WASHING
Cotton quilts from indoTreasures can either be machine washed or dry-cleaned. For small stains, take a small amount of dishwashing detergent mixed with equal parts of water and rub gently into the spot. Dab the spot with a sponge or paper towel to remove the soap and moisture or place in the washing machine for a full wash. For a machine wash, use the delicate cycle and gentle laundry detergent. Cold water will stop the colors from running and prevent shrinking. For the first wash, add ½ cup of white vinegar to prevent bright colors from running. For silk or taffeta quilts, dry clean ONLY. Select a dry cleaner with experience in quilt cleaning.
DRYING AND MENDING
Dry quilts by laying them flat on a clean sheet. If laying quilts outside keep them away from trees. If you have no suitable flat area, quilts can be dried in a dryer using a low heat setting. If you find any tears or fabric damage on your quilt, use small stitches to fix immediately. A commercial fabric glue can also be used for repairs.
STORAGE
The best way to store quilts is on a bed in a guest room. Pile quilts on the bed face down and cover with a sheet or bedspread. Alternatively, quilts can be stored folded and wrapped in acid-free tissue paper, or rolled and placed inside a cotton pillowcase. To care for stored quilts, occasionally air and re-fold or re-roll so the creases are in a different area. Try to keep the top of the quilt folded to the inside.
DISPLAY
There are several options in displaying quilts, however, the only one that requires preparation is when hanging the quilt on a wall. To avoid causing stress to the quilt, attach hanging strips or tabs onto the fabric at the back of the quilt and run a heavy dowel rod through as a hanger. If you hand tack the tabs these can be removed at a later state. Display quilts out of direct sunlight to avoid fading and choose a dry, odor-free area. Displayed quilts will need to be cleaned regularly.
indoTreasures is a for-profit organization doing business with a non-profit in Southeast Asia.