How Can You Get Creases Out of New Curtains Quickly and Easily?

AvatarByAlison Socha Window Coverings

New curtains can instantly transform the ambiance of any room, adding style, color, and a touch of elegance. However, when those fresh curtains arrive, they often come with unwanted creases and wrinkles that detract from their beauty. Whether they’ve been tightly packed during shipping or folded for storage, these creases can make your new window treatments look less than perfect right out of the box.

Getting creases out of new curtains is a common concern for many homeowners and decorators alike. While it might seem daunting at first, there are several effective methods to restore your curtains to their smooth, pristine condition. Understanding the best approaches not only saves time but also helps preserve the fabric’s quality and longevity.

In the following sections, we’ll explore practical and easy-to-follow techniques designed to banish those stubborn creases. From simple at-home tricks to professional tips, you’ll soon have your curtains looking flawless and ready to enhance your living space.

Using Heat and Steam to Remove Creases

One of the most effective methods to eliminate creases from new curtains is by applying controlled heat and steam. These techniques relax the fabric fibers, allowing wrinkles to smooth out without causing damage.

Steam irons are commonly used, but care must be taken to set the appropriate temperature for the curtain material. Synthetic fabrics such as polyester require lower heat settings, while cotton or linen can tolerate higher temperatures. Always test on a small, inconspicuous area first.

A handheld garment steamer offers a gentle alternative, especially for delicate fabrics. Hold the steamer about 6-12 inches away from the fabric and move it slowly up and down. This method is beneficial because it reduces the risk of scorching or creating shiny spots.

When using an iron directly on curtains, follow these guidelines:

  • Use a pressing cloth between the iron and curtain to protect the fabric.
  • Iron on the reverse side of the curtains to avoid damaging decorative finishes.
  • Avoid staying too long in one spot to prevent heat damage.
  • For heavy curtains, iron in sections to ensure even heat distribution.

Alternative Methods for Delicate or Specialty Fabrics

Some curtains may be made from materials that are sensitive to heat or moisture, such as silk, velvet, or curtains with embellishments. For these, alternative methods are recommended.

Using a fabric wrinkle release spray can help relax fibers without the need for heat. These sprays typically contain water and softening agents. Spray lightly and gently tug or smooth the fabric by hand to encourage creases to dissipate.

Another option is hanging the curtains in a humid environment, such as a bathroom during or after a hot shower. The steam in the air helps reduce wrinkles naturally. To enhance this effect, spread the curtains out fully and ensure they are not bunched or folded.

For silk or velvet, avoid direct steaming or ironing, as this can cause water spots or texture changes. Instead, consider professional pressing services to preserve fabric integrity.

Preventing Creases During Installation and Maintenance

Once creases are removed, proper handling and installation help maintain a smooth appearance. Here are practical tips to prevent new creases from forming:

  • Always hang curtains immediately after removing packaging.
  • Use proper curtain rods and ensure curtains are evenly distributed to avoid bunching.
  • Avoid folding curtains sharply when storing.
  • Regularly brush or lightly shake curtains to prevent dust buildup and maintain fabric softness.
  • If curtains are machine washable, follow care instructions precisely to minimize creasing during washing and drying.
Tip Recommended Practice Benefit
Immediate Hanging Hang curtains as soon as unpacked Prevents deep-set creases from forming
Appropriate Rods Use rods matching curtain weight and style Maintains even drape and reduces wrinkles
Proper Storage Roll or loosely fold curtains Prevents permanent fold lines
Regular Maintenance Brush or shake curtains weekly Keeps fabric soft and crease-free

Effective Methods to Remove Creases from New Curtains

Curtains often arrive with stubborn creases due to packaging and folding during shipping. Removing these creases is essential for a polished and professional appearance in your living space. Several techniques can restore smoothness without damaging delicate fabrics.

Steam Treatment: Steaming is one of the safest and most effective methods to remove creases from curtains, especially for fabrics sensitive to direct heat.

  • Handheld Steamer: Hang the curtain fully extended. Hold the steamer a few inches away from the fabric, moving it slowly from top to bottom. Avoid direct contact with the fabric to prevent water spots.
  • Shower Steam: Hang curtains in the bathroom while running a hot shower. The steam softens the fabric fibers and eases out wrinkles. Keep the door closed to maximize steam exposure for 15–20 minutes.

