crinkle-smooth-red-fabric

Can You Steam Polyester Taffeta Fabric?


Polyester taffeta is a popular choice for tablecloths, chair sashes, and event linens because of its smooth texture and slightly crisp finish. But like any fabric, it can develop wrinkles during storage or transport. A common question is, can you steam polyester taffeta? The short answer is yes, but it requires some care to prevent heat damage.

This guide will explain how to remove wrinkles from polyester taffeta, whether steaming is the best option, and how this fabric compares to other polyester materials.

Can I Use a Steamer on Polyester?

Economy Polyester Tablecloth 132" Round - White
Economy Polyester Tablecloth 132" Round - Champagne

You can safely use a fabric steamer on polyester, including polyester taffeta. However, taffeta is more delicate than regular polyester, so it’s important to be cautious. Too much heat can weaken the fabric, while excess moisture can leave water spots.

To steam polyester taffeta, set your steamer to a low or medium heat setting and keep it at least six inches away from the fabric. Holding the steamer too close or applying too much heat may cause unwanted shine or texture changes. 

If steaming chair sashes or self-tie chair covers, hang them up first so that gravity helps release wrinkles naturally. Taffeta chair sashes and self-tie chair covers benefit from light steaming right before an event setup to maintain a crisp look.

How to Get Wrinkles Out of Polyester Taffeta

If you don’t have a steamer, there are other ways to smooth out polyester taffeta. One option is ironing on low heat with a pressing cloth placed between the iron and fabric. This prevents direct heat exposure, which can alter the fabric’s sheen. Another method is using the shower steam trick—hanging the fabric in a bathroom while running hot water creates gentle steam that relaxes wrinkles.

For deep creases, slightly dampening a towel and pressing it over the fabric with a warm iron can help. Just be careful not to overheat the material, as polyester taffeta responds best to low temperatures. If you’re also dealing with chiffon overlays or accents, it’s good to know how to get wrinkles out of chiffon fabric, which requires an even gentler approach—always using the lowest heat setting possible.

Is Polyester Taffeta the Same as Polyester?

Taffeta Tablecloth 120" Round - Pink
Taffeta Tablecloth 120" Round - Champagne
Taffeta Tablecloth 120" Round - Baby Blue

Polyester taffeta is a type of polyester, but it has a distinct texture and structure. Standard polyester is softer and more flexible, while taffeta has a crisp, smooth surface with a slight sheen. 

This makes it ideal for structured linens like taffeta tablecloths, which hold their shape well throughout an event. Unlike polyester blends, taffeta doesn’t have much stretch, which is why it’s commonly used for overlays, sashes, and chair covers rather than draping.

What Are the Disadvantages of Taffeta Fabric?

Although polyester taffeta is durable and easy to maintain, it does have a few downsides. The fabric wrinkles more easily than standard polyester, especially when stored folded for long periods. It also lacks stretch, which means it doesn’t drape as naturally as softer fabrics. 

Additionally, taffeta is heat-sensitive—excessive heat can leave shiny marks or weaken the fibers, which is why steaming and ironing should be done carefully.

Despite these minor drawbacks, taffeta remains a go-to fabric for event linens because it stays looking crisp and clean for hours. Using proper storage and steaming methods will keep it wrinkle-free and ready to use.

So, can you steam polyester taffeta? Yes, but with care. A low-heat steamer is the best way to remove wrinkles, keeping the steamer at a safe distance to avoid damage. If steaming isn’t an option, gentle ironing or shower steam can also work.

If you’re preparing for an event, having wrinkle-free linens makes a big difference. Whether you need taffeta chair sashes, self-tie chair covers, or taffeta tablecloths, CV Linens™ has a variety of styles and colors to help you set up a smooth, well-prepared space.


Our Products

Taffeta Tablecloth 120" Round - Royal Blue
Taffeta Tablecloth 120" Round - Turquoise
Economy Polyester Tablecloth 132" Round - Ivory

Taffeta Tablecloths

Taffeta Collection

Polyester Collection


 

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.