Washing Finished Quilts
#1
Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jun 2017
Posts: 18
Washing Finished Quilts
What are the rules about washing a quilt after it is finished? Is that something that is always done or not? What soap is used to do so? I want to make a quilt of valor quilt and it talks about washing the quilt. Want to make sure I am doing it right.
#2
There are no rules in quilting 😀 and no quilt police, you do what works for you. I always wash a quilt when it’s done. If there is an issue or any bleeds I can fix it. I can’t imagine giving an unwashed quilt. If the QOV group says the quilt must be washed then follow their guidelines.
#3
Super Member
Join Date: Aug 2010
Posts: 2,255
I rarely wash a quilt when I finish it because I have a front loading machine which is supposed to save water. I don't think it washes quilts with enough water to avoid running colors. So if I do wash a quilt, I should take it to a laundromat and use the big washers there. I do like the feel of a washed quilt - softer and puffier - and I know quilters who prefer that as well. Do whatever works for you.
#4
Super Member
Join Date: Mar 2011
Location: Central NJ
Posts: 5,572
I always wash after finishing a quilt. Particularly those I hand quilt. Not only for potential bleeding issues (rare as I prewash my fabrics) but also for any seam problems.
I wash quilts as I do all of my other laundry - warm water, normal detergent. Toss in the dryer until dry.
I wash quilts as I do all of my other laundry - warm water, normal detergent. Toss in the dryer until dry.
#8
Power Poster
Join Date: Jan 2011
Location: Southern USA
Posts: 16,511
I always wash a finished quilt. I use my regular detergent and dry in dryer. If it is a big quilt add detergent, fill with water let soak, drain, spin, fill again with water no detergent soak, drain and spin. No agitation.