how to clean mold off velvet shoes
Mold spores are unconcerned about whether your fabric is washable or not. These microscopic creatures and fungus members thrive on any organic surface that has been exposed to moisture and heat. To eliminate mold spores and stains without shrinking or damaging the velvet nap, plush velvet fabric clothes or upholstery must be cleaned with care. To prevent the spores from harming the fabric and spreading to other surfaces, you must remove the mold from the velvet as soon as possible. Velvet is one of the most opulent fabrics available for clothes. Cleaning and safeguarding it, on the other hand, might be a nightmare if you don’t know how.
Velvet Fabrics
Before you do anything else with your velvet shoes, you should know that there are two sorts of velvet to choose from. The most common sort of velvet is a polyester-mix, while some more opulent shoes may be made of a silk and cotton blend. The reason for this differentiation is that any significant stains on silk-and-cotton blend velvet, as well as any other more unusual varieties, should be carried to a dry cleaner or shoe cleaner. Watermarks, dirt and mud, and the lightest stains, on the other hand, should be manageable on your own. You should be able to remove all but the toughest stains from polyester velvet.
Getting Rid of Stains on Your Shoes
- Using a microfiber cloth, blot up any excess liquid
Because microfiber cloths are extremely absorbent, they’re ideal for blotting out stains before they set in. Before the stain dries, lightly dab the stained area with the towel to soak up part of the stain. Do this as quickly as possible to ensure that the stain is as small as feasible.
If you don’t have a microfiber cloth on hand when the stain appears, use something absorbent.
2. To make a cleaning solution, combine dishwashing soap and water
Fill a small basin halfway with water and set aside. To make sudsy water, add 1-2 squirts of dishwashing liquid to the bowl and stir everything together. This mixture, when applied judiciously, can help remove stains from velvet shoes. Fill a small basin halfway with lemon juice and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) baking soda as an alternative. To make foam, combine the lemon juice and baking soda.
- Using a toothbrush, scrub the stain and wipe away the mixture
Apply a small amount of the mixture to the stained area of your shoes with a gentle brush. Then, using the brush, gently scrub the stain. Allow the shoes to air dry for a few minutes before wiping away the mixture with a clean, dry cloth.
- Using a microfiber towel, dry the area
If you don’t have a microfiber cloth, gently press an ordinary cloth or paper towel on the stained spot. The dampness from the stain-removing combination should be absorbed by the cloth, which will help to dry the area. If you want to speed up the drying process, use a hair dryer or a fan.
- If the discoloration persists, take your shoes to a professional cleaning
If you’ve tried using a stain-removing mixture a number of times and are still having trouble removing the stain, it might be time to seek expert assistance. Because velvet is a difficult material to remove stains from, it’s advisable to hire a professional shoe cleaner.
Removing Dust and Dirt
- If the shoes are moist, allow them to dry fully
When velvet is damp, it is readily ruined. If your velvet shoes have mud on them, it’s best to try to clean them after they’ve dried. Before attempting to remove any mud or grime, allow the shoes to air dry fully.
- Remove debris and dust using a cloth or a toothbrush
When your velvet shoes are completely dry use a soft, clean, dry towel to wipe away any remaining dirt or dust. If that doesn’t work, a soft-bristled toothbrush would be a better option. In any case, make sure to wipe or brush the velvet in the same direction to avoid damaging it accidently.
3. After each use, brush the velvet.
Brush the velvet softly with a clothes brush or a soft-bristled toothbrush after each time you wear your shoes to prevent dirt and dust from becoming caked on. This will help keep dirt and dust at bay while also preventing the velvet from being crushed.
Using Protectant Sprays to Prevent Damage
- Choose a product that is safe to use on velvet.
Fabric and furniture protectant sprays designed for suede or leather aren’t always safe to use on velvet, contrary to popular assumption. Online or in general department stores, look for shoe or upholstery protectant sprays. While you’re out shopping, check the label to see if it’s suitable for velvet.
- Look for a stain-repellent, waterproofing, or both-in-one product.
- Scotchgard or Vectra Furniture, Carpet, and Fabric Protector Spray are good
- First, try a tiny area.
Even if you think a product won’t harm your velvet shoes, test it first on a small, inconspicuous section of the shoe before spraying the entire thing. Apply a small amount of shoe protectant on the back of one of your shoes. After that, check to see if the spray has any bad effects on your shoes, such as darkening the colour or hardening the material.
- Spray the shoes while holding the spray 6 inches (15 cm) away.
You may damage your shoes if you spray the protectant too close to the velvet. Hold it at least 6 inches (15 cm) away from each shoe and spray the entire surface. This could assist to considerably reduce day-to-day weather stains and damage. To get the greatest effects, reapply the spray every 4-8 wears.