Wrinkled curtains instantly make a room look messy. I’ve battled stubborn creases enough times to know how frustrating they are.

Removing wrinkles is simple. Steaming, ironing, or even shower steam works without expensive tools.

Different fabrics need different care. Cotton tolerates heat while silk requires gentle handling.

This blog covers effective techniques for each fabric type, DIY tricks, and prevention tips to keep curtains smooth.

Before You Start, Check Fabric Care Labels

Before figuring out how to get wrinkles out of curtains, I always check the care label before washing anything.

It’s the easiest way to avoid ruining clothes.

Different fabrics need different care. Cotton can handle hot water, but silk and wool need cool, gentle washing.

The label tells you the right water temperature, how to dry it, and if bleach is safe.

Look for the small symbols on the tag. They show you exactly how to wash, dry, and iron each item. When something says “dry clean only,” there’s a good reason – washing it at home can make it shrink, fade, or fall apart.

This is really important for delicate materials like wool sweaters or fancy dresses. Special finishes and decorations can be easily damaged.

Following these labels keeps clothes looking good longer.

The instructions come from actual testing, so they’re the best guide for caring for each piece.

Most Effective Ways to Remove Wrinkles from Curtains

Expert techniques and practical DIY solutions for how to get wrinkles out of curtains, tailored to different fabric types for professional-looking results.

1. Steam While They Hang

I find steaming the easiest method. Hang the curtains and use a handheld garment steamer, working from top to bottom.

Hold it 6-8 inches away and move slowly down each panel.

DIY Alternative:

• Hang curtains in the bathroom
• Run a hot shower for 10-15 minutes
• Keep the door closed to trap steam
• Let the steam naturally release wrinkles

2. Use a Damp Cloth and Iron

I lay curtains on an ironing board and place a damp cloth over the wrinkled area. Iron over the cloth on medium heat.

The moisture and heat combination smooths out deep creases without damaging the fabric.

DIY Alternative:

• Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle
• Lightly mist the wrinkled areas
• Iron on appropriate heat setting
• The vinegar helps release stubborn creases

3. Tumble Dry with a Damp Towel

I toss wrinkled curtains in the dryer with a damp towel for 10-15 minutes on low heat.

The moisture creates steam that releases wrinkles. Hang them immediately after to prevent new creases.

DIY Alternative:

• Place curtains in the dryer
• Add 2-3 ice cubes instead of a damp towel
• Run on low heat for 10 minutes
• Ice melts and creates steam to smooth wrinkles

4. Spray and Let Gravity Work

I fill a spray bottle with water and lightly mist the wrinkled areas.

Then hang the curtains right away. Gravity pulls the fabric down as it dries, naturally smoothing out wrinkles.

DIY Alternative:

• Fill the spray bottle with water
• Add a few drops of fabric softener
• Shake well and mist curtains
• Hang immediately and let dry

5. Professional Fabric Wrinkle Spray

Commercial wrinkle release sprays work quickly. I spray the product on wrinkled sections and gently tug the fabric smooth.

These sprays relax fabric fibers fast without needing heat or water.

DIY Alternative:

• Mix 1 cup of water, 1 tablespoon of fabric softener, and 1 tablespoon of rubbing alcohol
• Pour into a spray bottle
• Shake well before each use
• Spray on wrinkles and smooth with your hands

Fabric-Specific Guides

Cotton Curtains

Cotton is easy to work with because it handles heat well. I can iron cotton on high heat with steam or put it in the dryer safely.

Cotton wrinkles easily, but it smooths out fast with moisture and heat. For thick cotton, iron while it’s still a little damp for better results.

Linen Curtains

Linen wrinkles a lot, and those creases stick around. The trick is ironing linen while it’s still damp. I use high heat with steam and press firmly.

Once linen dries with wrinkles, they’re much harder to get out.

Polyester Curtains

Polyester doesn’t wrinkle much, so it’s easy to care for.

Just use low heat only – high heat can melt synthetic fabric. A quick steam or water spray usually removes any wrinkles.

Silk Curtains

Silk needs gentle care. Direct heat and water can damage it permanently.

