I use flannel because it is warm and soft. When I get the flannel home I wash it in warm water and dry it in a medium dryer. (No one I know uses hot water to wash anymore even for baby clothes.) If the flannel doesn't perform well with my washing then I don't use it in a quilt. But I buy good quality flannel and I have seen my quilts 10 years and older still being used. I make quilts to be used - and if they wear out, so be it. I can make more.