I also washed my ties before using them. I did find I used all the skinny ends so if you have enough ties just plan to use the usually clean skinny end.

Hmmm, wondering what you decided to do? I'd try oxyclean if you choose to wash them before quilting them. I wonder if the person you're making the quilt for realized this?

Please let us know what you did.

I am a pretty tolerent person... but working on/with someone elses soiled ties... gross! I absolutely would let them know they are responsible for sending "cut ready" fabrics/clothing/material etc.