I admit it, I'm a avid pre-washer. I zigzag along the cut edges of the fabric, then wash in the hottest water and dry on highest heat. I'll iron it if I'm using it immediately; otherwise, I just put it away until needed. I always iron before cutting, and I starch while I iron, so I figure why waste time ironing it twice...unless it's particularly wrinkled when coming out of the dryer - then I will iron without starch to avoid creases.