How to Clean a Feather Cloak

If you have purchased a korowai (proper name kahu huruhuru, feather cloak) from us, and you've spilled something on it, quickly wash it off with a damp cloth.  That may be enough to stop any absorption.

But if you need to clean the cotton lining or the taniko, you may need more help.

What to avoid:

• Do not use hot water.
• Do not use bleach.
• Do not immerse the cloak - soaking the whole garment is not a good idea.
• Do not leave it anywhere when wet - it must be dried immediately.
• Do not dryclean - the chemicals used are too harsh for feathers.

What you want to do is Spot Clean, and here's how.

Spot Cleaning (of dirt or stains on the lining)

• Use a mild ph-neutral clothes wash detergent, or baby shampoo, mixed with lukewarm water.
• Using a clean white cloth, wet the cloth with the detergent mix, wring it out until it is just damp, and gently dab the affected area.  Do not rub.  
• Use a second clean, damp cloth to dab away any soap residue.
• If the stain remains, repeat the process.
• Blot the area with a clean, dry towel or cloth, then let it air dry flat - ideally somewhere warm, but absolutely not in the sun.  
• Check the feather side for any soap or water that may have come through to the other side.  Use a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.  
• Make sure the garment is completely dry before storing it.

Spot Cleaning of Feathers

• Gently dab the feathers with a clean white cloth dipped in a mix of lukewarm water and mild ph-neutral clothes wash detergent, or baby shampoo.  Mixing in some salt to the water may help if the feathers are not colourfast.  Do not make the mix overly bubbly.
• Use a second clean, damp cloth to dab away any soap residue.
• Blot the feathers with a clean, dry cloth.  Be careful, as many feathers are dyed and may not be colourfast.  
  
• Lay the cloak down to air dry somewhere warm, but out of the sun.
• If needed, you can use a blow dryer on lowest heat and air setting, to gently finish off drying and to fluff up the feathers.

Remember that your feather cloak is a taonga and it deserves careful cleaning.  Inspect it after wearing it, and don't forget to check the lining, which is just as important as the feathers in terms of making sure of its longevity.