Velvet has that unmistakable luxurious feel: soft, smooth, and slightly reflective. It instantly elevates any outfit. But its beauty comes with a catch: velvet can be tricky to clean.

One wrong move, and the pile (those tiny upright fibres that give it its texture) can flatten or lose its sheen. Whether it’s a velvet blazer, dress, or cushion cover, proper care is key to keeping that plush look intact.

This guide breaks down how to clean, dry, and store velvet the right way, and when to leave it to a professional laundry service or dry cleaner like Tumble Laundry that knows how to handle delicate fabrics with care.

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Understanding Different Types of Velvet Garments

Velvet comes in many forms, from delicate silk blends to practical synthetics, and each type needs different care. Here’s a quick breakdown to know what you’re dealing with before washing:

• Silk velvet. Luxurious and delicate. Should not be washed at home. It’s best left to dry-cleaning professionals like Tumble.

• Cotton velvet. Soft and durable but prone to shrinking in water. Needs extra care if hand-washed.

• Synthetic or polyester velvet. Easier to clean and less sensitive to moisture, but still benefits from gentle handling.

• Crushed or stretch velvet. Has a textured or elastic finish. Skip washing unless absolutely necessary. These types are best refreshed and spot-cleaned only.

Remember, always check the care label. It’s the best guide for knowing whether a piece can be hand-washed, machine-washed, or should only be dry-cleaned.

When unsure, take it to professional laundry service or dry cleaner like Tumble. Our fabric experts will ensure your velvet is cleaned safely, preserving its rich texture and elegant finish.

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How Often Should Velvet Be Washed?

Velvet isn’t meant to be washed after every wear. In fact, over-washing is one of the fastest ways to dull its shine and ruin its texture. Most velvet garments, especially formal or occasional pieces, only need cleaning once or twice a season unless they’re visibly dirty or have absorbed odours.

Instead of frequent washing, regular refreshing is often enough. Light steaming, brushing, and airing can restore its plushness and remove minor odours.

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How to Freshen Velvet Between Washes

Velvet doesn’t need frequent washing. Most of the time, a light refresh does the trick. Here’s how to keep velvet garments looking their best between washes:

1. Steam gently. Hang the garment in the bathroom during a hot shower, or use a handheld steamer at a slight distance to remove wrinkles and lift the pile. Avoid direct contact with the steamer head.

2. Brush softly. Use a soft clothes brush or velvet brush to remove lint and restore the nap (the fuzzy texture). Always brush in the same direction.

3. Air it out. Hang the garment in a well-ventilated area after each wear to release odours and moisture naturally.

A little maintenance goes a long way. These small steps can help velvet stay fresh, soft, and polished without over-washing.

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How to Wash Velvet at Home

For washable velvets (usually synthetic or cotton blends), gentle hand-washing is possible. But it’s all about patience and soft handling.

Here’s how to do it right:

1. Fill a basin with cold water. Add a small amount of mild detergent. Avoid bleach or strong formulas.

2. Submerge the garment. Swish gently for a few minutes. Don’t wring, twist, or scrub.

3. Rinse thoroughly. Drain and refill the basin with cool water until no detergent remains.

4. Press out excess water. Lay the garment flat on a towel, roll it up, and gently press (never wring).

5. Air dry flat. Avoid hangers or dryers as they can distort the fabric or flatten the pile.

But if you’re unsure about your fabric type, it’s always safer to skip home washing altogether and let a professional like Tumble Laundry handle it. Our professional care keeps velvet soft, vibrant, and damage-free.

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Spot Cleaning Velvet Garments

For small spills or stains, spot cleaning is the safest home method, but it must be done carefully. Velvet doesn’t handle moisture well, and rubbing can crush the pile or leave marks.

Follow these gentle steps:

1. Blot immediately. Use a clean, dry cloth to dab (not rub) the spill, absorbing as much as possible.

2. Use mild detergent. Mix a tiny amount of gentle detergent or baby shampoo with cool water. Dip a clean cloth lightly into the solution and gently blot the affected area.

3. Rinse with care. Dab the area again with another clean damp cloth to remove detergent residue.

4. Air dry. Lay flat on a towel or hang in a breezy spot, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

If the stain doesn’t lift, it’s best not to push it. Overworking the fabric can leave water rings or a dull patch. Send it to Tumble for professional cleaning. We know how to treat stains without damaging delicate fibres.

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Storing Velvet Garments

Velvet needs breathing space. Cramming it into a tight closet or folding it for too long can cause creases that are difficult to remove.

Keep these tips in mind when storing velvet:

• Hang properly. Use padded or wide hangers to support the shoulders.

• Avoid folding. If folding is unavoidable, place tissue paper between folds to prevent creasing.

• Cover loosely. Store in a breathable garment bag (and avoid plastic) to protect it from dust while allowing airflow.

• Keep away from sunlight. Prolonged exposure can cause fading.

Proper storage helps velvet keep its smooth, plush appearance, so it’s ready to wear anytime.

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Final Thoughts

Velvet’s beauty lies in its softness and subtle shine, but that elegance needs mindful care. From gentle steaming to spot cleaning and smart storage, every step helps maintain its luxurious feel for years to come.

And when in doubt, Tumble takes the stress out of delicate fabric care, ensuring velvet garments are cleaned, refreshed, and returned looking as stunning as ever.

Book a laundry service at Tumble today and give your velvet pieces the care they truly deserve.