Silitysliinan

Silitysliinan, or the ironing cloth, is a small fabric used during ironing to protect garments from direct heat and potential damage. In Finnish textile care, it serves as a barrier between the iron and the fabric, helping to prevent scorching, shine, and water spots on delicate materials.

Materials and design vary, but silitysliina is commonly made from plain-weave cotton or cotton blends, muslin, or light linen. Size is typically modest, often around 20 to 40 centimeters square, allowing it to cover areas of clothing or textiles that require gentler handling. The cloth should be clean and dry before use, and it can be kept dry or lightly dampened to enhance steam during pressing.

Usage and purpose include protecting delicate fabrics such as silk, satin, wool, lace, velvet, or embroidery from direct heat. It also helps to smooth small creases without leaving marks and reduces the risk of water stains on finished fabrics. In some cases, a damp silitysliina is used to generate a bit more steam without applying moisture directly to the fabric.

Care and maintenance involve regular cleaning to avoid transferring lint or residues onto garments. Wash the cloth according to its material, avoid strong detergents that may leave residues, and air dry flat. Store it clean and flat to keep its texture and effectiveness.

Silitysliina is a common accessory in domestic textile care and in professional ironing practices, where pressing cloths of cotton or muslin are used to safeguard fabrics during heat application. See also ironing, fabric care, and pressing cloth.