Super soft and ultra luxurious, it is no wonder velvet is one of the most popular sofa fabrics. However, with a look that is fit for royalty, in the past velvet has been considered an impractical material which was “too delicate” to use in the home. The truth however couldn’t be more different with modern velvet materials.
Firstly, is velvet a good fabric for a sofa?
Believe it or not, there are several fabrics which are labelled “velvet” (“velvet” is a term which refers to the weave). In our experience, cotton, synthetics and silk are all common velvet fabrics, each of which needs to be cleaned differently. Silk, for instance, is a highly sensitive fabric and stains quickly, whereas synthetics such as polyester can easily be cleaned at home.
Is velvet practical?
Unlike other fabrics, velvet is a material with no raised weaves or loose threads. This makes it difficult for the material to snag – ideal if you live with pets.
You’ll also notice velvet has a flat pile similar to a rug, which makes it highly durable. Not only does this make velvet an ideal material for the home but it also means any dirt or pet hairs should fall away from the fabric.
How to maintain the look
Unlike fabric or leather, velvet sofas require a few weekly tune-ups to ensure that, firstly, the colour doesn’t dull and, secondly, the nap (the fuzzy surface of the fabric) stays raised.
How to clean a velvet sofa
One way to maintain the look of your velvet sofa is to gently brush it at least once a week. If there is lots of dirt, you may find it easier to use a vacuum with a special upholstery attachment (putting a vacuum directly on the fabric could see it lose its sheen).
Can’t find an attachment? Simply tie a pair of old tights around the nozzle instead so as to not crush the nap of the fibre. Not only does this keep your velvet sofa clean but it also maintains its distinctive textured pile.
How to give the fabric some sheen
If you simply want to give your velvet sofa its sheen back, try using a steamer to fluff up the fibres. Take a brush to the fabric afterwards, moving in the same direction as the steamer, to keep the fabric looking uniform.
If there’s a spillage
As velvet is a very thin material, you will need to act quickly if any spillages do crop up. Unlike fabric or leather, any liquids, even water, can stain a velvet sofa in no time at all. A simple Scotchgard treatment will protect your velvet sofa from spillages and stains (always patch test first).
What you need:
- Dry cloth
- Hairdryer
- Brush
Instructions:
Step 1: To tackle the spillage straight away, you will want to soft blot the mark with a dry cloth – try not to rub or scrub as this will mute the sheen and reduce the pile of the fabric.
Step 2: When it’s time to dry the area, blow a hairdryer over the mark until the spillage has gone.
Step 3: Once you’re happy that the spillage is removed, brush the pile up to avoid any matting. If, on the other hand, the spillage won’t budge, it is a good idea to take your velvet in for a dry clean.
TOP TIP: Test out any cleaning products (even basic soap and water) on a hidden area of your velvet sofa before any cleaning takes place. This way you can be sure the fabric won’t lose its colour or sheen.
