A quilter being allergic to fabric is just terrible! So sorry! I damp dry my fabric and if I am using it to make a quilt right away, I then use Fautless Heavy spray starch, iron and fold. If I'm not using it, I don't spray the starch until I get ready to use it. I've heard that starched stored fabric will attract bugs. However i don't always like to pre wash; just depends on the pattern and fabric I'm using. Sure hope you find a good solution for you and may you continue to have many happy hours of quilting!