I do not prewash fab before using..exception being..if I decide to make tablerunners I will choose the fabs I want, just swish in tub of water, dry, iron and put together, I do not use batting for these but rather a thin fleece/ poly batt, that will not shrink when washed...so that when completed tablerunner is ever washed it will not get crinkly look.....just my way.....pst! I don't wash bed quilts after finishing..don't use starch at construction, and they are not dirty upon completion so on a bed or in chest they go.....if gifting I will instruct receiver how to care for it and that is it....my own get washed when they get soiled from use, but aired out frequently......