Be sure the soleplate of your iron is clean and smooth for quicker and easier ironing. If you have a steam iron, check for mineral deposits, which can cause brown spotting. Check your ironing board and its cover. For speedy ironing, use well padded boards with smooth heat-reflective covers. Begin with dampened linen.
Steam ironing dry linen is less effective than dry or steam ironing dampened linens.
A professional steamer is the only appliance that provides enough steam to remove wrinkles from heavier linens. The steam from a household iron is just not enough. Store linen items in a plastic bag in the refrigerator or freezer from 6 to 24 hours before ironing. This will make them easier to iron and will prevent mildew. Starch provides extra crispness, particularly to napkins to be folded into fancy shapes.