How to Clean Velvet Pillows: Keep Luxury Looking Fresh

Velvet pillows add instant elegance and comfort to any room—but they also attract lint, pet hair, and the occasional spill faster than you’d think.

If you’ve ever wondered how to clean velvet pillows without ruining that smooth sheen or plush feel, you’re not alone.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the do’s and don’ts so your velvet stays looking as rich as the day you bought it.

Can You Wash Velvet Pillows?

The short answer: it depends on the type of velvet and whether the cover is removable.

Velvet Types Matter:

• Cotton velvet: Softer and more delicate, best for spot cleaning or hand washing. It offers a beautiful matte texture but can crush easily if not handled with care.

• Polyester velvet: More durable and often machine-washable. This type resists wrinkling and fading better, making it ideal for high-use areas like living rooms or kids’ rooms.

• Silk velvet: Should be dry-cleaned only. Its luxurious sheen and drape are unmatched, but it’s very sensitive to moisture and agitation.

• Crushed velvet: Textured and less likely to show wear. It can often be washed at home, but always check the blend first.

Check Before Washing:

• Read the label: Always look for care instructions on the tag to confirm if hand or machine washing is safe.

• Removable covers? Unzip and inspect the fabric backing to determine how easy it will be to clean.

• Colorfastness test: Dab an inconspicuous area with a damp white cloth to see if the dye bleeds, especially with deep or vibrant colors. Repeat if necessary to ensure the dye won’t run during washing.

We had a deep teal velvet pillow that I loved but was terrified to clean until I finally checked the tag—polyester! It handled a gentle wash cycle beautifully and looked brand new on our Puffy Lux Mattress, adding a polished, cozy vibe to our bedroom.

How to Wash Velvet Pillows

There are two main methods: machine washing and hand washing, and both require care.

Machine Washing (Only if Label Allows):

1. Turn the cover inside out to protect the fibers.

2. Use a mesh laundry bag if possible.

3. Select delicate cycle and cold water.

4. Use mild detergent with no bleach or softeners.

5. Air dry flat—never wring or tumble dry.

Hand Washing Velvet Pillow Covers:

1. Fill a clean basin with cold water and gentle detergent.

2. Submerge the pillow cover and gently agitate.

3. Soak for 5–10 minutes; avoid overhandling.

4. Rinse with clean cold water.

5. Lay flat to dry on a clean towel, reshaping if needed.

How to Spot Clean Velvet Pillows

For non-removable covers or light stains:

• Blot (don’t rub) spills immediately with a clean cloth.

• Mix a small amount of dish soap with cold water.

• Dampen a microfiber cloth with the soapy solution.

• Gently dab the stained area.

• Blot with a dry cloth to lift moisture.

• Brush fabric gently with a soft-bristle brush to restore pile.

Best Way to Refresh Velvet Without Washing

• Use a garment steamer to lift wrinkles and restore plushness. Always steam in the direction of the nap to avoid flattening the texture.

• Lint roller or fabric brush to remove hair or dust. A velvet-specific brush can be especially effective at lifting fibers gently.

• Spritz with fabric refresher spray between washes (test first). Lightly mist and allow the pillow to air dry completely.

• Shake and fluff the pillow regularly to help it retain its shape and softness without needing frequent washing.

• Use indirect sunlight to naturally freshen velvet pillows—set them near a sunny window for an hour or two to help release any odors.

On weekends when the house needs a quick tidy-up, a few swipes with a lint brush and a light steam instantly revived our emerald velvet throws. Paired with our Puffy Royal Mattress, the whole room felt hotel-luxurious without lifting more than a finger.

Velvet Cleaning Methods by Fabric Type

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using hot water: It can cause shrinkage and fading, especially in cotton or silk velvet. Always stick to cold or lukewarm water.

• Wringing or twisting: Damages the pile and may stretch the fabric, leaving it uneven and compromising its luxurious feel.

• Using harsh brushes: Can flatten the nap and leave marks that are hard to remove. Opt for soft-bristled or velvet-specific brushes instead.

• Skipping the label: Always double-check before you wash. Manufacturer guidelines are there to prevent irreversible damage—and they often include special notes about care techniques, blend details, or warnings against machine cycles.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to clean velvet pillows properly helps you keep their beauty intact without adding stress to your cleaning routine.

With just a little care—plus the right detergent, water temperature, and drying method—velvet can stay vibrant, soft, and timeless.

A clean pillow setup not only looks great but adds calming comfort to your entire home environment.