Expert: Jan Hayner - 11/4/2010

Question
What should I use to clean and sanitize velour covered furniture?
Thank you


Answer
Hi S;
To answer your question-very very carefully! To tell you the truth, I would hire a professional to do it, better if they make a mistake than you!

Velour is very touchy. Sure, you can clean it yourself, but it is a tedious and time consuming job. Here is why..

Velour does not like water and by using too much, the fiber will mat, with posibility of never recovering. It also can not be washed with harsh chemicals or the color may fade and again it may ruin the material.

If you choose to do it yourself, start on an place that isn't noticeable and only do a 3x3 square.

Here is how to clean velour.

Use a mild detergent that doesn't have color added to it-such as castille soap. Do not make a lot of bubbles, add the soap after you fill your container with water.

Use a white muslin cloth. It won't have color that can bleed into the velour and muslin helps the velour to not pill and form nubs on the material.

Wet the muslin, making sure that you wring all of the water and soap out. Now, wipe the velour -very gently- until it is clean. Then using clear water repeat the process.

When the material is dry--use a suede brush to brush the velour and raise the nap.

If any areas are stiff, it is either because you used too much soap and didn't get it all out or you rubbed too hard and damaged the velour. See why I suggested to get a professional?

As I said, it can be done, but be careful.

Hope this helps to answer your question,
Jan Hayner