There’s no denying it – velvet is a luxurious fabric. Who doesn’t love to run their hands over velvet furniture or velvet cushions, feeling that incredible softness? Visually, it adds a touch of elegance and a depth of texture to any space. However, it can be considered a difficult material to look after. We’re here to reassure you that as luxe as it looks, cleaning a velvet bed is no more difficult than any other material.
We love the versatility of velvet, pairing as it does with both classic and modern interiors. Who isn’t tempted by a blush velvet sofa beckoning you to sit comfortably? Or a lush green velvet bench offering the perfect perch to slip out of those heels? And what about a luxury velvet bed, inviting you to rest your weary head?
Read on for tips and tricks from the experts on how to safely clean your luxury velvet bed and keep it looking brand-new for years to come.
Why are some people hesitant about buying velvet beds?
Velvet beds can have a reputation for being a demanding fabric to clean. However, velvet is not a difficult material - just a delicate one. Gentleness is key when caring for it. With some simple care tips, it can be easily maintained and kept looking vibrant and sumptuous for many a year.
When considering purchasing a velvet bed, it’s worth considering the type of velvet that’s right for you. Velvet furniture can be made from a synthetic velvet or a cotton blend. If you are looking for a more durable option, consider a synthetic option.
Some velvet beds, like our Palais de Versailles Sacre Bleu Velvet Upholstered Bed are also treated with a special oil and water repellent. This helps to protect your velvet bed against household dirt and liquid spills, giving lasting protection and helping your lovely French-style bed looking new for longer!
How often do I need to clean my velvet bed frame?
We recommend a weekly vacuum of your velvet bed. Everyday dirt and dust are unlikely to harm your velvet, but if particles such as these accumulate over time you may find it affects the quality of your sleep. Just as you vacuum your home or change your bed linen to keep the space fresh, we advise the same with your velvet bed frame.
Spot-clean any stains as and when they appear. The sooner you tackle them, the easier they will be to remove.
Finally, schedule a full clean once a year with a trusted furniture cleaning service. Just as you may occasionally arrange for a deep clean of your home, a professional cleaning of your velvet furniture will help keep the colours vibrant and the fabric looking ultra-soft and luxurious.
How do I clean my luxury velvet bed?
Keep your velvet bed looking as lovely as the day you bought it by regularly cleaning it. Gently hoover dust and lint with an upholstery attachment on your vacuum. Not only will this help to keep your velvet bed looking great, but it will also aid your sleep as you’ll be breathing cleaner air.
Alternatively, you can also use a soft clothes brush to gently brush creases out. Always ensure you brush in the direction of the pile of the velvet.
Spot-clean stains with a household antibacterial surface wipe. Always try to treat stains as quickly as possible. There is no need to use harsh chemicals, an ordinary wipe without bleach will do! Lightly wipe or dab over the stain a few times and leave to dry naturally.
Do not scrub, as this can damage the texture of the velvet. You can also use a damp, lint-free cloth with tepid water. Wait for the fabric to fully dry; we advise against using a heat source such as a hairdryer.
For more stubborn stains or creases, you can try using gently steaming velvet with a household upholstery steamer. Harsh chemicals are a no for velvet, so natural steam is a valid alternative, as well as having the bonus of eliminating germs.
What do the industry experts say?
We spoke to the owner of one of the UK’s largest velvet manufactures, and they gave us this advice:
“As with any specialist product, a velvet bed will require some specialist care. But sometimes accidents happen. If they do, act quickly, in the same way you would do if you spilt something on your favourite dress. Immediately apply a light spray of tepid warm water, being careful not to saturate the material. Leave to dry naturally, or dab dry with a dry sponge or lint-free cloth. Use hand sanitiser wipes if the stain remains, but be sure to dab, don’t rub, and do a patch test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure colour fastness.”
Now you know how to clean your velvet bed, keep it looking luxurious with our top tips:
- Vacuum your velvet bed weekly
- Gently treat any stains as quickly as possible
- Use tepid water and a lint-free cloth or an antibacterial wipe
You can find a range of velvet beds here at French Bedroom, along with corresponding mattresses and bedding to transform your bedroom space. Our Customer Experience team are always on hand to answer any questions you have, for extra reassurance.