How to Maintain and Preserve Heirloom Quilts

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: If you have the quilts in storage for the summer months

   You should preferably air quilts indoors as prolonged exposure to sunlight can damage the quilt and cause the colours to fade.
   
   Direct or indirect sunlight can also weaken the fabric. ,, It is advisable to use a screen made from nylon or fibreglass between the vacuum and the quilt which will prevent the quilt from being sucked up into the vacuum.
   
   First wash the screen in soapy water and rinse well and dry.
   
   Cover the edges of the screen with tape to prevent any snagging or abrasions., Once you have aired the quilt wrap the quilt in a muslin bag.
   
   Avoid either the charcoal or cedarwood to come into direct contact with the quilt when storing., If your quilts are genuine, meaning fifty years or older, it is not recommended that you clean the quilt at home.
   
   Quilts are usually made from complex materials as there are usually two layers comprising of the fabric, batting or fibre fill and special quilting thread.
   
   Antique quilts in particular may present with problems as they have their own characteristics, and precaution should be heeded.
   
   When it comes to historic quilts even the professionals are hesitant to clean them., When handing the quilt in for cleaning, remember to tell the dry cleaner the age of the quilt and to use a short cleaning cycle., The best method and safest method to clean the quilt would be to air the quilt only., Always protect your quilts from coming into contact with wood or metal.
   
   Never store quilts in plastic bags as this may cause mildew or attract insects., Never roll the quilt, and store in around fifty percent humidity in other words room temperature.
   
   Never store them in basements or attics.
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   Step 2: periodically take them out of storage and air them.

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   Step 3: If you are going to air the quilt indoors

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   Step 4: then you can either hang it in the laundry or drape the quilt over furniture or lay it out on a spare bed.

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   Step 5: Hand vacuum the quilt when airing it which will remove any dust and musty smells.

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   Step 6: Prevent the quilt from retaining odours while being stored use either activated charcoal of cedarwood shavings in the area where you are storing the quilt.

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   Step 7: Consider if you really should clean them.

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   Step 8: If you think that your antique quilt requires airing and cleaning

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   Step 9: then make sure you take it to a dry cleaner that is reputable and experienced with antique quilts.

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    Step 10: However

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    Step 11: if your quilt is made from fabrics such as satins

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    Step 12: brocades and velvets then you need to be aware that these types of fabrics can disintegrate when being dry-cleaned.

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    Step 13: Be very careful when storing and cleaning

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    Step 14: as this may result in irreparable damage.

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    Step 15: Each time you air the quilt

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    Step 16: make sure you fold it differently each time to prevent breaking the fibres.

Detailed Guide

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