Absolutely wash and dry it every time before gifting. The quilts are very dirty at that point, from all the handling, my pups on it while I'm sewing on binding, etc. Plus, to get the glue out (I glue baste). In addition, if there are any problems on the quilt I want to know BEFORE I gift it. I always use color catchers, too - should have bought stock in that company years ago... : )