I always use warm and natural or warm and white. I love that it is all cotton. It keeps us all very warm without the bulk. I have never though used it for a rag quilt (I am actually in the process of making my first denim rag and will only use the flannel backing with no batting). I do soak/prewash warm and natural (according to the directions) and have never had problems with shrinkage. The baby quilts have been washed countless times and have held up nicely. I would definitely recommend this batting.