Ironing is a dreaded chore for many people, and large items, like tablecloths, can be the biggest pain of them all. However, knowing the best, easiest and most effective way to get those wrinkles out will make the chore less of a bother and you'll feel happy in the end knowing your dinner table looks fabulous. Does this Spark an idea?
Turn It Over
If your tablecloth is made of delicate material or is white, turn the tablecloth over to iron it. Having the tablecloth upside down should avoid any snags from the iron and should also avoid any possible brown-water drips from the iron getting on the top of the tablecloth, which is especially important if the tablecloth is a light color. If the cloth is made with a very delicate fabric or is beaded in any way, you may wish to put a towel in between the iron and the tablecloth. Remember, this may require a bit more pressure from you when ironing to fully get the wrinkles out of the iron.
Flat Surface
For larger tablecloths, putting the ironing board next to a table works best. Start with the tablecloth on the ironing board; iron a section and slide the finished section down so that it stays flat on the table and doesn't re-wrinkle. If you find it easier to iron directly on a large table, simply cover the table with a sheet or towel beforehand to protect the wood.
Damp Cloth
Iron the tablecloth when it is damp. This can be done when it has been half dried in the drier; otherwise, sprinkle water on the cloth prior to ironing or use an iron that has a spray function included. A steam iron works best to get out deep wrinkles. Spray a section of the fabric and then run the iron over the tablecloth with the steam set to high.
Starch
Spraying your tablecloth with a starch spray or washing it with starch can add a crisp, finished look and help keep the corners and edges from curling. Do this in the washing machine when you wash it or spray the starch spray lightly over the tablecloth when it is still damp and ready to be ironed.
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