How to Clean and Care for Your Velvet Sofa: The Effortless Way

Velvet sofas epitomise elegance with their soft touch and subtle sheen, instantly elevating any sitting room. Whether you have chosen a rich jewel tone or a gentle neutral, this sumptuous upholstery deserves the right care to stay looking flawless. 

If you have recently welcomed one of these statement pieces into your home, you may wonder how to keep it in top condition. Although velvet can seem high-maintenance, regular cleaning need not be a chore. With a few simple steps and everyday tools, your sofa can look as good as new in no time. 

Here’s your go-to guide on how to clean a velvet sofa at home, plus tips on caring for crushed velvet too.

1. Keep It Out of Direct Sunlight

Before you even reach for the vacuum or spray, here is a maintenance tip that is often overlooked: position your velvet sofa away from harsh sunlight. Velvet can fade over time when exposed to direct light, which can diminish the richness of its colour, especially in brighter or more vibrant shades. If you have chosen a velvet corner sofa, placing it in a shaded nook is ideal. For two- or three-seater sofas, aim to position them against walls and away from large, sun-facing windows. Sheer curtains or blinds can also filter sunlight while still brightening the room. 

2. Give It a Regular Vacuum: Gently Does It

There is nothing quite like putting your feet up with a biscuit and a brew, yet crumbs have a sneaky habit of settling into the cushions. To refresh your velvet upholstery, fit the soft-bristle nozzle to your vacuum cleaner. Velvet is a delicate fabric, and standard vacuum heads may be too harsh. Use a low power setting and sweep the surface gently, always moving in the direction of the fabric pile. This quick routine not only removes dust and crumbs but also helps prevent the fibres from flattening, keeping your sofa looking plush and well cared for.

3. Tackle Spills and Stains Promptly

We have all enjoyed the occasional meal on the sofa, whether it is a saucy pasta or a curry takeaway, and accidents will happen. If you spot a spill, it is best to deal with it straight away.

Begin by pressing an absorbent cloth onto the stain to draw out excess liquid. Avoid rubbing, as this can drive the mark deeper into the pile. Next, prepare a mild solution of warm water and a drop of washing-up liquid. Dampen a clean microfibre cloth with this mixture and gently dab the affected area until the stain lifts.

If a spill goes unnoticed until the next day, tackle dry marks by making a paste of bicarbonate of soda and lemon juice. Apply it lightly with a dry cloth, leave for a few minutes, then wipe away the residue with a damp cloth. Allow the fabric to air-dry fully before using. 

4. Use a Velvet Brush to Revive the Fabric

Once your sofa is clean and stain-free, give it a finishing flourish with a velvet upholstery brush (rather than a hairbrush, however tempting). Gently brush along the grain of the fabric. 

This action helps to lift the pile, smooth out any flattened patches and restore that signature velvet sheen. Take your time and brush softly— you will be amazed at how much fresher your sofa looks. Then simply fluff the cushions, put your feet up and relax. 

How to Clean a Crushed Velvet Sofa

Crushed velvet offers a unique texture but requires a gentler approach. The main difference is that you should avoid soaking the fabric, as excess moisture can cause damage. 

• When treating stains, dip your cloth into the soapy suds only, not the water itself, then lightly dab the affected area.
  
  

• Always allow the fabric to air dry naturally.
  
  

Brushing and vacuuming crushed velvet upholstery should be done exactly as with standard velvet, using only soft-bristle tools, making gentle strokes and following the direction of the pile. 

Final Tips for Velvet Sofa Care

To get the most from your velvet furniture, try these extra measures:

• Give your cushions a weekly fluff to preserve their shape and prevent uneven wear.
  
  

• Always check the care label before applying any new product and avoid harsh detergents or solvents.
  
  

• If your cushions are reversible, rotate them regularly so wear remains even across all sides.

🤔 🛋️ FAQ 🛋️ 🤔

1. How often should I vacuum a velvet sofa?
Aim to vacuum gently once a week using a soft-bristle attachment to keep dust and crumbs at bay without flattening the pile. 

2. Can I use a fabric protector on velvet upholstery?
Yes, but always spot-test first on a hidden area and choose a protector designed for delicate fabrics to guard against spills. 

3. What’s the best way to revive flattened velvet pile?
Use a specialised velvet brush to lift the fibres, brushing gently in the direction of the nap to restore the fabric’s natural sheen.