How To Wash Your Quilt

Quilts and coverlets are great because they’re soft, warm, and cozy. They also make you feel safe when you sleep. But, be careful about washing them!

Bleeding colors on your quilt may ruin it. Use a color catcher to prevent this problem.

In today’s article, we will be discussing various methods on washing quilts. We will guide you through the processes involved, so you can return your quilt to its former glory.

How To Wash Your Quilt

Check The Fabric Of Your Quilt

Fabric type is important when washing a quilt. Cotton is usually the safest choice. You should always wash your quilt by hand, using cold water and mild soap.

Never use hot water, bleach or detergent as these could damage the fabric. Also, never put your quilt in the dryer as this could damage the material beyond repair.

We suggest washing your quilt before using. The easiest way to describe this is for you to take your new quilt just as if it were new clothes.

So, think of those new jeans you got. Treat your new quilt just the same as those, and you can’t go far wrong! 

Machine washing a new quilt is a very important part of caring for your quilts. Quilters often machine wash quilts by themselves in case any excess color comes out during the wash.

Quilts should be washed regularly, so they don’t shrink. Washing can help them stretch out their shape. Just be careful with colored fabrics as there is a risk of washing away any extra dyes.

If you want less vibrant colors, this can allow you to get rid of any excess color. If not, washing by hand may be the best method.

What You Should And Shouldn’t Use

Before washing your quilt, make sure you have everything you need. You should always buy a detergent specifically designed for quilting fabrics. Make sure you do not use any type of fabric softener or bleach.

Castile soap is a great option for quilters, but you may want to try another brand. Baby shampoo works well too. Do not use regular dishwashing soap!

Distilled white vinegar helps to brighten up the colors of your quilt. You can add some vinegar to your wash cycle to make sure the colors stay bright.

How Often To Clean Handmade Quilts

How Often To Clean Handmade Quilts

Quilts need to be washed less often if they’re going to last longer. Newer quilts can be hand washed, but antique or heirloom quilting requires special care.

Machine-washing can cause stitches to unravel. Therefore, special care is required. For best results, cold water is recommended.

How To Wash A Quilt

Quilts are made of layers of fabric sewn together. You don’t need to wash them often because they’re very durable. However, if you expose them to mud or accident stains, then you should clean it.

Make sure you use the right cleaning agent and follow the instructions carefully. Keep reading to find a full description on how to wash your quilt:

Examine Your quilt

Most quilts should be washed by hand, using cold water. You should wash them inside out, and hang them to dry. Don’t let your quilts get too wet for too long, though. This could stretch the fabric and damage the material. 

Check for loose threads, rips, and stretching. Fix these problems before you continue. Quilts should be washed separately from other fabrics as they may bleed too.

A colorfast test can be done by rubbing a piece of cotton cloth over the fabric. If it comes out dirty, do not use it! When you wash your clothes, be sure to use a color catcher!

Machine Washing Your Quilt 

Most quilts can withstand being washed by the machine, but some fabrics may bleach in the machine.

If you don’t want to risk damaging your quilt, you should add a color catcher and a retainer to your washing water to avoid excess bleaching.

Hand Washing Your Quilt

Handwashing is the best way to wash quilts. You should prepare a sink, tub, or a basin that is big enough to fit your quilt.

Put a clean blanket, piece cloth, or towel under the sink, tub, basin, or whatever you use to wash the quilt. This will protect your quilt from getting damaged.

Don’t put too much soap in the sink though. Use the correct amount of detergent according to the instructions. 

Submerge the quilt in the soapy water for at least ten minutes. Agitate gently but do not twist or wring the quilt. Rinse the quilt first by filling the sink with warm water and pouring some soap into the basin.

Then pour the water out and fill it again with fresh, clean water and repeat the steps. When you see that there is very little soap left, add distilled white vinegar to the clean water and do a final rinse.

Drain the water and gently squeeze the quilt to get rid of the remaining water. A clean, white towel should be used when washing clothes. Dabbing the towel on the washed quilt removes excess water.

How To Dry Your Quilt Using A Machine

Quilts are very fragile and need to be dried carefully. Drying them inside the machine can cause damage to the fabric. It is better to dry them outside using an air-dryer or a fan.

How To Store Your Quilt

Always store your quilt on your mattress. Don’t ever put it on the floor. Cover it with a bedspread, or sheets if you want to make sure it stays clean.

Roll it up and then squeeze it gently before spreading it out again. Squeeze as many times as necessary until it is completely dry.

Final Thoughts

This article fully explains how to wash your quilt successfully. However, it is important to remember the following points.

Quilts should be stored in a cool place, avoid plastic or cardboard bags, wash your quilt once every two months and don’t use bleach or any other chemicals.

Sarah Maine
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