Velvet is a special kind of material that is preserved for exclusive events or occasions. It is a woven fabric where there is an even distribution of the cut threads. It has a short, dense pile that gives it a peculiar and characteristic feel.
As velvet has a luxurious touch to it, it is not worn often. But this does not stop it from getting dirty. As it is a delicate fabric, it can get stained quickly. Moreover, it is more susceptible to mud or water, possibly leaving behind dirt and upheaved fabric trails.
All of this can be avoided if you would care for your velvet shoes. Even if you end up tainting your velvet shoes, do not worry. We have compiled the following article to teach you how to clean your velvet shoes in the easiest way possible!
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What is Velvet?
Before we get started with the ways to clean velvet shoes, it is crucial to understand its structure.
Throughout history, velvet is presumed to have a high and noble connotation. It was used by rulers and scholars like Suleyman (the ruler of Mali), who wore a crimson velvet caftan on Eid.
King Richard II of England wished to be clothed in velvet after his death.
A special loom is used to weave velvet. The process is conducted to have two thicknesses of the material, which are then cut to create a pile effect.
As this was a complicated process even before the industrial power looms’ availability, velvet was considered an expensive choice.
Velvet is usually made from several kinds of material like silk, cotton, wool, linen, mohair. It is also made from a mixture of synthetic materials and natural fibers like polyester, nylon, acetate, viscose, etc., for more refined finishing. The prices differ accordingly.
Types of Velvet
As velvet is woven from different sets and mixtures of materials, there are different types of velvet.
The ten most appreciable types of velvet:
1. Chiffon Velvet:
It is a lightweight velvet type that can be draped in several ways. Such a velvet type can also be denoted as “transparent” velvet due to its sheer and flowing texture. It has a backing of silk or rayon. It can also be stretchy.
Crushed Velvet:
As it is evident from the name, such velvet is made by twisting the fabric while it is wet. It has a lustrous texture that enhances appearance.
Plain Velvet:
This is a cotton velvet that is not too stretchy. As it is made by hand and does not have synthetic velvet material structure, it lacks shine.
Embossed Velvet:
As the name suggests, embossed velvet is created via heating the fabric to make patterns on the material. The majority of the time, a metal roller is used to produce such a velvet.
Panne Velvet:
This is a crushed type of velvet produced by applied heavy pressure on the fabric in a particular direction.
Ciselé:
The pattern created by this type of velvet has come cut and uncut loop threads.
Pile-on-pile Velvet:
The varying lengths of the fabric create such a pattern.
Stretch Velvet:
The velvet is made to be stretchy with the incorporation of spandex.
Ponson:
This is one of the most expensive velvet that has a full silk construction. It is used to make women’s dresses.
Velveteen:
This is not velvet but a mere imitation of it. Either cotton or a mixture of cotton and silk is used for its construction.
How to Clean Dust and Dirt Off Velvet Shoes?
Cleaning dust and dirt from velvet shoes is not a challenging task. It can be done with a simple soft-bristled toothbrush. But you must do it with precision, care, and gentleness.
Steps to Clean Dirt and Dust off Velvet shoes:
- Firstly, it is advisable to clean your velvet shoes while they are wet. You must avoid wearing them in muddy regions at all costs. But even if you do, and they end up getting drenched, wait for them to get dried up. Let the shoes get dried naturally, and not with the help of a hairdryer.
- Once your shoes are dried up, use a clean cloth and remove all the dirt and dust off the surface.
- If you still see certain stains or dust particles, you can use a soft-bristled toothbrush and clean in the fabric’s direction.
- Avoid getting your shoes stained with dirt by brushing them gently after every year and withdraw from wearing them on rainy days or muddy regions.
How to Remove Stains from Velvet Shoes
Velvet is an expensive fabric, and it can be a horrible sight to watch it get stained. A simple cloth or brush will not work, and some extra elbow grease might be needed.
To remove the stains from your velvet shoes, you will require the following items:
- Microfiber cloth or paper towel
- Dish soap
- Water
- Lemon juice
- Baking Soda
- Toothbrush
- As soon as you see the stain on your velvet shoes, take a microfiber cloth or some paper towels and dab on the affected area. You must stop the liquid from getting absorbed by the material.
