It really depends on the quilt. Most quilts made today can be washed without any problem, and I expect a 30 year old quilt would be fine. Check for a few things first, though.
1. Does it look like it's been washed before? One way to tell is the texture of the top. An unwashed quilt will be relatively smooth. A washed quilt shrinks a bit and can look slightly puckery between the quilting stitches. This isn't bad - it's just the way it is.
2. Is there any damage? If there are tears or worn spots, you may need to repair them before cleaning.
3. Is it really dirty, or does it just need to be aired out? Try throwing it over the porch railing, or hanging it over the line (dry, of course) for a few hours.
4. Are there any stains that need to be pre-treated? Different kinds of stains may not come out even with pre-treating.
5. Most important - is the fabric colorfast? Test it first by rubbing a damp white cloth over every different fabric. If color transfers, be VERY careful about washing it.
If you do decide to wash it, do a combination of hand and machine washing. Fill your machine with warm water and stir in a mild detergent like Dreft or Ivory Soap Flakes. You can also purchase special quilt detergent, but it's expensive and no better than Dreft. Put the quilt in and agitate it by hand, then let it sit for a few minutes. Spin the water out and rinse it in clean water, then spin it out again. Carefully remove the quilt and spread it out over towels on a flat surface. Cover it with a sheet if you have pets or small children, then direct a fan at it until it is dry.
If you decide you'd rather not take the chance, be sure to talk to a professional QUILT cleaner. Don't dry clean it - the chemicals they use can damage the quilt even more than washing would.
2006-08-31 15:56:43
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answer #1
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answered by swbiblio 6
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Wash A Quilt
2016-12-12 13:23:47
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answer #2
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answered by ? 4
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This Site Might Help You.
RE:
Can I wash a patchwork quilt in my washing machine?
This is a double wedding ring quilt, hand sewn and about 30 years old.
2015-08-18 16:05:12
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answer #3
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answered by Lisandra 1
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Depends how often you really think you need to wash the quilt or sheets or duvet cover. Some quilts are rather large to fit into a washing machine, too. You can buy duvets and duvet covers in the US. Why not do that if it's what you prefer?
2016-03-22 13:23:09
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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It should be safe to wash the quilt. As long as it's not threads coming undone or fraying. It's best to wash it in a front-loading washing machine (laundromat kind) on gentle.
2006-08-31 10:11:35
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answer #5
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answered by Annie 2
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I was wash it on the gentle cycle and not to often. Try to cover it instead of using it. I bet its a beautiful quilt they don't make them like that anymore.
2006-08-30 23:49:57
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answer #6
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answered by tracy211968 6
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My mother is a quilter and she washes her quilts in her washing machine, but it doesn't have and agitator in the center. I would take it to be professionally cleaned. They should know how to do it without damaging it. Do you know what the batting is, because some people use wool as the batting
2006-08-30 23:42:14
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answer #7
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answered by carebear 2
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Why not take it to a laundramat where they have big machines for you to use? Especially if your washer is just a standard size. If it has a special meaning to you either laundramat or cleaners. Good Luck I love old quilts.
2006-08-30 23:45:17
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answer #8
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answered by crrankin22 2
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I agree with the others, yes you can wash it in the washing machine. Just make sure you put it on the gentle cycle and not a lot of detergent.
2006-08-30 23:44:18
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answer #9
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answered by Anonymous
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I think it might be best to hand wash this quilt.
2006-08-30 23:45:08
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answer #10
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answered by MJane21 5
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