Sequin on velvet is one of the most luxurious and eye-catching fabric combinations you can find. The shimmering, reflective sequins atop the rich, soft velvet create a stunning contrast that is perfect for special occasions, evening wear, and even home decor. However, while these fabrics are beautiful and fashionable, they require careful attention to maintain their look and feel over time. Whether you’re wearing a sequined velvet dress or decorating your home with velvet cushions adorned with sequins, proper care is essential to preserve the shine of the sequins and the softness of the velvet.
Here’s how to properly care for sequin on velvet so it stays dazzling and plush for years to come.
1. Gentle Washing Is Key
When it comes to cleaning sequin on velvet, always opt for the gentlest cleaning method. Handwashing is often the best option, as it ensures that the delicate sequins aren’t damaged or pulled off during a machine wash. Fill a basin with lukewarm water and use a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Gently agitate the fabric by hand, but avoid rubbing or twisting the material, which could cause the sequins to loosen or the velvet to lose its softness.
If you absolutely must machine wash, be sure to place your garment inside a mesh laundry bag to protect the sequins. Always select the most delicate cycle, and be sure to wash the item inside out to minimize friction with the sequins.
2. Avoid Harsh Detergents and Bleach
Harsh chemicals, such as bleach or fabric softeners, can damage the fibers of both velvet and sequins. Velvet, being a delicate fabric, can lose its plushness, while the sequins may lose their shine or, worse, start to peel off. Always use a gentle detergent and avoid any strong chemical treatments that might harm your fabric.
Additionally, avoid fabric softeners, as these can leave a residue on the velvet that reduces its softness over time. Stick to natural or pH-balanced detergents to ensure the longevity of both the velvet and the sequins.
3. Drying: Air Dry, Don’t Tumble Dry
Both velvet and sequins are sensitive to high heat, so never tumble dry your sequin on velvet garments or home items. The heat from the dryer can damage the sequins and even cause them to melt, while also ruining the velvet’s rich texture. Instead, lay the item flat to dry on a clean, dry towel. This will help preserve the shape and prevent any stretching or distortion of the fabric.
If you’re drying a larger item like a velvet cushion, be sure to fluff the item occasionally during the drying process to maintain its softness. Keep it out of direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause the colors of the fabric to fade.
4. Spot Clean When Necessary
For small stains or spills, spot cleaning is often the best solution. If you spill something on your sequin on velvet fabric, act quickly by gently blotting the stain with a clean, soft cloth. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fabric or dislodge sequins. You can also use a mild soap solution or a fabric stain remover that is safe for both velvet and sequins.
Be sure to test any cleaning solution on an inconspicuous area first to check for any adverse reactions with the fabric. This way, you won’t risk damaging your garment or home decor piece.
5. Storage: Keep It Safe from Dust and Dirt
Proper storage plays a crucial role in maintaining the shine of sequins and the softness of velvet. When not in use, make sure to store your sequin on velvet items in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A garment bag or dust cover is ideal for clothing, as it will protect the fabric from dirt, dust, and environmental pollutants.
For home decor items like velvet cushions or throws, consider storing them in protective storage bins during off-seasons to prevent them from collecting dust or getting crushed. If you do hang or store velvet garments in a closet, always use padded hangers to avoid any unwanted creases that could harm the fabric.
6. Avoid Friction to Preserve the Velvet
Velvet is particularly vulnerable to wear from friction, so it’s important to avoid rubbing the fabric against rough surfaces. If you’re wearing sequin on velvet garments, be mindful of contact with hard surfaces like chair backs, rough walls, or bags with sharp edges, which could cause the fabric to lose its plushness. Similarly, if your velvet items are part of your home decor, keep them away from areas where they may face constant friction, such as seats that are frequently used.
When storing, avoid overcrowding your closet, as this can cause velvet to lose its soft texture. Give your garments or decor ample space to avoid compression and ensure they maintain their natural beauty.
7. Reviving Velvet’s Softness
Over time, velvet may lose some of its softness due to wear and tear. One of the best ways to revive the fabric is to gently steam it. Use a handheld steamer to release wrinkles and restore the velvet’s rich, luxurious texture. Be sure to hold the steamer a few inches away from the fabric to avoid direct contact with the sequins, which could get damaged by the heat.
If you don’t have a steamer, you can also hang the velvet piece in a bathroom while you take a hot shower. The steam from the shower will help to refresh the velvet without coming into direct contact with the fabric.
8. Professional Cleaning for Delicate Items
For items that are particularly delicate or expensive, such as sequin on velvet evening gowns or couture pieces, it’s always a good idea to take them to a professional cleaner. They have the expertise and equipment to clean these fabrics without damaging them. Just make sure to inform them of the fabric’s specific care needs, especially the presence of sequins.
Conclusion
Sequin on velvet is a gorgeous, luxurious combination, but it does require a bit of extra care to keep it looking as stunning as the day you bought it. By following these simple care tips—gentle washing, air drying, and proper storage—you can help preserve both the shine of the sequins and the soft texture of the velvet for years to come. With the right approach, your sequin on velvet pieces can remain as beautiful and plush as the day you first wore or decorated with them.
