Heirloom Protection

Care and Conservation of Heirloom Textiles

 Excerpted from University of Nebraska publication G1682 in cooperation with International Quilt Study Center, Lincoln, NE (full publication available online at extension.unl.edu/publications)

Light—low levels for display and darkness for storage.

Humidity-moist air, warmth, and lack of air circulation cause mold growth that stains and causes deterioration; avoid extreme fluctuations of humidity and temperature levels as in attics and basements.

Insects-clean storage areas frequently; cedar chests and closets do not kill moths and have no effect on carpet beetles; wood releases acids that weaken textiles; mothballs are not recommended.

Archival materials—use acid free boxes and tissue paper and change every 2-5 years; avoid direct contact with unsealed wood; plastics should be avoided as moisture can be trapped inside resulting mildew.

Storage—avoid attics, basements, kitchens, laundry rooms and unheated areas; avoid outside walls and areas where people smoke; store flat and, if folded, refold periodically to distribute wear; roll on tubes that are layered with unbleached muslin or acid-free tissue; wash fabric covers periodically.

Displaying—quilts can be hung using an attached sleeve; do not display permanently and allow to rest between hangings.

Cleaning and care—if not too fragile, vacuum with low suction to remove loose dirt that can abrade and cut fibers, place sheer polyester or nylon tulle or fiberglass screening over the surface to prevent sucking the item into the nozzle.

Wet cleaning—cotton and linen may be cleaned in water and detergent to remove acid build-up leaving them clean and more flexible; wool and silk become weak when wet; if not colorfast do not wet clean.

Dry cleaning—heat and agitation can damage the item; solvents should be fresh or filtered but do remove natural oils and waxes found in fibers; item should not be steamed or pressed.

Many universities have textile conservancy departments but the International Quilt Study Center at Lincoln, Nebraska has an in-depth focus on quilt conservancy and has information on their website.