Wondering how to clean velour fabric without losing that signature softness? You just need to check the care label, gather a few gentle supplies, and treat any stains before you wash. Whether you want to know how to clean velour for a favorite jacket or a velour blanket, always handle it with care.
Unlike velvet, velour needs a bit more attention, but the results are worth it. You can master how to clean velour and keep your fabric looking as plush as new—no stress, just simple steps.
Supplies for Cleaning
- Always check the care label before cleaning to follow the right washing instructions and avoid damage.
- Use gentle supplies like a soft brush, mild detergent, and microfiber cloths to protect velour’s soft texture.
- Spot clean stains quickly by blotting gently and using mild detergent to keep velour fresh and bright.
- Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle with cool water, then air dry flat to maintain softness and shape.
- After drying, brush velour gently to restore its plush feel and keep it looking new longer.
Supplies for Cleaning
Before you start cleaning your velour fabric, you need to gather the right tools. Using the proper supplies helps you protect the soft, plush texture that makes velour so special. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Soft-bristled brush or velvet brush: This tool gently lifts dirt and fluffs up the fibers without causing damage.
- Microfiber cloths: These cloths pick up dust and absorb spills without scratching the surface.
- Spray bottle: Fill it with water or a gentle cleaning solution for easy spot cleaning.
- Vacuum with upholstery attachment: This helps you remove loose dirt and dust from larger items like velour furniture or blankets.
- Basin or sink: Use this for hand washing smaller velour pieces.
Tip: Always use a soft brush designed for velvet or velour. Regular brushes can flatten or distort the fabric’s tufts.
Recommended Products
Choosing the right cleaning products makes a big difference when you clean velour. Specialized cleaning supplies and methods help you avoid common problems like color bleeding or fiber damage. Regular cleaning products can sometimes harm velour, but gentle, fabric-safe options keep your fabric looking its best.
Here’s a quick list of what you should look for:
| Product Type | Why You Need It | Example Use |
|---|---|---|
| Mild liquid detergent | Cleans without harsh chemicals | Hand or machine washing |
| Fabric-safe stain remover | Treats spots without discoloration | Pre-treating stains |
| Distilled water | Prevents mineral spots or residue | Mixing with detergent |
| Velvet or upholstery cleaner | Specially formulated for plush fabrics | Deep cleaning upholstery |
Specialized cleaning solutions, like mild alkaline detergents followed by a slightly acidic rinse, help you avoid issues such as browning or bleeding. Using a velvet brush and steam can also restore the fabric’s texture by lifting the tufts. When you use these products and tools, you protect the integrity and appearance of your velour, making the cleaning process both safe and effective.
Prep Before You Wash Velour Fabric
Getting ready to clean your velour fabric is just as important as the washing itself. Taking a few extra minutes before you start can help you avoid color bleeding, flattening, or other damage. F&A always puts fabric care first, so you can trust that following these steps will keep your velour looking and feeling its best.
Check the Care Label
Start by reading the care label on your velour item. You’ll find specific washing instructions that tell you how to clean the fabric safely. These labels often mention the best water temperature, whether you should hand wash or machine wash, and if you need to avoid certain detergents.
F&A’s commitment to quality means every fabric comes with clear care guidance, making it easy for you to protect your project. If your item has embellishments, remove them before washing to prevent snags or damage.
Tip: Always sort and wash velour with similar colors to prevent dye transfer. This simple step helps maintain the rich, vibrant look of your fabric.
Test for Colorfastness
Before you wash, test for colorfastness. Dampen a small, hidden area of the fabric and dab it with a white cloth. If you see any color on the cloth, the dye might bleed during washing. This quick test helps you avoid surprises and keeps your velour looking new. F&A uses advanced dyeing and finishing processes, but it’s always smart to check, especially with custom or dark-colored fabrics.
| Test Type | What It Checks For | Why It Matters for Velour |
|---|---|---|
| Wash Fastness | Dye resistance to washing | Prevents fading and color bleeding |
| Rub Fastness (Crocking) | Dye transfer from rubbing | Keeps color from rubbing off |
| Light Fastness | Resistance to sunlight fading | Important for home décor items |
Spot Clean Stains
If you notice any spots or spills, try to remove stains right away. Blot the area gently with a clean towel—don’t rub, as this can push the stain deeper.