I steam silk from the back on the lowest setting. If I need to iron, I always use a cloth between the iron and the silk.

Velvet Curtains

Velvet has a soft, fuzzy texture that crushes easily. Never iron velvet directly.

Steam it from behind so the steam goes through without touching the fabric. This lifts wrinkles without ruining the soft feel.

Sheer Curtains

Sheers are light and delicate. Low heat in the dryer works fine, but often just spraying with water is enough.

The fabric is so light that it smooths itself out as it hangs and dries.

Preventing Wrinkles in the Future

The easiest way to master how to get wrinkles out of curtains is to prevent them in the first place:

• Hang curtains immediately after washing: Don’t leave them in the dryer or basket. Hang them back on the rod while slightly damp so gravity smooths them out.
• Store curtains properly: Fold loosely or roll them instead of cramming into tight spaces. Tight folding creates hard-to-remove creases.
• Wash on a gentle cycle with cool water: Hot water and harsh spinning can create permanent wrinkles. Always check the care label first.
• Use fabric softener: It relaxes fibers and prevents wrinkles from forming. For non-washable curtains, use fabric refresher spray.
• Handle curtains carefully: Remove them slowly without yanking or bunching. Fold neatly right away if washing.
• Steam regularly: A quick steam every few months keeps curtains fresh and prevents wrinkles from building up.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Using the wrong wash temperature

Hot water can shrink or fade fabrics. Always check the care label and wash delicate fabrics in cold or lukewarm water.

2. Overdrying fabrics

Too much heat in the dryer causes stiffness, color loss, and shrinkage. Use low heat or air-dry whenever possible.

3. Cutting without following the fabric grain

Ignoring the grain can lead to twisted seams and uneven drape. Make sure the fabric is laid out straight before cutting.

4. Using the wrong needle or thread

A mismatched needle or thread can damage the fabric or create uneven stitches. Choose the correct type for each fabric (e.g., ballpoint for knits).

5. Skipping pre-washing

Unwashed fabric may shrink or bleed color after sewing. Always pre-wash and press your fabric before starting a project.

6. Ironing at the wrong temperature

High heat can scorch or melt certain materials. Adjust the iron setting based on the fabric type.

7. Mixing incompatible fabrics

Different fabrics stretch, wash, and wear differently. Use fabrics with similar weights and care needs together.

8. Skipping test stitches

Testing helps fine-tune tension and stitch quality. Always sew a small sample before the final piece.

Real-Life Experiences from the Community

People who’ve dealt with wrinkled curtains firsthand often share practical methods that actually work.

Many homeowners suggest snapping or gently shaking the panels right after hanging to help the fabric relax. Others swear by lightly misting with warm water and letting gravity smooth out the creases naturally.

A common favorite is placing curtains in the dryer with a damp towel or a few ice cubes; the steam works wonders in minutes.

Some users prefer the shower steam method, hanging their curtains in a steamy bathroom for a quick, no-iron refresh.

DIY lovers often create a simple wrinkle-release spray using water and fabric softener.

Personally, I find that hanging curtains immediately after washing and smoothing them by hand prevents most wrinkles from forming at all.

Best Tools for a Wrinkle-Free Finish

• OgHom Clothes Steamer ‎(approx US $26): A very budget-friendly option, noted for strong value for money.

• HiLife Handheld Clothes Steamer ‎(approx US $26): Similarly low-cost, popular among users for quick wrinkle removal.

• Steamery Cirrus 3 Iron‑Steamer Hybrid ‎(premium): A hybrid model—more investment, offers “iron look” styling as well as steaming.

My personal favorite: the HiLife Handheld Clothes Steamer, it’s lightweight, heats up fast, and works perfectly for everyday curtain touch-ups.

The Bottom Line

Learning how to get wrinkles out of curtains isn’t complicated; just match your method to the fabric.

Steam, iron, or try easy DIY tricks like the shower steam hack or ice cubes in the dryer.

Prevention matters most in my experience. I hang curtains immediately after washing, store them properly, and steam them regularly to avoid wrinkles from building up.

I always start gently and work my way up to stronger methods if needed. With these techniques, your curtains will stay smooth and look great for years.