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Short answer
Hang curtains first and let their weight pull out most creases over a day or two, then steam the rest from top to bottom, keeping the steamer moving. If you iron, use a low setting on the reverse while the fabric is slightly damp. Never iron the face of velvet or the coated side of a blackout, and test heat on a hidden corner first.
Hang first, then steam
- Rehang while slightly damp after washing; most creases drop out on their own. See How to Wash Curtains.
- New curtains: let them hang for a day or two before steaming; packing creases usually relax.
- Steam top to bottom, holding the fabric gently taut at the hem, with the steamer head a few centimetres away and always moving.
- Let the curtain dry fully before opening or dressing it.
Tip
Dress pleated curtains after steaming: arrange the folds by hand and tie them loosely for a day or two so the pleats set.
Can you iron sheer, velvet and blackout curtains?
| Fabric | Steam | Iron |
|---|---|---|
| Polyester sheer and voile | Yes, gently, from a distance | Low heat, reverse side, with a pressing cloth |
| Polyester dimout | Yes | Low to medium heat, reverse side |
| Velvet | Yes, from the back or just off the face | Never on the face |
| Coated blackout | Face side only, lightly | Never on the coated side |
| Linen and linen blends | Yes | Medium heat, reverse, slightly damp |
| Cotton | Yes | Medium heat, reverse, slightly damp |
Always follow the care label first. See Fabric Care Symbols Explained.
Mistakes that damage curtains
- Too much heat on polyester: it can glaze shiny or melt. Start low.
- Ironing a blackout coating: it can stick, crack or melt.
- Pressing velvet face down hard: it crushes the pile permanently. See What Is Velvet Fabric?
- Holding the steamer still: water spots and shrinkage on natural fibres.
- Steaming near a hot window in direct sun dries patches unevenly; steam in the morning or with the room shaded.
Watch out
Test heat and steam on a hidden corner, such as a side hem near the floor, before treating the whole curtain.
When to call a professional
Tall curtains, lined or interlined curtains, silk and heavy velvets are easier for a curtain cleaning service, which can clean and steam them in place. See Curtains for High Ceilings.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to get creases out of curtains?
Hang them and let their weight pull most creases out, then steam the rest from top to bottom with a hand steamer.
Can you iron sheer curtains?
Yes, on a low setting on the reverse side, with a pressing cloth. Steaming is usually gentler.
Can you iron blackout curtains?
Never iron the coated side. Steam the face side lightly instead, or iron the face on low through a cloth if the label allows.
How do I steam velvet curtains?
Steam from the back, or hold the steamer just off the face, then brush the pile gently in its natural direction. Never iron the face.
Curtain maker, upholsterer or designer?
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