Ironing Temperature Chart
Set your iron to the right temperature for each fabric to remove wrinkles without scorching or melting.
Iron settings by fabric
| Fabric | Iron setting | Approx. temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Nylon, acrylic, acetate | • (low) | 110 °C (230 °F) |
| Polyester, rayon | • to •• | 120–150 °C (248–302 °F) |
| Silk | •• | 140–150 °C (284–302 °F) |
| Wool | •• (with steam) | 150 °C (302 °F) |
| Cotton | ••• | 180–200 °C (356–392 °F) |
| Linen | ••• (high) | 200–230 °C (392–446 °F) |
Notes
Care labels show an iron symbol with one, two or three dots: one dot is about 110 °C (230 °F), two about 150 °C (300 °F) and three about 200 °C (390 °F). A crossed-out iron means do not iron. Start with the lowest setting and work up, iron synthetics inside out or with a pressing cloth, and test a hidden seam first.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature for ironing cotton?
About 180–200 °C (356–392 °F), three dots.
Can I iron polyester?
Yes, on low to medium (about 120–150 °C) — use a pressing cloth.
What do the dots on an iron symbol mean?
One dot = low (110 °C), two = medium (150 °C), three = high (200 °C).
How do I iron silk?
On a low-medium setting, inside out, without steam.
Should I use steam for every fabric?
No — steam helps cotton, linen and wool, but can mark silk and some synthetics; use a dry iron or pressing cloth for those.