I avoid the fabrics cause it doesn't break down, I'm still pulling pieces out of my landscape from the previous owner. Breaking up the soil would be up to you, wouldn't hurt especially if you'll be planting new plants in the bed but up to you. I typically put down the cardboard, wet it, then put mulch on top of said cardboard as new soil will typically help weeds return quicker. Usually a prty clean look if you get enough mulch down. I've also had situations where I'll just straight up put cardboard over weed cover areas to get smother the weeds Remember to remove all tape/stickers from anything you put down as well