Hello All: This time it's about batting. I am working on a "foundling" quilt - finishing a project as a gift for a friend who's mom had started the quilt. Anyway, the fabric and batting was stored away for several years and is quite dusty and cat-furry. The fabric I dealt with by washing. The batting is that puffy polyester stuff. Can I run that through the washer or would it be best to give it a soak by hand? Thanks!
Shelli

Hi, Shelli, I would put in your dryer on FLUFF (no heat) for a few minutes at least. If you have a tennis ball or clean running shoe, throw that in as well to lightly "beat" it. That should get rid of most of the dust for sure, even much of the cat hair, though that will be harder if it's all through. Not sure about running it through the washer unless it's in a lingerie bag or maybe a pillowcase pinned shut.

Gerda

PS I think making it wet, would clog the fibers.

Gerda

Shelli-

Is Mr Bennett handy with a hammer? Get some window screen, a piece about 2 feet square should work. Have Mr. Bennet put a frame around it, 1"x2"s should work; or you can use nylon screen which won't snag the threads but then you need to work with a partner to hold the screen in place. Place the screen over the batting and vacuum. This the 'best' method used by most museums to clean their textiles.