Before the days of steam irons, getting wrinkle-free clothes required a little extra help. That help came in the form of sprinkler bottles, once a staple of laundry day. These bottles were essential for dampening fabric before ironing, making the task of achieving smooth, crisp clothes much easier. Although sprinkler bottles might seem like a relic from the past, they are now prized by collectors for their unique charm and historical significance.

 What Were Sprinkler Bottles Used For?

Sprinkler bottles were used in the days before steam irons became household essentials. Ironing required an extra step: dampening the fabric so wrinkles could be easily pressed out. A simple sprinkler bottle made this task efficient.

Initially, families often repurposed glass soda bottles by inserting cork sprinklers into the top. These homemade versions were effective, but as time went on, more decorative and functional options became available. Manufacturers began producing sprinkler bottles in materials like plastic, ceramic, and glass, adding both beauty and utility to the home.

 The Role of Sprinkler Bottles in Home Ironing

On ironing day, simply using a hot iron wasn’t enough. Clothes needed to be sprinkled with water to dampen them. Homemakers would then roll up the damp clothes and store them in the refrigerator to prevent them from drying out or souring before ironing. The sprinkler bottle was perfect for evenly distributing water across the fabric, making wrinkles easier to eliminate.

Not only were they used for heavy-duty ironing sessions, but sprinkler bottles also came in handy for quick touch-ups. Whether a basic soda bottle or an intricate ceramic design, these bottles were essential for keeping clothes looking fresh and crisp.