We all have to do what works best for us. I prewash all my fabrics. After the quilt is made I then wash in hot water and it goes into the dryer on hot. I would love to hang on a clothesline but don't have one. I have never had a problem with a quilt after I have washed it. Knock on wood. I never know how someone is going to treat the quilt so I want to be sure that I can take care of any problems that might come up. BrendaK