Have you ever been ready to iron your clothes only to find that the iron suddenly stopped working, or that someone borrowed it and hasn’t returned it yet? In moments like these, a few smart alternatives can be real lifesavers.

No matter how beautiful an outfit is, how luxurious the fabric feels, or how expensive it may be, wrinkled clothes can instantly make it look less appealing. That’s why, when you step out in a well-put-together outfit, it’s not just about choosing clothes that suit the occasion, flatter your body shape, or match well together. One crucial factor is that your clothes should look neat, smooth, and free of creases. But what if your iron is broken or unavailable? Don’t worry—try these clever and practical solutions instead.

Use ice cubes in the dryer

Place a few ice cubes into a dryer along with your wrinkled clothes, then run the dryer on the highest heat setting. Be careful not to add too many ice cubes. As the dryer heats up, the ice melts and turns into steam, which helps relax the fabric fibers and smooth out wrinkles. While the dryer is running, you can use the time to get ready for other tasks. Once the cycle finishes, take the clothes out immediately and hang them up. Leaving them inside the dryer for too long can cause new wrinkles and may even expose them to bacteria from the drum. This method can also help preserve the color of your clothes, keeping them looking fresh and vibrant.

Use steam from a pot of boiling water

Another simple method is to use steam from boiling water. Place a pot of water on the stove or use a kettle with a wide spout. When the water starts boiling and releasing steam, hold your clothes taut and gently expose them to the rising steam. This is essentially a homemade steam iron—basic but surprisingly effective, especially in situations where you’re traveling, staying somewhere without electricity, or lacking modern appliances. However, be very careful when using this method, as steam can cause serious burns if it comes into direct contact with your hands or skin.

Use hot steam from the bathroom shower

If you’re staying in a hotel or traveling and don’t have access to an iron, turn on the hot water in the bathroom and set it to the highest temperature. Hang your clothes inside the bathroom, close to where the steam is strongest, and let the hot steam work its magic. The moisture and heat will help loosen the fabric fibers and reduce wrinkles naturally. Just make sure the clothes don’t get wet, and be cautious not to step directly under hot water to avoid burns. The steam from a hot shower works in much the same way as a steam iron, making this a smart and convenient emergency solution.

With these simple tricks, you can keep your clothes looking polished and wrinkle-free even when an iron isn’t available. A little creativity and resourcefulness can go a long way in saving your outfit—and your confidence—before you head out the door.