5 clever ways to get wrinkles out of bedding without an iron – get that fresh-made bed look with minimal effort

I'm sure I'm not alone when I say ironing my bedding isn't at the top of my to-do list, so much so that I'll avoid it at all costs. If, like me, you're looking for clever ways to get creases and wrinkles out of bedding without reaching for the best steam iron, the good news is that not only is it possible, but you probably don't need to iron it at all.

In fact, laundry experts say most wrinkles form long before sheets reach the bed. A few simple tweaks to how you wash, dry, and make the bed can make all the difference. Better yet, if you're investing in new sheets, it's worth knowing where to buy bedding that looks great and requires minimal upkeep.

While there's no shortage of opinions when it comes to whether you should iron your bedding, the truth is a perfectly pressed finish isn't the only way to make your bed look and feel fresh. These expert-approved tips will help you get smoother-looking sheets with minimal effort. And if you really can't be bothered, linen offers that intentionally relaxed, crumpled-on-purpose look.

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1. Stop creases forming in the wash

'The biggest mistake people make is trying to tackle creases once the bedding is already dry,' says Martin Seeley, CEO at MattressNextDay. 'In reality, most wrinkles form much earlier, either in the washing machine or while the bedding is sitting in the dryer after the cycle has finished.'

Chloe Baker from specialist laundry experts, Dr Beckmann, explains why you shouldn't just rely on ironing your bedding afterwards. 'Overloading the washing machine is one of the most common culprits,' she explains. 'Sheets need space to move freely during the cycle to avoid creasing.'

It's also worth choosing a lower spin speed, as very high spins tend to press creases deeper into the fabric.

2. Remove bedding from the dryer before it's completely dry

How you dry your bedding can make as much difference to how you wash it. Rather than leaving sheets in the tumble dryer, Kriti Mawij, head of procurement at bedding brand Belledorm, recommends taking them out while they're still slightly warm.

'The single biggest improvement is to take bedding out of the tumble dryer while it's still slightly warm and make the bed straight away,' she says. 'The residual warmth lets the fabric relax and settle smooth.'

Kriti also advises drying on a low-to-medium heat rather than a hot cycle, and giving everything a firm shake before it goes on the bed. 'If you line-dry, hang sheets promptly and fold them while barely damp, which does much the same job,' she adds.

3. Use a steamer or mister for stubborn creases

If wrinkles are still visible once the bed's made, there's no need to get the ironing board out. This is where some of the best handheld steamers come in, quickly relaxing the fibres in your bedding to smooth away stubborn creases. If you'd prefer not to use another appliance, a light mist of water can work surprisingly well, too.

'If you notice a few wrinkles once the bed is made, lightly mist the duvet cover with clean water before smoothing it over with your hands,' says Martin. 'Some luxury hotels use this trick when dressing beds, as the moisture helps relax the fibres as it evaporates, leaving the bedding looking noticeably smoother within minutes.'

And while a steam iron will always have a place for when you want a truly crisp finish, it doesn't need to be the first port of call every time you wash your bedding. A crease-release spray can work in much the same way, with the added bonus of leaving your bed smelling fresh.

However, as Chloe explains, 'Simple washing and drying habits have the biggest impact on preventing creases in the first place. Finishing products come into their own once the basics are covered.'

For most cotton and linen bedding, Dr. Beckmann Starch & Easy Iron Spray is a quick way to help bedding hold a smoother, sharper finish for longer.

4. Let your fitted sheet - and your bed - breathe

As much as your laundry routine does play a part in reducing creases in your bedding, sometimes it boils down to how you make your bed afterwards.

'I’d recommend spending an extra minute pulling your fitted sheet nice and taut,' says Martin. 'A lot of people don’t realise that a fitted sheet that’s too shallow for the mattress will constantly bunch up and crease throughout the day, no matter how well it’s been washed.'

Martin also says it's worth letting your bed air for around 30 to 60 minutes before making it each morning, as it allows moisture and heat that build up overnight to escape rather than becoming trapped in your bedding.

5. Choose linen bedding

Still determined to banish ironing from your routine altogether? Linen bedding could be the answer - just not for the reason you might think.

'Linen actually creases more than most fabrics, not less,' says Kriti. 'What makes it perfect for iron-avoiders is that it's never meant to look pressed. Its relaxed, gently crumpled texture is part of the appeal, so you can take it off the line, put it on the bed and enjoy it exactly as it is.'

If you prefer crisp, hotel-inspired finish, Kriti suggests choosing an easy-care polycotton blend, which naturally springs back into shape after washing.

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I'm off to put these tips to decrease bedding into practice - starting by remembering not to leave my washing sitting in the machine for hours! Will you be giving any of these hacks a try?