Iron-on patches are convenient, but they have a reputation for peeling off after a few washes. In almost every case, peeling is caused by incorrect application - not the patch itself. Follow these steps and your patch will last for years.
What You Need
A household iron (no steam setting), a thin cotton pressing cloth or pillowcase, a hard flat surface (an ironing board or a table; not a bed or a folded towel, where the padding absorbs the pressure), and the patch. That's it.
Step-by-Step Application
Step 1: Pre-wash the garment if it's new. Fabric sizing (the stiffener applied to new fabrics) can prevent adhesion. Wash and dry first.
Step 2: Preheat your iron to the cotton setting — 300-320°F (150-160°C). No steam. Steam introduces moisture which weakens the adhesive.
Step 3: Place the garment on a hard, flat surface. Slip a piece of cardboard inside the garment if it's a bag or jacket to prevent adhesive from bleeding through.
Step 4: Position the patch adhesive-side down. Place a pressing cloth over the patch.
Step 5: Press down firmly with the iron. Don't slide - press straight down with full bodyweight for 15-20 seconds. Move to the edges and press again.
Step 6: Let it cool completely without disturbing it (2-3 minutes).
Step 7: Flip the garment inside out and iron from the back for another 10-15 seconds.
Full application directions — exact temperature, press time, which fabrics to sew instead, and how to care for the patch afterwards — are on our iron-on application guide.
For Extra Durability
Add 4-6 stitches around the perimeter of the patch - one at each corner and one at the midpoint of each long side. This is especially important for patches on items that are washed frequently.
Fabrics That Don't Work with Iron-On
Nylon, waterproof membranes (Gore-Tex, etc.), silk, velvet, and leather don't bond well with iron-on adhesive. For these fabrics, use sew-on patches instead.