Ditch the Iron: 7 Smart Ways to Defeat Wrinkles in Clothing - Home & Texture
Laundry Room Wrinkled Clothes Hack

7 Clever Ways To Get Wrinkles Out of Clothes Without an Iron

Don't have an iron? No problem. These seven hacks will help you smooth out your clothes in no time.

January 18, 2024 at 8:13 AM PST

Dealing with wrinkled clothes can be a hassle, especially when time is of the essence and an iron is nowhere in sight. Whether you’re traveling, lacking the usual ironing setup, or just seeking efficient and unconventional solutions, these tried-and-true hacks have got you covered. From quick fixes using common household items to innovative techniques that go beyond the conventional iron, the process of wrinkle removal can be both accessible and stress-free. Say goodbye to the frustration of crumpled clothes and hello to a wardrobe that stays sharp with minimal effort.

1. Steam Your Worries Away

Steam is a wrinkle’s worst enemy, and you don’t need an expensive steamer to harness its powers. Imagine this scenario: you’re getting ready for an important meeting, and your favorite dress is looking a bit worse for wear. Here’s a quick fix—hang your wrinkled garment in the bathroom while you take a hot, steamy shower. As the bathroom fills with steam, let it envelop your clothing. When you take the garment out, gently tug on the fabric to smooth out those pesky wrinkles. It’s a simple yet highly effective trick that can save your outfit and your day.

Photo credit: Kinga Krzeminska

2. Tumble with a Damp Cloth

If you have a dryer within reach, you’re golden. When you’re in a rush and need your clothes wrinkle-free, place the wrinkled garment in the dryer along with a clean, damp cloth, preferably a washcloth. Run the dryer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes. As the dryer operates, the damp cloth will create steam, and this steam will work its magic on your clothes. When you take them out, they’ll be smooth and ready to wear. You can also try this method with a few cubes of ice. It’s a little loud, but it gets the job done.

3. The Ice Cube Trick

Have you ever encountered a stubborn wrinkle that just refuses to cooperate? Head to your freezer and grab an ice cube. Wrap it in a thin cloth or a paper towel to prevent any water stains. Then, rub the ice cube gently over the offending wrinkle. The cold from the ice causes the fabric to contract, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. You can blow dry it while straightening it out, and voila! It’s an effective solution that can work wonders, especially on those tricky spots.

4. Hair Straightener for Quick Fixes

For those small, hard-to-reach areas like shirt collars or cuffs, a hair straightener can be your secret weapon. Make sure to set it to the lowest heat setting to avoid damaging your clothes. Place the wrinkled fabric between the straightener plates and gently glide it over the affected area. With caution and precision, you can quickly smooth out those wrinkles. It’s a handy trick for last-minute touch-ups before heading out the door.

Jeans hanging
Photo Credit: Mica Asato

5. The Hanging Trick

No one talks about hanging clothes properly, so if you have the time, consider this. Invest in quality hangers that are ideal for the type of clothing you’re hanging. For delicate items especially, padded hangers work wonders. Hanging jeans on thick velvet hangers can prevent them from getting stuffed to the back of a drawer.

6. Spray and Smooth

Creating your wrinkle-releasing spray is easier than you might think. Grab a spray bottle and mix equal parts of water and vinegar. Lightly spritz this solution onto the wrinkled garment, and then gently pull and smooth the fabric. The vinegar helps relax the fibers, and as the fabric dries, the wrinkles magically disappear.

7. The Dry Towel Method

Lay your wrinkled clothes on a clean, flat surface and cover them with a damp towel. Gently press down on the towel and smooth it out with your hands. The moisture from the towel will transfer to the fabric, releasing the wrinkles. Repeat this process as needed until your clothes are wrinkle-free.




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