Bedbugs can absolutely travel in fabric. Now, odds are if you're buying from a quilt store you won't have that issue. But a yard sale, gifting or Craigs list purchase could have them. Who knows what other people have in their homes. Yes, another reason ALL fabric goes in my washer upon entry to my home! Did you see the thread about the fabric I bought from an estate sale that had maggots in it??? Ewwww......