Velvet Garment Care: Know-How for Washing and Storing to Preserve Shine and Pile
๐ Symbol of Elegance, Velvet: Know-How for Washing and Storing to Preserve Unique Shine and Pile
Velvet boasts a soft touch, unique luster, and deep color thanks to short, dense piles covering the fabric surface. However, due to this pile structure, it is very vulnerable to water and pressure, and improper care can easily lead to problems such as the pile lying flat, being crushed, or losing its shine. We share the know-how for washing and storing velvet to preserve its elegant shine and pile for a lifetime.
๐ Core Principle of Velvet Care: Avoid Friction and Pressure
The most important aspect of velvet care is minimizing fiber friction during washing and avoiding pressure that crushes the pile during storage.
๐งผ 1. Velvet Garment Washing and Stain Removal Know-How
1. Dry Cleaning (Safest):
- Dry cleaning is recommended for most velvet garments. It is safest to entrust silk velvet or rayon velvet to a professional.
2. Home Care (Spot Cleaning and Hand Washing):
- Spot Stains: If a stain occurs, apply cold water mixed with neutral detergent to a cloth and gently dab the area. Never rub.
- Hand Washing (Requires utmost care): If the velvet is water-washable, dissolve a neutral detergent in cold water, soak it for a short time, and gently agitate to wash.
3. Restoring Crushed Pile: Utilizing a Steam Iron:
- Pile that has been crushed and lost its shine during washing or wearing can be restored using a steam iron.
- Method: Do not directly touch the iron to the garment. Hold it about 5 to 10 cm away and apply steam only. Once the steam raises the velvet pile fibers, brush them along the direction of the pile with your hand or a soft brush.
๐ฌ๏ธ 2. Drying and Storage Know-How
- Drying: After washing, gently press out the water with a towel, hang it on a thick hanger, and natural dry it in the shade. Tumble drying is strictly prohibited.
- Storage:
- Use Hangers: Folding velvet clothes leaves creases from the crushed pile. They must be hung on a wide and sturdy hanger for storage.
- Space Allowance: It is important to hang them with enough space in the closet so they are not crushed by other clothes.
- Cover: Store covered with a breathable non-woven fabric cover to protect them from dust.
Velvet can maintain its beauty for a long time with just a little delicate care.