Use a mild detergent solution and a soft cloth to treat the spot. Work from the outside in to keep the stain from spreading. Quick action makes it much easier to keep your velour fresh and bright. F&A’s innovative finishes help repel liquids, so stains are less likely to set if you act fast.
Regular spot cleaning and gentle handling will help your velour last longer and look better, project after project.
How to Clean Velour Fabric
Cleaning velour doesn’t have to feel intimidating. You can keep your favorite velour blanket, jacket, or home décor looking plush and fresh with the right approach. Let’s break down how to clean velour fabric step by step, so you can protect that soft, luxurious feel every time.
Hand Wash Method
Hand washing is the safest way to clean delicate velour items. This method works especially well for clothing, accessories, or anything with embellishments. Here’s how to clean velour fabric by hand:
- Fill a basin or sink with cool to warm water. Add a small amount of mild liquid detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage the fibers and colors.
- Turn your velour item inside out. This protects the plush surface during washing.
- Gently submerge the fabric. Swirl it around with your hands, but don’t scrub or twist. Minimal agitation helps preserve the texture.
- Let the fabric soak for about 10–15 minutes. For tough spots, use a soft brush or a lightweight cotton cloth to gently rub the area.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean, cold water until all detergent is gone. Any leftover soap can make the fabric feel stiff.
- Press out excess water by laying the item flat on a clean towel and rolling it up. Never wring or twist velour, as this can distort the fibers.
- Lay the fabric flat or hang it to air dry in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight.
Tip: Always check the care label before you wash velour fabric. Some items may need extra care or professional cleaning.
Professional guidelines recommend this gentle approach because it removes dirt and allergens without harming the plush pile. Hand washing also helps you avoid the high heat and rough agitation that can damage velour or velvet.
Machine Wash Method
You can machine wash velour fabric if the care label says it’s safe. This method is great for larger items like a velour blanket or sturdy clothing. Here’s how to clean velour in the washing machine:
- Turn the item inside out to protect the surface.
- Place it in a mesh laundry bag or a cotton pillowcase. This shields the fabric from zippers, buttons, and rough drum surfaces.
- Sort your laundry by color. Wash light and dark velour separately to prevent dye transfer.
- Use cool water and select the gentle or delicate cycle on your machine.
- Add a mild liquid detergent, such as Purex® or another fabric-safe option. Avoid bleach or fabric softeners.
- After washing, remove the item promptly. Skip the dryer—air drying is best for maintaining softness and shape.
Machine washing works well for many modern velour fabrics, especially those made with advanced techniques like F&A’s. Always follow the care label for the best results.
Studies and fabric care experts agree that using cool water, gentle cycles, and mild detergents helps you wash velour without losing its plushness. Drip drying instead of using a dryer keeps the fibers fluffy and prevents shrinkage.
Tips for Delicate Items
Some velour pieces need a little extra TLC. Delicate items, vintage finds, or anything with special trims deserve special attention. Here are some expert tips for how to clean velour fabric without compromising quality:
- Always check the care tag first. Some velour and velvet items require hand washing or even dry cleaning.
- Pre-treat stains gently with a fabric-safe stain remover or a mild soap solution. Dab, don’t rub, to avoid damaging the pile.
- Use a soft, damp muslin or cotton cloth to clean the surface. Avoid saturating the fabric.
- Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear. Leftover detergent can dull the shine.
- Press out moisture with a clean towel. Never wring or twist.
- Air dry by hanging or laying flat. If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting and remove the item while still slightly damp.
- For extra protection, use mesh laundry bags in the wash to prevent snags.
- After drying, gently brush the fabric with a suede or velvet brush to restore the soft, plush texture.
Note: If you’re unsure about how to clean velour or velvet, or if the item is very valuable, consider professional cleaning. This ensures the fabric stays beautiful for years.
These steps reflect the best practices from fabric care experts and real-world experience. Gentle washing, careful drying, and proper storage will help your velour look and feel amazing every time you use it.
