How to Store Heirloom Quilts

Heirloom quilts require special care.

Do you have a passion for antique quilts? Perhaps you collect them or you may have inherited a quilt that was made by your grandmother or other relative. No matter how you have come to be the owner of an heirloom quilt you will want to care for it to preserve it for generations to come. Fabrics are fragile and require special care to prevent deterioration. Avoid light, heat, dirt, moisture and insects and your quilt should last for years to come.

Things You'll Need

• Heirloom quilt
• 18 inch square of fiberglass screening
• Masking tape
• Vacuum cleaner
• Dusting attachment
• Tissue paper
• Unbleached muslin

Instructions

Cleaning

1. Cover the edges of a clean 18 inch square of fiberglass screening with masking tape.

   Lay the quilt out flat on the floor. Place the screening on the surface of the quilt.

2. Vacuum the quilt through the screening using the dusting attachment of your vacuum to remove dust that has accumulated.

   Move the screen and continue vacuuming until the quilt is vacuumed thoroughly on both sides.

3. Carry the quilt outside.

   Place it over two clotheslines spaced a few feet apart in a shady area in the yard.

   Allow the quilt to air out for a day.

4. Wash your heirloom quilt only as a last resort.

   Use gentle detergent without additives if you must wash the quilt and rinse thoroughly.

   Avoid wringing.

   Line dry in the shade.

Storing

1. Fold the quilt carefully using as few folds as possible.

2. Avoid crushing the fabric. Place tissue paper or rolls of muslin between folds to reduce wrinkling.

3. Wrap the quilt in clean unbleached muslin. Avoid using plastic bags for storage. Moisture can form and create mildew on your quilt.

4. Store the wrapped quilt on a closet shelf or in a chest away from direct light.

Maintenance

1. Remove your quilt from storage every 3 to 6 months.

2. Spread the quilt out on a flat surface and air it out on each side for several hours. Inspect it for stains or bugs.

   Clean the quilt again if needed.

3. Refold the quilt in a different manner. Rewrap your heirloom quilt in clean unbleached muslin.

4. Replace your heirloom quilt on the shelf or in a chest.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not dry clean antique quilts. The chemicals are too harsh for delicate fabrics.

• Do not use spray-on fabric fresheners on heirloom quilts as the sprays may contain ingredients that may damage the fragile fabric or thread.

References

• Old Fashioned Living: Caring For Heirlooms
• Hart Cottage Quilts: Washing Old Quilts