Best Press 6oz vs 32oz — Size Guide & Starch Alternative Comparison

Best Press vs Mary Ellen’s Best Press — Starch Alternative Compared

Best Press is one of the most popular starch alternatives in quilting — a pump-spray sizing that gives fabric body and crispness without traditional starch buildup. Here’s what it does, when to use it, and how it compares to ironing with plain water.

Linda’s Electric Quilters Expert Comparison
Best Press Starch Alternative 32oz

Best Press 32 oz Spray

SKU: BP-SC-32
$16.99
Clear sizing • No flaking or buildup • 32 oz pump spray • Multiple scents • No residue on iron

Shop Best Press 32oz
Best Press 6oz Travel Spray

Best Press 6 oz Spray

SKU: BP-SC-6
$6.99
Same formula • 6 oz travel/trial size • Pump spray • Try before buying large • Portable

Shop Best Press 6oz

Best Press vs Plain Water vs Traditional Starch

Feature Best Press Water Only Traditional Starch
Fabric crispness Excellent Best Press Minimal Excellent
Flaking None Best Press N/A Common problem
Iron residue None Best Press None Buildup on iron
Scent options Yes — multiple Best Press None Plain or scented
Bugs / mildew risk No (non-food starch) Low Yes — food starch attracts insects
Shelf life Long Best Press Infinite Limited once mixed
Cost $6.99–$16.99 Free Low
▶ Our VerdictBest Press is the clear winner for quilters who want crisp, manageable fabric without the downsides of traditional starch. No flaking, no iron buildup, no insect risk, and a pleasant scent option. The 32oz bottle is the best value; the 6oz is ideal for trying a new scent or traveling.

Best Press Size Guide

Choose 6oz if you…

  • Are trying Best Press for the first time
  • Want to test a specific scent
  • Travel to quilt retreats or guild meetings
  • Are buying as a gift

Choose 32oz if you…

  • Already love Best Press and use it regularly
  • Press large amounts of fabric
  • Want the best cost per ounce
  • Run a longarm studio where pressing is frequent

Frequently Asked Questions

What scents does Best Press come in?

Best Press comes in several scents including Scent Free, Linen Fresh, Lavender Fields, Blue Skies, and others. Scent Free is popular for those sensitive to fragrance.

Does Best Press work on all fabric types?

Yes — Best Press is safe for cotton, linen, silk, wool, and synthetic blends. It’s specifically popular with quilters for pressing quilt tops, blocks, and strips before cutting.

Will Best Press leave white marks on dark fabric?

No — Best Press is a clear formula that dries invisible and leaves no white residue or flaking on dark fabrics. This is one of its main advantages over traditional starch sprays.

How much Best Press do I need for a full quilt top?

A 32oz bottle is typically sufficient for pressing a full quilt top, depending on fabric type and how generously you apply it. Heavier, looser weave fabrics absorb more.

Shop Best Press at Linda’s Electric Quilters

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