- Make a mixture of some dish soap and water. If you do not want to use dish soap, you can also make a solution of lemon juice and baking soda in a 1:2 proportion.
- Use a toothbrush and apply some mixture to the stained area and brush it. Try to remain gentle and not too aggressive.
- After you see the stains diminishing, take a clean cloth and wipe the shoes thoroughly.
- Let the shoes dry naturally. If you are in a hurry, you can use a fan or a hairdryer to eliminate the excess moisture.
Note: If you are dealing with stubborn stains and none of the solutions works for you, you must take a professional’s help and get them cleaned.
How to Remove Water from Velvet Shoes?
As mentioned earlier, velvet can get stained very quickly, even from water. In case you end up with soaked velvet shoes, you must act on the spot.
You will need:
- Paper towels
- Dry cleaning detergent
- Sponge
- When your velvet shoes get soaked with water, use a cloth or some paper towels and dab it on the entire area. Make sure that the liquid is absorbed from the fabric.
- Use some dry cleaning detergent and apply it to the stain with a dry sponge.
- Let the shoes dry for a few minutes.
- If you see the velvet getting matted, brush it gently.
The method mentioned above was for removing the water from the velvet shoes. But you can avoid the hassle by water-proofing them in the first place.
You will need:
- Dry sponge
- Water-proof protector
- Clean your shoes with a sponge and remove all the dirt and dust particles.
- Spray the first coating of a waterproof protector and let it dry for 10 minutes. Repeat this twice or thrice.
This method will allow your velvet shoes from water stains or accidental spills and keep your velvet shoes dry and fresh.
Maintenance and Care Tips for Better Protection
It is necessary to maintain and preserve your velvet shoes, not only because of their high price but also to retain their appearance. The following are certain do’s and do not’s when it comes to caring about velvet shoes
Do’s
- Always let the shoes dry out before you start cleaning them.
- If you are unsure of the cleaning detergent, conduct a patch test first.
- Use a soft-bristled brush to remove the dirt.
- Brush in the direction of the fabric to avoid any damage.
- Only dab or bolt on the stain on velvet.
- Use a protective spray for further prevention.
Do Not’s
- Do not use excess moisture while cleaning the shoes.
- Avoid wearing velvet shoes in places with muddy surfaces.
- Do not brush the shoes aggressively.
Deodorizing Velvet Shoes
Every shoe type begins to smell after wearing them for hours at a stretch, including velvet shoes. There are numerous ways to do it, like the following:
White Vinegar
White vinegar is easy and harmless to use on velvet. Make a mixture of water and white vinegar in a 1:1 proportion and fill it in a spray bottle. Spray the mix sparingly on the inside of your velvet shoes. Let the mixture dry naturally.
Baking Soda
If the white vinegar does not work for you, you can sprinkle some baking soda on the insides of your shoes. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Remove the baking soda with a vacuum cleaner, and you will be good to go!
Shoe Deodorizer
If you want to save yourself from the hassle, you can buy a shoe deodorizer available in the market to get rid of those stinky smells.
Sanitizing Sprays
Odor can be caused by the presence of certain bacteria in the shoes or on the feet. This can be avoided by using sanitizing sprays on the insides of the shoes.
Dryer Sheets
Place dryer sheets in the shoes and leave them overnight. This will leave your velvet shoes smelling fresh.
The bottom line
All in all, it is well-established that velvet is a piece of luxurious fabric and needs to be taken care of accordingly. Make sure you go the extra mile in preserving them. Even if you end up spilling something over them, do not panic and pay attention to our techniques mentioned above.
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Ethan comes with a wide array of knowledge when it comes to fashion. Since 2008, Ethan has been reaching remarkable heights in the fashion industry. He has a bachelor’s in Fashion Merchandising from CUNY New York City College of Technology and currently owns his fashion studio in New York City. His styles exude a powerful statement, and he tries to bring this magic in the products he reviews. He ensures his readers always put their best foot forward.
He grew up in Brooklyn, NY, and currently lives with his wife and five-year-old kid, Scott. In his free time, Ethan loves indulging his senses in pottery making and even knitting. He has celebrated many achievements in his career and has conducted workshops for many celebrities and public figures. At Wearsty, he ensures the testing and scrutiny of how fashionable products are and how comfortable and supportive they are.
