How to Wash and Store a Quilt

Depending on its age, condition and fabric, each quilt requires its own special type of care. Keeping yours as clean and dry as possible is the safest way to preserve it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Muslin Sheets
• Acid-free Boxes
• Vacuum Cleaners
• Acid-free Papers

1. Examine the quilt. If it is new, follow washing instructions on the label.
2. Air and dust antique quilts to avoid washing them. Even the most careful washing might cause damage. As long as a quilt is not silk, you can cover it with a plastic screen then use the vacuum cleaner's brush attachment to gently dust.
3. Consult an expert, such as an antique dealer or state extension home economics specialist first if you must risk washing an antique quilt.
4. Display quilts on beds, walls or quilt racks.
5. Roll or fold quilts to store them. Rolling prevents creases. Line the folds with acid-free paper or clean muslin.
6. Store quilts in acid-free boxes.

Tips & Warnings

• A sheet spread over a quilt keeps the dust off.
• Treat new, handmade quilts the same as you would very old ones.
• Avoid putting any quilt in a dryer even if manufacture's instructions indicate you may do so.
• Spread a quilt to dry it rather than hanging it up.
• To prevent fabric colors from bleeding, some new quilts must be soaked in a solution of water and vinegar before they are washed. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before you do anything to your new quilt.
• Never take your antique quilt to the drycleaner, throw it in your automatic washer or dryer, or expose it to carpet fresheners.