the quilts i have made with minkie backs are very much loved. they are so so soft and wash up beautifully! as far as the fire standards...cotton -- flames, poly -- melted clumps....neither scenerio is a good one, best bet...keep away from fire! i would not base my decision on that, simply because, quilting cottons are not treated with fire retardant like childrens sleepware fabric is, either one is going to be bad regardles of the fabric content. we spend every day surrounded by items that will either burn or melt...safety is the best precaution. the minkie backed quilts are WONDERFUL