Velvet upholstery has a complex reputation. It's equal parts bold, classic and, for many, kind of intimidating. Nosotros get it. Brightly lit rooms tin can fade richly pigmented colors, pets tin go far hard to go on the cushions clean, and children — sigh — can always make it hard to own nice things. And so, sure. There may be barriers to owning high-stop upholstery, simply if you lot choose to invest in velvet, just know that it isn't as daunting as information technology seems to keep it clean.

Whether you're sourcing a vintage slice of piece of furniture or just looking to clean up a much-loved article that y'all already own, these easy cleaning tips for velvet upholstery make it possible to protect and maintain your investment.

Vacuum the Surfaces

Even if you lot're not doing deep cleans to protect against kids' PBJ fingers or pet dander, vacuuming your velvet upholstery is the easiest fashion to keep naturally occurring dust from settling into the fabric. A vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment is gentle and makes information technology piece of cake to arouse the material to lift dust and dirt. Avoid high-suction vacuum attachments, though. They may pull at the velvet and cause irreparable damage (especially fragile vintage fibers).

If you lot don't have an upholstery attachment, use a soft-bristled brush to routinely "dust" your velvet to forestall build-up.

If you're cleaning a sofa or chair, remove the cushions and get the vacuum into the nooks and crevices where dirt and loose change collect. A buildup of dust and dirt will stain and wear on the fibers over fourth dimension.

Test Cleaning Agents

Always examination cleaners on a discreet role of your velvet upholstery. You'll desire to see if it affects saturated colors or the texture of the velvet. You'll also want to see how the velvet dries and how easily you can brush the pile to restore it to lucifer the residue of the upholstery.

Wash and Spot Clean

Warm, bubbly dish lather and water often works well for cleaning large areas of upholstery. Spot cleaners can as well aid tackle deeper stains, merely you should yet consider cleaning a broader expanse to prevent lifting dye from a unmarried spot or agitating the fibers in 1 small area in an unforgivable manner. If yous clean a ten-inch radius around the spot you're targeting, it'll exist less obvious when information technology dries.

Brush the Velvet

Once any moisture has dried, you'll demand to use a soft-bristled brush to smooth downwardly the surface of the velvet to restore the direction of the fibers and refresh the pile. Brush in the direction of the pile to even out the texture.

E'er Clean Spills Fast

If liquid gets spilled on the velvet upholstery, accept steps immediately to blot the stain. Paper towels piece of work quickly to absorb moisture, but a rag can manage larger volumes. Press deep into the textile — don't rub — and if information technology's a night stain like red wine, consider applying an upholstery cleaner to the spot to help treat for potential stains.

Know When to Ask for Professional Help

You might consider hiring a professional if your upholstery has a large, deep stain, or is frail and vintage. They may crave you to bring in your upholstery for treatment or make recommendations for cleaning it at home based on its condition. With a little know-how, they tin help brand certain your investment remains in excellent condition.