How to Care for Your Quilt

Simple precautions will add generations to the life of your quilt

Quilts are much more than a mere blanket. As prideful owners will tell you, a quilt is a story, a legacy, a work of art. Quilts have passed down from generation to generation through the ages. Because these family heirlooms have such historic and cultural value, proper care for quilts is necessary to make sure they stand the test of time for our children. Just a few simple precautions will add decades to the life of your valuable quilt.

Quilts typically fall into two categories:

Quilts that we use regularly to keep warm or be put on display

Quilts that we store out of sight to preserve for our children and grandchildren

Both types of these quilts are subject to the damaging effects of the same elements: light, temperature, humidity, insects, dust and dirt, and improper storage or display. Some factors are easier to combat than others, but with a little care, your quilt can last for generations.

Quilt cleaning

Before even touching a treasured quilt, always wash your hands with soap and water to remove any dirt, oil, acid, or salt, all of which are harmful to textiles. Your intuition may tell you to clean your quilts that you use regularly, but using soaps and chemicals can actually be worse for your quilt than letting it remain soiled. You should leave anything that requires more than a dab of water and a little rub to a professional cleaner or even a textile conservator.

A simple way to remove loose dirt and dust is to gently vacuum your quilt with a low-powered, hand-held vacuum cleaner. Use the vacuum slowly over the surface of the quilt in long, straight passes. Avoid swiping the vacuum back and forth, which can create abrasions on your quilt.

Storage and display

Any light source - sunlight or artificial - is a big enemy of quilts. Light can cause fading and over-drying, so keep your quilt away from windows or highly lit areas.

Exposure to heat, even moderate temperature changes, can cause the fabric to expand and contract, potentially damaging your quilt. Be sure to keep quilts away from heating air ducts or radiators.

Every six months, refold and air out both displayed quilts and stored quilts. This prevents permanent creases in the fabric.

When storing quilts for a long period, avoid using plastic bags (they seal in damaging moisture). Instead, use a muslin or sheet, as these porous covers will allow the quilt to receive much-needed air.

If you feel your quilt is too fragile for display, simply following these storage guidelines can help add to its life. If in doubt, you can always consult a professional conservator whose expertise will ensure your quilt keeps looking gorgeous throughout the years.

Pass it on

These few simple precautions take just a small amount of time and effort, and will dramatically add to your quilt's lifespan. When it comes time to present a treasured quilt to a child or grandchild, be sure to pass along these simple care instructions. They will be able to give the gift of memories as well.

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