Quilt fabric today is almost always 100 percent cotton or a cotton-polyester blend, both of which are machine-washable.  The batting, or filling in the quilts, is usually machine-washable polyester.  But since quilts are held together with tiny quilting stitches, it's a good idea to use caution when washing.  If you do machine-wash your quilts, do so on a gentle cycle in cold water to prevent shrinkage.  And if the quilt has dark colors, it should be properly dry-cleaned to prevent the colors from bleeding.

Rather than using a machine dryer, hang your quilt outdoors, preferably over several clotheslines to distribute the weight, or dried flat on the grass with towels underneath.  That way you won't stretch the stitches or material.

For older quilts or whenever in doubt, washing should be avoided.  In fact, for all quilts, the best approach is to first try airing or a gentle vacuuming using a flexible screen on top of the quilt.  If you do wash, a better approach is to do so by hand, using mild soap.

Let It Breathe!

If a quilt is stored, it should be rolled instead of folded to prevent permanent creases.  If it must be folded because of space limitations, take it out several times a year and refold it.

Never store a quilt in plastic.  Instead, store in a cotton or muslin sheet or pillowcase that allows air to circulate around it, and be sure it is protected from insect damage.  Quilts prefer things cool and dry - no damp basements or unheated attics, please!  Remember that chemicals in cardboard boxes, paper bags, and wooden chests can also be bad for quilts.