Being old (66) I have always washed fabric, to make sure it doesn't shrink, color run etc. From this board I now surge the ends so they don't ravel, and don't iron until I want to use it, as it is all stored in plastic bins and I would have to iron to use out of bin, but do fold it nice and flat with no wrinkles. Now I have another reason to wash it. Dear mice, gives me the chills. What a way for poor mouse to die. And fabric, I will never not wash again.