How to Remove Wrinkles From Stored Sweaters

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Things You'll Need

  • Handheld steamer

  • Iron

Next season, layer fold sweaters with tissue paper to minimize wrinkles.
Image Credit: spaceshark/iStock/Getty Images

Sweaters that you've stored away for the season may need some freshening up before you wear them again. Silk and merino wool sweaters, in particular, may wrinkle more easily than thicker cotton styles. Spend a few minutes with an iron or steamer to make your packed-away sweaters look great again.

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Step 1

Remove your sweaters from storage and lay them flat on a clean surface, away from sunlight. Air circulation may relax the fabric and ease out some of the wrinkles.

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Step 2

Fill and heat up the steamer. Place each sweater on a hanger and hook them so that you have access to both sides of each sweater. Hold the steamer 3 inches above your sweater and slowly guide it over the fabric, patting the wrinkles smooth with your hands. Do not attempt to straighten the fabric by pulling, which can permanently stretch out the material.

Step 3

Use an iron if you don't have access to a handheld steamer. Turn each sweater inside out and turn your iron to the "low steam" setting. Place the sweater on a flat surface or ironing board. Hold the iron about an inch above the sweater and move it over the entire surface, but avoid direct contact.

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Step 4

Allow the sweaters to air-dry before you wear them or put them away. Fold them gently with tissue paper inside the fabric and between the folds to prevent wrinkling.

Tip

Button and zip up sweaters before you store them so they hold their original shape.

Warning

Never store uncleaned sweaters, because they may attract pests and result in stains.

Avoid hanging sweaters in storage. The hangers can stretch them out.

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