why not start using batting that is pre-shrunk, or a batt that does not shrink? the wool batts I have purchased don't shrink- (dream wool & hobbs wool) there are so many great batts on the market- if the one you (always) use is not what you want it's time to try something different. that being said- most of the cotton batts I have used have pre=wash instructions on the packaging- I would check there- or the website for the batting company for instruction-seems like most are to wet in a tub or something---then drain---push the water out as much as possible- then dry- seems like an awful lot of work -I've been quilting since the mid 70's and have not yet ever felt the need to pre=shrink a batt- I just buy what works for the project i'm working on