How to care for quilts

• Quilts can be stored in acid-free boxes or rolled around acid-free cardboard tubing. Do not store them in plastic bags, as chemicals from the plastic can transfer to the cloth. Untreated wood chests can also transfer chemicals to cloth if they come in contact with the wood. Wrap quilts in a sheet or place in a cloth bag.

• If you are storing quilts folded, refold them every three to six months along different lines. It's also a good idea to tuck acid-free tissue paper in between the folds.

• Another way to store quilts is flat on a bed, covered with a sheet or spread.

• Keep them out of direct sunlight as much as possible.

• Store textiles in a dry, dark place. Attics often have poor ventilation, and basements are often too humid.

• Vacuuming with a weak-suction hand vacuum is often the best way to clean quilts. More extensive cleaning, even gentle hand-washing, can damage delicate fabrics. If you have old, fragile antique quilts, check with a professional conservator for advice.

• With newer quilts, spot-cleaning is recommended when possible. If you can spot-clean instead of tossing the quilt into the washing machine, it will help preserve the life of the quilt. Occasional cleanings, however, may be necessary. Dry cleaning is not recommended for quilts.

Sources: Bobbie Aug, www.quiltstudy.org and

www.museum.msu.edu/glc/quiltcare.html and www.reddawn.net/quilt/antique.htm