Kāhu Huruhuru care: preserving your taonga

Your Kāhu Huruhuru is a precious taonga, a treasured possession that embodies Māori heritage and artistry. With proper care, your cloak will remain a beautiful symbol for generations to come. Follow our guidelines to ensure its longevity and exquisite condition.

Essential care for lasting beauty

To ensure your Kāhu Huruhuru remains in pristine condition, regular and gentle care is essential. Handle your cloak with respect and always use clean hands to prevent transferring oils or dirt to the feathers. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, which can damage the delicate natural fibres.

For minor dust, gently shake the cloak outdoors or use a soft, dry cloth to lightly brush the feathers in their natural direction. For deeper cleaning, it is highly recommended to seek professional cleaning services experienced in handling delicate feathered items. Always consult a specialist to ensure the correct methods are used to preserve the integrity and beauty of your Kāhu Huruhuru. Do not attempt to machine wash or tumble dry your cloak, as this will cause irreversible damage.

Important don'ts for your Kāhu Huruhuru

There are critical things to avoid to protect your precious feathered cloak:

  • Never get your Kāhu Huruhuru wet. Water can cause the feathers to mat, lose their natural oils, and become permanently damaged. Avoid wearing it in the rain or in humid conditions.
  • Do not expose your cloak to direct sunlight for prolonged periods. UV rays can cause the natural colours of the feathers to fade and become brittle over time.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals. Do not use perfumes, hairsprays, or any cleaning agents directly on the feathers, as these can strip their natural lustre and cause damage.
  • Do not store in plastic bags. Plastic can trap moisture and prevent air circulation, leading to mildew and feather deterioration.
  • Avoid crushing or compressing the feathers. This can permanently alter their shape and appearance.

Storing your treasured cloak

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the beauty and integrity of your Kāhu Huruhuru when it's not being worn. The ideal storage environment is cool, dry, and dark, with good air circulation.

  • Breathable storage: Store your cloak in a breathable garment bag made from cotton or linen. This protects it from dust and pests while allowing air to circulate.
  • Flat or gently rolled: For longer periods, ideally, lay your Kāhu Huruhuru flat in a large, clean box or chest. If space is limited, you can gently roll it with tissue paper inserted between the layers to prevent feathers from being crushed.
  • Moth protection: Place natural moth repellents such as cedar balls or lavender sachets near your cloak, but ensure they do not directly touch the feathers. Avoid chemical mothballs as their fumes can damage delicate fibres.
  • Avoid hanging: Do not hang your Kāhu Huruhuru for extended periods, as this can distort the shape of the cloak and strain the delicate feather attachments due to gravity.
  • Regular inspection: Periodically check your stored cloak for any signs of pests or damage, especially during seasonal changes.