Hi i read a article about washing and drying quilts, i don't remember what book and the article read if you use fabric softer or fabric sheets in the long run it will break down the texture of the fabric and break down the threads in the fabric. I don't really know because i never wash my quilts i just hang mine on the fence and let them get some fresh air, of course i really keep my eyes on them when they are outside lol :D Annette