I USED to wash all my fabric, I don't anymore. The fabric now-a-days doesn't have much shrinkage factor. I will only wash if I think it might run (such as reds). I try not to wash cotton fabric too much as it fades and won't be as colorful as when new. I especially don't like the wrinkled mess when its washed and all the ironing to get the wrinkles out. I really like the look of the quilt after its done and washed, it looks old and crinkled and comfy.