A quilt isn’t heavy like comforters or thin like sheets. It’s the cozy cover that adds texture and color to your room, and in many homes, a keepsake passed down or gifted with care. Built from three stitched layers (i.e., an eye-catching top, a light cotton batting, and a soft backing), quilts deliver just-right warmth without the bulk of a comforter. That mix of function and beauty is exactly why so many of us reach for a quilt year round.
Still, as cozy as they are, quilts are surprisingly easy to ruin without meaning to. Improper washing, harsh detergents, or the wrong storage method can all shorten the lifespan of your quilt. But that doesn’t have to be your story. With just a few changes to your routine, you can protect what makes your quilt special.
Let’s start with the habits that offer the most long-term impact.
01 | Wash It Less Often (But the Right Way When You Do)
You might think frequent washing is good for cleanliness, but over-washing your quilt can actually wear it out faster. The fabric breaks down, the colors fade, and the stitching starts to fray long before it should.
Instead, it’s best to wash your quilt only when it truly needs it, usually every few months or when it’s visibly soiled. Spot-clean in between full washes to keep it fresh. And when it is time to wash, how you do it matters just as much as how often.
Best Practices for Washing Quilts
When it’s time for a full wash, these steps will help preserve the beauty and structure of your quilt:
- Use cold water and a gentle cycle. Warm or hot water can weaken the fabric and cause colors to bleed.
- Choose a mild, fragrance-free detergent. Harsh chemicals break down fabric fibers and can leave residue.
- Avoid bleach or fabric softeners. These do more harm than good on most quilts, especially handmade or vintage.
- Use a front-loading washer, if possible. Top-loaders with agitators can be too rough on delicate materials.
- Air dry flat or use a low tumble cycle. High heat in a dryer can shrink or warp your quilt.
02 | Always Use a Top Sheet or Duvet Cover
Using a top sheet or duvet cover might sound simple, but it’s one of the best defenses against daily grime. Body oils, sweat, and even skin products can work their way into the fabric and padding of your quilt.
A sheet acts as a buffer, catching the mess before it hits your quilt. Plus, it’s much easier to throw a sheet or cover in the wash than to clean a bulky quilt. If you want your quilt to last, start by protecting it during everyday use.
What to Look for in a Protective Layer
To get the most out of this habit, choose bedding layers that offer both comfort and function:
- Choose tightly woven cotton or linen. These natural fibers are breathable and absorbent without trapping heat.
- Make sure it’s machine washable. You’ll want to wash these layers regularly – about once a week.
- Avoid overly thick or heavy materials. Lightweight layers reduce unnecessary pressure and strain on your quilt.
- Consider a duvet cover if your quilt fits like an insert. Many modern quilts double as comforters and work well with zippered or buttoned covers.
03 | Rotate It Every Month
Just like a mattress, your quilt needs to be rotated to prevent uneven wear. The side that’s always at the top (or near your head) sees more use, especially if you’re someone who tosses and turns. By rotating it regularly, top to bottom, side to side, or even flipping it, you’ll help maintain its shape, padding, and color balance.
This is particularly helpful for quilts with printed patterns or stitched designs that can wear out in high-contact areas.
The Correct Way of Rotating Your Quilt
This habit only takes a minute, but doing it correctly matters:
- Top-to-bottom rotation every 2–4 weeks. This evens out pressure points from your feet and upper body.
- Flip it inside out (if reversible) every season. You get a fresh look and balanced fabric aging.
- Refold it differently during storage. Changing the fold line prevents permanent creases or fabric weakening in one spot.
04 | Let It Breathe Daily
Moisture builds up quickly in bedding, from sweat, body heat, and even indoor humidity. If you throw your quilt right back over the bed every morning, that trapped moisture can lead to mildew, musty smells, and even fabric deterioration over time. Letting it air out each day helps release trapped humidity and keeps the fabric layers dry and fresh.
Easy Ways to Air Out Your Quilt
- You don’t need a fancy setup – just a few small habits go a long way:
- Pull the quilt halfway down the bed in the morning. Give it 20–30 minutes of open air before making the bed.
- Open a window or run a ceiling fan if the room is humid. Air circulation speeds up drying and prevents that “stuffy” feeling.
- Shake it out before making the bed. This loosens any debris and helps fluff the fabric layers.
05 | Keep Pets Off (or Use a Throw Blanket)
We all love our pets, but their fur, claws, and the occasional accidents can seriously shorten the life of a quilt. Claw snags, muddy paws, and oils from fur can all do damage, especially on softer fabrics like cotton or microfiber. That doesn’t mean your pet has to sleep elsewhere; just take an extra step to protect your quilt.
How to Protect Quilts in Pet-friendly Homes
Here’s how to enjoy your pet’s company without sacrificing your bedding:
- Layer a machine-washable throw or blanket over your quilt. It’s easier to clean and takes the brunt of the wear.
- Brush your pets regularly. Less loose fur means less mess on the bed.
- Keep pet nails trimmed. This prevents accidental snags or tearing during those post-nap stretches.
- Use lint rollers weekly. Quick touch-ups between washes can keep fur from embedding in the quilt fibers.
06 | Store It the Right Way When Not in Use
Storing your quilt improperly, even for a few weeks, can ruin all your hard work keeping it clean. Plastic bins, tight folds, or stuffy spaces like basements create a perfect storm for mildew, odor buildup, and even fabric breakdown. Instead, your quilt should rest in a breathable, cool environment that allows airflow and prevents long-term creasing.
Proper Storage Tips for Long-term Care
When it’s time to put away your quilt, follow these best practices:
- Use a cotton storage bag or pillowcase – not plastic. Plastic traps moisture, which can lead to mildew.
- Fold loosely and refold every few months. This avoids permanent creases or weakening along fold lines.
- Store in a dry, dark, and cool place. Avoid sunlight, heat vents, or humidity-prone areas like attics or basements.
- Tuck in a lavender sachet or cedar block. These help deter pests and keep things smelling fresh without harsh chemicals.
07 | Avoid Direct Sunlight
Sunlight may look beautiful streaming through your bedroom window, but it’s one of the fastest ways to fade the colors of your quilt. Prolonged UV exposure breaks down dyes and weakens fabric over time, even if you don’t see the damage right away. If your bed is in a sunny spot, a few simple adjustments can save the look and feel of your quilt.
Ways to Block or Reduce UV Exposure
These quick fixes can help protect your quilt without keeping your room dark all day:
- Close blinds or curtains during peak sunlight hours. Even sheer curtains can reduce UV rays significantly.
- Use a light throw or sheet to cover your quilt during the day. This layer takes the damage while your quilt stays protected underneath.
- Fold the quilt at the foot of the bed when not in use. This keeps the main surface out of the sun while still showcasing it as part of your room decor.
Call Faulkner’s Dry Cleaning and Laundry for Expert Bedding Cleaning and FREE Pickup and Delivery Service!
You can’t break habits overnight, but with the professional help of Faulkner’s Dry Cleaning and Laundry, you can keep your quilts clean and looking like new for years to come. After all, your bedding deserves the same level of expert care as the clothing pieces hanging in your closet – and we specialize in delivering exactly that.
Whether it’s a cherished quilt, a luxury duvet, or a delicate linen set, our premium dry cleaning services are designed to preserve fabric, restore comfort, and refresh every inch of your bedding with precision.
So instead of letting everyday wear, lingering stains, or skipped wash days take a toll, schedule a Bedding Cleaning Service with FREE pickup and delivery today with Faulkner’s Dry Cleaning and Laundry, and enjoy spotless, professionally cared-for bedding without ever stepping outside.
Call us today at 213-325-2896 to schedule your service.