Faux fur fabric is soft, warm, and luxurious, but it needs proper care to stay fluffy and beautiful. The safest way to wash faux fur fabric is by using cold water, a gentle detergent, and minimal agitation. In most cases, hand washing is the best option, while some faux fur fabrics can be machine washed on a delicate cycle if the care label allows it. Never use high heat in the washer or dryer because it can melt or damage the synthetic fibers.
Whether you are cleaning faux fur fabric by the yard, a faux fur blanket, clothing, costume material, or home décor, the right washing method helps preserve its softness, texture, and appearance.
This guide explains exactly how to wash faux fur fabric without ruining it, along with drying tips, stain removal methods, and common mistakes to avoid.
Why Faux Fur Fabric Needs Special Care
Unlike natural fur, faux fur fabric is made from synthetic fibers such as polyester, acrylic, or modacrylic. These fibers are attached to a backing fabric using strong adhesives or stitching. Although the fibers are durable, they are sensitive to heat and rough handling.
Improper washing can cause:
- Matted or tangled fibers
- Loss of softness
- Fiber shedding
- Damage to the fabric backing
- Permanent flattening of the pile
According to the American Cleaning Institute, using the correct water temperature and detergent plays a major role in extending the life of synthetic fabrics. Gentle cleaning methods help maintain both appearance and durability.
Can You Wash Faux Fur Fabric?
Yes, most faux fur fabric can be washed, but always check the care label before cleaning.
Some premium faux fur materials are labeled as dry clean only because of their construction or decorative finishes. Others can safely be hand washed or machine washed using delicate settings.
If you purchased faux fur fabric by the yard and have not sewn it yet, test a small scrap before washing the entire piece. This helps you see how the fabric reacts to water and detergent.
Also Read: How to Prevent Cotton from Shrinking in the Wash?
What You Need Before Washing Faux Fur Fabric
Gathering the right supplies makes cleaning easier and helps prevent damage.
You will need:
- Mild liquid detergent
- Cold water
- Large basin or sink
- Soft towel
- Wide-tooth comb or pet slicker brush
- Mesh laundry bag for machine washing
- Hanger or drying rack
Avoid bleach, fabric softeners, and harsh stain removers because they may weaken synthetic fibers.
How to Hand Wash Faux Fur Fabric
Hand washing is the safest method for most faux fur fabrics because it reduces stress on the fibers.
Step 1: Shake Off Loose Dirt
Take the fabric outside and gently shake it to remove dust, hair, and debris before washing.
Step 2: Fill a Basin with Cold Water
Use cold water and mix in a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid hot water because synthetic fibers can become damaged at high temperatures.
Step 3: Gently Clean the Fabric
Place the faux fur into the water and gently move it around for several minutes. Do not scrub, twist, or wring the fabric.
Allow it to soak for about 10 to 15 minutes if it is heavily soiled.
Step 4: Rinse Thoroughly
Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean cold water. Rinse until no detergent remains.
Repeat if necessary.
Step 5: Remove Excess Water
Lay the fabric flat on a clean towel.
Roll the towel gently to absorb moisture. Never squeeze or twist the fabric because it may stretch the backing.
Can You Machine Wash Faux Fur Fabric?
Some faux fur fabric can be machine washed, but only if the manufacturer's care instructions allow it.
Follow these steps:
- Turn the fabric inside out if possible.
- Place it inside a mesh laundry bag.
- Select the delicate or gentle cycle.
- Use cold water only.
- Add a mild detergent.
- Wash separately from rough fabrics like denim or towels.
High-speed spinning can flatten the fur, so choose a low spin setting whenever available.
How to Dry Faux Fur Fabric Correctly
Drying is one of the most important steps because heat causes the greatest damage to faux fur.
Always air dry faux fur fabric.
Lay it flat on a drying rack or hang it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
As the fabric dries, gently shake it every hour to keep the fibers fluffy.
Never use:
- High-heat dryers
- Radiators
- Hair dryers
- Irons
These heat sources can permanently melt synthetic fibers.
How to Make Faux Fur Soft Again After Washing
Sometimes faux fur looks flat after washing, but it can often be restored.
Once the fabric is almost dry:
- Gently brush the fibers with a wide-tooth comb or slicker brush.
