To wash a quilt, whether it’s a family heirloom or a modern masterpiece, requires more than just tossing it into a washing machine and hoping for the best. You should wash it in a way that it will be clean and have it’s quality preserved for a long time.
In this article, we will talk about how you can wash your quilts by hand or machine. You will learn from personal experiences that have taught me the importance of each step.
Table of Contents
Learn how to wash a quilt
- Washing in the machine: Check for colorfastness, pretreat stains, use gentle detergent, wash on gentle cycle, dry on low heat.
- Hand washing: Fill tub with water and detergent, soak quilt, rinse, dry on low heat.
- Dry cleaning: Take quilt to professional cleaner.
How to Wash a Quilt in the Washing Machine
Step 1: Check the quilt for colorfastness
Before you even think about letting water touch your quilt, it’s crucial to check for colorfastness. To find out, test each color in the quilt by dabbing a cotton swab moistened with hot water on a small, inconspicuous area. If the swab picks up any color, your quilt is not colorfast, and you might need to consider hand washing or dry cleaning instead.
Step 2: Pretreat any stains
Stains on quilts can be as stubborn as they are heartbreaking. Whether it’s a coffee spill or an ink mark, pretreating is your best defense. Use a gentle stain remover and apply it delicately with your fingertips or a soft brush. I once spent an entire afternoon treating a small grease stain on my grandmother’s quilt, and that patience paid off when the quilt came out as pristine as it went in.
Step 3: Use a gentle detergent
When it comes to detergents, not all are created equal—especially in the eyes of a quilt. Opt for a mild, liquid detergent that’s free of any harsh chemicals or brighteners. These can degrade fabric fibers and fade colors over time. I have a specific brand I swear by, which has never let me down in preserving the softness and vibrancy of my quilts.
Step 4: Wash the quilt on a gentle cycle
The washing machine can be a tumultuous place for a quilt. To minimize stress on the fabric, select the gentle cycle and use cold water to prevent shrinking and bleeding. I also recommend placing the quilt in a large mesh laundry bag for an added layer of protection. It’s a simple step that can make a significant difference in the quilt’s care.
Step 5: Dry the quilt on low heat
Drying a quilt is as pivotal as washing it. Always opt for the lowest heat setting on your dryer, or better yet, air dry it when possible. High temperatures can cause shrinkage, damage fibers, and even melt delicate embellishments. I have a special drying area in my yard where quilts can bask in the sun, enjoying a gentle breeze that does the job perfectly.
How to Wash a Quilt By Hand
For those quilts that are too delicate or not colorfast, hand washing is a labor of love that pays dividends in preserving their beauty.
Step 1: Fill a tub with water and detergent
Choose a tub or a large basin that can comfortably accommodate your quilt, and fill it with lukewarm water. Add a capful of gentle, liquid detergent and mix it well. Ensure the water is not too hot, as this can cause colors to run or fabric to shrink.
Step 2: Soak the quilt in the water
Gently submerge your quilt in the soapy water, taking care not to agitate it too much. Let it soak for about 15 minutes, allowing the detergent to work its magic on the dirt and grime. I often use this time to reflect on the stories and memories each quilt holds, making the process even more meaningful.
Step 3: Rinse the quilt
After soaking, drain the soapy water and refill the tub with clean water to rinse the quilt. Repeat this process until the water runs clear and all the detergent has been washed out. Be gentle throughout the rinsing process to prevent any strain on the fabric.
Step 4: Dry the quilt on low heat
Once the quilt is thoroughly rinsed, it’s time to dry it. If you have a suitable outdoor space, laying the quilt flat on a clean, dry surface allows it to air dry gently. Alternatively, you can dry it on the lowest heat setting in your dryer, but remember, the gentler the drying process, the better.
How to Dry Clean a Quilt
Dry cleaning is often the safest bet for quilts that are extremely delicate, made from fabrics that don’t react well to water, or are simply too important to risk. The process uses solvents to clean the quilt without ever immersing it in water.
While I prefer to wash my quilts at home to maintain a personal connection with them, I’ve entrusted a few to professional dry cleaners when necessary. It’s essential to find a reputable cleaner experienced with quilts to ensure your treasured textile is in good hands.
In conclusion, washing a quilt, whether by machine, hand, or through dry cleaning, is a journey that requires patience, care, and a deep understanding of the fabric in your hands. Each quilt has its own story, and how you choose to clean it can either add to that narrative or, unfortunately, end it prematurely.
Treat your quilts with the care they deserve, and they’ll reward you by brightening your home and warming your heart for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should I consult before washing a quilt?
Consult the care label on the quilt for specific instructions.
What is the best way to wash a quilt at home?
Use a gentle cycle with mild detergent to preserve the fabric.
How can I ensure that my quilt doesn’t shrink in the wash?
Avoid using hot water and opt for air drying instead.
What if my quilt is too large for my washing machine?
Consider taking it to a professional cleaner for washing.
How do I remove tough stains from a quilt?
Spot treat stains with a gentle stain remover before washing.
Isn’t it easier to just take the quilt to a dry cleaner?
Washing a quilt at home can be cost-effective and convenient.