ckcowl

each batting has it's own properties and instructions to pre-wash. it usually says (no pre-washing needed) but if you really feel it is necessary then you should follow the instructions on the packaging. if you are simply worried about shrinkage then buy a batt that does not shrink.
i have used numerous wool batt's they are my favorite to work with. i have never had any problem with shrinkage or any problems with the batt so have had no reason to try pre-washing it. as expensive as wool batting is i would be pretty upset to have one come out holey??? what did you do??? on the warm & natural batting package it says if you (must) prewash you simply wet the batt (usually in a bathtub) then push the water out (no agitation or spinning used) then put into dryer. but if i were worried about that 3% shrinkage the package says to expect i would just buy a batt that does not shrink...like a poly batt.

starshine

Haven't ever shrunk batting but if you wanted to and have a front load machine couldn't you soak it in the tub, and drain the water. Then squeeze out by hand?

ljsunflower

I've never pre washed batting. Or my fabric either. I've just never seen the point in it. Especially doing the batting.

auntmag

I spritz it with a spray bottle and toss it in the dryer with a wet towel and set the dryer on high temp for about 20 minutes.

lynnie

i just made a quilt that's going south ( south Africa) and i had to prewash the cotton.
it said just i a sink and press out water, and hag to dry (over the shower door)

thanks for the spritz idea

amma

The dryer is what shrinks the batting.
I would just spray it down til it is thoroughly damp, and toss it in the dryer :D:D:D

watterstide

i don't do it, never had a problem.

finch

I have never washed my batting.

quiltmaker

I don't prewash my batting and have never had a problem.

I use Quilter's Dream 100% cotton and their wool. I have never understood why anyone would prewash their batting. I know people believe it shrinks it and they prefer it that way. But still wonder why if you're purchasing a quality batting.

Guess as usual there are as many opinions on washing batting as washing fabrics. Whatever you prefer is what is right for you.

irishrose

I used an inexpensive polyester batting from WalMart this week. The good stuff I have here was too thick for a small quilt. I put in the dryer with a damp towel to get the wrinkles out. It came out with a big pouf in it. When I tried to press it, it got stiff like it was melting - the iron wasn't hot. I finally was able to save it by steaming above it, not touching the iron to it. The next time I want to smooth a bat, I will go straight to the steam.