Why wash finished quilt right away?
 

I have only been quilting for four years and have been reading about others washing finished quilts when completed. What is the benefit of this?

If you have used a glue stick or starch or spray adhesive that needs to be washed out.

And why pass a soiled (in some manner) gifted quilt? Also depending on the type starch you use (possibly home recipe) could attract some unwanted critters with hairy little legs!

Also if it is a donation quilt (esp kids) I like to wash away all the chemicals.

Another is to check for the bleeding fabrics. I had a black, white and red quilt (pre-washed fabric), then washed when completed. The red bled, washed and washed and thought I got it under control. Gave it to granddaughter ... that red bled AGAIN. grrrr

To get that crinkly look - and if gifting, to get that crinkly look now, rather than the first time the recipient washes it (and freaks out because they don't know that it's normal).

All the above and most of mine are donated. I have cats and so I want to make sure I get any allergins out of the quilt before gifting it to someone.

I want the gift to be fresh, clean, laundered if it is a bed or lap quilt. Wall hangings no. Have never gifted tablerunners or place-mats but same applies.
Plus all of the above posts!

i want to make sure that none of my seams come undone

I never did this because most of the quilts I made were for competition. I wanted that sharp fressly pressed look.