Quilters spend a lot of time choosing fabric, cutting and piecing it together to form a family heirloom that is irreplaceable. Creating a quilt requires much time and effort and can end up damaged by improper cleaning, storage and display. How do you ensure it is protected?
Cleaning
Do not dry clean a soiled quilt unless directed to do so by the manufacturer. Improper dry cleaning with harsh chemicals may damage your quilt. To wash it safely, first test for color fastness by gently rubbing each fabric with a wet (water only) cotton swab. If no color comes off then the dyes are set.
Machine wash
If you choose to machine wash your quilt use the gentlest cycle with warm/cold water and a very mild detergent such as Ivory or Orvis. Never use bleach, and make sure you remove the quilted item from the washer promptly. Leaving them in the washer too long will have your quilt smelling like mold or mildew quickly. These odors can be very difficult to wash out.
Dry your quilted items in the dryer. If you choose to line dry, hang the quilt with the backing facing the sun and put a clean sheet over it to protect from sun exposure. While the quilt is still damp it can be fluffed in the dryer to reduce wrinkling.
Hand wash
If you decide to hand wash your quilt, use cold water and make sure not to use too much force while washing.
Squeeze out excess water by pushing the quilt against the side of the tub, never wring it out. Rinse several times.
Storing
Light and moisture are a quilts worst enemies. Never store quilts in plastic bags, cardboard boxes or blanket chests. Besides poor air circulation they can also be stained and the weight of stacked quilts can cause fibers to break down.
A closet shelf is a much better choice. Do not use open shelving as this exposes the quilt to light and you will end up with fading along the folds. The storage area should be clean, cool, dry, dark, and as free as possible from drastic changes in temperature and humidity. If you have shelf space, it is a good idea to fold the length of the quilt and roll, to eliminate creases.
No matter where you choose to store your quilts, it is important to inspect them every two to three months. Take them out to air them for a few hours and examine, front and back. It is a good idea to clean the storage area at this time before putting the quilts back.
