Fur Information Center

Services

Cold Storage

Furs must be stored in the warm months to keep the fur's leather from drying out. A closet at home will not do. At The Barnes House furs are kept in specially designed fur vaults that are maintained at 50 degrees Fahrenheit and 50% humidity in complete darkness. This will keep the fur's leather soft and supple and will prevent drying out. When a fur pelt dries out the leather begins to tear. Once this happens it is not repairable.

Conditioning/Cleaning

Cleaning a fur garment is a special process done only by a qualified furrier. It should never be taken to a dry cleaner. A qualified furrier will take the fur and tumble it in an enriched powder, which is specially formulated for furs, to soften the leather and to fluff and clean the fur. The process adds a beautiful sheen, and the more a fur is conditioned, the better it is for the fur.

General Maintenance

The Barnes House provides complete alterations, monogramming and repair services.

A New Look For An Old Fur

Restyle/Remake

The old fur you no longer wear can be made new again at Barnes. Whether it's the fit or style you no longer like, The Barnes House offers a designer solution. Just ask our many customers who have experienced our design success. It is now possible to take an old fur and make it into a designer piece. The options are amazing. We can turn an old stole into a vest, or a stroller into a sheared reversible jacket, and that's just the tip of a really cold iceberg. Visit the store to see the options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my fur gets wet?

Fur is very durable; the hardest thing to take care of is the lining inside the fur. Rain will not hurt fur. If your fur gets wet from rain or snow, just hang it back on the hanger provided when purchased and shake it gently; then let it dry naturally in an open space. NEVER use any heat source to speed up the drying process. This will PERMANENTLY DAMAGE the fur. Although the fur can get wet, NEVER allow it to be submerged in water. If this happens take it immediately to the nearest furrier.

Are sheared furs as warm as natural furs?

Although sheared furs are lighter in weight they are just as warm as natural furs.

Do furs change color over time?

Lighter colored furs over the course of many years will change color. White will change to a more cream color and light tan to a more yellow color. The change is so gradual that often a customer will not notice it is happening. Even though this happens, considering the amount of time it takes, lighter furs are still a favorite color of choice.

Is cold storage really necessary on all furs?

Yes, furs need to be placed in a humidity and temperature controlled fur vault that is much colder and dryer than your residence. If you want your fur to last a lifetime and to be in excellent shape, this is a must. If you elect to keep it in your home during the warm months, your fur pelts will dry out, become brittle and begin to have small tears in them. This is not repairable.

Where do I keep my fur at home?

While you have it at home, keep it in the coolest and darkest closet. Heat, light and humidity are the things that can damage your fur. When putting it in the closet, make sure it is not pressed up against other garments; this can wrinkle and mat the fur. Make sure the light is turned off, the closet is not hot and the fur is not touching anything hot. For example, you would not want it close to a light bulb or a vent.

Should I wear my fur often?

Your fur benefits from being worn. The movement helps keep the leather underneath the fur soft and flexible. Not wearing it, and saving it only for special occasions, can actually age it. Wear your fur to the grocery store or to run errands. Enjoy your fur. Nothing feels as wonderful.

What is the difference between female and male mink coats?

Female mink is generally lighter in weight, softer and suppler than the male mink. Additionally, coats made from female mink pelts are more expensive. Coats made from male pelts make beautiful coats also. There are many choices when looking at natural mink coats. You should choose your favorite. Every coat made of mink is a wonderful coat.

What about insuring my fur?

The best coverage is to add a scheduled personal property endorsement to your homeowner's policy. The expense is nominal, and this insures your fur at home, in the car, on a trip or when the fur is in storage. We will provide you with the needed fur appraisal to give to your insurance company.