I wash mine in cold water using some kind of "quilt wash" and then trow them over a bush outside to dry if possible. I try to treat my own quilts with kindness so they last longer and hold up better. They were made with love and so I wash them with love. After I gift them then not my problem althought I do tell the recepient how to wash them for best results. I would use a color catcher for first washing and then more if colors bleed.