An Ultimate Guide On How To Clean A Quilt

Quilts are more than just blankets— they’re storytellers. Maybe it’s a gift from your grandmother or a cozy treasure you found at a fair. Whatever the story, quilts need extra care to keep them looking beautiful and lasting a long time.

Unlike regular blankets, quilts are delicate. Washing them the wrong way can fade their colors or weaken their stitches. Taking the time to clean and care for them properly means you’ll get to enjoy them for years to come—and maybe even pass them down someday.

So how do you care for a quilt the right way? Let’s break it down step by step!

Understanding The Quilt

Before cleaning your quilt, it’s important to understand its type and condition. Handmade and antique quilts often require gentle handwashing, while modern or machine-made ones might handle machine washing better. Check for loose threads, fading colors, or worn spots that could worsen with cleaning. Always test for colorfastness by dampening a clean white cloth with warm water and pressing it on a hidden area; if the dye bleeds, avoid machine washing and opt for spot cleaning or handwashing instead. Taking these precautions ensures your quilt stays vibrant and intact for years to come.

An Ultimate Guide On How To Clean A Quilt

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Becky Rapinchuk – Natural cleaning expert and founder of Clean Mama:

“Always check the care label on your quilt before cleaning. For most quilts, a gentle cycle with mild detergent is best to preserve the fabric and stitching.”

Cleaning Your Quilt

Cleaning a quilt can feel tricky, but with the right steps, you can keep it looking fresh without any damage. Here’s how to spot clean and handwash your quilt safely and effectively.

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Spot Cleaning: The Quick Fix

Spot cleaning is ideal for small stains or spills. Follow these steps for gentle stain removal:

Gather Your Tools: You’ll need a clean white cloth, mild detergent, lukewarm water, and a soft-bristled toothbrush (optional).
Test the Detergent: Dab a small amount of diluted detergent on an inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn’t cause fading.
Dampen the Area: Use a clean cloth dipped in lukewarm water to lightly wet the stained area.
Apply Detergent: Mix a drop of mild detergent with water, then gently dab the mixture onto the stain. Avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain or damage the fabric.
Blot and Rinse: Use another clean, damp cloth to blot away the detergent and stain. Repeat until the stain is gone.
Dry the Spot: Press a dry cloth onto the area to absorb moisture, then air dry completely.

Lynsey Crombie – Known as the “Queen of Clean”:

“Air drying your quilt flat on a clean surface prevents distortion and maintains its shape, ensuring longevity.”

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Handwashing: The Safe Bet

For a full clean without risking damage, handwashing is the gentlest option. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Prepare Your Washing Area: Fill a clean bathtub or large basin with lukewarm water. Add a small amount of gentle, dye-free detergent and mix it well.
Test for Colorfastness: Dip a white cloth into the soapy water and press it onto a hidden area of the quilt. If no color bleeds, proceed.
Submerge the Quilt: Gently place the quilt into the water, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Let it soak for 10-15 minutes to loosen dirt.
Wash Gently: Use your hands to lightly press and swish the quilt in the water. Avoid wringing or scrubbing, as this can damage the fabric or stitching.
Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, lukewarm water. Rinse the quilt by gently pressing it to remove detergent. Repeat until no soap remains.

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Leslie Reichert – The Green Cleaning Coach:

“Avoid using bleach on quilts, as it can weaken the fabric fibers and cause discoloration over time.”

Remove Excess Water: Carefully lift the quilt and press out excess water. Never twist or wring it. Lay it flat on a clean towel and roll it up to absorb additional moisture.
Dry Properly: Lay the quilt flat on a clean surface in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Smooth out wrinkles and let it air dry completely.

Katie Berry – Cleaning expert and author of Housewife How-Tos:

“For delicate or antique quilts, consider hand washing in a bathtub with cool water and a gentle detergent to protect the fibers.”

Machine Washing: Proceed with Caution

Some modern quilts can survive a gentle machine wash, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Use the delicate cycle with cold water and a small amount of mild detergent. A front-loading machine is ideal, as top-loaders can twist and pull at the fabric. To be safe, toss the quilt into a large mesh bag or pillowcase for extra protection. And remember: no fabric softener—it’s a quilt’s worst enemy!

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Melissa Maker – Founder of Clean My Space:

“To maintain a quilt’s integrity, use a front-loading washing machine without an agitator, as it reduces wear and tear during the washing process.”

Dry Cleaning: The Last Resort

Dry cleaning might seem convenient, but it’s not always safe for quilts, especially handmade or antique ones. The harsh chemicals can weaken the fibers or fade the colors. Only consider it for extremely delicate or heavily soiled quilts, and always consult a professional who specializes in textile care.

Cleaning your quilt doesn’t have to be nerve-wracking. With the right approach, you’ll keep it looking beautiful and ready to snuggle for years to come!

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Drying a Quilt

Drying a quilt is where things can go wrong if you’re not careful. Shrinking, warping, or even damaging those precious stitches are all risks if you rush the process. But don’t worry—drying a quilt safely is easier than you might think.

Air Drying: The Safest Option

Air drying is like giving your quilt a gentle hug after washing. Lay it flat on a clean surface, such as a large sheet or towel, in a well-ventilated area. Make sure to smooth out wrinkles and reshape the quilt while it’s still damp. If you’ve ever tried hanging a quilt like laundry, you might’ve noticed it stretches under its own weight—so avoid that. Instead, flip it occasionally to ensure both sides dry evenly. Yes, it takes patience, but isn’t your quilt worth it?

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Tumble Drying: Proceed with Caution

Tumble drying can work for some modern quilts, but only if you’re careful. Use the lowest heat setting and throw in a few clean tennis balls or dryer balls to keep the quilt fluffy. Check it every 15 minutes to avoid overheating. That said, if your quilt is handmade, antique, or has delicate fabrics, it’s safer to stick to air drying. Why risk it?

Tips to Keep Its Shape

Support the Quilt: Always dry it flat to avoid stretching or uneven drying.
Use Absorbent Layers: Place clean towels underneath and on top to help soak up excess moisture faster.
Avoid Sunlight: Direct sunlight can fade colors, so dry indoors or in shaded areas.
Be Patient: Quilts take time to dry completely—rushing can lead to mildew or odd smells.

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