If you save to the props folder and the object has already been parented to the figure (like it should be if you're running a cloth sim), then it will ask if you want to save it as a smart prop when you click the plus sign and save to the library. There should be NO bones involved. If you have to do that, then something got screwed up somewhere. If you've had it parented to the figure and you've set settings for simulation and you save it as a smart prop, then yes - the settings will be saved with the prop.

When saving as a prop you should have the item you want to save selected, else you'll be saving whatever happens to be selected at the time. You want to select the robe, save it, select the belt, save it, etc.

The difference between a prop and smart prop is that a smart prop has been parented to something. A prop is just a static object.

Laurie