Tibetans do not understand why Westerners wear coats with the fur on the outside. In fact, the fur on the inside is definitely the way to go if you are looking for warmth and weather resistance, which might be why Shearling coats are so popular.
Shearling, or lambskin, is softer and more pliable than fur and like most leather; it is more durable than cloth. If you own a shearling garment, you know what I mean and you will undoubtedly want to do everything possible to care for it so you can enjoy it for many, many years.
Since you have an intact hide, leather and wool, proper care guidelines will apply to both. Shearling coat leather is sueded and may be treated with a finish to increase characteristics like durability and weather resistance. The wool on the inside may be treated to enhance softness or help with a color process.
When you buy a shearling coat, ask about the retailer or manufactures recommendations for care.
Proper Shearling Care
Orvis has been making shearling coats and jackets for over 100 years has this to say about wear and care:
1. When not in use, you should hang your shearling coat or jacket on a sturdy, wellshaped coat hangar. Although it might be tempting to hang it on the doorknob when you come home every day, you want to avoid this.
2. Avoid stain resistant treatments that are made of silicone
3. Do not put adhesive stickers on shearling coats or jackets, as part of the adhesive can either get left behind or the adhesive may itself pull off some of the fabric
4. Never throw a shearling coat or jacket into the washing machine or the dryer - most shearling coats are meant to be dry cleaned
5. Do not let dirt stay on a shearling jacket, as heavily soiled shearling jackets are obviously more difficult to clean than shearling coats that are not infiltrated with dirt
6. Never place a shearling coat or jacket right next to an open fire or other strong heat source, such as a heater as the high heat from a fire or heater can damage it. Additionally, do not store a shearling coat in direct sunlight, as it can be bleached out over time.
7. When storing shearling coats and jackets, be sure you never put them in a plastic garment bag for any extended time. Cloth garment bags are highly recommended for both storage and travel of shearling, as they are protective but breathable.
8. Do not "stuff" a shearling coat or jacket in with tons of other clothes. Ideally, a shearling jacket should have a little bit of "breathing room" when hanging in a closet
10. Cleaning a shearling coat or jacket should be done in the spring, regardless of how dirty the jacket may look, as solvents and salt can accumulate on the jacket. These solvents can damage a shearling coat if left on it over time.
Lambskin can be worn for warmth and comfort, or for looks. Check to see how it looks when worn inside out.
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