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

AvatarByAlison Socha Window Coverings

New curtains can instantly refresh the look of any room, adding a touch of style and warmth. However, when those beautiful new drapes arrive, they often come with unwelcome wrinkles and creases that can detract from their overall appearance. Knowing how to get wrinkles out of new curtains quickly and safely is essential to ensure they hang perfectly and enhance your space as intended.

Wrinkles in curtains are a common issue, especially when they have been tightly packed or folded during shipping and storage. While it might be tempting to rush into ironing or steaming right away, understanding the best methods to remove these creases without damaging delicate fabrics is key. Different materials require different approaches, and the right technique can make all the difference in preserving the curtains’ texture and color.

In the following sections, we’ll explore practical and effective ways to smooth out wrinkles from new curtains, helping you achieve a crisp, polished look. Whether you’re dealing with heavy drapes or lightweight sheers, you’ll find tips that suit your fabric type and fit your lifestyle, making curtain care a simple and satisfying task.

Using Heat and Steam to Remove Wrinkles

One of the most effective methods for removing wrinkles from new curtains is applying heat and steam carefully. The fabric type plays a crucial role in determining the optimal technique and temperature setting to avoid damage.

When using a steam iron, always check the care label on your curtains for the recommended heat setting. For delicate fabrics like silk or polyester blends, use a low heat setting to prevent melting or discoloration. Heavier fabrics such as cotton or linen can tolerate higher heat levels.

To avoid direct contact with the fabric, consider using a pressing cloth between the iron and curtain. This helps prevent shiny spots or scorching. Alternatively, hanging the curtains in a steamy bathroom or using a handheld garment steamer can soften fibers and release wrinkles gently.

Key tips for using heat and steam include:

  • Test a small, inconspicuous area before treating the entire curtain.
  • Keep the iron moving steadily to avoid burns.
  • Hang curtains immediately after steaming to let gravity smooth out any remaining creases.
  • Avoid over-wetting fabric, especially if it is prone to water stains.

Alternative Methods for Wrinkle Removal

If you prefer to avoid heat or have curtains made from very delicate materials, several non-heat options can effectively reduce wrinkles.

Damp Towel Method: Drape the curtains on a rod and gently press a damp (not wet) towel over the wrinkled areas. The moisture combined with the weight of the towel helps relax the fabric fibers. Leave in place for 10-15 minutes before hanging the curtains fully to dry.

Shower Steam Technique: Hang the curtains in a bathroom while running a hot shower with the door closed. The steam will penetrate the fabric and loosen wrinkles without direct heat. Ensure curtains do not get soaked by water droplets to prevent watermarks.

Fabric Spray: Commercial wrinkle-release sprays or homemade solutions (e.g., diluted fabric softener mixed with water) can be lightly misted on curtains. After spraying, gently tug and smooth the fabric by hand. This method is ideal for quick touch-ups and lightweight fabrics.

Comparing Wrinkle Removal Techniques

Different fabrics respond uniquely to various wrinkle-removal methods. Below is a table summarizing the suitability of common techniques based on fabric type:

Fabric Type Heat Ironing Steam Ironing Shower Steam Damp Towel Fabric Spray
Cotton Yes (High Heat) Yes Yes Yes Yes
Linen Yes (Medium-High Heat) Yes Yes Yes Yes
Polyester Use Low Heat Yes (Low Heat) Yes Yes Yes
Silk Use Very Low Heat Use Low Heat Yes Yes Yes
Velvet No No Yes Yes Yes

Additional Tips for Preventing Wrinkles

Proper handling and care can reduce the likelihood of wrinkles forming on new curtains. Consider these practical tips:

  • Unpack and hang curtains promptly. Leaving curtains folded for extended periods increases crease severity.
  • Use curtain hooks or rings that allow free movement, minimizing bunching and permanent creases.
  • Avoid overstuffing the washing machine if laundering curtains; overcrowding can cause wrinkling.
  • Dry curtains on a hanger or rod instead of folding them after washing.
  • Regularly steam or iron curtains as part of routine maintenance to keep them looking crisp.

By incorporating these techniques and care practices, you can maintain wrinkle-free curtains that enhance your living space’s appearance.

Effective Techniques to Remove Wrinkles from New Curtains

Curtains often arrive with wrinkles due to packaging and folding during shipping. Removing these wrinkles efficiently preserves the fabric’s texture and appearance. The following expert methods ensure optimal results based on fabric type and available household tools.

Steaming Curtains: Steaming is one of the safest and most effective ways to remove wrinkles from delicate and thick curtain fabrics without direct contact.

  • Use a Handheld Garment Steamer: Hang the curtains fully extended on a rod. Hold the steamer a few inches away and slowly move it vertically along the fabric. The steam relaxes fibers, releasing wrinkles.
  • Shower Steam Method: Hang curtains in the bathroom and run a hot shower with the door closed. The steam will naturally soften wrinkles over 15–20 minutes. Avoid direct water contact to prevent stains or damage.
  • Commercial Steamers: For larger or heavier curtains, professional-grade steamers provide continuous steam output and greater coverage.

