Velvet beds look luxurious, but many people worry about keeping them clean. The good news is that a little regular care goes a long way. Here is how to clean a velvet bed frame and headboard, deal with spills, and keep plush or crushed velvet looking its best.
Before you start: always check the care label or instructions that came with your bed, and test any cleaning method on a hidden area first.
How do you clean a velvet bed frame?
Vacuum the bed frame and headboard once a week using a soft upholstery brush attachment on a low setting, moving in the direction of the pile. This removes dust and stops dirt working into the fabric. For marks, blot gently with a clean cloth dampened with water and a small amount of mild detergent, then leave it to dry naturally.
Step by step: weekly velvet care
- Vacuum: use the brush attachment, working with the direction of the pile, not against it.
- Brush: a soft clothes brush helps lift dust from buttoned headboards and between tufts.
- Check seams and buttons: dust collects around Chesterfield buttons, so give these areas extra attention.
How to remove a spill from velvet
- Act quickly. Blot the spill with a clean, dry, white cloth. Do not rub, as this can crush the pile and spread the stain.
- Dampen a cloth with cool water and a drop of mild washing-up liquid. Blot from the outside of the stain inwards.
- Blot again with a cloth dampened with clean water to remove soap.
- Leave to dry naturally, away from direct heat.
- Once dry, brush gently in the direction of the pile.
Avoid soaking velvet, using bleach, or using strong stain removers unless the care label says they are safe.
How do you fix flattened or crushed velvet?
Plush velvet can flatten where people lean against the headboard. A handheld clothes steamer held a few centimetres away, followed by light brushing, can help lift the pile. Do not press an iron directly onto velvet. Crushed velvet is designed to have a pressed, textured look, so small variations in its pattern are part of the finish.
Plush velvet vs crushed velvet: which is easier to keep clean?
| Plush velvet | Crushed velvet | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Smooth, even, soft sheen | Textured, shimmering, pressed pattern |
| Shows marks | Pressure marks show more easily | Texture helps hide small marks |
| Example | Plush Velvet Heaven Bed | Chesterfield Crushed Velvet Bed |
Tips to keep a velvet bed looking new
- Keep it out of strong direct sunlight, which can fade colours over time.
- Use a headboard cushion or pillows when sitting up in bed to reduce wear.
- Keep pets off the headboard, as claws can snag the fabric.
- Choose darker shades such as grey, navy or black if you have young children.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use a carpet cleaner on a velvet bed?
It is best not to soak velvet with a carpet or wet upholstery cleaner unless the care label allows it. Too much water can mark the fabric or affect the padding underneath.
Is velvet a good choice for a bed?
Velvet is soft, warm-looking and popular for headboards and upholstered beds. With weekly vacuuming and quick blotting of spills, it is practical for everyday use.
What colour velvet bed hides dirt best?
Mid to dark shades such as grey, navy and black tend to hide everyday marks better than cream or light colours.
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