April 22, 2024

Every year, when the weather gets warm, we peel off layers of thick, cozy quilts. They’ve kept us toasty through long, chilly nights. Now it’s time to put them away. But first—a little tlc.

We’ve gathered our best tips to help you clean and store quilts properly, so they’ll be fresh, beautiful, and protected for many years to come.

Carefully examine your quilt, looking for rips or broken stitches. Take a moment to make needed repairs. Remember, a stitch in time saves nine.

Our best-loved quilts are used and enjoyed. We wouldn't want it any other way, of course, but all that snuggling leaves its mark. Now is the time to remove pet hair with a sticky roller or garment brush. Cover your vacuum nozzle with a piece of tulle to suck up dust and debris without sucking up fabric. Use a damp rag and, if needed, a gentle detergent, to spot clean any spills or stains.  

A trip through the washing machine may be too rough for fragile or antique quilts. In those cases, use your best judgment or consult a textile expert. If even handwashing seems too risky, a bit of airing out works wonders.

And here’s the good news: You can confidently machine wash most quilts that are made with quality quilting cotton.

• Use a gentle cycle, mild detergent, and cold water to prevent shrinkage and fading.

• Toss in two or three color catchers. They’ll absorb any excess dyes that may leach out of your fabric.

• When the cycle is finished, take a moment to inspect your quilt. If there is any bleeding, add a few more color catchers and run a second cycle.

• Dry your quilt with low heat or lay it flat to dry.

*Remember, most quilts only need to be washed once or twice per year.

As you prepare to store your quilt, keep in mind the fearsome foursome: moisture, sunlight, pests, and chemicals.  

• Moisture: Dry your quilt completely before storing. Avoid plastic bags; trapped moisture leads to mold and mildew. Silica gel packs are a great option to keep your quilt safe and dry.

• Light: Sunlight fills the soul with cheer, but it is not kind to fabric. A dark storage spot will protect your quilt from sun damage and fading.  

• Pests: Insects and mice are infamous quilt lovers. Keep them at bay with a sturdy, lidded container and a good cleaning; bugs love musty odors and the oil from our skin.

• Chemicals: Cardboard, newspaper, plastics, and cedar chests can cause discoloration. Protect your quilt with acid-free tissue paper, archival boxes or storage bags, or cotton muslin. Roll or fold gently to avoid creasing, using tissue or cotton sheets between layers. Quick tip: place your quilt inside a pillowcase, then store in a tote, box, or cedar chest.

As you prepare to store your quilt, keep in mind the fearsome foursome: moisture, sunlight, pests, and chemicals.  

Your quilts are precious, and we want them to last a lifetime. As you prep your home for the summer months, carve out a bit of time to properly clean and store your winter quilts.

Download our free printable checklist to guide you through the process. It’s a little extra work, but it’s worth it!

Published by Danae M.