I am a die hard pre washer not only for bleeding and shrinkage. I am allergic to the chemicals used in the manufacturing and processing of the fabrics. I press (or iron if yardage) before I cut it. I used to use only Mary Ellen's Best Press but I have found that I much prefer the Bounce Pressing Spray. I'm not a huge fan of the traditional starch products. A important thing to remember when using any pressing product is to spray the fabric and let it sit for a couple of minutes. This allows the product to soak into the fibers of the fabric and you will a better outcome. If you iron right away you will evaporate the product and the only thing that gets starch on it is the sole plate of your iron!