Necessary to wash before use?

[sihalman]

Hi everyone! This is my first try at this forum and I'm pretty new to knitting so go easy on me.

I just finished my first blanket (and did a little happy dance) for my one year-old cousin. I used washable acrylic yarn. Is it important that I wash it before I give it to her? Or is it alright to wait and have her mom wash it when it gets dirty?

Thanks so much!!!

[Jan in CA]

I usually wash baby stuff before gifting, but I do use a gentle wash cycle and a gentle detergent. I figure with all the time it's been in my hands and in the air with dust, pet hair, smoke, etc it's a good idea.