I pre-wash everything in warm water and hot water. My biggest problem is I came upon a stash that I never noticed when I purchased it, smells like an old house that has been locked up. This was from an estate sale. After washing with Arm and Hammer and vinegar, A&Hammer and ammonia, (all in hot water) then finally in Dawn dish soap and vinegar most of the odor has left. At first I thought it was moth balls then realized it was cedar (made DH take a whiff), that is when I used Dawn dish soap and ammonia. I know a lot of people with allergies and just don't want to give something that will at worst case scenario throw them into a asthmatic attack or anaphylactic attack. Any other ideas? Oh and I did try the borax, it help to rid the stains in some of the fabric.