- Brush in the direction of the pile.
- Shake the fabric several times.
- Continue brushing until the fibers regain their natural volume.
Professional costume designers often use slicker brushes to maintain faux fur used in theater costumes because they separate fibers without causing excessive shedding.
How to Remove Stains from Faux Fur Fabric
Treat stains as quickly as possible before they set into the fibers.
Food and Drink Stains
Blot the spill immediately with a clean cloth.
Mix mild detergent with cold water and gently dab the stained area.
Do not rub because rubbing pushes stains deeper into the fibers.
Oil-Based Stains
Sprinkle a small amount of cornstarch over the stain.
Allow it to absorb the oil for about 30 minutes.
Brush away the powder and clean the remaining stain with mild detergent.
Makeup Stains
Use a damp cloth with a small amount of gentle soap.
Work slowly from the outside toward the center of the stain.
Always test any cleaning solution on a hidden area first.
Common Washing Mistakes That Ruin Faux Fur Fabric
Many people accidentally damage faux fur by using the wrong cleaning methods.
Here are the mistakes to avoid:
- Washing with hot water
- Using bleach
- Drying with high heat
- Twisting or wringing the fabric
- Scrubbing stains aggressively
- Ironing directly on the fibers
- Storing the fabric while damp
Avoiding these simple mistakes helps your faux fur stay soft for years.
How Often Should You Wash Faux Fur Fabric?
Faux fur does not require frequent washing.
Instead, clean it based on use.
| Item | Recommended Cleaning |
|---|---|
| Faux fur blankets | Every 2–3 months or as needed |
| Faux fur jackets | Once or twice per season |
| Decorative pillows | Every few months |
| Costumes | After heavy use |
| Faux fur fabric by the yard | Before sewing if prewashing is recommended |
Spot cleaning between washes can reduce the need for full washing.
How to Store Faux Fur Fabric Properly
Proper storage is just as important as proper washing.
Store faux fur fabric:
- In a cool, dry place
- Away from direct sunlight
- Folded loosely or hung on a wide hanger
- Inside a breathable cotton storage bag
Avoid vacuum-sealed plastic bags because compressed fibers can lose their shape over time.
Faux Fur Fabric Care Tips for Long-Lasting Softness
Good daily care helps keep faux fur looking new.
Brush the fabric occasionally to prevent tangles.
Shake blankets and throws regularly to remove dust.
Keep pets' claws away from long-pile faux fur because snagged fibers are difficult to repair.
If the fabric becomes wet from rain or snow, allow it to air dry naturally before storing it.
With proper care, high-quality faux fur fabric can maintain its appearance for many years.
Faux Fur Fabric vs Real Fur: Which Is Easier to Clean?
Many buyers choose faux fur because it requires much less maintenance than real fur.
| Feature | Faux Fur Fabric | Real Fur |
|---|---|---|
| Washing | Often hand or machine washable | Usually professional cleaning only |
| Heat Resistance | Low | Moderate |
| Cost | More affordable | More expensive |
| Everyday Maintenance | Easy | More demanding |
| Animal-Friendly | Yes | No |
| Durability with Proper Care | High | High |
For most home sewing projects, apparel, blankets, and crafts, faux fur offers easier maintenance while providing a similar luxurious appearance.
Choosing High-Quality Faux Fur Fabric That Lasts Longer
The quality of your fabric greatly affects how well it holds up after washing.
Look for faux fur fabric that has:
- Dense, evenly distributed fibers
- Strong woven backing
- Minimal shedding
- Soft texture
- Consistent pile height
Higher-quality faux fur generally resists matting better and remains softer after repeated cleaning.
When buying faux fur fabric by the yard, check fabric weight, fiber density, and intended use so you choose the right material for your project.
Shop Premium Faux Fur Fabric at Ice Fabrics
If you want faux fur fabric that stays soft, beautiful, and easy to maintain, quality matters from the beginning. At Ice Fabrics, you can find premium faux fur fabric by the yard in a variety of colors, pile lengths, and textures for blankets, apparel, costumes, home décor, and craft projects.
Choosing well-made faux fur means easier washing, less shedding, and longer-lasting softness. With proper care and regular maintenance, your faux fur projects can continue looking luxurious wash after wash.
