How to Get Wrinkles Out of New Curtains – 6 Smart & Easy Hacks

Unpacking beautiful new curtains only to find them full of wrinkles can be frustrating. Whether they arrived folded, tightly packaged, or just creased from storage, it’s important to know how to get wrinkles out of new curtains without damaging the fabric. From quick fixes to fabric-safe techniques, removing folds and creases is easier than you think.

In this guide, you’ll discover simple and effective ways to remove wrinkles from curtains, restore their smooth appearance, and enhance the look of your windows. Whether you prefer steaming, spraying, or other no-iron solutions, these methods will help you make your curtains hang perfectly from day one.

5 Easy Ways to Fix Wrinkles in New Curtains

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Steaming (Fabric Steamer or Shower Steam)

One of the most effective ways to remove wrinkles from your new curtains is by using a fabric steamer. Simply hold the steamer a few inches away from the fabric and gently move it slowly over the wrinkled areas. The steady steam will help relax the fibers and leave the fabric smooth.

Alternatively, you can hang the curtains in the bathroom while taking a shower. The steam from the shower fills the room, allowing the fabric to naturally loosen and help remove deep creases. This hands-free method is perfect when you need a quick refresh without much effort.

Dryer with Damp Towel

If you want to remove wrinkles from your curtains quickly without using an iron, the dryer with a damp towel method is one of the most effective and effortless techniques.

Place your curtains inside the dryer along with a freshly damp, clean towel. This towel produces moisture and steam, which helps soften fabric fibers and allows the wrinkles to loosen naturally. Set your dryer to a low heat or delicate setting to prevent damage and shrinking, especially if the fabric is dryer-safe.

Run the short cycle for about 10 to 20 minutes. As the machine tumble dries, the steam generated by the damp towel will de-wrinkle your curtains. Once done, remove promptly and re-hang immediately to maintain their shape. This quick fix is ideal for a hands-off refresh when you’re in a hurry and looking for a safe, fabric-friendly wrinkle removal method.

Ironing Techniques

For a more traditional and precise approach to removing wrinkles from curtains, ironing remains one of the most reliable methods.

Begin by placing the curtain fabric on a flat surface, such as an ironing board or a clean table covered with a towel. Set your iron to a low or medium heat setting, depending on the curtain’s fabric type—always check the care label first. For delicate materials, use a pressing cloth to prevent direct heat contact and protect the fabric.

If your iron has a steam feature, move it gently across the creased fabric. Press lightly and smooth each section separately to achieve uniform results. This manual method not only helps in wrinkle reduction but also improves the overall drape and smoothness of the curtain.

If you don’t have a steam iron, lightly mist the fabric before pressing. Remember to avoid staying too long in one spot to prevent scorching or shine on the fabric. Once finished, hang the curtains immediately for the best wrinkle-free results.

Wrinkle Release Spray

If you’re looking for a quick, no-iron solution to smooth out your curtains, wrinkle release spray is an excellent choice. This method is ideal for light- to medium-weight fabrics and offers a fast, hands-free way to freshen up curtains without heat or heavy effort.

To begin, hang your curtains fully extended on the rod. Hold the spray bottle about 6 to 12 inches away and spray evenly across the wrinkled areas. The spray helps to relax the fabric fibers, making it easier to reduce creases and restore a smooth appearance. For best results, gently smooth the fabric by hand immediately after spraying.

Let the fabric air dry naturally—usually within 10 to 15 minutes. Some sprays come with a light fragrance, helping you freshen up the fabric while removing wrinkles. Be sure to check that the spray is safe for your specific curtain material, and avoid over-wetting to prevent water spots.

This chemical-free, no-iron method is ideal for those who want convenience and speed, especially when you need a last-minute curtain refresh.

Hanging + Gravity (Bonus Natural Method)

Sometimes the easiest solution is also the most natural. If you’ve just unpacked your new curtains and noticed wrinkles, simply hanging them up and letting gravity do the work can be surprisingly effective.

Once your curtains are securely on the curtain rod, allow them to hang freely for 2 to 3 days. Over time, the weight of the fabric gently pulls down the wrinkles and softens the creases. This method works best for light- to medium-weight fabrics and is completely hands-free—no tools, heat, or sprays required.

To maximize results, make sure the curtains are positioned correctly and not bunched up. You can straighten them lightly by hand each day to help them settle more evenly. This low-effort, natural method is also perfect for delicate or heat-sensitive materials that shouldn’t be ironed or steamed.

It may take a bit more time, but this long-term fix leaves your curtains looking naturally smooth—all thanks to gravity and a little patience.

Washing (Gentle Fabric-Friendly Method)

Washing is an effective way to remove wrinkles from curtains, especially when caused by dust, dirt, or storage folds. Start by checking the care label and follow the fabric care instructions closely.

Use a gentle cycle on your washing machine with cold water and a small amount of fabric softener. Avoid high temperatures—opt for low heat during drying to prevent further wrinkling. For best results, remove curtains promptly after the rinse and spin cycle ends.

Let the curtains air dry or line dry completely. This method helps freshen up the fabric, smooth creases, and restore a clean, natural drape without needing an iron. It’s perfect for delicate fabrics that need a soft touch and also helps with overall wrinkle prevention.

Conclusion

Getting smooth, wrinkle-free curtains doesn’t have to be difficult. Whether you prefer steaming, ironing, using a dryer, wrinkle release spray, simple hanging, or even washing, each method offers a practical solution depending on your fabric type and convenience. By following these effective tips, you can easily solve the problem of how to get wrinkles out of new curtains and give your space a polished, fresh look.