Pressed to Impress: How to Iron Your Fine Linens

Talking about how to care for fine linens inevitably leads to the question of whether elegant table linens and luxurious bed linens need to be ironed. The answer is that most people who appreciate the beauty of deluxe linens prefer the smooth, crisp appearance that only ironing can create. Along with proper washing and drying techniques, ironing your luxury linens will maintain their beauty for years to come. Here are some helpful tips from Pioneer Linens Yacht Division for preventing damage and enhancing their appearance.

Getting started. The first step is choosing the right iron. I find that most yacht crews have personal preferences, given the variety of excellent European steam irons, such as Rowenta and Miele. My personal favorite is the T-FAL Ultra Glide iron with ceramic heat plate, a reasonably priced steam iron that, in my experience, doesn’t stick or burn when you use it according to the manufacturer’s directions. I bring this iron along when I visit yachts to put the finishing touches on new linens. The easiest way to create a look of perfection is to lightly iron the top sheets while they’re on the bed.

Before you begin ironing, make sure the soleplate of the iron is clean, and then spray the steam onto a test cloth to make sure the water is perfectly clear, clean and free of mineral deposits that could stain your beautiful linens.

In order to avoid creating new wrinkles while you’re ironing, set up your ironing board near a table where you can place finished sections on the table, rather than letting them crumple onto the floor. Ironing fitted sheets is a great job for two people. I have one of my associates spread out the elastic as I quickly iron the sheets. If I am alone, I sometimes do a quick iron on the bed with a fitted sheet.

Not too hot. In every step of the laundering process, take special care to prevent damage caused by excessive heat. Begin by placing your fine linens in the dryer on a moderately warm setting and removing them when they are still slightly damp. Ironing them when they are damp helps relax the wrinkles and create a lovely, finished look with ease. If you’re short on time, keep the linens damp by putting them into the freezer and getting back to them later.

When you’re ready to begin ironing, be sure to read the setting recommended on the manufacturer’s label and set the heat control on your iron accordingly. An iron that’s too hot is a recipe for disaster, while the right temperature makes ironing easier and makes your linens look brand new.

Upside down. Following some important guidelines will deliver excellent results. For example, when ironing light colored linens, iron the wrong side of the fabric first and the right side next. This will create a crisp, vibrant look. When ironing dark colored linens, iron on the wrong side only.  Embroidered sheets always should be ironed on the wrong side to prevent damage. For linens that are particularly fragile or delicate, put a thin towel or fabric over the linen and iron it that way.

Do not fold freshly ironed sheets and place them into the linen closet immediately, as they usually need some more time to get completely dry.

When it comes to questions about using starch, we recommend milder products that do a great job, such as “Stiffen Up” spray by The Laundress, a company that offers superior products for extra care of your luxury linens.  Stiffen Up will give a clean, knife-edge look to pillow shams and add the ultimate finishing touch to your table linens and bedding.

The dry cleaning option.  After a long charter or trip, it can be nice to have all the linens professionally cleaned, pressed and bagged for the next trip. However before you hand over your fine table, bed and bath linens, always ask the dry cleaner several important questions. Confirm that they use only a mild chemical detergent with a low pH, preferably 7. Also be sure they hand iron the sheets. Most dry cleaner shops run your delicate linens in the same batches as industrial restaurants and hotels, which could be damaging to your more delicate materials.

Here at Pioneer Linens Yacht & Estate Division, we pay extraordinary attention to the details that distinguish our luxury linens and superior service.  Purchasing your fine linens is just the first step. Caring for them properly will keep them beautiful for years to come.