I prewash/machine dry all fabrics....using retayne for bleeders (typically reds or blues)....it eliminates any unwanted chemicals as well as shrinkage...and when the quilted item is complete, I wash again....that gets rid of any dirt/oils from my hands it may have picked up during construction....a cotton batting will shrink enough during that last wash/dry to get that desired crinkly look in the fabrics....that last wash will also bring to light any areas that may need attention.....loose threads, stitching coming undone, etc.....but that is all me and my honest opinion, everyone will have their own set of rules....LOL

I alway prewah also, except precuts. I also starch when pressing fabric does not look prewashed and is easy to cut, piece, and quilt. Hope you do well with your sales!!!!!!

I would let the family wash it, they could have allergies to detergents, and moms will usually wash everything they get from their child. I am almost allergic to all laundry detergents so I have to use a special one and with many kidshaving allergies these days I would let the mom wash it in what she wants

I very rarely pre wash anything but flannel, but always wash the finished quilt before I use it or give it away. I wash it on a regular cycle, cold water, and dry like anything else. I figure the recipient will not want to give it any special treatment, so I do that to see if there are any problems. So far I have been lucky.

Thank you all so much for you tips!!! I might have to start prewashing since I don't want any unhappy customers with surprises!!! I guess since my washer & dryer are in the basement with my sewing area it wont be to hard lol. Joanns here I come on Monday!!!

that said, i would wash the quilt anyway, and it would be up to the receiver to wash again. washing it the first time will show the subtle or not so subtle little puckers that may show that the quilt shrank a little, too. it will also make sure that there were no fabrics that bled. besides prewashing for the chemical aspect, it is best not to have other surprises.

This is my thinking, exactly. I prewash when the fabric comes in the door, and wash again when the quilt is finished.