How to Properly Clean Velvet Fabric/Clothes at Home

Cleaning velvet clothes at home can be a bit tricky, as this delicate fabric requires special care to avoid damage. The wrong detergent, water temperature, or washing process can ruin your velvet garments. If your velvet fabric also features intricate embroidery or embellishments, the cleaning process becomes even more challenging. In this article, we'll guide you through the ideal cleaning methods for different types of velvet, how to effectively remove stains, and provide tips on taking care of your velvet clothes.

Ideal Cleaning Method for Different Types of Velvet

Velvet comes in two primary forms: pure velvet and mixed velvet (such as crushed or polyester velvet). The choice between dry cleaning and washing at home depends on the type of velvet you're dealing with.

Pure Velvet: Dry Cleaning Only

Pure velvet has extremely fine grains that can be damaged by regular washing machines or even hand washing. To maintain the fabric's integrity, it's recommended to opt for dry cleaning. Professional dry cleaners use specialized techniques and chemicals to ensure that the fabric, color, and softness remain intact.

Crushed or Polyester Velvet: Suitable for Home Washing

Polyester or crushed velvet can be washed at home with care. While it's safe to use a washing machine, it's best to minimize agitation. Hand washing is a gentler alternative for cleaning velvet clothes.

How to Remove Stains from Velvet Clothes

When dealing with stains on velvet clothes, avoid using harsh commercial stain removers. Instead, try these spot treatment methods:

Laundry Detergent

• Wet the stained area with water.
• Sprinkle powdered detergent or pour 2-4 drops of liquid detergent directly on the stain.
• Gently rub the stain with your fingers.
• Rinse with plain cold water.

Lemon Juice + Baking Soda

• Mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda with an equal amount of lemon juice and dilute it with an equal amount of water.
• Wet the stained area.
• Apply the paste on the stain with your fingers.
• Gently dab it using a microfiber cloth.
• Continue dabbing until the stain is gone.

While laundry detergent and the lemon juice-baking soda mixture can effectively remove many stains, some may require professional intervention. In such cases, seek dry cleaning services from experts to ensure stain removal without damaging your velvet garment.

Three Ways to Clean Velvet Clothes at Home

1. Brush Your Velvet Clothes

To maintain the delicate fabric of your velvet garments, use a clothing brush to remove dirt and grit that accumulates with regular wear. Follow these steps:

• Hang the garment on a clothesline or lay it on a clean, flat surface.
• Gently brush the entire garment using a clothing brush, moving it in a to-and-fro motion.
• Allow the garment to air out for 3-4 hours.

Avoid using hot water for cleaning velvet clothes, as it can cause the fabric to lose its elasticity and shrink. Additionally, opt for mild detergents to preserve the fabric's delicate nature.

2. Clean Velvet Clothes in a Washing Machine

Follow these steps for machine washing your velvet clothes:

• Do not overload the washing machine; ensure there is enough room for the clothes to move freely.
• Place each garment in a mesh bag to prevent snags, especially if they are embellished.
• Use a mild laundry detergent without bleach or harsh components.
• Set the machine to a delicate cycle and choose the shortest spin cycle for gentle washing.

3. Hand Wash Your Velvet Clothes

If you prefer hand washing, here's how to do it properly:

• Fill a bucket or tub with cold or lukewarm water.
• Add 1-2 tablespoons of mild detergent and mix it well.
• Swish your velvet garment through the sudsy water gently, repeating 5-6 times.
• Rinse the garment with clean water until no soapy residue remains.

Pro-tip: Avoid twisting, scrubbing, or wringing the garment forcefully, as these actions can stretch or damage the velvet fabric.

Tips for Caring for Velvet Clothes

After washing, your velvet clothes may develop wrinkles. While ironing is an option, it's important to take extra precautions with velvet to prevent damage from heat. 

Here are some methods to remove wrinkles from velvet clothes:

• Hang the garment overnight: Minor wrinkles often disappear when you hang the garment on a clothes hanger overnight.
• Hang the garment in the bathroom: If the garment still has wrinkles, hang it in a steamy bathroom while taking a hot shower. The steam can help release the wrinkles.
• Iron the garment: Check the care label to ensure that ironing is safe for your garment. If it is, use a dry iron on the lowest setting to gently iron the garment. Always iron the fabric inside out and be cautious not to overheat, as excessive heat can damage velvet.

In conclusion, you now have a comprehensive guide on how to clean velvet fabrics at home. Make informed decisions based on the type of velvet you're dealing with and the extent of the cleaning required. For more information on laundry, dry cleaning, and fabric care tips, keep visiting Fabcouture to stay updated on your favorite fabrics and clothing care practices.