If you like velvet, you will know that it is a delicate fabric that needs to be taken care of. In this article we share some infallible tips!
Velvet is a material famous for its soft texture and sophisticated appearance. For this reason, it is possible to find it in decorative objects, furniture, shoes and clothing. Nevertheless, It is a textile that requires special handling to preserve its good appearance. In this article we will talk about cleaning and care tips for velvet.
Traditionally, velvet has been a luxurious fabric associated with nobility, wealth and high positions of power. Nowadays it is more affordable and is found in different varieties, which are classified according to the raw material with which it is produced (polyester, cotton, acetate or silk).
Velvet Care Tips
According to a Fabric care manual from Galerías Madrid, velvet is delicate and was originally made of silk. Nevertheless, today the most used is made from acrylic cotton. It should only be washed if it is synthetic.
1. Brush it and vacuum it
To keep the velvet in good condition it is necessary use a soft brush to remove traces of dirt and lint that they are stuck. This is useful with furniture, cushions, or shoes. In addition, it helps to order the fibers to achieve a beautiful finish.
In the case of furniture, it is also possible to vacuum it. However, it must be a soft vacuum, which, although it allows to remove the small remains of dirt, does not generate such friction that it causes alterations in the velvety appearance. For this, you can use the brush-shaped head that vacuum cleaners usually bring.
2. Flip it upside down
If you have any velvet garment, It is best to wash it inside out.. It is essential to follow the washing instructions that come on the label, because depending on its composition, it will be more or less delicate.
In any case, if you want to give special care to the garment, it is best to wash it by hand. However, you can also put it on a delicate cycle in the washing machine, with clothes of similar colors and a special soap.
3. Do not spin it or put it in the dryer
Velvet should never be tumble dried or tumble dried, because it could be completely spoiled. Also, care information for this material from the manufacturers Lafayette indicates that it is not convenient to squeeze or twist it.
The ideal drying should be in the shade.
The best option is to find a clean surface to spread the garment out and allow it to dry naturally. It is necessary to turn it over and make sure it dries evenly.
4. Be careful with ironing
When you have a velvet accessory, shoe or piece of furniture and it has a crease or crease, the best option is to comb it first. This will remove most of those creases and bring the look of the fabric to life.
In the case of clothing, it is essential to be careful when ironing. However, you should always read the manufacturer’s label.
There are velvet garments that are suggested not to be ironed. In fact, it is necessary to avoid it to take better care of them over time.
In the event that it is unavoidable, use a steam iron or water vaporizer to remove the creases. It must be done with the lowest temperature allowed by the machine. If you’re using a traditional iron, put it on steam mode and place a thin cloth between the iron and the velvet.
5. Use water with alcohol or talcum powder to remove stains
If you have accidentally spilled food on a piece of furniture or a piece of velvet, you can use a mixture of alcohol and water to remove said stain. The solution should only be passed with a soft sponge on the affected area.
If it’s a greasy food, add a little baby powder or foot powder. Let it act for a few hours and then remove the excess alcohol and do the corresponding cleaning.
Take care of velvet in your daily routines
Now that you know some tricks and tips for cleaning and caring for velvet, it is also important that you know what actions to avoid so as not to mistreat this fabric when you use it in your routines. First of all, it is necessary not to generate friction with rough or pointed surfaces, because they can create damage to the fabric.
Also, when you wear velvet shoes, try to check the weather beforehand. They should not get wet.
The velvet clothes and shoes, should be stored in a lining inside the closet. In the event that you have a garment of exceptional quality, take it to the dry cleaners and let the experts take care of it.
You might be interested…