Product Care Guide

Maintain the Quality. Preserve the History.

At Civil War Products, we take pride in offering historically inspired clothing, accessories, and weapons made with the finest materials. To ensure the longevity, comfort, and integrity of your items, it’s essential to follow proper care guidelines. This care guide will help you protect your investment and preserve the craftsmanship of each piece.

🧥 Caring for Wool Garments (Coats, Shell Jackets, Trousers)

Wool is a durable and breathable fabric commonly used in our authentic coats and uniforms. However, it requires careful handling to avoid shrinkage and maintain its structure.

Care Instructions:

• Wash by hand or in a gentle machine cycle using cold water only.

• Hang to dry indoors, in a cool, shaded area (such as a bathroom).

• Avoid sunlight or direct heat, including radiators and furnace rooms.

• Never tumble dry on heat settings.

• For best results, consider professional dry cleaning.

Tip: Always reshape the garment while it’s still damp to help it retain its original form.

👕 Caring for Cotton Garments (Shirts, Linings, Undergarments)

Cotton is comfortable and breathable, but it can shrink if exposed to high temperatures during washing or drying.

Care Instructions:

• Hand or machine wash using cold water.

• If using a dryer, choose a cool air setting only — avoid high heat.

• Alternatively, air dry indoors away from direct sunlight or heating sources.

• Do not dry garments in garages, boiler rooms, or hot attics.

Tip: To minimize wrinkles, smooth out the garment before hanging or laying it flat to dry.

👢 Caring for Leather Boots and Shoes

Leather is strong but vulnerable to heat, moisture, and drying out. Proper care keeps it flexible, conditioned, and long-lasting.

Care Instructions:

• Never dry leather items near open flames, heaters, or fireplaces — heat can damage the leather permanently.

• Let boots air dry naturally in a well-ventilated area.

• Once dry, apply a high-quality leather conditioner or oil to restore flexibility and shine.

• Store in a cool, dry place with proper air circulation.

Tip: Use a boot tree or stuff boots with paper while drying to maintain their shape.

🗡️ Caring for Edged Weapons (Swords, Sabers, Bayonets)

Your edged weapon is a real steel item—not a prop. Proper maintenance ensures its beauty and prevents rust or long-term damage.

Blade Maintenance:

• Wipe metal parts (including grips) with a light coat of fine oil or polymer wax every 3–4 months.

• If the blade is touched, clean it immediately—fingerprints can cause rust.

• To remove factory grease, use a cloth and a small amount of WD-40. Then reapply oil or wax for protection.

• Never use cooking oil or general household oils—they can damage the metal.

• Use a silicone-treated cloth after handling.

Scabbard Care:

• Leather scabbards can be treated with paste wax.

• Do not store blades in leather sheaths long-term—leather retains moisture and may rust the blade.

Important Usage Notes:

• Avoid striking your sword against other weapons or hard objects—it is not a toy or theatrical prop.

• These are well-tempered blades. Handle them with caution and respect, similar to a firearm.

• Never use your blade to cut wood or trees—it’s designed for ceremonial and historical use only.

Tip: For practice or display, use safe props. Keep your real blade clean, polished, and protected.

🧽 General Product Tips

• Store garments in breathable bags—avoid plastic covers for long-term storage.

• Use cedar blocks or sachets to deter moths and insects from wool or cotton items.

• For display items, dust regularly and inspect for signs of moisture or corrosion.