Great info here
I try to wash all yardage and usually rinse precuts in warm water to get rid of the manufacturing chemicals and to see if there is any bleeding/ excess dye. If there is some bleeding I use synthrapol or retayne with the yardage, depending on the fabric. I use colour catchers with the precuts.
I lightly starch when ironing after washing to get some of the crispness back and when cutting to assure that the pieces hold their shape and don't stretch. It helps get the wrinkles out and adds stability.
To me these time consuming steps are not "fun" and I
really don't "like" doing it but find this is a necessary part of the process - have had issues previously if I didn't do them.
Thanks for the 'salad spinner ' tip