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 depending on its fiber content and the manufacturer’s care instructions. Some faux furs are machine washable, like our kullaloo FANTASTIC Furs ✶ Fuzzy Fur, which is made from 65% acrylic and 35% polyester and can be washed on the delicate cycle. Other faux furs, especially those with more delicate fibers or backings, may require handwashing to avoid damage from agitation and heat. Always check the recommended care instructions for your specific fabric before washing.

For handwashing, use lukewarm water with a small amount of mild detergent and gently swish the fabric without wringing or twisting it. If your faux fur is machine washable, use the delicate cycle and consider placing smaller pieces 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 kullaloo FANTASTIC Furs ✶ Fuzzy Fur on low heat and found that, while it causes a slight reduction in shine and texture, 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 or packaging creases develop in your faux fur, a hairdryer is a simple and gentle way to remove them. Use warm air and work in the direction of the pile, gently smoothing or brushing the fibers as you go. This helps restore the fur’s fluffy appearance without exposing it to excessive heat.

Ironing may also be possible with some faux furs, but it should be done very carefully. Always test on a scrap piece first, use a low heat setting, and avoid pressing directly onto the pile. For most wrinkles and packaging creases, a hairdryer is the safer option.

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.