How to Remove Folds and Wrinkles from a Vinyl Banner or Billboard

You opened your new shipment or using an previously stored banner or billboard and BAM, there are folds and wrinkles galore. There are several methods to smooth out a vinyl banner and restore its crisp appearance. Here’s how:

1. Use Gentle Heat

Applying controlled heat is one of the most effective ways to remove wrinkles from vinyl. Here’s how you can do it safely:

Best Way: Find hot black top or concrete and lay your billboard or banner flat and watch the folds melt.
Billboards Only: When a billboard is installed it is pulled tight. With the sun shining on a billboard and a tight installation, you do not need to worry. The folds will come out pretty quickly.
Hair Dryer Method: Its like watching paint dry but could help you in a pinch. Not recommended for billboards though. Hang the banner and use a hair dryer on low to medium heat. Keep the dryer about 6–12 inches away and move it continuously across the wrinkled area.
Heat Gun Method (For heavier creases): Most customers do not have a heat gun laying around. But if you do, set the heat gun to low and carefully move it over the wrinkles without lingering too long in one spot.
Sunlight Exposure: This is helpful for smaller applications. On a warm day, place the banner in direct sunlight for 15–30 minutes. The heat from the sun will naturally soften the vinyl and help reduce creases. Make sure to get some resistance on the bottom to help pull out the banner folds.

2. Apply Weight and Gravity

If your banner is only slightly creased:

Hang it up in a well-ventilated area and let gravity do its work.
Lay it flat on a clean surface, such as a table or floor, and place books or similar heavy objects on the wrinkled areas.
If possible, roll it tightly instead of folding it when storing to prevent future creases.
If all these methods fail, go take your banner to hot concrete. Preferably a clean spot if you can find it.

3. Ironing (With Caution)

If the wrinkles are deep and stubborn on a banner:

Place a clean cotton sheet over the banner.
Set your iron to low heat (NO steam) and carefully press over the sheet for short periods.
Never place a hot iron directly onto vinyl—it will melt your vinyl.
We personally do not recommend placing an iron on a plastic vinyl. But if you are in a hotel getting ready for a conference we understand the desperation. We want to emphasis LOW HEAT though.

Preventing Future Wrinkles

To keep your billboard or banner in great shape:

Store it rolled up in a sturdy tube or around a large cardboard core.
Avoid folding and keeping it in a tightly packed space.
If transporting, use a protective case or wrap it in plastic to minimize exposure to moisture and dirt.
Saving a billboard is rare. Typically it is a one and done after 6 months to a year campaign. But if you must save it, you could possibly roll it if it is under 8′. If it is taller than 8ft then it is best to fold it. I would recommend spraying it off because pigeons can leave their mark.

This is helpful guidance to help your vinyl banner or billboard look professional. Whether for a business event or billboard campaign, a smooth, wrinkle-free product helps make the proper impact!