Household

How to Clean Velvet Couch

A clean velvet couch makes a bigger difference than you'd think. Here's the most effective method, plus the mistakes most people make.

What You'll Need

  • Vacuum with upholstery attachment
  • Soft brush
  • Soap-Man Lemon Glow Dish Soap
  • Distilled water
  • Microfiber cloths

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Check the cleaning code

    Look at the tag for the cleaning code (W, S, WS, X). Velvet care depends on the fabric backing.

  2. 2

    Vacuum gently

    Vacuum the velvet with the upholstery attachment using gentle suction. Don't press hard or you may crush the pile.

  3. 3

    Brush in one direction

    Use a soft brush to gently brush the velvet in one direction to lift the pile and remove embedded dust.

  4. 4

    Spot clean stains

    Mix a few drops of dish soap with distilled water. Dab the stain with a damp cloth -- never rub. Test in a hidden spot first.

  5. 5

    Air dry and brush

    Let air dry completely, then brush again to restore the velvet pile direction.

Pro Tips

  • TIPAlways brush velvet in the direction of the pile to maintain the smooth appearance.
  • TIPVacuum velvet weekly to prevent dust embedding in the pile.
  • TIPUse a fabric protector on velvet to repel future stains.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • XUsing rough cleaning methods, which crush and flatten the velvet pile.
  • XSoaking velvet with water, which can stain and damage the fabric.
  • XUsing the wrong cleaning code method, which can ruin the fabric.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some velvet covers are machine washable -- check the care label. Many require dry cleaning only.