It looks as if each person has their own way of dealing with rag quilts. I do wash mine - usually lap size - in my top loading washer, then take it outside and shake it well before putting it in my dryer. I do less rag cutting, every 3/4 to 1 inch, rather than cutting every 3/8" or 1/2". After several washings I can't tell the difference. The ones I make for dogs have even less cutting.