How to Clean a Velvet Sofa Without Damaging the Pile

Velvet looks luxurious because of its pile, the short dense fibres that stand upright and catch the light. Most damage happens when those fibres are crushed, soaked or scrubbed in the wrong direction, yet with gentle handling velvet is more resilient than its reputation suggests. This guide explains how to clean a velvet sofa safely, starting with the care label and the different behaviour of cotton and synthetic velvets. We show you how to find the direction of the pile, build a simple weekly vacuuming routine and deal with spills by blotting rather than rubbing. You will also learn how to spot clean marks, avoid watermarks, lift pressure marks with brushing or light steam where permitted, and remove pet hair easily. Finally, we list what to avoid, when to call an upholstery specialist and the habits that keep velvet looking rich and inviting for many years to come, whatever daily life brings....