Short answer
Wrinkle-resistant polyester is the easiest cloth backdrop: matte, machine washable and stored loose in a bag, per Westcott. Canvas is extremely matte and takes painted textures but is spot clean only. Velvet soaks up light for low-key black. Size it like any backdrop: 5 x 7 ft for headshots, 8 x 13 ft and up for full length.
The fabric types
Fabric backdrops at a glance
| Fabric | Looks | Care | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wrinkle-resistant polyester | Matte, even | Machine washable, dryer on normal with a damp cloth (Westcott) | Travel, small homes, solid colors |
| Canvas | Extremely matte, painted textures | Spot clean with water and mild detergent | Fine art portraits, studios |
| Velvet | Deep black, soaks up light | Brush, do not crush | Low-key portraits, products |
| Printed polyester | Brick, wood, interiors, bokeh | Per label | Lifestyle and product sets |
Care details above are from Westcott and Westcott care.
-
01Easiest care
Wrinkle-resistant polyester
Best for: anyone who will not steam
- Sizes
- 5 x 7 to 9 x 20 ft
- Storage
- loose in a bag
- Machine washable per Westcott
- Pole pocket or grommets
-
02Painted look
Canvas
Best for: fine art and classic portraits
- Finish
- very matte
- Care
- spot clean
- Heavier than polyester
- Roll it for storage
-
03True black
Black velvet
Best for: low-key portraits and products
- Finish
- pile, light absorbing
- Stays black even with some spill
- Shows lint: keep a brush handy
Hanging fabric smoothly
- Tension beats steam. Clamp the top, then pull the sides taut to the stands with spring clamps (Westcott).
- Frames help. Frame-style kits pull the fabric tight from several points.
- Steam the deep folds on the smooth side while it hangs (Westcott).
No stand? Fabric is the easiest backdrop to hang from wall hooks or a tension rod. See how to hang a backdrop without a stand.
Questions people ask
Can you put a polyester backdrop in the washing machine?
Westcott describes its wrinkle-resistant polyester backdrops as machine washable and says they can go in a dryer on normal heat with a small, clean, damp cloth. Other brands differ, so check the label.
What is the difference between muslin and polyester backdrops?
Muslin is cotton: it has more natural texture and takes paint and dye, but wrinkles easily. Polyester backdrops are made to resist wrinkles, are often machine washable and pack small, with a flatter look.
Is a canvas backdrop worth it?
For painted, old master style portraits, canvas gives an extremely matte, easy to light surface. It is heavier, usually rolled for storage, and Westcott says to spot clean it rather than machine wash.
How should I store a wrinkle-resistant backdrop?
Loosely, wadded into a storage bag, Westcott says, and not folded or rolled. That is the opposite of muslin and vinyl, which are best rolled.
Sources
Last reviewed October 29, 2026. Sizes, colors and listings change; check the product details before you buy, and follow the maker’s care instructions.