How to Rejuvenate your Feathers!

July 10, 2015 by House of Adorn

How to Restore and Care for Your Feathers

Feathers may appear tired or worn after use or storage, but with the right techniques, many can be brought back to life - even when they seem past their prime. Over time, feathers naturally dry out and lose their fluffiness, but a few simple steps can help restore their fullness and beauty.

How to Restore Feathers:

1. Fluff by Hand:
Start by gently rubbing the feathers or feather boa between your hands. This action revives the "feather flue" (the soft fibres), helping them become fluffy and lively again.

2. Use Steam to Open the Feathers:
Hold each feather over steam (such as from a tea kettle) to encourage it to open up. The steam softens the fibres and adds volume. Once the feather is fully opened, additional steaming won’t have much effect - so you only need to do it once per feather.

Cleaning Feathers:

If your feathers are dirty or dusty:

Wash gently in warm, soapy water using a mild soap (like baby shampoo).
Rinse thoroughly.
Let them air dry naturally in an open, well-ventilated space.
Avoid direct sunlight or heat, which can damage the feathers.
Once dry, steam them again to bring back their shape and fluff.

Note: Dyed feathers may not be colourfast, so avoid mixing different colours when washing.

Special Tip for Pheasant Feathers:

Pheasant feathers often become ruffled during storage or shipping. To restore their smooth, sleek shape:

Steam the feather as described above.
Then, gently run your fingers from the base of the stem upwards in one smooth motion.
This helps the feather fibres align and taper neatly for a clean finish.

Feather Storage Tip:

Always store feathers in a cool, dry place after use. Avoid humidity and direct heat, as these conditions can warp or damage delicate feather fibres.

Final Thoughts:

Feathers are a beautiful, natural material — and with a little care, they can last far longer than expected. Whether you're working with ostrich, pheasant, marabou, or any other type, a quick refresh using the tips above can give them new life in your next project.