How to care for your handmade quilt
Purchasing a handcrafted quilt is a meaningful investment. These labour-intensive textiles are thoughtfully made to last a lifetime, and with the right care, they’ll stay beautiful for generations. Here are my simple tips for keeping your quilt in top condition:
Brush
Cotton fabrics naturally attract dust, lint, and small threads. To keep your quilt looking fresh, I recommend using a lint brush for gentle cleaning. Lightly brush over the entire surface, paying special attention to the edges and hanging sleeve.
Clean
If your quilt becomes stained, spot treating is the safest option. Although my quilts are machine-stitched and could technically withstand a delicate wash, I don’t recommend machine washing—especially for quilts used as display pieces—as it can cause shrinkage or colour bleeding.
For spot cleaning:
Fill a spray bottle with deionised water.
Lightly mist the stained area.
Use a clean microfiber cloth to gently dab away the moisture.
For tougher stains, add a small amount of mild detergent (I like [this one]) or white vinegar—a natural stain remover.
Spray again with deionised water to rinse out the detergent or vinegar.
You may need to repeat this process a couple of times.
Dry
After spot cleaning, dab the area with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. Allow the quilt to air dry by laying it flat on a towel or hanging it on a clean line. Avoid using a tumble dryer, as the heat can cause shrinkage and weaken threads.
Iron
Quilts may become creased after cleaning or storage. To safely press your quilt:
Set your iron to the cotton setting with a clean plate.
Use deionised water in the steam tank to avoid mineral staining.
First iron the back of the quilt, then flip and gently press the front.
Be especially careful around the edges, hanging sleeve, and label—use minimal pressure in these areas.
Hang
If you're displaying your quilt, let it hang for a few days to naturally settle and flatten. If the corners curl or the edges ripple, gently press them against the wall with your hands to smooth things out.
I hope these tips help you keep your quilt looking its best. If you have any questions about quilt care or your purchase, I’m always happy to help, feel free to reach out!
