Synnove- I was the first one who responded but the more I think about it the more I feel you aren't going to hurt in by regular washing and drying. Most of my quilts were hand quilted by me (not the antique ones I mentioned before) and they've washed up beautifully. As long as they are secure I don't see a problem.
The others have given you good advice though. One thing I wouldn't do is take it to the dry cleaners. Nope on that!
Also I don't use fabric softener of any kind.