It is generally not recommended to iron clothes labeled as "dry clean only" unless the care label explicitly states that ironing is safe. Dry clean only garments often require specialized care to avoid damage, and ironing can be risky because some fabrics may not withstand the heat of an iron.
If you need to remove wrinkles from dry clean only clothes, consider these alternative methods:
Steam: Use a garment steamer to gently remove wrinkles without direct contact with the fabric. Steaming is generally safer for delicate fabrics than ironing.
Hang in the bathroom: Hang the garment in the bathroom while taking a hot shower. The steam from the shower can help release wrinkles.
Wrinkle release spray: Use a commercial wrinkle release spray, following the instructions on the label. This can help relax wrinkles without ironing.
Professional steaming: Take the garment to a professional cleaner who offers steaming services for delicate fabrics.
If you absolutely must iron a dry clean only garment and the care label does not specify otherwise, take extra precautions:
Use the lowest heat setting on your iron, ideally with a pressing cloth (a thin cotton or muslin cloth) between the iron and the fabric.
Avoid using steam during ironing, as this can be more damaging to certain fabrics.
Iron the garment inside-out to protect the outer surface.
Test a small inconspicuous area of the garment first to see how it reacts to the iron's heat.
Keep in mind that the best approach to caring for dry clean only clothes is to follow the care instructions on the label and take them to a professional cleaner when needed. Dry cleaning ensures that delicate fabrics are treated with care and expertise, extending the life of your clothing items.