How to Get Wrinkles Out of Curtains: 3 Simple Hacks That Work Every Time

By Kendra Weldon, owner and lead designer at Simply Windows in Westborough, MA

TLDR;

To get wrinkles out of curtains fast, try one of these three proven methods: steaming them while they hang, using shower steam in a closed bathroom, or applying a wrinkle-release spray. These hacks work on cotton, polyester, blackout, silk, and delicate fabrics—without needing to take the curtains down.

Why Do Curtains Wrinkle? Common Causes & Fabric Differences

Curtains wrinkle for a variety of reasons, including how they’re packaged, stored, and hung. Some fabrics naturally resist wrinkles, while others crease easily due to their texture and thickness.

Key reasons curtains wrinkle:

• Fold lines from factory packaging or storage
  
• Thin or delicate fabrics like linen and silk crease faster
  
• Hanging curtains without ironing or steaming first
  
• Improperly sized curtain rods causing bunching
  
  

Let’s dig into how fabric types and handling methods affect wrinkle formation.

Understanding Different Curtain Fabrics

Each fabric behaves differently under stress and heat. If you’re wondering how these compare across different window treatments, check out our quick guide on Curtains vs Drapes. Here’s what you need to know:

• Cotton – Breathable and durable, but wrinkles easily.
  
• Polyester – Wrinkle-resistant, but creases can be stubborn once formed.
  
• Linen – Prone to deep wrinkles but looks great slightly rumpled.
  
• Silk – Extremely delicate. Needs careful steaming or professional help.
  
• Velvet – Heavy and rarely wrinkles, but when it does, it’s hard to fix.
  
• Blackout/thermal – Thick backing may wrinkle with folding, steam-friendly with caution.
  

How Storage & Hanging Methods Cause Wrinkles

The way you store and hang your curtains has a big impact.

• Folding curtains tightly creates deep creases
  
• Storing in plastic can trap moisture and leave marks
  
• Hanging without smoothing out folds will keep wrinkles visible
  
• Using thin or too-short rods creates fabric bunching
  

Do Wrinkles Damage Curtain Fabric?

In general, no—wrinkles alone don’t damage fabric. However:

• Repeated creasing in the same spot can weaken fibers
  
• Overheating with an iron can scorch or shrink fabric
  
• Long-term wrinkling, especially in damp areas, may lead to mildew
  

Hack #1 – How to Steam Curtains (Without Taking Them Down)

This is by far the fastest and safest way to remove wrinkles from curtains—especially without removing them from the rod.

Tools You’ll Need

• A handheld garment steamer or standing steamer
  
• A step stool if needed
  
• Clean distilled water (to prevent mineral spots)
  
• Optional: A pressing cloth for delicate fabrics
  

Step-by-Step: Steaming Curtains While Hanging

1. Fill the steamer with distilled water.
   
2. Plug it in and wait for it to heat.
   
3. Stand 6–12 inches away and slowly steam from top to bottom.
   
4. Let the curtain air-dry in place.
   
5. Repeat for heavily wrinkled sections.

Safety Tips for Delicate Fabrics

• Always test a small hidden area first.
  
• For silk or velvet, don’t press the steamer directly against the fabric.
  
• Use quick, gentle strokes.
  
• Open windows to help moisture dissipate.
  

Best Steamers for Home Use

Whether you’re a homeowner or a window treatment expert like Simply Windows, these models are reliable:

• Handheld steamer – Great for quick touch-ups and everyday use.
• Standing steamer – Stronger steam output, good for full-length panels.
• What to look for – A large water tank, steady steam, and an automatic shut-off.
  

Hack #2 – Use the Shower Steam Method (Perfect for Small Spaces)

No steamer? No problem. This is an effective low-tech method.

How It Works

• Hang the wrinkled curtain in the bathroom
  
• Run a hot shower for 10–15 minutes (door closed)
  
• Let the curtain absorb steam and hang freely to dry
  

When to Use This Method

• You don’t own a steamer or iron
  
• You're working with lighter wrinkles or thin fabrics
  
• You live in an apartment with limited tools
  

Pros & Cons Compared to Steaming

Pros:

• No tools needed
  
• Safe for all fabrics
  
• Quick and hands-off
  
  

Cons:

• May not remove deep wrinkles
  
• Not ideal for blackout curtains
  
• Requires humidity control afterward
  

Hack #3 – Wrinkle-Release Spray (DIY & Store-Bought Options)

Sprays can be an easy fix when you’re in a pinch—just spray and smooth. Always remember to consult the manufacturer's recommendations before using.

