Though most people like to have new bedding, there is a huge market for antique quilts. Most people who buy them don’t use them for sleeping though, but they do display them in their home. These folks are usually the ones who love antiques of all types, and a visit to their home might be a charming step into the past. Antiques are big business, and it would seem that all types of antiques are included on the list of things that people are looking to own.
These antique quilts are much like clothing. Not all of them are going to be worth anything, and this is usually because they were not cared for properly when they were stored away. The best way to store antique quilts is to line them with acid free paper and to store them in a cedar lined box or in a closet made entirely of cedar. This prevents most discoloration and also stops bugs from eating the material and laying eggs. The biggest pest would be the moth, and this is why moth balls have been around for so long.
Most of the antique quilts found in stores today were put away with moth balls, and we have all had a whiff of that not so lovely fragrance at least once. In order to get this smell out, the quilts must be cleaned. The problem is that most of the fabrics are not as strong as they once were, and certain cleaning machines and detergents are going to rip or tear them, and they may even fall apart. Special care is needed when storing, displaying, or cleaning antique quilts if they are going to last.
There are some special cleaners on the market for antique quilts. These come with instructions on how to use them to protect the integrity of the quilt without leaving behind stains or odors. It might not get out stains that have been sitting for decades, but it never hurts to try. This detergent should be safe for all types of antique quilts. It might be a little more expensive than regular detergent, but it is made to be safe and to help restore an old quilt. If you are serous about your collection, this is a must have. As long as it is used correctly, it will improve the dinginess of age and may reduce or eliminate some stains after a good long soak and proper washing.
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