How to Remove Creases From Sweaters

Keep sweaters tidy by removing creases before you wear them.
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The condition of your sweater can heavily influence the impression you make with your outfit. Whether you pair your sweater with business-professional or casual attire, you'll need to remove any wrinkles and creases that can create a sloppy, haphazard appearance. Always read the garment care tag before ironing or cleaning a sweater -- tags indicate the appropriate ironing temperature and special precautions to consider when removing creases.

Plug the iron into an electric outlet and adjust the heat to the appropriate temperature setting for the sweater's fabric. Iron wools, such as cashmere, with it set on a medium to medium-high temperature; cotton on a high heat setting; and synthetics such as acrylic on low heat.

Turn the sweater inside-out to minimize the risk of visible damage should there be an accident.

Lay the sweater with the sleeves stretched along the length of the ironing board, and then smooth out any bumps and wrinkles with your hands.

Place a slightly damp, white pressing cloth, such as cotton towel, over the first crease you plan to iron.

Press the heated iron onto the pressing cloth and hold it still for three to four seconds. Remove the iron and pressing cloth; repeat the process if the crease is still visible.

Place the pressing cloth over each crease and repeat Step 5 until the entire garment is free of creases and wrinkles.

  • Never leave a hot iron unattended.
  • Use a spray bottle to mist the pressing cloth and keep it slightly damp.
  • Do not bring the iron into direct contact with the sweater, which can cause a sheen or singe delicate fabrics.
  • Avoid stroking or twisting motions, which can stretch and damage the material.

Chance Henson earned a B.A. in English literature and a writing minor from Lamar University. While interning at the "University Press" newspaper and "UP Beat" magazine he received an award for news feature writing from the Texas Intercollegiate Press Association. Henson went on to serve as content editor for "CUSH Magazine," eventually leaving to pursue the development of an online secular humanist educational publication.

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