How to wash an antique cotton quilt
It must be understood that there is always a risk in washing an antique
quilt. The fabrics are not as strong as on a new quilt, the colors may run, and
we do not know what chemicals, if any, have been applied to the quilt. With
proper care, a quilt may be washed safely. Use common sense. If the fabrics
look like they are about to break, or if some are already torn, then more
damage will probably occur.
Don't expect any miracles. We are discussing here how to generally clean the
quilt, not get out stains from long ago.
- Test a small area first to make sure that there is no color run, or damage
to the fabric.
- Fill your washing machine with cold water. Add a liquid detergent such as
Tide, All, or Cheer. Even better would be Orvus or Mountain Mist Ensure. We do
not recommend anything designed for fine delicate washables such as Woolite
- Swish the detergent around in the machine and add your quilt. Swish the
quilt around and then let soak for about six to seven minutes.
- Advance your timer to the rinse cycle (You do not let it agitate on the
wash cycle). Swish it around with your hands to rinse. (Again do not let it
agitate) And then let it continue through the spin dry and shut off.
- Dry your quilt by laying it outdoors on bath towels.
- If you choose to use Orvus Quilt Soap or Mountain Mist Ensure and cannot
find either available in your area we do sell Orvus Quilt Soap. Cost is $ 8 for
an 8 oz bottle (plus $ 6 shipping to U.S. only). It is highly concentrated and
you use only a tablespoon in your wash water.
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