When it comes to luxurious living room furnishings, few fabrics can match the timeless elegance and velvety soft touch of velvet and brocade. Whether it’s a sumptuous sofa, plush accent chairs, or decorative throw pillows, these delicate yet durable textiles add an instant dose of sophistication to any space. However, their very qualities that make them so alluring – the dense, lush pile and intricate woven patterns – also require special care and attention to maintain their beauty over time.
Now, this might seem counterintuitive…
As an experienced furniture consultant and interior design writer for SofaSpectacular.co.uk, I’ve learned a thing or two about preserving the integrity of velvet and brocade fabrics. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my expert tips and techniques to double-check that your high-quality velvet and brocade pieces stay looking their absolute best, no matter the demands of your busy living room.
Velvet Upholstery: Mastering the Delicate Touch
Velvet is a timeless classic that has graced the homes of the aristocracy for centuries. Its soft, velvety pile creates a luxurious, indulgent feel that instantly elevates any space. However, this very pile can also make velvet a bit more challenging to clean and maintain compared to other upholstery fabrics.
Gentle Washing Techniques
When it comes to washing velvet, the key is to handle it with the utmost care. Never put velvet in the washing machine. Instead, opt for gentle hand-washing using cool water and a mild detergent formulated for delicates. Gently swish the fabric in the water, avoiding any aggressive scrubbing or wringing that could damage the pile.
“I’ve found a pretty good deal on a beautiful velvet sofa and I’m contemplating buying it. The thing is, it’s a lighter blue and I live in a high traffic area so dust is always getting kicked into our house (we don’t have ac so we leave our screen door open). I also have housemates who eat in the living room often. So I’m worried about there being some spillage at some point. Is it an utter nightmare to keep a velvet couch in good shape?” – Reddit user
For tricky stains, spot clean using a small amount of the mild detergent and a soft, clean cloth. Dab the stain gently, taking care not to rub or press too hard. Rinse the area thoroughly with cool water to remove any residual soap. Once cleaned, allow the velvet to air dry completely before use.
Tip: When hand-washing velvet, always turn the fabric inside-out to protect the delicate pile from abrasion.
Proper Drying Techniques
Drying velvet properly is crucial to maintaining its plush, unblemished appearance. Never tumble dry velvet upholstery or garments. Instead, lay the item flat on a clean, absorbent towel and allow it to air dry completely. Gently blot any excess moisture with a second towel, taking care not to press or wring the fabric.
If you’re dealing with a large piece of velvet furniture, such as a sofa or chair, you may need to prop up the cushions or drape the item over a drying rack to double-check that even air circulation. Avoid hanging velvet, as the weight of the fabric can cause unsightly stretching or distortion.
Steaming for Wrinkle-Free Perfection
Once your velvet piece is dry, you may notice some unsightly creases or wrinkles. Rather than reaching for the iron, which can easily damage the delicate fibers, reach for a high-quality clothing steamer. The gentle heat and steam of a steamer will relax the fibers without flattening the luxurious pile.
“I love my steamer. It is truly the number one most important vintage fashion-care investment I have ever made, and I get sad when I think about the years I spent without one.” – Maggie Wilds, Denise Brain
Start by allowing the steamer to heat up fully, then gently glide the steam wand over the surface of the velvet, working in small sections. Keep the wand close to the fabric, using the weight of the item to help hold the fabric taut. This technique will smooth out wrinkles without compromising the velvet’s signature texture.
Protecting from Fading and Wear
To keep your velvet furniture looking its best, it’s important to shield it from direct sunlight and heavy foot traffic. Position your velvet sofa or chairs away from bright windows, and consider using throw blankets or slipcovers to protect the upholstery when not in use.
When it comes to high-traffic areas, you may want to opt for a more durable velvet blend, such as a cotton-polyester mix, rather than pure silk velvet. The synthetic fibers offer added strength and resilience to withstand the demands of everyday living. With proper care, even a lightly colored velvet sofa can remain vibrant and stain-free for years to come.
Brocade Upholstery: Preserving the Intricate Beauty
Brocade is another luxurious textile that adds instant elegance to any living room. Distinguished by its intricate, woven patterns and subtle sheen, brocade upholstery makes a striking statement. However, its delicate nature requires a gentle, thoughtful approach to cleaning and maintenance.
Handwashing Brocade Fabrics
Much like velvet, brocade should be hand-washed using cool water and a mild, pH-neutral detergent. Avoid agitating the fabric too vigorously, as this can distort the woven design. Gently blot or squeeze the brocade to release dirt and stains, rather than scrubbing.
“When washing brocade fabric by hand, it’s important to use cold water and a gentle detergent made for delicate materials. Remember, brocade is often woven from silk and features intricate designs that need careful handling. Never use hot water as it could damage the delicate silk fibers.” – Longan Craft
If you encounter a particularly stubborn stain, spot clean the affected area using a small amount of the diluted detergent solution. Thoroughly rinse the fabric to remove any residual soap, then lay it flat to air dry. Never wring or twist brocade, as this can permanently distort the shape and pattern.
Dry Cleaning for Tough Stains
For significant stains or heavily soiled brocade upholstery, it’s best to opt for professional dry cleaning. The specialized solvents and gentle agitation used in commercial dry cleaning will safely remove grime without compromising the fabric’s delicate fibers and detailed design.
Tip: Always test any cleaning solutions on a small, inconspicuous area of the brocade first to double-check that colorfast results.
Ironing with Utmost Care
When it comes time to iron your brocade pieces, it’s crucial to take a few extra precautions. Always iron the fabric inside-out to protect the stunning patterns and metallic threads from direct heat exposure. Use a low temperature setting and gently glide the iron over the surface, avoiding heavy pressure that could flatten the raised designs.
“When ironing your brocade fabric, always turn it inside out to preserve the sheen and intricate details. Use low heat and put a cotton cloth over the fabric to protect it from direct heat when ironing. Be mindful not to apply too much pressure, as this could potentially damage the material’s raised designs.” – Longan Craft
For an added layer of protection, place a clean, cotton pressing cloth between the iron and the brocade fabric. This will help distribute the heat evenly while preventing any shiny marks or scorching.
Proper Storage Techniques
To keep your brocade upholstery looking its best for years to come, it’s essential to store it correctly. When not in use, gently fold the fabric and place acid-free tissue paper between the layers to prevent creasing or color transfer. Store the wrapped brocade in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and high-humidity environments.
“To maintain the elegance of your brocade fabric, it’s crucial to place a cotton cloth over it before ironing. This simple act helps protect delicate fibers and intricate designs from the iron’s direct heat. Cotton cloth protects brocade from damage and shine marks that could ruin its luxurious look.” – Longan Craft
If you’re storing brocade garments or upholstery, consider using breathable fabric covers, such as muslin or cotton, to provide an additional barrier against dust and environmental factors. Avoid plastic bags, which can trap moisture and lead to mold or mildew growth.
By following these specialized care techniques, you can double-check that your velvet and brocade furnishings remain as opulent and alluring as the day you brought them home. With a little extra attention, these delicate yet durable fabrics will continue to grace your living spaces with unparalleled sophistication for years to come.
Tip: Rotate cushions regularly to maintain even wear
