How to Care for Chenille and Velvet Cushion Covers

Why Proper Care Keeps Luxury Fabrics Looking Their Best

Chenille and velvet are two of the most beautiful — and most searched-for — cushion fabrics. Their rich texture and depth of colour make them a favourite for adding warmth and luxury to a room. But they do need a little more care than everyday fabrics to stay looking their best.

At Alice David Cushions, our handmade chenille and velvet cushion covers are crafted in small batches with quality materials. Here's how to look after them so they last for years.

Caring for Chenille Cushion Covers

Chenille is made from tufted yarn that gives it its characteristic soft, velvety pile. It's hardwearing but can be prone to snagging and pile flattening if not handled carefully.

Day-to-Day Care

• Plump and rotate your cushions regularly to prevent the pile from flattening in one spot.
• Use a soft-bristle brush or lint roller to remove dust and pet hair — always brush in the direction of the pile.
• Keep chenille out of direct sunlight where possible, as prolonged exposure can fade the colour.

Washing Chenille

• Spot clean first: For small marks, dab (don't rub) with a damp cloth and a tiny amount of mild detergent. Blot dry.
• Machine washing: If the care label permits, wash on a gentle cool cycle (30°C or below) inside a mesh laundry bag.
• Drying: Always air dry flat. Never tumble dry — heat can shrink the fabric and damage the pile. Reshape while damp.
• Ironing: Avoid ironing directly. If needed, use a cool iron on the reverse side with a pressing cloth.

Caring for Velvet Cushion Covers

Velvet has a distinctive cut pile that gives it its signature sheen and depth. It's more delicate than chenille and benefits from gentle handling.

Day-to-Day Care

• Brush velvet regularly with a soft velvet brush to keep the pile upright and remove dust.
• If the pile gets flattened (from sitting or storage), hold the fabric over steam — a clothes steamer works well — and gently brush the pile back into place. Do not press the steamer directly onto the fabric.
• Avoid placing velvet cushions in high-traffic spots where they'll be sat on repeatedly, as this flattens the pile over time.

Washing Velvet

• Spot clean where possible: Velvet is best spot-cleaned with a damp cloth. Dab gently and allow to air dry naturally.
• Dry cleaning: For a thorough clean, professional dry cleaning is the safest option for velvet.
• Machine washing: Only if the care label explicitly states it's safe. Use the most delicate cycle, cold water, and a mesh bag. Turn inside out first.
• Drying: Air dry only, away from direct heat. Never tumble dry velvet.

Storing Chenille and Velvet Cushions

If you're storing cushion covers seasonally, fold them loosely (avoid tight creases) and store in a breathable cotton bag away from direct light and moisture. Never store in plastic, which can trap humidity and cause fabric damage.

Quick Reference: Chenille vs Velvet Care

Shop our full range of chenille cushion covers and explore our other handmade collections including boucle, linen, and woven cushion covers.