I always wash before giving a gift quilt. First of all to remove all the washable glue and starch and marking pens and chalk used to construct the quilt. I also want the new owner to see the quilt as it really is meant to be. Then, they will not be afraid to wash it when needed. I put it in the washer with regular detergent. I do prefer to lay them out flat to dry. I use a plastic drop cloth either spread on the floor or over a bed. I also try to cut the portion of the batting wrapper out that has care instructions and include it with the gift.