Caring for bouclé, velvet and suede in a humid climate

Why do these fabrics need more care in Accra?

Heat, humidity, dust and strong sun all work on upholstery. Humidity can leave musty smells and, in a closed room, mould. Harmattan dust settles deep in a textured weave. Afternoon sun fades colour in a single season.

None of this means avoiding bouclé, velvet or suede. It means a few minutes of care each week, and placing the pieces well.

How do I clean a bouclé sofa?

Vacuum weekly with a soft brush head on low suction, following the direction of the loops. A strong nozzle pulls at the loops and can snag them.

If a loop is pulled, never cut it flush with scissors. Ease it back into the weave with a blunt needle from the back of the fabric.

Blot spills with a clean white cloth, working from the outside of the mark inwards. Rubbing spreads the stain and roughens the loops.

How do I keep velvet looking new?

Brush velvet gently in the direction of the pile with a soft clothes brush. Marks where people sit are normal and are part of how velvet looks over time.

To lift crushed pile, hold a steamer a few centimetres from the fabric, never touching it, then brush the pile back up while it is still warm.

Velvet fades fastest of the three, so keep it well away from windows that get direct sun.

How do I care for suede furniture?

Brush suede with a suede brush every week or two to lift the nap and remove dust. A suede eraser lifts most dry marks.

Keep water away from suede. If it gets wet, blot it, let it dry naturally away from heat, then brush the nap back up. Never use a hairdryer.

A protector spray made for suede, tested on a hidden area first, helps against light spills.

What do the care codes under the cushions mean?

Most upholstery carries a cleaning code. W means water-based cleaners are safe. S means solvent-based cleaners only, no water. WS means either. X means vacuum only and leave everything else to a professional.

Whatever the code, test any cleaner on a hidden area first, such as the back of a cushion.

How do I stop mould and musty smells?

Keep air moving. Leave a hand-width between the furniture and outside walls, run the air conditioning or a dehumidifier in rooms that stay closed, and open the room on dry days.

Turn and swap seat cushions every month so they dry evenly and wear evenly. Zipped covers let the foam inside air out.