How to wash vintage wool blankets and quilts
Woollen blankets from Mosgiel, Kaiapoi, Onehunga and Roslyn mills, and hand made quilts, are well loved and easy to ruin with heat. Here's the gentle way.
By the Junkie team
Step by step
Step 1: Check labels and condition
Look for mill labels, which collectors value. Check for weak spots, moth damage and loose seams and fix them first.
Step 2: Test colours
Dab a damp white cloth on each colour. If any colour comes off, don't wash the quilt in water. Vacuum it instead.
Step 3: Vacuum fragile quilts
Lay a piece of fly screen over the quilt and vacuum through it on low suction. This lifts dust without pulling threads.
Step 4: Soak in cool water
Fill a bath with cool water and wool wash. Press the blanket under and leave it 30 minutes. Don't rub, twist or wring it.
Step 5: Rinse and press
Drain, then press water out with your hands. Refill to rinse. Roll it in towels to take out more water.
Step 6: Dry flat or well supported
Dry flat or over several lines in the shade so the weight is spread out. Never tumble dry.
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