How to iron a silk dress

Hello from CREASE Studios,

1. Check the Care Label: Ensure the silk dress can be ironed, as some may require alternative care.

2. Set Iron to Low Heat: Use the "silk" or low heat setting to avoid damaging the fabric.

3. Use a Pressing Cloth: Place a cotton cloth over the silk to protect it from direct heat.

4. Iron While Damp: Lightly mist the dress with water to help smooth out wrinkles without over-drying.

5. Iron on the Reverse Side: Turn the dress inside out to prevent shine on the fabric.

6. Store Properly: Hang the dress immediately after ironing to maintain a smooth finish.

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It’s Rosie and Kate here from CREASE Studios, and today, we’re tackling a common question we hear from silk lovers: how to iron a silk dress without damaging it. We know that silk dresses are beloved for their luxurious feel and elegant drape, but this delicate fabric does need a little extra care. If you want to keep your silk dress looking as smooth and beautiful as the day you bought it, here are our top tips for ironing silk the right way.

1. Check the Care Label

Before you begin, always check the care label on your silk dress. Some silk garments, especially those with delicate finishes or specific dye treatments, may advise against ironing altogether. If this is the case, consider steaming or carefully smoothing out wrinkles by hand instead. At CREASE Studios, we prioritize high-quality, ethically sourced silk, but it’s still essential to follow the specific care instructions provided for each dress.

2. Gather Your Materials

To safely iron a silk dress, you’ll need a few essentials:

A steam iron with adjustable temperature settings

A clean, thin pressing cloth (like a cotton pillowcase or muslin cloth)

An ironing board or a flat, heat-safe surface

The pressing cloth is essential to protect your silk from direct heat. Silk is sensitive to high temperatures, and a pressing cloth provides a barrier that prevents scorching or shiny marks.

3. Set Your Iron to a Low Temperature

Silk is best ironed at a low temperature, so set your iron to the "silk" or "low heat" setting. If your iron doesn’t have specific fabric settings, aim for around 250°F (120°C). High heat can damage silk fibers, so it’s crucial to use the lowest setting possible. Additionally, if your iron has a steam function, make sure it’s filled with distilled water for a gentle, mineral-free steam.

4. Iron While the Dress is Slightly Damp

For the best results, iron your silk dress while it’s slightly damp. This helps the iron glide more smoothly and removes wrinkles more effectively without damaging the fibers. You can lightly mist the dress with distilled water if it’s dry, but avoid soaking it. Silk is very absorbent, so a light mist is all you need to make it pliable for ironing.

5. Use a Pressing Cloth to Protect the Silk

Place your silk dress on the ironing board, then lay a pressing cloth over the area you want to iron. This barrier protects the silk from direct heat and helps prevent any potential damage. Silk can develop a shiny finish when exposed to direct heat, so the pressing cloth ensures that the fabric retains its natural sheen and smoothness.

6. Iron on the Reverse Side

For extra protection, turn your silk dress inside out before you start ironing. Ironing on the reverse side minimizes the risk of shine and helps keep the outer layer looking smooth and fresh. If your dress has any delicate details like lace or embroidery, avoid ironing directly over these areas to prevent snags or damage.

7. Use Gentle, Quick Strokes

When ironing silk, it’s best to use gentle, quick strokes. Start with a small section and move the iron steadily but lightly over the fabric. Avoid pressing down too hard, as silk is a delicate material that can be damaged by excessive pressure. If you’re using steam, allow the steam to penetrate the fabric, then smooth it with the iron without pressing.

8. Hang the Dress Immediately After Ironing

Once you’ve finished ironing, hang your silk dress immediately to prevent new wrinkles from forming. Use a padded hanger to help the dress maintain its shape without stretching or leaving marks. Hanging your silk dress also allows any residual moisture to dry evenly, preserving that smooth, wrinkle-free look.

9. Consider Steaming as an Alternative

If ironing sounds a bit tricky or if you’re dealing with minor wrinkles, a garment steamer can be a great alternative. Steaming is a gentle way to smooth out wrinkles in silk without direct contact. Just be sure to hold the steamer a few inches away from the fabric and move it steadily up and down. At CREASE Studios, we often recommend steaming as it’s less likely to damage delicate silk fibers.

10. Store Your Silk Dress Properly

Proper storage is key to maintaining the smoothness and beauty of your silk dress. After ironing or steaming, store your dress in a cool, dry closet, ideally inside a breathable garment bag to protect it from dust and light exposure. Silk is a natural fabric that can fade or weaken with prolonged exposure to sunlight, so a closet is the perfect place to keep it safe.

Enjoy the Lasting Beauty of Your Silk Dress

At CREASE Studios, we love silk for its timeless elegance, luxurious feel, and natural beauty. With the right care, your silk dress can remain a staple in your wardrobe for years to come. Whether you’re getting ready for a special occasion or simply want your silk dress to look its best, these tips will help you keep it smooth, soft, and beautiful.

With love,
Rosie & Kate
Founders of CREASE Studios