DIY Spray Recipe for Curtains

Mix the following in a spray bottle:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (optional)
• Test on a hidden hem first
  
  

Shake well before use.

Best Commercial Wrinkle Sprays

• Choose a fabric-safe wrinkle releaser – Check that the label allows use on your fabric.
• Go fragrance-free for bedrooms – Scents can linger in heavy fabric.
• Test first – Try a hidden area, such as the back of a hem, before spraying the whole panel.

How to Apply for Even Results

1. Shake the bottle.
   
2. Lightly mist the curtain—not soak.
   
3. Use your hands to smooth wrinkles downward.
   
4. Let it air-dry completely.
   

Caution: When NOT to Use This Method

• Avoid on silk, velvet, or blackout curtains unless labeled safe.
  
• Don’t oversaturate—excess liquid can leave water spots.
  

Extra Curtain De-Wrinkling Methods That Also Work

Sometimes, you’ll need a little extra firepower. These bonus methods help in stubborn situations. Always remember that some fabrics are heat-sensitive, so consult the manufacturer's directions first.

Ironing Curtains (When It’s Safe & Effective)

• Use a low-heat setting
  
• Iron on the reverse side or use a pressing cloth
  
• Ideal for cotton or linen curtains
  
• Avoid ironing blackout liners or synthetic blends directly
  

Dryer + Damp Towel Method

• Toss curtain and a damp (not wet) towel in dryer
  
• Run on low heat for 10–15 minutes
  
• Remove immediately and hang to avoid new wrinkles
• Only for washable, unlined curtains. Lined, interlined, and custom draperies should not go in the dryer.
  

Use a Handheld Steamer with a Curtain Rod Hack

• Pin curtain gently with clothespins to keep taut
  
• Steam in sections, using gravity to pull fabric straight
  
• Works well for thick blackout or layered curtains
  

How to Prevent Wrinkles in Curtains After Hanging

Want the full guide? See how to prevent wrinkles in drapery, from fabric choice to storage.



Prevention saves time and keeps your home looking polished.

Proper Hanging Techniques

• Use a curtain rod that fully supports the weight to keep fabric hanging straight and help prevent sagging drapery over time.
  
• Choose clip rings or grommets for even spacing
  
• Adjust pleats by hand once hung
  

How to Store Curtains to Avoid Wrinkles

• Roll instead of folding
  
• Store in breathable fabric bags, not plastic
  
• Avoid placing heavy items on top
  

Should You Use Curtain Weights?

• Yes—for lightweight or sheer fabrics
  
• Keeps curtains straight and resistant to shifting
  
• Attach discreetly to bottom hem
  

What to Avoid: Mistakes That Can Damage Your Curtains

• Don’t iron blackout curtains directly—risk of melting
  
• Don’t steam too close to silk or velvet
  
• Avoid using dryer sheets—they can stain
  
• Never fold damp curtains for storage
  

Why do my custom draperies keep wrinkling?

Lined and interlined draperies are heavier and more structured than store-bought curtains, so they need gentler care. A few things can cause stubborn wrinkles:

• Fabric choice: Cotton and linen crease more easily than polyester blends.
• Not enough weight: Weights sewn into the hem help panels hang straight.
• Header and fullness: Panels that are too narrow or too full can bunch. See how wide drapery panels should be and the types of drapes.
• Storage or shipping folds: These usually relax with time and light steaming.

If your draperies came from Simply Windows, you can schedule a service request. Not sure your fabric is right for your room? Request a free consultation, and Kendra Weldon can help.

When to Call a Professional Curtain Cleaner

Sometimes, it’s better to leave it to the pros.

Fabrics That Shouldn’t Be DIY Steamed

• Silk, velvet, embroidered, and hand-sewn fabrics
  
• Vintage or heirloom drapery
  
• Curtains with detailed lining or trim

What to Expect from a Professional Cleaner

• Pricing varies by fabric, size, and lining.
• Many cleaners offer pickup and re-hanging.
• Ask if they have experience with lined and custom draperies.
  

Pros and Cons of Hiring Help

Pros:

• Safe for delicate fabrics
  
• Deep cleaning and de-wrinkling combo
  
• No hassle or damage risk
  
  

Cons:

• Cost
  
• May require wait time for pickup/return

FAQ – Quick Answers to Common Curtain Wrinkle Questions

Ready to transform your windows? Request your free in-home consultation.

Not sure how to care for your draperies, or tired of stubborn wrinkles? Kendra Weldon has more than 20 years of interior design experience, and Simply Windows has served Greater Boston since 2010. We bring the showroom to you, with designer fabric samples in hand. There is no pressure. Explore our custom draperies.