There are no deep, dark secrets regarding the safe use of a quilt collection.  Common sense and a knowledgeable respect for the fabrics will help preserve these treasures for future generations.  Here are some simple guidelines to follow:

Airing  

A musty smell can often be diminished by airing quilts in a shaded area outdoors or in a well-ventilated area indoors.  Place a large plastic sheet on the ground or floor, cover it with a clean white sheet, and then lay the quilt on top of the sheet for airing.  Air quilts away from direct sunlight as direct sunlight or bright indoor light fades colors and weakens fibers.  It may take a few days airing to eliminate some odors. 

Do not drape quilts over clotheslines (as pictured here).  The yarns and fibers are strained and the weight can break stitches or tear the fabric.  Never beat or shake a quilt to remove dust.

Vacuuming

Small particles of dust and dirt abrade fibers and can damage a quilt.  One cleaning method is to lay out the quilt and carefully vacuum it.  Place a section of cotton cheesecloth over the hand-held vacuum nozzle to prevent the quilt from being pulled into the nozzle (you can attach it with elastics).  If you vacuum has a low setting, it is best to use it when vacuuming quilts.

Generally, airing and vacuuming  are frequently the only safe methods for cleaning a wool or silk quilt and often it is all that's needed.  It is recommended that further cleaning of these quilts be only done by professional conservators.

To Clean or Not to Clean?

Quilter's Wash Day by MH Quilt DesignsMost modern quilts can be easily washed if you know how they're made and what kind of fabric was used.  It is recommended to wash quilts in a front-loading commercial washer only.  Agitating machines used in homes will stretch hand stitching and can cause extensive damage. 

Wash quilts in cold water with mild detergent such as Orvis, Woolite, or any of the other quilt wash products now available.  Most home detergents (except Ivory) are too harsh.  It is best, when possible, to air-dry your quilt, laying it outdoors on a clean sheet (out of the sun). 

If you cannot air-dry, then dry your quilt on a low heat setting in a commercial dryer, and monitor it often.  The quilt may not need to be dried for a full cycle.

However, when deciding whether or not to clean an antique quilt there are several questions you need to ask yourself.

  • What is the fiber content?

  • How is the quilt constructed?

  • Can it withstand movement or agitation?

  • Will the colors bleed or fade?

  • How valuable is it to you?

  • How will you feel if it is damaged by your choice of cleaning method?

  • Do you have the equipment and space to clean the quilt?

Make your decision carefully.  Very old, fragile, or valuable quilts should be cleaned by a professional textile conservator―not at home.  Contact a local or area museum, university or the American Institute for Conservation, 1717 K Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20006, (202) 452-9545, for names of professional conservators in your area.

You should NEVER dry clean any quilt―antique or not; harsh chemical used the the dry cleaning process can damage threads and fibers in the quilt.

Resources

www.quilthistory.com  In addition to a comprehensive section on cleaning quilts, this site is for people who are interested in antique quilts and related textiles.

http://www.museum.msu.edu/glqc/quiltcare.html  One of the most complete articles for caring for antique quilts.

http://softexpressions.com  Quilt care products to care for and preserve your special quilts.  Whether you need to protect against yellowing, fading, or you want to ensure that the future owners of your quilts know how to care for them, this site has what you need to give your quilts heirloom longevity. 

http://www.quiltdoctor.com/repair.html   A peek into professional quilt repair and restoration at the Vienna Quilt Shop in Washington, D.C.

http://www.rmqm.org/quiltcare.htm  Preserve the stories behind your quilts!  Visit the Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum's website for quilt care and a downloadable Personal Quilt Documentation Form to document the details of each of your quilts.