I guess my system is a little different from everyone else's. If I have less than a fat quarter, it gets thrown into my scrap bag(s). Fat quarter to 2 yard pieces are folded so that they are approximately 5X9 and stacked on shelves by color/theme/project, etc. I can usually tell at a glance how much is there by the thickness of the fabric. If I have more than 3 yards then I have it on a bolt, with the amount listed on the end of the bolt. Lots of quilt shops and fabric stores will be happy to give away their empty bolts!
PS---I am a non pre-washer.