankets that accumulate hair.”