Prewash does not mean heavy agitation or beating on river rocks....just a gentle swish to remove chemicals and expose the bleeders. Last dip in a touch of starchy water, lay flat to dry, press and I am ready to cut. I buy pre cuts to get a piece of the whole collection like layer cakes and fat quarter bundles. 5" charm packs are not useful to me because I have to use them for something smaller than 5" and it doesn't give me many options without a lot of waste.