Special Treatment of Fabrics

Every fabric is different and may need special treatment. The label inside clothing or linens should recommend fabric care instructions that include ironing recommendations. Generally, if the fabric is a blend, use a low temperature setting. If you don’t know what the fabric is made out of, use the lowest temperature first and test on an inside seam.

Natural Fibers

• Cotton (denim, muslin, calico, chintz): Iron on high heat while still damp. If the fabric is dry, pre-moisten it with a spray bottle or use the spray button on your iron to dampen the fabric. Use steam and spray if necessary.
• Linen: Iron while still damp on the wrong side using high heat. If the fabric is dry, pre-moisten it with a spray bottle or use the spray button on your iron to dampen the fabric.
• Silk: Use a medium heat setting and dry iron inside out. To press a silk tie, lay it on top of a pressing cloth right-side facing down, then press.
• Wool (cashmere, flannel): Use a pressing cloth and steam iron inside out on medium heat.

Synthetic Fibers

• Acetate: Using low heat, dry iron without steam on the wrong side of the fabric.
• Acrylic: With the iron on low heat, dry iron without steam on the wrong side of the fabric. Use spray if necessary.
• Nylon: Use low heat and dry iron without steam. Use spray if necessary.
• Polyester: Iron while still damp, pre-moisten it with a spray bottle, or use the spray button on your iron to dampen the fabric. Use low or medium heat.

Additional Ironing Tips & Techniques:

The Ultimate Ironing Guide >

Before You Get Out Your Iron >

Prepping Your Clothes for Ironing >

Ironing Instructions for Your Specific Fabric Type

Ironing Out the Differences: Picking the Best Iron >