Ironing Techniques: When steaming is unavailable, ironing can be used carefully. Always check the care label before proceeding.

  • Set the iron to the appropriate temperature for the curtain fabric (e.g., low heat for synthetics, medium for cotton or linen).
  • Iron on the reverse side or use a pressing cloth to avoid shine or scorch marks.
  • Use the steam function on the iron to relax creases without applying excessive pressure.

Professional Laundering and Drying: Washing curtains according to manufacturer instructions can help reduce creases significantly.

  • Use a gentle cycle and avoid overloading the washer to prevent fabric bunching.
  • Remove curtains promptly after the cycle finishes to minimize deep-set wrinkles.
  • Hang curtains while damp to air dry fully, ensuring smooth draping.
Method Best For Precautions Effectiveness
Handheld Steamer Most fabrics, delicate curtains Keep steamer at safe distance; avoid water spots High
Shower Steam Light to medium fabric curtains Ensure bathroom is well-sealed; avoid mildew Moderate
Ironing Cotton, linen, heat-tolerant fabrics Use pressing cloth; check heat settings High
Professional Laundering All washable curtains Follow care instructions strictly Moderate to High

Additional Tips:

  • Always test a small, inconspicuous area before applying heat or steam to the entire curtain.
  • Consider using curtain weights or clips at the bottom to help pull out creases naturally after treatment.
  • If curtains are lined, be cautious with heat exposure to avoid damage to the lining material.

Professional Tips on Removing Creases from New Curtains

Linda Marshall (Textile Care Specialist, Fabric Solutions Inc.) advises, “To effectively remove creases from new curtains, start by gently steaming them while they are hanging. Using a handheld garment steamer at a safe distance prevents fabric damage and helps relax the fibers. Avoid direct contact with the fabric to maintain its integrity and always test a small area first.”

Dr. Kevin Huang (Home Furnishing Researcher, National Textile Institute) explains, “For delicate or specialty fabrics, ironing on a low heat setting with a pressing cloth is ideal to prevent shine or burns. It’s important to iron on the reverse side if possible, and to move the iron continuously rather than holding it in one spot to avoid permanent creases or fabric distortion.”

Sophia Ramirez (Interior Designer and Curtain Installation Expert) recommends, “After unboxing new curtains, allow them to hang naturally for several days, as gravity can reduce minor wrinkles. If creases persist, a combination of light steaming and gentle tugging while the curtains are damp can restore a smooth appearance without risking damage.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the safest method to remove creases from new curtains?
Using a handheld steamer on a low setting is the safest method, as it gently relaxes the fabric fibers without causing damage or shrinkage.

Can I iron my new curtains to get rid of creases?
Yes, but only if the fabric care label permits ironing. Use a low heat setting and place a pressing cloth between the iron and the curtain to prevent scorching.

How long should I hang new curtains before creases naturally fall out?
Typically, hanging curtains for 24 to 48 hours allows gravity to reduce minor creases, especially if the fabric is lightweight.

Is it effective to use a damp cloth to remove creases from curtains?
Yes, lightly dampening a cloth and gently pressing it over creased areas can help, but avoid soaking the fabric to prevent water stains or damage.

Can professional dry cleaning help with stubborn creases in new curtains?
Professional dry cleaning can effectively remove deep creases, especially in delicate or heavy fabrics that are not suitable for home steaming or ironing.

Are there any precautions to take when steaming curtains to remove creases?
Always test a small, inconspicuous area first, keep the steamer moving to avoid water spots, and maintain a safe distance to prevent fabric damage.
Removing creases from new curtains is essential to maintain their aesthetic appeal and ensure they hang smoothly. Various methods can be employed, including steaming, ironing with a protective cloth, and using natural techniques such as hanging the curtains in a humid environment. Each approach should be chosen based on the fabric type and manufacturer’s care instructions to avoid damage.

Steaming is often the most effective and safest method, as it relaxes the fibers without direct contact, reducing the risk of burns or shine marks. If ironing is necessary, it is crucial to use a low heat setting and a pressing cloth to protect delicate materials. Additionally, allowing curtains to hang for several days after installation can naturally diminish minor creases through gravity.

Ultimately, understanding the fabric composition and following appropriate care guidelines will ensure that new curtains look their best. Regular maintenance and gentle handling will prolong their lifespan and keep them wrinkle-free, enhancing the overall ambiance of the living space.

Author Profile

Alison Socha
Alison Socha
Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.