Clean Velour Upholstery
Velour upholstery brings a touch of luxury to your home, but it also needs the right care to stay beautiful. F&A’s velour fabrics are designed for durability, making them perfect for sofas, chairs, and cushions that see daily use. When you clean velour upholstery, you help preserve its plush texture and vibrant color for years.
Vacuum and Brush
Start by removing loose dirt and dust. Use a soft brush to gently lift away crumbs and debris. Next, grab your vacuum with a brush attachment. Move it slowly over the surface to pick up dust and fuzz without flattening the pile. If you don’t have a brush attachment, stretch a piece of pantyhose over the nozzle for a gentle touch. After vacuuming, brush the fabric again with a suede or velvet brush to restore its softness.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide:
- Brush the upholstery with a soft brush to loosen dirt.
- Vacuum using a brush attachment to remove dust and fuzz.
- Use pantyhose over the nozzle if needed for delicate areas.
- Let the surface dry if damp.
- Brush again to fluff up the velour.
Tip: Regular vacuuming keeps your velour looking fresh and prevents dirt from settling deep into the fibers.
Spot Cleaning Upholstery
Spills happen, but you can handle them with the right approach. Blot any liquid with a clean, dry microfiber cloth—never rub, as this can push the stain deeper. For most stains, mix a small amount of mild detergent with distilled water. Dab the spot gently with a cloth, working from the outside in. For eco-friendly cleaning, try a solution of white vinegar and water or a plant-based upholstery cleaner. Always test your cleaner on a hidden area first.
F&A’s advanced finishes help resist stains, so quick action usually does the trick. For stubborn spots, use a fabric-safe stain remover designed for velour.
Drying Upholstery
After you clean velour upholstery, let it air dry completely. Open windows or use a fan to speed up drying. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors. Never use a hair dryer or heater, as high heat can damage the fibers. Once dry, brush the surface again to restore the plush feel.
F&A’s upholstery fabrics pass strict quality tests to ensure they hold up to cleaning. Here’s a look at some of the tests:
| Test Method | Description | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Wyzenbeek Test | Measures abrasion resistance with repeated rubbing. | Confirms fabric can handle cleaning. |
| Martindale Test | Assesses wear resistance with circular motion. | Predicts endurance during cleaning. |
| Pilling Test | Checks for surface stability and resistance to pilling. | Keeps fabric looking smooth. |
| Colorfastness Test | Measures resistance to fading from light and cleaning agents. | Ensures colors stay vibrant. |
With these steps and F&A’s durable fabrics, you can clean velour upholstery confidently and keep your furniture looking its best.
Care for Velour After Cleaning
Drying Tips
You want your velour to stay plush and beautiful, so drying it the right way is key. Always air dry velour fabric on a flat surface. Lay it on a clean towel and reshape it to its original form. Avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors.
Never use high heat—skip the dryer or use only the coolest setting if you must. High temperatures can crush the pile and leave permanent marks. If you need to speed up drying, use a hair dryer on the lowest, coolest setting and keep it moving. This gentle approach helps you dry velour fabric without damaging its signature softness. Letting the fabric dry naturally keeps the pile from flattening and protects its texture for the long haul.
Tip: Flip the fabric halfway through drying to help both sides breathe and dry evenly.
Restoring Softness
After cleaning, you might notice the pile looks a bit flat. Don’t worry! You can bring back that soft, fluffy feel with a few simple steps. Once your velour is dry, gently brush the surface with a velvet or soft-bristled brush. Move in the direction of the nap to lift the fibers.
This grooming step makes a big difference. Experts agree that brushing after cleaning restores softness and keeps your fabric looking fresh. Some fabrics even benefit from special finishing treatments that boost softness and moisture management. Regular brushing and gentle care for velour help maintain its luxurious feel, even after many washes.
Preventing Damage
A little extra care for velour goes a long way. Here are some easy ways to keep your fabric in top shape:
- Hand wash with cold water and mild detergent. Gently agitate—never wring or twist.
- Use a mesh laundry bag for machine washing. Choose the delicate cycle and wash with similar items.
