Wool Quilt Care & Storage Guide

Introduction:

Wool quilts are not just cozy; they're also an investment in comfort and quality sleep. However, like any good thing, they need a little TLC to stay in tip-top shape. In this blog, let's dive into the wonderful world of caring for and storing your wool doona.

1. Wool Quilt Wash Types

The first thing we need to establish is the wash type of your quilt. There are essentially two washing options – machine wash and dry clean. For small spills or stains, both wash types are fine to clean with a cloth and detergent (more on this later). What you don’t want to do is put a dry clean only wool quilt into a washing machine as the agitation will cause matting and shrinkage and probably ruin your quilt.

If you can’t remember what wash type of quilt you purchased, check the label. If the label has been removed or is illegible, contact the company you purchased it from and they should have a record of the wash type you purchased. 

2. Gentle Spot Cleaning:

Now, let's start with the basics – cleaning small stains from your wool quilt. Unlike some finicky fabrics, wool is surprisingly easy to care for. The key is to be gentle. Avoid any vigorous rubbing as this can damage your quilt. We recommend you dab at the stain until it disappears.

Spot clean any stains or spills promptly using a mild detergent and a soft cloth. If you prefer to use natural products, a 2 parts water and 1 part vinegar solution will do the trick! A cloth or a piece of cotton dipped in your preferred solution is your best bet for spot cleaning stain or spill removal. Then hang it out to dry.

3. Machine Wash & Dry Clean:

If your entire quilt needs cleaning, machine wash quilts should be put in the washing machine on a gentle cycle using cold water and a good quality wool wash. Woolmark, the global authority on wool quality assurance has recently certified Pental's Softly Wool Wash as a great quality laundry detergent for wool care. We are on board with this.

Avoid harsh chemicals, hot water and faster spin cycles as they can damage the delicate fibres. If your dry clean quilt has deep stains that are unable to be spot cleaned, your best option is to take it to the dry cleaners for a complete refresh.   

Please be aware that larger quilts require larger washing machines. There should be a little wiggle room in the machine, or you run the risk of damaging your quilt. As a guide a queen size quilt requires an 8kg+ capacity machine and a king size quilt requires a 9kg+. Bottom line is don’t pack your quilt into your machine like a can of sardines!

4. Air it Out:

Due to the natural properties of wool, hanging it for a couple of hours in the sun with a light spray of water mixed with a few drops of essential oil such as lavender and eucalyptus is a great cleaning alternative.  This will not only rejuvenate the wool, it keeps it smelling fresh, looking clean and eliminates any lingering moisture that can lead to mould.

We like to air our quilts once per season to keep them super fresh however it comes down to personal choice and the environment that your wool quilt resides in. We recommend airing at least once per year. Another option is to follow your nose via a “smell test”. Have whiff of your quilt and if your nostrils aren’t happy then its time.

If your wool quilt is not stained or dirty, this is all you need to do to keep the wool filling healthy and your entire doona fresh as a daisy.  It really is that simple!

5. Storage Wisdom:

Now, let's talk about storage. When the warmer months roll around, and you find yourself swapping your cozy quilt for something lighter, it's essential to store it properly to keep it in pristine condition.

a. Clean Before Storing:

Before tucking your quilt away, make sure it's clean. A thorough cleaning ensures that no stains or spills become permanent during the storage period. Follow the cleaning tips mentioned earlier to get your quilt in top-notch shape.

b. Use a Cotton Bag:

Avoid plastic or airtight containers, as wool needs to breathe. Instead, opt for a breathable cotton bag or pillowcase to protect your quilt from dust and potential pests. Make sure the bag is clean and dry before storing your quilt.

c. Store in a Cool, Dry Place:

Find a cool, dry place to stow away your wool quilt. Avoid damp basements or hot attics, as extreme temperatures and moisture can lead to mould and mildew.

Conclusion:

There you have it – a simple, handy guide to caring for and storing your wool quilt. With a little love and attention, your wool doona will continue to provide warmth and comfort for many years to come.