I wash the fabric before quilting to get rid of chemicals and/or other surprises (never know where fabric has been stored) Then I wash the finished quilt in whatever detergent is on sale and I don't use softeners, then dry in the dryer without dryer sheets. The finished wash is to make sure any glue, spray adhesive, markings, and handling are removed and that all the seams hold up. Plus, I want the recipient to have a clean gift.