How to Clean Bouclé Furniture When You Have Cats

Bouclé, the soft, looped and textured fabric you see on modern chairs and ottomans, is a popular choice in homes with cats. Its texture hides small amounts of fur well, and it feels cosy. But those loops need a little care. Here's how to keep bouclé clean when you share your home with cats.

Always check the care label or instructions for your specific piece first. Fabrics vary, and the manufacturer's guidance comes first.

1. Remove cat hair regularly

• Vacuum once or twice a week using an upholstery attachment on low suction. Move it gently in the direction of the fabric.
• Use a soft clothes brush or rubber pet-hair brush between vacuums. Brush lightly so you don't pull the loops.
• Avoid sticky lint rollers with strong adhesive on bouclé, as they can tug at the loops. If you use one, press lightly.

2. Deal with spills and accidents quickly

1. Blot, don't rub. Press a clean, dry cloth onto the spot to soak up as much as possible. Rubbing pushes the stain deeper and can fuzz the loops.
2. Spot clean with a cloth slightly dampened with water and a small amount of mild soap. Test on a hidden area first.
3. Rinse by blotting with a cloth dampened with plain water.
4. Air dry completely. Don't use a hair dryer or direct heat.

For pet accidents, an enzyme cleaner made for pet stains can help remove odours, but test it on a hidden spot first.

3. Protect the loops from claws

• Give your cat a scratching post near the furniture, so they have a better place to scratch.
• Keep claws trimmed to reduce snagging.
• If a loop gets pulled, don't cut it close. Gently push it back in with a blunt needle, or trim only the very end with small scissors.

4. Keep it looking fresh

• Keep bouclé out of strong direct sunlight to help prevent fading.
• Fluff and brush the fabric occasionally to keep the texture even.
• For deep cleaning, consider a professional upholstery cleaner.

Quick checklist

• Weekly: vacuum on low and brush lightly.
• Spills: blot, spot clean gently, air dry.
• Claws: scratching post nearby, trim regularly.
• Snags: tuck back in, never cut close.

Our Velura Pet Haven uses cream bouclé on both the footrest and the pet bed. Vacuum or brush it to remove fur, and spot clean with a damp cloth.