Pressing Cloth
A pressing cloth is a cloth laid over fabric or trims when ironing or pressing to reduce shine, discoloration, melting, and surface flattening caused by heat, pressure, and steam.
Contents6 sections
Definition and Overview
A pressing cloth is an auxiliary cloth used to finish garments and apparel materials without placing the iron directly on them, by inserting a layer between the iron and the item. It softens heat and disperses friction and pressure from the iron surface, making it easier to prevent surface changes.
It is especially effective for synthetic fibers, dark fabrics, brushed or ribbed materials, textured materials, and areas with prints or coatings. If the care label instructs the use of a pressing cloth, follow that instruction together with the specified temperature.
How to Use
Use the pressing cloth in a clean condition, smooth out any wrinkles, and place it over the item. Rather than sliding the iron, lightly press and move it as needed; this makes it easier to shape seam allowances and folds.
When using steam, check the finished result on an inconspicuous area before proceeding. For fabrics where you want to preserve texture such as pile, ribs, or surface grain, shaping with floating steam without pressing down is suitable.
- Set the iron temperature according to the item's care label or material, not the pressing cloth.
- Prints, coatings, and painted areas may change appearance due to heat or steam, so prior checking is necessary.
- Allow it to cool thoroughly before removing the pressing cloth, as this helps folds and shapes set more firmly.
Types and How to Choose
In general, a thin, smooth white cotton cloth or gauze is used. Cotton is relatively heat resistant, and white is easy to handle because dirt and color transfer are easier to spot. If you want to check the condition while allowing steam to pass through, a thin cloth is convenient.
For delicate fabrics, choose one with a smooth surface and little lint. On the other hand, for thick fabrics or materials that should avoid strong heat, do not judge safety by the pressing cloth alone; combine it with a low-temperature setting and short pressing time.
- White or light-colored, with little risk of dye transfer
- Clean, with no starch, fabric softener, or oil residue
- Thin and soft enough not to flatten the item's texture excessively
- Large enough to cover the iron surface
Care and Safety Notes
If dirt, scorch marks, dye, adhesive, or similar substances get onto the pressing cloth, they may transfer to the garment during the next pressing. After use, check its condition, and wash or replace it if dirty. Keeping separate cloths by application makes management easier.
Even when using a pressing cloth, some materials may melt, become shiny, shrink, or change color due to heat. Do not leave the iron in one place for long, and before increasing the temperature, always test on a scrap piece or an inconspicuous area.
Differences from Similar Terms
A pressing cloth is a cloth used to protect the item during ironing. Unlike fusible interlining or lining, which serve as materials for garment structure and wearing performance, it is used temporarily during finishing work.
Pressing refers to the overall work of shaping with heat, steam, and pressure. A pressing cloth is one of the tools used in that process. A sleeve board and sleeve roll are tools used to support and press three-dimensional parts such as sleeves, and they serve a different role from a pressing cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of cloth should be used as a pressing cloth?
In general, a thin, smooth white cotton cloth is easy to use. This is because dirt and color transfer are easy to check, and it is relatively resistant to heat. For delicate materials, choose a smooth cloth that will not leave lint or weave patterns on the item.
Can I use a high temperature if I use a pressing cloth?
A pressing cloth reduces the effects of heat, but it does not increase the item's heat resistance. Use the temperature appropriate for the care label or material as the basic standard, starting from a low setting. In particular, avoid high heat on synthetic fibers, coatings, and printed areas, and finish while checking in a short time.
Should a pressing cloth be dampened before use?
It may be dampened when extra steam is needed, but it is not always necessary. Because some materials can develop water rings or bleed color, the basic approach is to start with a dry pressing cloth and low heat. If dampening it, check the finish beforehand with a scrap piece or similar material.
