Once you have removed the mildew, let the quilt dry completely before storing or displaying. Store the quilt in a dark, dry cabinet, or display away from moisture and direct sunlight to protect it from mildew and other damage.
Things You Will Need
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Spread the quilt on a tabletop or large work surface. Look at the quilt surface and identify the areas that have mildew.
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Fill the plastic cup with warm water. Dip the toothbrush in the cup and then into the baking soda. Use enough baking soda to coat the brush bristles completely.
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Gently brush each mildew spot with wet baking soda. The soda will combine with the water to form a paste that is of toothpaste consistency. Dip the toothbrush in the warm water and baking soda as needed for each spot.
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Use the cap from the vinegar to pour a capful of vinegar on top of each of the treated spots. The vinegar and baking soda will bubble; this is a chemical reaction and is normal.
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Blot the mildew spot with a clean towel to absorb the excess vinegar mixture.
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Fill the sink with warm water and add 1 cup of lemon juice. Immerse the quilt in the sink. Soak for 10 minutes.
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Drain the sink. Squeeze the water from the quilt by gently pressing the quilt against the side of the sink. Do not wring the quilt.
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Hang the quilt to dry outside in direct sunlight. Remove promptly when dry. if your quilt is extremely fragile, don't hang it, just spread it out on top of a clean blanket on the lawn.
The Drip Cap
- Vintage quilts need to be handled with care.
- Leaving your quilt outside long enough to kill the mildew won't damage the fabric, but ignoring the mildew will.
- Store the quilt in a dark, dry cabinet, or display away from moisture and direct sunlight to protect it from mildew and other damage.
- Fill the plastic cup with warm water.
- Gently brush each mildew spot with wet baking soda.