Preservation notes
Care of Linen
Antique and vintage Swedish wall textiles were made to be lived with — but they are also fragile witnesses to another era. A few quiet habits will keep linen, wool and pigment stable for decades to come.
First rule: do as little as possible
These textiles have already survived a century or more. Excessive handling, washing or exposure is the greatest risk. When in doubt, consult a textile conservator before acting.
Care of Linen
1. Inspect before hanging
Check for loose threads, weak warp, holes, stains or previous repairs. Note the weight and size of the piece. If the fabric feels brittle, support it flat rather than hanging it.
2. Dust gently and rarely
Use a soft natural-bristle brush or a hand-held vacuum with a mesh screen and low suction. Work from the centre outward, and never rub. Do not use compressed air or feather dusters.
3. Store in a stable climate
Keep the textile in a cool, dry, dark place. Ideal conditions are roughly 18–20 °C and 45–55 % relative humidity. Avoid attics, basements and rooms with fluctuating heat or moisture.
4. Hang with care
Use a padded dowel or fabric-covered batten that is wider than the textile. Attach with cotton tape or conservation-grade Velcro sewn to the reverse. Never use pins, staples, nails or adhesive directly on the cloth.
5. Keep away from light
Linen, wool and natural dyes fade and degrade in direct sunlight and strong artificial light. Hang in indirect light, rotate the piece periodically, and consider UV-filtering glazing if framing.
6. Clean only when necessary
Surface dusting is usually enough. If wet cleaning is required, use a professional textile conservator. Never machine wash, tumble dry, bleach, spot-rub with chemicals or dry-clean an antique bonad at home.
7. Document the piece
Photograph the textile in even, indirect light before and after any change. Record dimensions, provenance, condition and any treatments. A documented textile holds its history — and its value — far better.
Recommended materials and what to avoid
What to use
- Unbleached cotton or muslin gloves
- Soft natural-bristle brush (goat or horse hair)
- Clean, dry, acid-free tissue paper
- Padded cotton or wooden dowel
- Cotton twill tape for hanging
- Conservation-grade Velcro (sewn, not glued)
- archival cotton or linen storage box
- pH-neutral cardboard or museum board
What to avoid
- Direct sunlight, LED spotlights and halogen bulbs
- Plastic sheeting, bubble wrap and non-archival tissue
- Adhesive tape, glue, pins and staples
- Wire hangers, metal clips and rough wood
- Washing powder, bleach, stain removers and solvents
- Dry-cleaning fluids on antique wool or linen
- Damp, hot or rapidly changing environments
Frequently asked questions
Practical answers to the questions we hear most often from new collectors.
Can I wash my antique bonad?↓
No. Antique and vintage wall textiles should almost never be washed at home. Surface dusting with a soft brush is usually enough. If a textile is stained or smells musty, contact a professional textile conservator rather than risking water, detergent or friction damage.
How do I protect it from light?↓
Hang the piece in indirect light, away from direct sun and strong spotlights. Rotate it every few months so any fading happens evenly. If you frame it, ask for UV-filtering glass or acrylic.
What humidity level is safe?↓
Aim for roughly 45–55 % relative humidity at around 18–20 °C. Avoid damp rooms, bathrooms, unheated cottages and places where the temperature or humidity changes sharply. Damp encourages mould and weakens fibres.
How should I store it when it is not displayed?↓
Roll it loosely around a large, padded tube or lay it flat in an acid-free box. Wrap it in clean, acid-free tissue paper and keep it in a dark, dry, stable cupboard. Never fold it tightly or store it in plastic.
How do I prevent moth and other pests?↓
Inspect the textile regularly, keep the storage area clean and vacuumed, and avoid food or plant debris nearby. Cedar blocks or lavender sachets can help deter moths but must not touch the cloth directly. If you see signs of live insects, seal the piece in a clean bag and consult a conservator immediately; freezing can be an option for certain infestations but should only be done with expert guidance.