: Avoid coats with musty or mildew odors. These scents indicate the fur was stored in high humidity and is likely rotting internally; such odors are often permanent.
When inspecting a used fur, use your senses to check for signs of "dry rot"—a condition where the leather backing has dried out and becomes brittle, making it unsalvageable. buying a used fur coat
: Run your hand across the fur. While minor shedding is normal for some types, hair coming out in clumps can indicate moth damage or extreme dryness. Check high-friction areas like underarms and necklines for bald patches. : Avoid coats with musty or mildew odors