How to Choose Iron Temperatures for Fabrics

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Choosing temperature settings on your iron depends on factors such as fabric type.
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When Henry W. Seeley patented the electric iron in 1882, he changed the way people ironed clothes. Up until his invention, ironing was a hot and arduous task. Primitive metal flatirons had one temperature -- hot -- and it was a struggle to keep the base plate hot enough to smooth wrinkles. Your iron offers the choice of heat settings for you to use on the variety of commonly available fabrics; thus creating a new dilemma -- deciding what temperatures work best for which fabrics.

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Determine the Type of Fabric

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When purchasing new fabric, read the end cap of the cardboard sleeve the bolt of fabric is wrapped around or the attached tag. Make a note of the type of fabric and any care instructions listed.

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Testing Your Iron

Iron temperature settings differ by manufacturer, but most have the heat settings for each type of fabric printed on the temperature dial. Nevertheless, it's important to test a hot iron on a scrap of fabric first before ironing any large pieces for your project. Your iron may run a little hotter or cooler than what is needed. Adjust your iron temperature accordingly. You want a temperature hot enough to smooth the wrinkles, but not so hot that it damages the fabric. If temperature is critical, use a thermocouple and a multimeter to test your iron.

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Heat Settings for Fabrics

Use these basic iron temperature setting guidelines for your fabrics: acetate, 290 F; acrylic or nylon, 275 F; cotton, 400 F; linen, 445 F; polyester, silk or wool, 300 F; rayon, 375 F; triacetate, 390 F. For blended fabrics, use the lowest temperature recommended for the fibers in the blend.

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