How To Clean Velvet Couch – Simple Hacks!
Velvet couches are the epitome of luxury. They’re soft, stylish, and make your living room look like a page out of a home décor magazine.
But what happens when life gets messy? Whether it’s a spill, pet hair, or—heaven forbid—dog pee, keeping your velvet couch clean can feel like a challenge.
Good news: It’s easier than you think to restore your velvet sofa to its original glory with a few simple hacks. Let’s dive in and get your couch looking fabulous again.
1. Know Your Velvet
Before you start scrubbing away, you need to figure out what type of velvet you’re dealing with. Is it synthetic or natural? Most velvet couches these days are synthetic, which makes them more durable and easier to clean.
Check the care tag on your couch for a cleaning code:
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Start Training Today! 🐾- W: Use water-based cleaners.
- S: Use solvent-based cleaners (dry cleaning solution).
- WS: You can use either.
- X: Vacuum only. (Yikes.)
This little detail can save you from accidentally ruining your couch.
2. Vacuum Regularly

Dust, pet hair, and crumbs love to hide in velvet. To keep your couch looking fresh, vacuum it regularly using a soft brush attachment.
Here’s the trick: Always vacuum in the direction of the nap (the way the fibers naturally lie). This prevents matting and keeps the velvet looking smooth and plush.
Pro tip: If you’ve got a furry friend, use a lint roller or pet hair remover to tackle stubborn fur before vacuuming.

3. Blot Spills Immediately
Spills on velvet can be a disaster if you don’t act fast. The key is to blot, don’t rub—rubbing pushes the liquid deeper into the fabric.
Here’s what to do:
- Grab a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towel.
- Blot the spill gently to soak up as much liquid as possible.
- If needed, use a water-based cleaner (for “W” or “WS” velvet) to dab the area clean.
For stubborn spills, like wine or coffee, a mix of mild dish soap and water can work wonders. Just go easy on the water—velvet doesn’t love getting drenched.

4. Dog Pee on Velvet? No Problem
First of all, take a deep breath. Accidents happen, and your couch can be saved. Here’s how to tackle dog pee without losing your mind:
Step 1: Blot the area immediately.
- Use paper towels or a clean cloth to absorb as much urine as possible.
Step 2: Neutralize the odor.
- Mix 1 part white vinegar with 2 parts water in a spray bottle.
- Lightly spray the affected area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
Step 3: Blot again.
- Use a dry cloth to absorb the vinegar solution.
Step 4: Treat with an enzyme cleaner.
- Enzyme cleaners break down the proteins in urine and eliminate odors completely. Make sure the cleaner is safe for velvet and follow the instructions carefully.
Step 5: Dry thoroughly.
- Use a hairdryer on a cool setting to speed up the drying process. Don’t leave the area damp—moisture can lead to mold or mildew.

5. Tackle Stains with a DIY Solution
If you’re dealing with stains like food, dirt, or who-knows-what, a simple DIY cleaner can do the trick.
What you need:
- 2 cups of warm water
- A few drops of mild dish soap
What to do:
- Dip a soft cloth or sponge into the soapy water.
- Gently dab (don’t scrub!) the stained area.
- Blot with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue.
Again, always work in the direction of the nap to keep your velvet looking its best.
6. Brush the Velvet
Velvet can lose its luxurious look if the fibers get crushed or matted. Brushing your couch regularly can help restore its softness and shine.
Use a soft-bristle brush or a special velvet upholstery brush to gently fluff the fabric. Brush in the same direction as the nap for best results.
Bonus tip: For stubborn creases, try steaming the area lightly. Use a handheld steamer or the steam setting on your iron, but always hold it a few inches away from the fabric to avoid damaging it.
7. Use Baking Soda for Odors

Does your couch smell less than fresh? Baking soda is your best friend.
- Sprinkle baking soda over the entire couch, focusing on any smelly spots.
- Let it sit for 15-20 minutes (or longer for strong odors).
- Vacuum it up with your trusty soft brush attachment.
Baking soda absorbs odors without leaving any residue, making it perfect for velvet.
8. Protect Your Couch from Future Mishaps
Prevention is always easier than cleaning up a mess. Here’s how to protect your velvet couch from everyday disasters:
- Use a fabric protector spray that’s safe for velvet. It creates a barrier against spills and stains.
- Cover high-traffic areas with a stylish throw blanket. Not only does it add a cozy vibe, but it also shields your couch from wear and tear.
- Train your pets (and kids, let’s be honest) to keep food and drinks off the couch. Easier said than done, but worth the effort!

9. Call in the Pros for Deep Cleaning
If your couch is looking worse for wear and DIY cleaning isn’t cutting it, it might be time to call in the professionals. Professional upholstery cleaners have the tools and expertise to deep-clean velvet without damaging it.
Schedule a deep cleaning every year or two to keep your couch in tip-top shape.
Wrapping It Up
Keeping a velvet couch clean might sound intimidating, but it’s totally doable with the right approach. Vacuum regularly, tackle spills and stains ASAP, and don’t forget to give your velvet a little TLC with brushing and baking soda treatments.
And if your furry friend decides to add their “personal touch” to the couch, don’t panic—you’ve got the tools to handle it like a pro.
Now go enjoy your gorgeous, velvety throne! 😊

I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