To iron a fleece blanket, use a low heat setting on your iron, place a towel between the iron and the fleece, and press gently for only a few seconds at a time, checking frequently to avoid melting the fabric.
Ironing fleece requires extreme caution due to the material's sensitivity to heat. Fleece is typically made from synthetic fibers like polyester, which can easily melt or become permanently damaged at high temperatures. Therefore, the process focuses on using minimal heat and protecting the fabric surface.
Step-by-Step Guide to Ironing Fleece
Follow these steps carefully to smooth wrinkles from your fleece blanket without causing damage:
1. Prepare Your Iron
- Set your iron to the lowest heat setting available, often labeled "synthetic" or "low."
- It's essential to avoid high temperatures that can melt fleece. Ensure the steam setting is off, as excess moisture combined with heat can also affect the fibers.
2. Prepare the Blanket
- Lay the fleece blanket flat on a clean, heat-resistant ironing board.
- Smooth out the section you intend to iron, removing any major folds or bunches.
3. Use a Protective Layer
- Place a towel between the iron and the fleece to protect the fabric. A cotton towel works well as it provides a barrier against direct heat. You can also use a pressing cloth.
4. Gentle Pressing Technique
- Press gently with the iron for a few seconds at a time over the towel-covered section of the fleece. Avoid sliding the iron back and forth vigorously, as this can stretch or distort the fabric fibers.
- Lift the iron frequently rather than pushing it across the surface.
5. Check Progress Regularly
- Lift the towel occasionally to ensure the fabric isn't overheating. Look for any signs of melting, scorching, or flattening of the fleece pile. If the fabric feels too hot or looks affected, stop immediately.
6. Move to New Sections
- Repeat steps 3-5 on other wrinkled sections of the blanket, always using the protective towel and pressing gently for short durations.
- Allow each ironed section to cool completely before moving or folding the blanket.
Alternative Methods
Often, steaming is a safer alternative to direct ironing for fleece. A handheld steamer can effectively remove wrinkles without direct contact or high heat. Simply hold the steamer a few inches away from the fabric and allow the steam to relax the fibers. Hanging the blanket in a steamy bathroom can also help.
| Method | Heat Level | Direct Contact | Safety for Fleece |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ironing | Low (with towel) | Indirect | Risky, requires care |
| Steaming | Moderate (steam) | None | Safer |
By following these precautions and using the recommended technique with a protective layer, you can carefully iron a fleece blanket to reduce wrinkles while preserving its softness and texture.
