How to remove creases after washing?

Aggressive washing programs and excessively long drying times often cause creases in clothing. Severe creases cannot be removed with the usual hot ironing method. It's even worse when creases appear on delicate fabrics that don't tolerate ironing at maximum temperatures. How can creases be removed after washing? Are there gentle ways to remove creases without damaging the garment?

Ironing with steam and pressing

A traditional method, tried and tested by generations. An iron and ironing board are the best tools for removing heavily wrinkled items. When using this method, pay attention to the fabric's structure and determine the optimal temperature for the specific material. Remember that certain fabrics should only be ironed through a cloth to prevent shine.

Before you start ironing, be sure to read the information on the item's label - it will indicate the fabric composition and the permissible ironing temperature.

Most modern irons are equipped with a steam function. However, it's important to remember that ironing, due to the intense pressure applied to the fabric while steam is activated, can alter the fiber structure. A steamer is deservedly considered an excellent alternative to an iron with a steam option, as it allows you to gently remove creases from clothing. In stores, you can find not only large-sized devices, but also compact steamers that you can take with you on the road.

If the creases persist after ironing, place the item under a weight. What can serve as a weight? A stack of books can be used, with a jar of water placed on top, for example. Be sure to place a napkin between the book cover and the linen. The weight will only smooth out damp clothing; placing dry items under the weight is useless. The fabric should remain under the weight for at least 3 hours.

Regular sprayer

Overdried, creased items can be straightened using a regular spray bottle, like the kind used for houseplants. Fill the spray bottle with warm water and spray the garment thoroughly just before ironing. This method is often used by housewives when an iron with a steam function isn't available.

Severe creases can be removed using a spray bottle and a steam iron. Follow these steps:

• Place the wrinkled item on the ironing board and straighten it well;
• Spray the garment with a spray bottle until the fabric fibers are damp;
• if necessary, cover the material with a thin napkin or gauze;
• Activate the steam function on your iron and iron every fold of the linen.

Intensive ironing combined with steam treatment should do the trick. The material will smooth out, and any creases will be gone.

Or maybe leave the creases?

There are some items that a slight wrinkle doesn't make them look sloppy, but rather adds style. However, don't get carried away; creases don't look flattering on all fabrics. The following items can easily be ironed without ironing:

• Jeans. The structure of the material is such that after just an hour of wear, any creases will smooth out on their own. However, even if the creases don't completely disappear, others will definitely think the slight creases are the highlight of your jeans.
• Sweatshirts and T-shirts made of cotton fabric. Minor imperfections are acceptable for these items. However, these should not include creases from clothespins or a horizontal line run through the entire garment.
• Cotton vests and jackets. By carefully combining items and accessories, it's easy to achieve a stunning effect, even if the garment isn't perfectly ironed;
• Linen suits, trousers, and dresses. This natural material looks stunning even when paired with slight folds. The creases add texture and a certain charm to the garments.
• Work uniform. Denim shirts don't favor excessive ironing, so a slight wrinkle will only enhance them.

Don't try to completely remove creases from jeans, hoodies, or cotton T-shirts—people won't notice the creases, but the item won't need as much ironing and will retain its properties longer.

Therefore, if you set a goal to smooth out wrinkles at any cost, first make sure that it is really necessary.

Removing creases from various items

Wrinkle removal methods may vary slightly depending on the fabric type. Thin materials are usually easier to iron than thicker ones. Let's look at how to remove wrinkles from clothing made of different types of fabric.

1. Denim. After washing, the item should be steamed and then ironed thoroughly. It's acceptable to set the iron to the highest setting, as it's unlikely to burn high-quality denim.
2. Genuine leather or leatherette. You can remove creases from this material using a piece of thick fabric and ironing at the recommended temperature (check the garment's tag). Pressing is also an option. You can find special products designed to remove creases from leather items. Glycerin, petroleum jelly, or nut oil are also helpful.
3. Velvet clothing. There are metal brushes designed for steaming and ironing velvet. The fabric is quite specific, so wrinkle removal requires special techniques.
4. Synthetics. For these items, ironing at low heat is acceptable. When removing creases, it is important to move the iron around rather than moving it across the fabric, otherwise new creases may form. Avoid steam treatment as synthetic items may shrink or, conversely, stretch.

To avoid creases, simply follow the washing and drying instructions. But if creases do appear, don't despair; in most cases, they're easy to remove.

   

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