on some of the packaging for different batts it does say if you want to 'prewash' to just place in tub of h2o and soak a few minutes, carefully squeeze out the water and place in dryer to dry and fluff, it also states this step is NOT NECESSARY, but can be done. back in the 'old-daze' batts shank alot more than now, different techniques making the batting, it really is no longer necessary unless you are making something that you absolutely do not want to shrink at all, but the normal shrinkage is what gives the quilt the 'beautiful quilted look' in the first place so why would you want to loose that? i guess there could be a 'time and place' for a different look, but don't worry about needing to pre-shrink it really is a pain and i don't think its worth the bother