Short answer
Most cruise lines do not allow clothes irons or garment steamers in cabins because of fire risk, so you need other ways to smooth wrinkles. Common options are hanging clothes in a steamy bathroom, using a wrinkle-release spray, using the ship’s pressing service or self-service laundry, and packing in a way that prevents creases in the first place. Check your cruise line’s rules before you try anything involving heat.
Why irons are usually banned
Cabins are small, enclosed spaces, and ships take fire safety seriously. Cruise lines commonly list clothes irons and steamers among prohibited items. Items found in your luggage may be taken away and returned at the end of the cruise. Our guide to banned and restricted cruise items explains more. Some lines offer irons in self-service laundry rooms or can bring one to your cabin on request, so ask guest services.
Method 1: Use shower steam
- Hang the garment on a hanger on the shower rod or a hook in the bathroom.
- Run hot water for several minutes with the door closed.
- Keep the clothes out of the direct spray.
- Gently smooth the fabric with your hands, pulling at seams and hems.
- Let it dry fully before putting it on or hanging it in the closet.
This works best on light wrinkles in cotton blends and synthetics. It will not fix deep creases, and delicate fabrics such as silk may react to moisture, so check the care label.
Method 2: Wrinkle-release spray
Commercial wrinkle-release sprays are small enough for a suitcase. Some travelers make their own by mixing water with a little liquid fabric softener in a spray bottle. If you try a DIY spray, test it on a hidden area first so it doesn’t stain, and keep the mix light.
Lightly mist the garment, smooth it with your hands and let it hang until dry. Check your cruise line’s rules on liquids, because some lines restrict certain items.
Method 3: Use the cabin hair dryer
Most cabins have a hair dryer. After lightly misting a garment, a few minutes of warm air while you pull the fabric taut can help dry the wrinkles flat. Hold the dryer a safe distance away, keep it moving, and never leave it running unattended.
Method 4: Hair straightener on small areas
Some travelers use a clean hair straightener on a low setting to press collars, cuffs and hems. This depends on whether your cruise line allows hair tools at all, and you should be careful with heat-sensitive fabrics and with how you place a hot tool. Read our article on bringing a curling iron first. If you are unsure, skip this method.
Method 5: Ship pressing and laundry
- Pressing service: Many ships offer pressing for a per-item fee. Prices vary, and a formal outfit can add up. Ask for the price list before sending clothes.
- Laundry service: Some ships offer wash-and-fold, often per item or bag.
- Self-service laundry rooms: Some ships have them, often with irons. Princess, for example, has self-service laundry rooms on many ships. Availability differs by cruise line and ship.
These services are part of the hidden costs of a cruise, so include them in your budget if you plan to use them.
Prevent wrinkles when you pack
- Roll casual clothes, which tends to create fewer sharp creases than folding.
- Fold formal wear with tissue paper or in dry-cleaner bags to cushion the folds.
- Use packing cubes to keep layers compact and prevent shifting.
- Pack heavy items on the bottom and delicate ones on top.
- Unpack as soon as you board and hang items so the creases relax.
- Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics such as knits, jersey and many synthetic blends.
Plan outfits around formal nights
If your cruise has formal or smart-casual evenings, such as Carnival’s Cruise Elegant nights, decide which outfits to wear on which nights, and hang those first. Wear less delicate items on other days. A quick steam in the bathroom the afternoon before an event gives the fabric time to dry.
Safety notes
- Never use open flames or heat sources not allowed by your cruise line.
- Don’t lay clothes over lamps or vents.
- Don’t leave a hairdryer or other heating device on while you’re away.
- Follow the care label on each garment.
For help with planning other costs and rules, such as tipping your room steward, see our related guides.