Prevent threads and yarn from getting sucked away from your quilt by covering the fabric with a screen. Hold the vacuum cleaner at least a half-inch above the fabric. Do both sides and repeat twice if necessary. However, don't vacuum painted quilts as the paint may strip off. Think twice before washing Washing machines are too rough for old quilts.
Water weakens cotton.
The same is true of silk. Ambrose notes that you can wash most new quilts in a washing machine. Ones that date back earlier than the 1940s should be washed by hand, as the dyes in them are less fast. The safest cleaning method for an old quilt is to bring it to a professional conservator. Avoid dry cleaning quilts.