We hear it all the time in the shop: “Do I have to iron this?” The short answer? Not if you don’t want to. At Welcome Home, we’re big fans of the lived-in elegance that natural fibers like linen bring to the table—wrinkles and all. But for those moments when you want a slightly crisper look (holidays, dinner parties, or just because it feels good), we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re brand new to table linens or just invested in a beautiful set you want to care for well, these tips will help you iron smarter, not harder—mixing traditional know-how with modern, low-fuss techniques. Let’s make linen care feel less like a chore, and more like a ritual.
1. Iron While Damp (It’s a Game-Changer)
Skip the full dry cycle—linen and cotton are much easier to press when still slightly damp. If your linens have already dried, spritz them lightly with water or use your iron’s steam function.
2. Use a Clean, Padded Ironing Surface
Protect your linens from marks or impressions by using a clean, smooth ironing board cover. A padded surface also helps soften stubborn creases.
3. Flip It—Always Iron on the Reverse Side
Especially important for embroidered or patterned linens, ironing on the back protects delicate threads and prevents shine on darker fabrics.
4. Start with the Corners
Begin by pressing the edges and corners—this helps shape the linen evenly and makes the rest of the ironing easier.
5. Avoid Overheating
Use a medium heat setting for cotton and linen. Too hot, and you risk scorching; too cool, and you’ll be ironing forever. Steam helps a lot, but always check care labels first.
6. Ditch the Dryer When You Can
Air drying not only saves energy—it also helps reduce deep-set wrinkles that are harder to iron out later. Lay linens flat or hang them neatly to dry in shape.
7. Use a Pressing Cloth for Extra Protection
For vintage, heirloom, or extra-delicate pieces, place a lightweight cotton cloth (like a flour sack towel) between the iron and your linen to prevent direct heat contact.
8. Skip Scented Sprays—Go Natural
Avoid chemical wrinkle releasers. Instead, add a splash of lavender or eucalyptus essential oil to your spray bottle for a lightly scented ironing experience.
9. Fold Immediately—or Better Yet, Hang
Once your linens are pressed, fold them while still warm or hang them on a hanger to avoid re-wrinkling. For tablecloths, rolling them around a cardboard tube prevents creases.
10. Embrace the “Linen Look”
A little texture is okay! Linen is naturally relaxed. A soft, lived-in press still looks elegant and effortless—perfection isn’t the goal, personality is.
