How to Properly Press Your Graduation Gown: A Step-by-Step Guide

Published on May 14, 2025

Nothing diminishes the dignity of graduation day quite like a wrinkled gown. After years of hard work and dedication, you deserve to look your absolute best when you walk across that stage to receive your diploma. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about properly pressing your graduation gown to ensure you look polished and professional on your big day.

Understanding Your Graduation Gown Material

Before you pick up that iron, it's crucial to understand what your gown is made of:

Most graduation gowns are made from polyester or similar synthetic fabrics that require special care
These materials can easily melt or become damaged if exposed to high heat
Always check the care label first for specific instructions from the manufacturer
When in doubt, err on the side of caution with gentle heat

Preparation: What You'll Need

Gather these items before you begin:

Iron with adjustable heat settings
Ironing board or flat, heat-resistant surface
Thin cotton cloth (like a pillowcase or handkerchief) to use as a pressing cloth
Clothes hanger with clips or a padded hanger
Spray bottle with water (optional)
Garment steamer (if available)

Test First!

This critical step can save you from disaster:

Before treating the entire gown, test your approach on an inconspicuous area
Choose a small section inside a hem or seam
Apply your chosen method briefly
Check for any damage, melting, or shine marks
If the test area looks good, proceed carefully with the rest of the gown

Ironing Methods: A Safe Approach

Follow these steps for safe and effective pressing:

Temperature Settings

Use Low Heat: Set your iron to the lowest heat setting that will still remove wrinkles
Many irons have a "synthetic" setting designed specifically for polyester
Allow the iron to fully heat before beginning

Protective Techniques

Iron Inside Out: Turn your gown inside out when possible to prevent unwanted shine marks
Always Use a Pressing Cloth: Place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and gown for added protection
Press gently rather than applying firm pressure
Move the iron continuously rather than letting it rest in one spot

Methodical Process

Start with the body of the gown, working from top to bottom
Iron sleeves last, as they can be tricky to keep smooth while doing the body
Use short, gentle strokes rather than long passes with the iron
Allow sections to cool completely before repositioning to avoid creating new wrinkles

The Steaming Alternative

Many professionals prefer steaming for delicate graduation attire:

A garment steamer is often the safest and most effective option
Hold the steamer 6-10 inches away from the fabric
Work from top to bottom, allowing the steam to penetrate and release wrinkles
No steamer? Create your own steam room by hanging your gown in the bathroom during a hot shower

Post-Pressing Care

Your work isn't done after pressing:

Hang Immediately: Always hang your gown on a proper hanger as soon as you finish pressing
Keep away from direct sunlight, which can fade the color
Store in a cloth garment bag, not plastic, to allow the fabric to breathe
Transport your gown on a hanger, laid flat across your backseat if possible
If you must fold it for travel, use tissue paper at fold points to prevent sharp creases

Quick-Fix Options for Last-Minute Emergencies

If you discover wrinkles just before the ceremony:

Bathroom steam trick: Hang in the bathroom during a hot shower for 15-20 minutes
Wrinkle-release spray: Commercial products can help with minor wrinkles
Hand smoothing: For minor wrinkles, sometimes gently pulling and smoothing with your hands can help

Final Thoughts

Your graduation gown represents a significant achievement and will appear in photos you'll cherish for a lifetime. Taking the time to properly prepare your attire shows respect for the occasion and ensures you'll look your absolute best during this momentous celebration.

Remember that different fabrics may require slightly different approaches, so always prioritize the care instructions provided with your specific gown. When in doubt, check with your school's graduation office or the company that supplied the gowns for specific care recommendations.

Do you have additional tips for keeping graduation attire looking sharp? Share your experiences in the comments below!