Cleaning an old quilt
 

I volunteered to help a friend with her antique quilt. I think the quilt is from the 40's or 50's. Some of the material and thread are disintergrating. I have stabilized the outer edges, put a binding on it, and hand quilted most of the missing thread. It's pretty fragile, dingy and it has some stains.

What would be the best way to clean this quilt? Should I put it in a pillow case, soak it in detergent and rinse it in vinegar? Can I use Dry Cleaner's Secret? Should I just leave it alone. It's not bothering my friend, it's bothering me! LOL. Any help on cleaning this quilt would be appreciated. Thanks lots.

Linda:)

I would not wash the quilt at all if it is in fragile state. Maybe spot clean with mild soap and water and then vacuum the whole quilt with a soft brush attachment. You could put the quilt in a big trash bag and then insert the vacuum hose to draw out all the dust.

Just leave it alone is the best bet, especially since it's condition is not bothering the owner.

Thank you all for your feed back. I will close my eyes and give the quilt back as it is.

It would be best to leave it as is. Maybe you could "air it out" by laying a sheet outside, put the quilt on top of the sheet, then another sheet over the top. Maybe the fresh air would at least help it seem "fresher."