When cleaning an old, fragile quilt, place a bed sheet on the bottom of your bathtub to rest the quilt on. Soak with your favorite detergent for at least 6 hours. Do not agitate. Let dirty water drain.
Fill tub again and soak overnight. Rinse, Rinse, Rinse. Use the sheet to lift the quilt to prevent the fabric from tearing. You'll need lots of towels.
Place quilt between towels while pressing to transfer some of the water. On a bright, warm sunny day, gently place outside on the lawn to dry.
This great tip was submitted by VMTeam Member Vintagelinens.
We're always looking for ways to take care of our precious vintage objects. Share your methods for cleaning, stain removal, storage, protection, etc. Submit your tips to ThreeOldKeys, and we'll use them in future Tuesday Tips.
VMTeam cannot be responsible for any damage caused by cleaning suggestions shared here.
I wish I had know this when I was a newly wed! I ruined a quilt given to me by my MIL. It wasn't old, but made of a type fabric that frayed. Great tip once again!
ReplyDeleteWith old quilts and embroidery, always test for colorfastness before hand washing. If the color runs, rinse in cold water immediately. Christine @ www.vintagelinens.etsy.com
ReplyDeleteI'm catching up on my tips, and this one is going to save my collection of family heirlooms, thanks so much!
ReplyDeleteI have over a dozen antique quilts, mostly cotton, but one made with what looks like mens' satin neckties backed with flannel. It's in pretty poor shape and I've been afraid to touch it. I'm going to start with Christine's test and proceed if safe!
Fingers crossed,
Susabella