I use wide backing all the time, flannels and regular cotton. I do prewash it because there are often deep set creases in it from the way it is wound on the bolt. I take it out of the dryer before it gets totally dry . I’ve never had to iron it - it smooths out nicely as long as it’s not dried too much. When I have over dried it I’ve tossed it back into the wash for a quick rinse & spin then tried again to get it out of the dryer while still slightly damp