Originally Posted by
QuiltingVagabond
The other thing to be aware of is rot from sun/heat exposure. That may surface when you wash them, so that would be my first step.
Many home decor fabrics say dry clean only - even 100% cotton- to preserve color and finish.
I agree! The first quilt I ever made by myself, I used former kitchen cafe curtains because I had them and liked the color. Imagine my horror when I washed it the first time and all of the curtain fabric shredded. If the drapery fabric tests as cotton, do not use them in a quilt. Only polyester is sturdy enough to survive most sun damage. No natural fibers will hold up to repeated washings after hanging in sunny windows.