I had learned this somewhere, somehow, that quilts are to lay flat and in the yard if possible. Put sheets on the bottom and lay one atop to prevent unwanted deposits. Don't know about hanging, owing to the weight and stress on the edge, does this cause distortion? However, since my quilts are used and not heirloom quality, I wash on a gentle cycle and put in the dryer on low. I also use a gentle detergent.