Minky care instructions: how to wash, dry and iron minky and fur fabrics

Minky care instructions: how to wash, dry and iron minky and fur fabrics

Minky and faux fur are perfect for cozy, stylish projects, but they require different care routines to keep their texture and quality intact. Follow these minky care instructions to maintain their softness and vibrant look!

Minky fabric care: easy and convenient

Minky fabrics like our SuperSoft SHORTY or even SHAGGY are a breeze to care for, making them a go-to choice for baby blankets, soft toys, and home accessories. They are machine washable, tumble-dry friendly, and resistant to shrinking. Most colors won’t bleed, though darker shades like black and red might release some dye during the first wash. You can pre-wash and sort similar colors to avoid any surprises, but we usually sew first and then wash before stuffing (if needed). This helps remove lint and any marks left by washable fabric markers, and we never had any issues doing it like that.

When washing minky, use warm water (40°C) with a mild detergent. Skip the fabric softener – it can coat the plush fibers and make them feel sticky. For drying, tumble dry on low heat to keep the fabric cozy. To remove lint after cutting or sewing, you can run the minky in the dryer with a damp cloth on a low-heat cycle to remove it effectively (10 minutes should be enough).

Occasionally, packaging or storage might leave creases or flattened areas. These can be smoothed out with an iron set to level 2 (low heat) and steam applied in the direction of the nap. Always test the heat on a scrap piece to avoid damage, as minky can melt if overheated!

How to care for minky fabric:

  • Washing: Machine wash in warm water. Avoid fabric softener to avoid a sticky texture
  • Drying: Tumble dry on low heat
  • Ironing: Use an iron set to level 2 with steam (test first)

Faux fur fabric care: special attention needed

Faux fur adds a luxurious touch to projects but requires careful handling, particularly based on its fiber content. Faux furs made from 100% polyester, like our kullaloo FANTASTIC Furs ✶ Fuzzy Fur, are durable and machine washable on the delicate cycle. In contrast, faux furs with acrylic content require handwashing to avoid damage, as they are more sensitive to agitation and heat.

For handwashing, use lukewarm water with a small amount of mild detergent, and gently swish the fabric without wringing or twisting it. If machine washing 100% polyester faux fur, use cold water, then select the delicate cycle and place it in a mesh laundry bag to protect the pile. Fabric softener should be avoided for all types of faux fur, as it can leave a residue that changes the fabric’s softness and feel!

Drying faux fur should always be done with care. For best results, lay the fabric flat on a towel in a well-ventilated area to air dry, reshaping it as needed. Avoid using dryers with heat, as high temperatures can distort the fibers, especially for furs with acrylic content – air drying is essential to maintain their texture and longevity.

That said, we understand the need for convenience. We’ve tested tumble drying our 100% polyester faux fur on low heat and found that, while it causes a slight reduction in shine, it doesn’t affect the softness or overall look. For us, the convenience of using the dryer (especially before stuffing handmade plushies) outweighs the minor change in appearance, making it a practical option for everyday use.

If wrinkles develop in your faux fur, ironing can be a convenient option, but it must be done carefully to avoid altering the pile. Use a low or medium heat setting on your iron, always testing on a scrap piece first to ensure the fabric can handle the temperature. For a safer and more reliable method, use a hairdryer to gently remove wrinkles. This approach is less likely to damage the fur and helps maintain its natural texture. Always work slowly and with care to preserve the fur’s softness and appearance.

How to care for faux fur fabric:

  • Washing: Hand wash with lukewarm water and mild detergent. If using a machine, place the fur in a mesh laundry bag and select the delicate cycle. Avoid fabric softener, as it can leave residue and affect the fabric’s feel.
  • Drying: Lay flat to air dry for best results. For convenience, tumble dry on no heat or low heat, noting that it may cause slight changes in texture or shine.
  • Removing Wrinkles: Gently use a hairdryer on a low or cool setting—avoid ironing to prevent damage.
  • Fluffing: Restore texture by brushing with a wide-tooth comb or pet brush.