- Skip fabric softeners. They can weigh down the fibers and reduce plushness.
- Always air dry flat. If you must use a dryer, pick the lowest heat and add clean tennis balls to help fluff the pile.
- Fold instead of hanging to prevent stretching.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
- Don’t stack heavy items on top of velour. This prevents crushing and keeps the pile soft.
By following these steps, you protect your fabric from damage and keep it looking and feeling its best. Smart habits like these make caring for velour simple and effective.
Troubleshooting and How to Clean Velour Issues
Stubborn Stains
Stains can show up on velour at the worst times. Maybe you spilled coffee on your velour blanket or dropped food on your favorite velvet pillow. Don’t panic! Act fast to keep stains from setting. First, blot the spot with a clean, dry cloth. Never rub, or you might push the stain deeper into the fabric. For most stains, mix a little mild detergent with cool water. Dab the area gently with a soft cloth. Work from the outside of the stain toward the center. If the stain sticks around, try a fabric-safe stain remover made for velvet or velour. Always test any cleaner on a hidden spot first. For tough stains, you might need to repeat the process or ask a professional for help.
Tip: For spills on a velour blanket, use a super-absorbent cloth to soak up liquid right away. Let it air dry to keep the fabric looking fresh.
Odor Removal
Sometimes, velour can pick up odors from pets, food, or just everyday use. You can freshen up your velour blanket or velvet cushion with a few simple tricks. Start by airing out the item outside, away from direct sunlight. If the smell lingers, sprinkle a little baking soda over the fabric. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes, then vacuum it off with a soft brush attachment. For deeper odors, lightly mist the fabric with a mix of water and a few drops of fabric-safe essential oil. Always let the fabric dry completely before using it again.
Note: Avoid using strong chemicals or too much water, as these can damage the plush pile.
Fixing Pilling
Pilling happens when tiny balls of fiber form on the surface of your velour or velvet. This is normal and not a sign of poor quality. You might notice pilling after washing your velour blanket or from regular use. Here’s how you can fix it:
- Use a fabric pill remover or a gentle fabric shaver to remove pills. Move the tool lightly over the surface—don’t press down hard.
- Vacuum the fabric regularly with a soft brush to pick up loose fibers and dirt.
- Wash velour items inside out and use gentle cycles with mild detergent. Avoid overloading the washing machine to reduce friction.
- Air dry or use low heat to help keep the fabric smooth.
- After removing pills, brush the fabric with a velvet brush to restore its soft feel.
Pilling comes from friction and normal wear. Regular cleaning and gentle care help keep your velour looking new. Remember, shading and small marks are normal for velvet and pile fabrics.
Keep your furniture away from heaters to prevent fabric damage over time.
Here’s your quick checklist for cleaning velour fabric:
- Check the care label.
- Gather gentle supplies.
- Test for colorfastness.
- Spot clean stains.
- Choose hand or machine wash.
- Air dry flat.
- Brush to restore softness.
Stick to these steps and your velour will stay soft and beautiful. Trust F&A fabrics for easy care and long-lasting style. You’ve got this—enjoy your plush, fresh velour every day!
FAQ
Can you put velour fabric in the dryer?
You should avoid using a dryer for velour. High heat can flatten the pile and damage the fabric. Air dry your items flat for the best results. If you must use a dryer, pick the lowest heat setting and remove the item while it’s still slightly damp.
How do you keep velour soft after washing?
Brush your velour gently with a soft-bristled or velvet brush once it’s dry. This lifts the fibers and restores the plush feel. Always air dry flat and skip fabric softeners. Regular brushing keeps your fabric feeling soft and looking fresh.
What should you do if velour shrinks?
If your velour shrinks, lay it flat while damp and gently stretch it back to shape. Avoid pulling too hard. Let it air dry completely. Brushing the fabric after drying can help restore its texture and softness.
Can you steam velour to remove wrinkles?
Yes, you can use a handheld steamer to remove wrinkles from velour. Hold the steamer a few inches away and move it slowly. Never press the steamer directly onto the fabric. Steaming helps lift the pile and keeps your velour looking smooth.
