# Plush velvet, crushed velvet, chenille or Naples? Choosing a bed fabric

Source: https://berkshirerowe.co.uk/guides/bed-fabric-guide — updated 2026-09-25 — Berkshire & Rowe

**Quick answer:** Choose plush velvet for a soft, rich sheen; crushed velvet for texture that catches the light and hides marks; chenille for a soft, matte, woven feel; and Naples for a broad palette of versatile neutrals. We offer 30 colours across 4 fabrics — order swatches at £2 each to see them in your own light.

## Key facts

- 30 colours across 4 upholstery fabrics.
- Swatches cost £2 each — at cost.
- Vacuum weekly with a soft brush attachment; blot spills, never rub.
- Keep upholstered beds out of strong direct sunlight to limit fading.

## Our fabrics compared

*Upholstery fabrics and colours*

| Fabric | Character | Colours |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Plush Velvet | Short, dense pile with a soft sheen | Cream, Silver, Charcoal, Grey, Black, Beige, Putty, Coffee, Baby Pink, Ice Blue, Royal Blue, Turmeric |
| Crushed Velvet | Pressed pile that catches the light | Silver, Cream, Black, Mink |
| Chenille | Soft, tufted yarn with a matte finish | Cream, Black, Grey, Lime, Mink |
| Naples | Our broadest neutral palette | White, Cream, Beige, Silver, Grey, Mink, Slate Grey, Black, Pink |

## Which fabric is most practical?

For busy homes, crushed velvet and chenille are forgiving: their texture disguises light marks and pressure lines. Plush velvet looks the most luxurious but shows the direction of the pile, which some people love and others notice. Mid-tones such as grey, mink and putty hide everyday wear better than very pale or very dark shades.

## How do I clean a velvet or chenille bed?

1. Vacuum weekly using a soft upholstery brush, working with the direction of the pile.
2. Blot spills straight away with a clean, dry white cloth — do not rub.
3. For marks, use a barely damp cloth with plain water, then blot dry.
4. Test any upholstery cleaner on a hidden area first, and use a professional cleaner for stubborn stains.
5. Brush velvet pile gently back into place once dry.

> **See it before we make it:** Colours look different on every screen. [Order swatches](https://berkshirerowe.co.uk/swatches) at £2 each and view them in daylight and lamplight in the room the bed will live in.

## Frequently asked questions

### Is velvet a good fabric for a bed?

Yes. Velvet is soft, durable and rich in colour. It shows the direction of the pile, so it suits people who like a luxurious, slightly changing look.

### What is the difference between plush and crushed velvet?

Plush velvet has an even, dense pile with a smooth sheen. Crushed velvet is pressed and twisted to create a textured, light-catching finish that hides marks well.

### Can I order fabric samples?

Yes — every colour is available as a swatch for £2, charged at cost.

### Does velvet fade?

Like most upholstery fabrics, velvet can fade in strong, direct sunlight over time. Position the bed away from direct sun or use blinds.