Can You Iron Silk Tops?

Yes, you can iron silk tops, but you must do it carefully to avoid damaging the delicate fabric.

How to Iron Silk Tops Correctly

Ironing silk requires a specific approach to preserve its luster and prevent scorching. Here's how:

Use a Press Cloth: Never place a hot iron directly on silk. Always use a press cloth—a thin piece of cotton or linen fabric—between the iron and the silk. This protective layer diffuses heat, preventing scorching and shine marks. According to the provided reference: "You never want to press a hot iron directly on a silk fabric. Instead you want to put a press cloth in between the silk and the iron."
Temperature Setting: Set your iron to the lowest heat setting suitable for silk. If your iron has a silk setting, use that. Avoid high temperatures, which can damage the fabric.
Steam: Using a steam setting on your iron can be helpful, but make sure not to over-saturate the silk.
Ironing Technique: Use light pressure and move the iron quickly and evenly across the press cloth. Avoid leaving the iron in one spot for too long.
Iron on the Reverse: When possible, iron silk garments on the reverse or inside-out.

Prepare: Place your silk top on an ironing board.
Position: Lay the press cloth over the area of the silk you wish to iron.
Iron: Gently press the iron onto the press cloth, moving it evenly and quickly. Do not press hard or leave the iron in one spot.
Repeat: Move the press cloth to the next section, and repeat the process until you have ironed all necessary areas.

Test: Before ironing an entire garment, test a small, inconspicuous area (like an inside seam) to make sure the iron setting is appropriate.
Clean Iron: Ensure the bottom plate of your iron is clean to prevent staining the silk with residue.
Immediate Care: If you accidentally leave an iron mark, try gently steaming the area immediately which may help lift the mark if it is not permanent.
Dry Ironing: For some very delicate silks, dry ironing (without steam) may be a safer option. Always use the press cloth in this scenario.

Step	Action
1. Prepare	Place the silk garment on the ironing board.
2. Protect	Lay a press cloth over the silk.
3. Set Temperature	Set iron to low silk setting.
4. Iron Lightly	Move the iron gently over the press cloth.
5. Repeat as Needed	Reposition cloth and repeat.

By using a press cloth, the proper temperature, and a gentle touch, you can iron your silk tops effectively and keep them looking their best.