Hi Patti!!
First of all welcome to the board :D
You raise a very good point. The only way I know to keep quilts in really good condition is to not use them :(
I've bought antique quilts that are in wonderful condition but it's b/c they were stored away and not used.
It's a hard one b/c we all love using them or seeing them used and loved by those we gift them to.
I do mostly hand quilting too and that takes a long time. I'm embarking on machine quilting so that I can finish more in this lifetime lol
If you decide to store a quilt it should be stored inside acid-free tissue and in an acid-free box away from the elements. A pillowcase works also but be sure to keep it clean and out of the sun. You should also re-fold it now and then so it doesn't get fold lines.
I hope you show us what you're working on!