Ironing Guide

I. General Principles Before Ironing

  1. Carefully read the care label:
    This is the most important first step. The label usually indicates the ironing temperature and whether the garment is ironable.

  2. Test first, then iron:
    Perform a small test on an inconspicuous area of the garment (such as the inner seam or inside hem) to ensure the ironing temperature and method will not damage the fabric.

  3. Understand the fabric composition:
    Different fabrics require different temperatures and handling methods.

  4. Ensure the garment is clean and dry:
    Before ironing, make sure the garment is clean and completely dry. Stains may become permanently set into the fibers under high temperatures.

  5. Turn inside out:
    When ironing most cosplay costumes, it is best to turn the garment inside out—especially for parts with prints, embroidery, beading, or special coatings. This protects the surface of the garment.

  6. Use an ironing cloth:
    Always place a clean, thin cotton cloth or a professional ironing cloth between the iron and the garment. This effectively prevents direct contact from damaging the fabric, causing shine, or sticking.

  7. Avoid direct ironing:
    For many synthetic fibers, it is better to avoid direct contact with the iron; instead, use steam ironing or a garment steamer.

  8. Keep the iron clean:
    Ensure the iron’s soleplate is clean, with no rust or residue, to prevent staining or damaging the garment.

II. Ironing Recommendations for Common Cosplay Fabric Materials

  1. Cotton/Cotton Blends

    • Ironing temperature: Medium to high heat (cotton/linen setting); steam can be used.

    • Recommendations: Iron when slightly damp or semi-dry for easier smoothing. If fully dry, spray a small amount of water mist before ironing.

  2. Synthetic Fibers (e.g., Polyester, Nylon, Spandex, Chiffon, Satin)

    • Features: These fabrics are generally heat-sensitive, prone to damage or shine. They are widely used in cosplay costumes.

    • Ironing temperature: Low or ultra-low heat (silk/synthetic setting).

    • Recommendations:

      ① Always use an ironing cloth.

      ② Prefer a garment steamer or steam iron: Hang the garment and gently smooth wrinkles with steam.

      ③ Avoid leaving the iron in one place for too long; move it quickly.

      ④ Avoid high pressure and friction; iron gently.

      ⑤ Satin: Particularly prone to shine—always iron from the reverse side with a cloth, or use only a steamer.

  3. Silk

    • Features: Delicate, easily scorched, or marked with water spots.

    • Ironing temperature: Low heat (silk setting).

    • Recommendations:

      ① Always use an ironing cloth and iron from the reverse side.

      ② Best ironed when semi-dry. If dry, spray a small amount of water mist and iron immediately.

      ③ Do not over-spray, as this may leave water spots.

      ④ Avoid steam, as some silk may be damaged by it.

  4. Lace/Mesh/Tulle

    • Features: Very fragile; high temperatures may cause melting or deformation.

    • Ironing temperature: Extremely low heat, or direct ironing is not recommended.

    • Recommendations:

      ① Primarily use a garment steamer or steam iron, held at a distance, to smooth with steam.

      ② If a flat iron is necessary, use multiple layers of cloth and gently press by hand instead of sliding the iron.

  5. Faux Leather/PU Leather

    • Features: Heat-sensitive; high temperatures may cause melting, deformation, sticking, or cracking.

    • Ironing temperature: Never iron directly!

    • Recommendations:

      ① Use a garment steamer or steam iron at a safe distance (at least 15–20 cm) to smooth wrinkles with steam.

      ② After steaming, wipe the surface with a soft cloth to remove moisture.

III. Ironing Special Areas and Embellishments

  1. Areas with prints, embroidery, beading, sequins, appliqués, or glued parts:

    • Never iron directly.

    • Always iron from the reverse side with an ironing cloth, using low heat.

    • Preferably use a garment steamer or steam iron on these areas, keeping a distance.

  2. Wrinkles:

    • For deep wrinkles, gently stretch the fabric by hand while ironing to smooth it.

  3. Small details:

    • Use the iron’s tip or a mini iron to handle details like collars and cuffs.

IV. Post-Ironing Care

  1. Allow complete cooling:
    After ironing, hang the garment immediately or lay it flat. Let it cool completely before storing—warm garments are prone to re-wrinkling when stored.

  2. Store properly:
    Hang ironed cosplay costumes on wide hangers and place them in dust bags to avoid pressure, preserving their smoothness.


By following these ironing guidelines, you can protect your cosplay costumes to the greatest extent, ensuring they look their best on stage or in photos!