How to Wash Faux Fur Without Melting or Matting It
Faux fur is a synthetic pile fabric — essentially fine plastic fibers standing on a backing — and that means one rule dominates all others: no heat, ever. A single hot wash or a few minutes in a hot dryer melts and permanently mats the pile into a crunchy, clumped mess. Treat it cool and gentle and it stays plush.
Key takeaways
- Faux fur is plastic pile — any heat melts and permanently mats it.
- Hand-wash or gentle-cold, mild detergent, and air dry flat only.
- Never wring wet faux fur; press water out and let it drip.
- Brush the pile back into shape with a soft brush once it's fully dry.
Cold Only, No Heat
Every step of faux-fur care avoids heat.
| Step | Do |
|---|---|
| Wash | Hand-wash cold, or machine gentle-cold in a bag for small items |
| Detergent | Mild; no bleach |
| Dry | Air dry flat only — never a heated dryer |
Check the label first: many faux-fur coats are spot-clean or dry-clean only.
Handle Wet Fur Gently
Don't wring or twist faux fur — it deforms the pile and backing. Press water out gently or let it drip, and lay flat or hang to air dry away from direct heat and sun. Drying can take a day; that's normal.
Brush the Pile Back
Faux fur mats when wet. Once it's fully dry, brush it out with a soft-bristle brush or a wide-tooth comb, working in the direction of the pile, to restore the fluffy, natural look. A cool shot from a hair dryer held well back can help lift it — never warm air.
Never Do This
- Don't use any heat — hot water or a hot dryer melts and mats the pile for good.
- Don't wring or twist — it deforms the backing.
- Don't iron; direct heat destroys synthetic fur instantly.