Step-by-step instructions on how to iron clothes with care for fabrics

What is Ironing?

Ironing refers to the act of using a hot iron to move along fabric to remove wrinkles and creases. Ironing will keep your clothes looking clean and neat. Ironing is usually required for clothing that is worn for formal and professional occasions such as blouses, dress shirts, and dress pants. Some clothes, such as socks, undergarments and t-shirts are intended to be looser and more casual and don’t require ironing. Dry cleaning is sometimes preferred for pressing clothes. However, with an iron, ironing board and spray bottle you can learn how to iron professionally at home.

What is the difference between ironing and steaming?

While both steaming and ironing can remove wrinkles from fabrics with heat, the methods used to do so differ. To steam clothes, place them on a hanger. The steamer is moved up and down along the fabric to heat it and remove wrinkles. Ironing involves ironing fabric on a flat surface and moving the hot iron along it to remove wrinkles. Both steamers and irons have heat settings that can be adjusted to suit different materials.

How to Iron Different Fabrics

Different fabrics require unique ironing tips. Take into account the different heat settings available for the following fabrics.

• Acetate

Acetate fabric is associated with formalwear. This fabric is used often in wedding dresses and expensive clothing. It is important to iron clothing on low heat and with the garment inside-out.

• Corduroy

To maintain the texture of corduroy, iron the pieces in the direction of its pile. Use a moderate amount of steam and iron on a low setting.

• Linen

Linen, such as pillow cases and bed sheets, wrinkle easily. You don’t need to iron linen bedding or clothing, but you can iron them on high heat while they are still damp to remove any creases.

• Rayon

Rayon, which is usually made from wood pulp, is made of cellulose. The material can be damaged by steam, so iron rayon fabrics at low heat.

• Silk

Silk is fragile, so place it between a tea towel or an ironing cloth. Move the iron slowly on a low setting. Do not leave it in one place for too long.

• Wool

Wool should never be ironed directly. Place a damp cloth on top of it, and iron on a low to medium setting. Do not press too hard.

How to Iron Shirts in 7 Easy Steps

These steps will help you iron your shirt correctly.

• Wash your shirts.

Wash your shirts before ironing them. Overcrowding your washing machine can cause your shirts to wrinkle more.

• Sort your shirts.

Different shirts require different treatments. You can make ironing easier by grouping similar materials (cotton, silk corduroy, linen, etc.). For protection, turn delicate materials like silk, satin and chiffon inside out.

• Get your materials set up.

Fold your ironing board. When your iron is ready to use, it may light up or turn off. For ironing, some fabrics (e.g cotton and polyester) should be wet. Spray them with a sprayer. You can also spray other materials, such as silk or acetate, once they are dry.

• Iron starting at the collar.

If the shirt is button-down, unbutton it. Iron to the edge of the shirt collar by starting at the middle. Then, move the iron back towards the middle and iron the opposite end. This movement can be repeated on the back side of the shirt.

• The placket should be ironed.

Use the iron’s tip to iron the buttons all the way around.

• Iron sleeves starting at the cuff.

Iron sleeves from the cuff towards the shoulder. Iron each piece evenly by laying one side of the surface off to iron.

• The shirt should be hung up.

To allow it to cool, hang it up. This will prevent it from creasing and rubbing against other items. After it is done, turn off the iron and let it cool down for at least ten mins before putting away your materials.

How to Iron Pants in Four Steps

Ironing clothes can be time-consuming. These steps will make ironing your pants easier:

1. Sort your pants according to material. Different materials require different treatments. Ironing can be made easier by grouping similar materials (cotton, silk and corduroy), For added protection, make sure you turn delicate fabrics like silk or lace inside out.
2. Set up your ironing board and iron. Turn on your iron and ironing board. Fold your clothes. You should fill the water tank with distilled water. Tap water can cause iron to buildup. When your iron is ready to use, it may be either light or dark.
3. The waist should be ironed at the beginning of the process. Turn the pockets inwardly and iron them after. The legs should be removed from the board. Next, iron the waist from left to right. You can make the waistline look a bit sloppy so smoothen it out before you iron the legs.
4. You can iron the pants up and down. Next, iron the pants from the waist to the ankle. Fold the pants in half, with one leg on top of another. To iron evenly, you will need to move up and down. Smoothen out wrinkles by using direct contact.