Maybe I have just been lucky, but I always pre-wash all my Warm & Natural batting as I prefer the less-crinkly look. I unfold it, put in in the wash using hot water, gentle cycle, gentle spin. Then transfer it to the dryer on medium heat, delicate setting. Never had a problem. My washer is a front loader, not a top loader with the agitator, maybe that is not as stressful on the batting.