How to Wash Velvet Without Ruining It

Apr 10, 2025

Red and black Velvet Bats Curtains from Sin in Linen.

Unlock the secrets of nurturing your most opulent possessions because your velvet decor deserves nothing less. At Sin in Linen, we believe in turning home decor into a personal narrative, one that breaks the mainstream mold and weaves a rich tapestry of nonconformity. Bold, unconventional, and unapologetically expressive, this guide will teach you to care for your luxurious fabrics so they shine as bright as your spirit for years.

How to Machine Wash Velvet Without Losing Its Edge

Velvet doesn’t ask for much—just attention, care, and a refusal to rush the process. If you’re washing something like our Black Velvet Duvet Cover, here’s how to keep the fabric soft, smooth, and rich in color.

Read the care label before anything else: Not every velvet is made for the machine. The Black Velvet Duvet Cover is safe to wash on a delicate cycle, but always double-check the tag so you’re working with the fabric, not against it.
Use cold water and a gentle cycle: Velvet responds best to cool, slow-moving water. For something as bold as a black duvet, this keeps the fibers lush and the color deep.
Avoid the spin cycle: Avoid spin cycles at all costs. Spinning pulls and warps the fabric, especially with large items like duvet covers. Instead, press out the water gently by hand.
Choose a mild detergent: Harsh soaps strip the texture and leave residue behind. A light, fragrance-free detergent keeps the fabric clean without dulling the finish.
Let it air dry flat or tumble low: After washing, place your velvet flat on a clean towel and let it dry naturally. Don’t hang it—heavy fabrics like a duvet cover can stretch out of shape when wet. If air-drying isn’t for you, tumble drying on low is what we recommend.
Shape it as it dries: Smooth edges with your hands, adjust any folds and guide the fabric back to its original form.

Drying Velvet Fabric Without Losing Its Texture

Velvet responds best to a drying method that matches its mood: slow, careful, and deliberate. If you’ve just washed something like our Black Velvet Curtains, follow these steps to help the fabric hold its softness and shape.

Lay the fabric flat on a clean towel. After washing, gently press out excess water with another towel. For large pieces like velvet curtains with tasseled edges, laying them flat helps prevent stretching or creasing as they dry.
Keep them out of direct sunlight: Harsh rays can fade rich colors, whether you’re working with black or gold. Choose a shaded spot with good air circulation so the fabric can dry naturally without losing its depth.
Smooth and shape the fabric while damp: Straighten the edges, adjust the folds, and guide the fabric back into place before letting it dry. Velvet responds well to a bit of intention.
Give it time: Rushing the drying process leads to warped seams and stiff patches. Let your curtains dry at their own pace to stay soft and ready to hang in complete dramatic form.

How to Hand Wash Velvet Without Losing Its Color or Character

Hand washing gives you complete control over the process, making it the best choice for pieces that deserve extra attention. This method protects texture and tone for something as detailed and rich as the Emerald Damask Velvet Curtain.

Step 1: Prepare Your Materials

Start with a clean basin, lukewarm water, and a mild, fragrance-free detergent. Velvet is sensitive to harsh chemicals, so use only what’s necessary. A small amount will clean the fabric without compromising the emerald hue or the raised damask pattern.

Step 2: Fill the Basin

Add lukewarm water to your basin. It should feel comfortably neutral—not too warm, not too cold. Stir in the detergent until it dissolves completely. This creates a gentle solution that lifts dirt without damaging the fabric's surface.

Step 3: Submerge With Care

Lower the curtain into the water slowly, allowing the fabric to relax. The Emerald Damask Velvet Curtain has a texture that deserves to be preserved, so let the folds settle naturally in the water without pressing or twisting.

Step 4: Wash Gently

Use your hands to softly press and release the fabric, allowing the water to move through it. Avoid any harsh rubbing or wringing. Velvet fibers respond best to slow, even pressure. Let the water and time do most of the work.

Step 5: Rinse Thoroughly

Drain the basin and refill it with cool, clean water. Swirl the fabric to rinse out any detergent. Run your hands over the surface gently to help remove any leftover suds. This step protects the luster and clarity of the damask design.

Step 6: Remove Excess Water

Lift the curtain with both hands to support its weight. Place it flat between two towels and press down to absorb moisture. Skip any twisting or folding. This prevents the fabric from losing its shape as it dries.

Step 7: Lay Flat to Dry

Spread the velvet on a clean towel in a shaded, well-ventilated space. Keep it away from sunlight to prevent fading. While the curtain is damp, smooth the edges and reset its shape. The better you reshape it now, the more polished it will look when dry.

Final Thoughts

Washing velvet requires intention and care. If you’re perfecting your nest with Sin in Linen’s bold home accessories or reinventing your entire space, handling your velvet pieces carefully ensures your decor shimmers with its iconic mix of elegance and edge. Transform your living space into a narrative of plush seduction, where your daring individuality never fades.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Velvet Care

Is it possible to wash velvet curtains at home?

Yes, you can wash crushed velvet curtains at home, but proceed with care. Always use a gentle wash cycle with cold water. Consider placing the curtains in a mesh bag to protect them from friction. It’s essential to consult the care label first, as some velvet may require dry cleaning.

How do I dry velvet after washing it?

After washing, lay your crushed velvet flat on a clean towel, then gently roll it to remove excess moisture. Avoid the dryer; let velvet air dry naturally by laying it flat in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. If a dryer is necessary, we recommend tumble drying on low.

Can I iron velvet to remove wrinkles?

Never iron crushed velvet directly! It can crush the pile and ruin the texture. Instead, use a clothes steamer, holding it a few inches away from the fabric to help release any creases without contact.

What is the right temperature to wash velvet?

Always use cold water when washing crushed velvet to prevent shrinking and maintain the fabric's lustrous texture. Avoid hot water as it can warp and damage the delicate fabric.

What is the safest way to wash vintage velvet?

Hand washing is the safest method for vintage crushed velvet. Use a gentle detergent and soak the fabric without agitating it too much. Rinse thoroughly and handle with care to preserve its timeless charm.

Can I use bleach on velvet?

Never use bleach on crushed velvet. Bleach is too harsh and will damage the fabric fibers, leading to discoloration and degradation. Opt for a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics.

How can I prevent color fading in velvet?

To maintain the deep hues of your crushed velvet, keep it away from direct sunlight and wash only when necessary. Use a gentle detergent and avoid chemical exposure that could lead to fading.

What do I do if the velvet loses its pile after washing?

If your crushed velvet loses its pile, gently brush it with a soft brush to lift and restore the texture. Sometimes, a light steam can also help restore the pile to its luxurious self.