Instead of using pinking shears to finish the raw edges, I use a wavy blade on my rotary cutter. I lay my ruler about 1/2" from the edge to hold the fabric in place, then zip down the edge in a flash. As for clipping a corner, I've often heard of that, but logically don't understand how that could work. It seems to me that would open a bound edge so raveling can start right at the cut. Can anyone enlighten me on how this might work?
As for drying, be sure to dry on permanent press setting. I let my dry all the way and pull out the fabric immediately to be folded. Iron it? Why bother until you plan to use the fabric? My stash is huge and I'll only use a fraction of it in my lifetime. Why would I want to lose time ironing fabric when I may never even use it? I iron as I go.
My sympathy on your allergy. Perhaps rubber gloves and a face mask will get you through the washing process. Good luck!