Blog Post 10: How to Wash a Finished Quilt — Keep Your Heirloom Beautiful

A finished quilt is more than just fabric and thread—it’s hours of creativity, love, and craftsmanship stitched into every seam. Whether you’ve made a bed-size quilt, a baby gift, or a wall hanging, knowing how to wash and care for it properly will help preserve its beauty and structure for years to come. Washing a quilt isn’t complicated, but it does require care and attention to detail.

1. Test for Colorfastness First

Before washing any quilt—especially one that includes dark or saturated fabrics—it’s important to test for colorfastness. Dampen a white cloth and rub it gently on each bold-colored fabric. If any dye transfers onto the cloth, the fabric may bleed during washing. In that case, consider using a product like Synthrapol or Retayne to stabilize the dye, and always wash the quilt separately in cold water with a color catcher.

2. Choose the Right Detergent

Use a gentle, dye- and fragrance-free detergent designed for delicate fabrics or heirloom textiles. Avoid bleach, optical brighteners, or fabric softeners, which can weaken fabric fibers or cause discoloration over time. Products like Orvus Paste are popular among quilters for their gentle cleansing properties and minimal residue.

3. Machine or Hand Wash?

For machine-washable quilts (most cotton-based quilts), use a front-loading washer on a delicate or hand-wash cycle. Top-loaders with agitators can put strain on seams and fabric, so be cautious. Use cold water and don’t overload the machine. If the quilt is small, or you prefer a gentler approach, hand-washing in a bathtub with lukewarm water and mild detergent is a wonderful option. Gently press the quilt with your hands to release water—never wring or twist.

4. Drying Matters

Air drying is safest. Lay your quilt flat on a clean sheet or large towel, preferably on a bed or another surface that allows air to circulate. Reshape the quilt as needed to maintain its dimensions, and avoid direct sunlight, which can fade colors. If you prefer to use a dryer, tumble on low heat with wool dryer balls to keep it soft and fluffy—but remove it before fully dry to avoid shrinking, then lay it flat to finish drying.

5. Keep It Fresh Between Washes

Frequent washing can wear out even the most durable quilts. To keep your quilt fresh between washes, air it out occasionally by draping it over a railing or drying rack. Spot clean spills with a mild soap and a damp cloth. For wall quilts, dust gently with a lint roller or low-suction vacuum through mesh.

Washing your quilt the right way will help it stay as comforting and beautiful as the day it was finished—ready to be wrapped around a loved one, displayed with pride, or passed down as a treasured keepsake.