A shearling coat is more than just a winter wear. It’s something that feels like a second skin during the chilly weather. Soft suede on the outside, plush wool on the inside, and a look that never really goes out of style. But like anything well-loved, it can take a beating over time such as scuffed suede, loose seams, thinning fur, or even tears along the lining.
Now the best thing is you don’t need to do away with it or spend a fortune on professional repairs. With the appropriate care, you can revive your shearling coat. Let’s walk through the most common problems and how to fix them one step at a time.
1. Small Scuffs or Stains on the Suede
Suede is prone to the accumulation of dirt, oil, even water stains. A dirty collar or some grime near the cuffs can make a beautiful coat look bad.
What You Can Do:
- Use a suede brush or soft toothbrush to buff out dry stains gently. Always go in the same direction to avoid roughing up the surface.
- Cornstarch or baby powder works well on oily spots. Sprinkle some on, let it sit overnight, and brush it off the next morning.
- For watermarks, dampen the surrounding area lightly (don’t soak it), then let it dry evenly. This helps avoid water marks or dark patches.
- Avoid using water or cleaning sprays directly on suede. Moisture can be harmful for suede, as it can set the stain even more deeply.
2. Repairing Small Tears or Holes in the Suede
Over time, wear and tear can cause splitting of the suede particularly near pockets, elbows, or shoulders.
Your Options:
- For very small holes, use a suede repair patch (available online or in leather shops). These usually come with an adhesive back. Just press and hold it on the inside of the coat so the patch stays hidden.
- If you can work well with a needle, a curved leather needle and waxed thread can help sew the tear shut. Stitch from the inside out, keeping the outer seam as neat as possible.
- If the damage is too much or in a highly visible area, take it to a professional tailor or a leather specialist.
3. Fluffing Flattened ShearlingÂ
The soft wool inside your coat can get crushed and matted with time, particularly in areas such as under the arms or in the back where pressure is excessive.
What You Can Do:
- Gently shake out the coat and brush the shearling using a soft pet brush or wide-toothed comb. Work slowly and don’t pull too hard.
- You can also use a hairdryer on a cool, low setting to fluff it up, but keep it a few inches away from the wool.
- If it’s been squashed beyond saving, a professional shearling cleaner might be your best bet to bring it back to its former fluff.
4. Loose Seams or Lining Problems
The seam inside of a shearling coat can start to come apart particularly in the areas around the armpits, sleeves, or hem.
Quick Remedy:
Use a heavy-duty needle and waxed thread to restitch the seams. Be gentle with the process. Start from the inside of the coat so the fix stays hidden. Make short, tight stitches for strength and always tie off your ends.
Bonus Tip: If the lining is coming off but the suede is still intact, you can use fabric glue or leather cement for a quick fix just make sure it’s flexible when it dries.
5. Restoring Dry, Cracked Suede
Exposure to elements such as wind, dry air, or water can make suede stiff and flaky.
Conditioning:
- Suede is delicate, hence regular leather conditioners are a no for it.
- Instead, go for a suede renovator spray (make sure it matches the color of your coat), and apply it uniformly in a well-ventilated area.
- Once it dries, buff the coat with a suede brush to restore its texture.
6. When to See a Professional
- You can take it to a specialist, especially if:
- The tear is larger than 2–3 inches
- The shearling is worn thin in multiple spots
- You’re dealing with color damage, heavy water stains, or mold
-
Many high-end dry cleaners have shearling repair services, and some leather experts even offer mail-in repair kits.
Conclusion
Fixing a shearling coat doesn’t have to be tough. Most minor problems can be dealt with at home with a few basic tools and gentle and timely care. Go on with it calmly. Don’t make haste to fix everything at once. Handle one section at a time.
A good shearling coat ages with you. Every little mark or patch tells a story. And with a little repair work, it’ll stay with you for many more winters to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wash a shearling coat at home?
No. Even a gentle wash can ruin both the suede and the wool. Always stick to spot cleaning or professional care.
How long does a shearling coat last?
With proper care and timely repair, it can last 10 to 20 years and sometimes even longer.
Is there any way to make the suede waterproof?
You can use a suede-protecting spray to give it some water resistance, but it won’t make it fully waterproof. Avoid heavy rain if you can.
What’s the best way to store a shearling coat?
Hang it on a wide wooden hanger in a cool, dry closet. Don’t cover it in plastic. Use a breathable garment bag instead.