Storing quilts, linens and heirloom clothing

Quilts, christening gowns, wedding dresses, lace and embroidered linens wear down from light, damp, heat, pests and folding. Light fades colors and weakens the fibers, damp storage draws moths, insects and rodents, and a fold left in place becomes a hard crease. Textiles last longest when they're stored in the dark, folded as little as possible, and kept off long-term display.

Where to keep them

• Somewhere cool and dryA room comfortable for people suits textiles.
• Not the attic, basement or garageAvoid hot attics and damp basements and garages.
• In the darkTextiles last longest stored away from light.

How to store them

• Lay them flatStore antique textiles flat, with as few folds as possible.
• Pad the foldsWhere something has to be folded, shape acid-free tissue into the fold so it softens into a curve instead of a crease.
• Roll quilts on a tubeRoll a quilt or other large flat textile around the outside of a wide acid-free cardboard tube. Cover the roll with muslin, or put it in a box, to keep off dust and light.
• Stuff hats and purses lightlyA little acid-free tissue inside keeps their shape.
• Don't hang antique garmentsFlat storage is better than a hanger for old clothing.

Handling them

• Start with clean handsAnd handle every piece gently, with both hands.
• Support heavy piecesLift an old quilt on a support board or in its box.
• Stop if it's tearingWhen unfolding something old, stop if what you're doing seems to be causing damage.

Cleaning and pests

• Don't wash valuable or fragile pieces yourselfWashing and dry cleaning can make colors run, and the agitation can damage the fabric. Pieces with antique or monetary value, or in poor condition, are best left as they are.
• Watch for pestsMoths, insects and rodents go after textiles, especially in damp storage. Look for holes, stains, webbing and dead insects.
• Limit displayAll light damages textiles, sunlight and fluorescent light most of all. A textile conservator can advise on mounting a piece for display.