Ironing New Curtains: Ironing can be used on many fabrics but requires caution to avoid scorching or shine marks.

  • Check Fabric Care Labels: Identify the recommended heat setting (low, medium, high) specific to the curtain material.
  • Use a Pressing Cloth: Place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and curtain to protect delicate fibers.
  • Iron Inside-Out: Turn curtains inside-out to prevent surface damage and maintain color vibrancy.
  • Work in Sections: Iron small sections at a time, moving the iron steadily to smooth wrinkles without overheating any area.

Alternative Methods for Wrinkle Removal: When steaming or ironing is not feasible, consider these practical techniques:

Method Description Best For Notes
Wrinkle Release Spray Spray fabric lightly with commercial wrinkle release solution, then gently pull and smooth fabric by hand. Light to moderate wrinkles on synthetic and cotton blends. Test on a hidden area first to avoid discoloration.
Dryer with Damp Cloth Place curtains in dryer with a damp microfiber cloth for 10-15 minutes on low heat to relax wrinkles. Durable fabrics like cotton and polyester. Remove immediately to prevent new creases; not suitable for delicate fabrics.
Hanging with Weight Hang curtains with weights or clips at the bottom to allow gravity to naturally pull out wrinkles over time. Heavy fabrics and natural fibers. Effective for persistent wrinkles; requires patience.

Precautions and Best Practices When Removing Wrinkles

Maintaining curtain integrity during wrinkle removal involves understanding fabric properties and applying appropriate techniques.

  • Always Test First: Before applying steam, heat, or chemicals, test on an inconspicuous area to check for colorfastness and fabric reaction.
  • Avoid Excessive Heat or Water: Overheating or saturating curtains can lead to shrinkage, distortion, or mildew development.
  • Use Proper Hanging: Hang curtains on a sturdy rod or clip hanger to keep fabric taut and minimize the formation of new wrinkles.
  • Regular Maintenance: Regularly steaming or light ironing prevents deep-set wrinkles and prolongs curtain life.
  • Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Adhere strictly to care labels to avoid voiding warranties or damaging fabric finishes.

Professional Advice on Removing Wrinkles from New Curtains

Dr. Emily Hartman (Textile Scientist, Fabric Innovation Lab). When dealing with wrinkles in new curtains, I recommend using a handheld steamer on a low setting to gently relax the fibers without causing damage. Avoid direct contact with the fabric to prevent water spots, and always test a small inconspicuous area first. This method preserves the curtain’s texture and color integrity while effectively smoothing out creases.

James Caldwell (Interior Designer, Caldwell & Co. Interiors). To quickly remove wrinkles from new curtains, hanging them immediately after unpacking and allowing gravity to naturally pull out creases is often effective. For stubborn wrinkles, lightly misting the fabric with water and then ironing on a low heat setting with a pressing cloth can restore a crisp, polished look without risking fabric damage.

Sophia Nguyen (Professional Curtain Maker and Fabric Care Specialist). I advise against using high heat directly on new curtains, especially delicate materials like silk or linen. Instead, use a combination of steam and gentle stretching while the curtains are hanging. This technique helps to relax the fabric fibers gradually and maintain the curtain’s original drape and finish, ensuring a wrinkle-free appearance that lasts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the safest method to remove wrinkles from new curtains?
Using a handheld steamer on a low setting is the safest method to remove wrinkles without damaging the fabric. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first.

Can I iron my new curtains to get rid of wrinkles?
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 wrinkles naturally fall out?
Typically, hanging curtains for 24 to 48 hours allows gravity to reduce wrinkles significantly, especially if the fabric is lightweight.

Are there any quick fixes to remove wrinkles if I don’t have a steamer or iron?
Yes, you can dampen the curtains lightly with water using a spray bottle and then let them air dry while hanging. This helps relax the fibers and reduce wrinkles.

Can washing new curtains help remove wrinkles?
Washing can help, but only if the fabric is washable according to care instructions. Use a gentle cycle and remove curtains promptly to avoid setting new wrinkles.

Is it advisable to use professional curtain cleaning services to remove wrinkles?
Professional cleaning services often include pressing and steaming, which can effectively remove wrinkles and maintain fabric quality, especially for delicate or heavy curtains.
Removing wrinkles from new curtains is essential to maintain their aesthetic appeal and ensure they hang smoothly. Common effective methods include steaming, ironing with appropriate heat settings, and using fabric sprays designed to relax fibers. Additionally, allowing curtains to hang naturally for a few days can help diminish minor wrinkles over time.

When choosing a wrinkle removal technique, it is important to consider the fabric type to avoid damage. Delicate materials like silk or velvet require gentle steaming or professional cleaning, while sturdier fabrics such as cotton or polyester can withstand ironing or machine washing with care. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions to preserve the curtain’s quality and longevity.

In summary, a combination of proper fabric care, appropriate wrinkle removal methods, and patience will ensure your new curtains look crisp and elegant. Utilizing these expert strategies will not only enhance the visual appeal of your window treatments but also extend their usability and satisfaction over time.

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.