How to Clean a Velvet Sofa? A Step-by-Step Guide

A key element of interior design, the velvet sofa stands out as a centerpiece in living rooms, easily adapting to various styles, whether modern, Scandinavian, or retro.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the velvet sofa stands out for its ability to absorb light and give any space a two-tone, elegant, and timeless look. But to enjoy its splendor for a long time, it's essential to choose it carefully and, above all, to know how to maintain it.

Here are some tips to help you make the right choice and ensure its longevity.

Before you start cleaning: identify the type of fabric on your sofa

Before you start caring for your velvet sofa, it is essential to know the type of fabric, as each velvet requires specific care.

Silk velvet

This fabric, often associated with refined luxury, is very delicate. Silk velvet is particularly sensitive to moisture, which can cause it to dull or wrinkle. Dry cleaning is recommended to preserve its silky texture and avoid water marks.

Cotton velvet

More robust than silk velvet, cotton velvet is slightly easier to care for. It can tolerate small amounts of water, but it is always recommended to air dry it after spot cleaning to prevent wrinkling and warping.

Linen velvet

This fabric has a more natural, rustic texture, often favored for casual styles. However, it is susceptible to stains and moisture. Dry cleaning is generally the best choice to keep it in good condition.

Synthetic velvet

This type of velvet, made from synthetic fibers like polyester, is particularly durable and practical. Easy to maintain, it withstands occasional cleaning with water and mild products, making it an ideal choice for families.

Maintaining your velvet sofa on a daily basis

To preserve your sofa, it is crucial to adopt regular maintenance.

Remove dust with a brush or vacuum cleaner

Dust quickly accumulates on velvet fibers. Use a soft natural bristle brush or a vacuum cleaner with a soft-bristled attachment to remove dust without damaging the fabric. Brush in the direction of the pile to avoid disturbing the texture.

Save fabric from recent stains

In case of liquid spills, dab immediately with a clean, dry cloth to absorb as much of the moisture as possible before it penetrates the fibers. For oily stains, sprinkle with Fuller's earth and let it sit before gently brushing.

Our tips for removing a stubborn stain on velvet

Despite your best efforts, a stain may persist. Here are some tips for removing it without damaging the fabric.

Try the soapy water and white vinegar solution

Mix a small amount of mild soap and white vinegar in warm water. Gently apply this mixture to the stain with a soft cloth, then dry quickly with a clean cloth.

Try dry cleaning your velvet sofa

If your sofa is delicate or the fabric can't stand up to water, use a dry cleaning powder specifically for upholstery. Sprinkle the powder on the stain, let it sit, then brush gently.

Use ammonia-based products with caution

If the stain is really stubborn, diluted ammonia may be effective. However, always test on an inconspicuous area of the sofa to make sure the fabric is suitable for this product.

Deep Cleaning a Velvet Sofa: Types of Cleaning Products

For deep cleaning, certain specific products are particularly effective.

The land of Sommières

This natural product effectively absorbs grease. Sprinkle generously on stains, leave for several hours (or even overnight), then remove with a soft brush.

Talc

For gentle cleaning, talc can also be used in a similar way to Fuller's earth. It is perfect for reviving the shine of velvet without harsh products.

Velvet sofa: practices to avoid when cleaning

Certain practices can damage velvet. Avoid using hard brushes, harsh cleaning products, or excess water, which can cause streaks.

How to protect your velvet sofa and maximize its lifespan?

For optimal protection, apply a fabric waterproofer after each deep cleaning. This product helps reduce stains and protect the velvet from moisture.

Can you clean the velvet sofa in the washing machine?

As a general rule, it is not recommended to machine wash velvet. The structure of the fibers could be altered by agitation. Always choose hand or dry cleaning to preserve your sofa.

Maintaining your velvet sofa bed or armchair

How to clean your velvet sofa?

Whether it's pets, children, or just a simple stain, your sofa bed is put through its paces every day. Cleaning it properly ensures you can enjoy it for a long time.

Velvet cleaning techniques according to condition

• The traditional mixture of soapy water and white vinegar for cotton velvet

This powerful duo will revive even moderately soiled velvet. In other words, there's no need to increase the dosage or you'll damage your beautiful sofa fabric .

• Wear gloves to protect your hands;
• Start by applying the mixture evenly to the sofa using a well-wrung cloth. Be careful not to soak the sofa with water, as this could damage the interior filling.
• Rinse the velvet with a washcloth;
• Gently dry the fabric with a terry towel;
• Once the velvet is dry, sprinkle your sofa with talcum powder and leave it on overnight to prevent hair from clumping;
• Vacuum the next day.
• The Land of Sommières for silk velvet

The Land of Sommières

Applying water to silk velvet can damage this noble fabric in a fraction of a second. You must opt for dry cleaning of your velvet.

• Still wearing gloves, apply the Terre de Sommières by massaging it all over your sofa.
• Leave the product on overnight and vacuum your sofa.

Stained velvet sofa: good tips...

Certain liquids and foods such as coffee, tomatoes, and red fruits can be hard on our fabrics, especially velvet.

• Test the product on a less visible area such as the hem. If the test is successful, gently rub the stain with a damp, dry cloth;
• Clean the sofa completely: this is the only way to avoid a stain.

Practices to avoid:

Good intentions can sometimes turn out to be harmful when it comes to maintaining your velvet sofa bed:

• Regardless of the cleaning method, the fabric should not take on the color of your velvet.

An ally of all fantasies, the velvet sofa bed is without a doubt the must-have of designers in recent years. Let your imagination run wild with the colors and the decor: there is little chance of making a false note with the velvet sofa .