Ironing Delicate Linens

Steps to press delicate linens -

1. Check the care label

• Confirm recommended iron temperature and whether ironing is allowed.

2. Prepare equipment

• Use a clean iron with adjustable heat and a steam option.

• Use a pressing cloth (cotton muslin, lightweight linen, or a clean white cotton pillowcase).

• Have a padded ironing surface (ironing board or thick towel on a flat table).

3. Set temperature and test

• Start at the lowest heat recommended for the fabric. Gradually increase only if needed.

• Test on an inconspicuous area or scrap fabric.

4. Use a pressing cloth

• Lay the pressing cloth over the linen piece to prevent direct contact with the iron (prevents shine, scorching, and transfer of oils).

• For very delicate items (embroidery, lace), press from the wrong side with the cloth over the right side.

5. Press — don’t rub or glide aggressively

• Use a firm, straight downward press for 2–5 seconds, lift the iron, move to the next area. Avoid dragging the iron back and forth over the fabric.

• For seams and hems, press open gently; for folds, press along the fold edge.

6. Manage moisture

• Iron slightly damp linens or use the iron’s steam function sparingly. For extremely delicate fibers, use steam from above (hold the iron a short distance away) rather than direct steam.

7. Prevent shine

• Use a damp pressing cloth or place a dry cloth over the linen, and press quickly.

• Avoid high heat and prolonged pressing on one spot.

8. Handle embellishments carefully

• For buttons, trims, or metallic threads, press from the reverse side and protect with a cloth; avoid direct heat on metallic elements.

9. Cool and store

• Let the linen cool flat for a minute before folding to set the press.

• Store folded or rolled in acid-free tissue if long-term storage is needed.

Quick fabric-temperature guide (start low, test first)

• Silk: low heat, press inside out, pressing cloth

• Linen: medium-high (can take higher heat), but use a cloth for fine linens

• Cotton: medium; damp for best results

• Lace/embroidered delicates: low heat, press from back with cloth

Warnings

• Never iron over stains (heat can set them).

• Avoid bleach or starch unless the care label permits.

That’s it — gentle, protective pressing preserves delicate linens and keeps them ready to use.