How to Iron Clothes Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ironing isn’t just about making clothes look neat; it’s about maintaining their shape and extending their lifespan. For those new to ironing or looking to refine their technique, following these straightforward steps will ensure your garments look fresh and crisp every time.
What You’ll Need
Equipment/Tools:
Iron
Ironing board (optional)
Spray bottle (optional)
Clothes hangers
Pressing cloth
Materials:
Spray starch or sizing (optional)
Water
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ironing Space
Start by setting up your ironing area. Ideally, use an ironing board for ease, but a sturdy flat surface covered with an ironing blanket or thick cotton towel can work in a pinch. Plug in your iron and set it to heat; it generally takes about 10 minutes for an iron to reach its optimal temperature.
It’s wise to start with the lowest temperature setting suitable for the fabric you’re ironing. You can always increase the heat, but cooling down an iron takes more time.
Tip: Use this chart for guidance on ironing temperatures:
Low Temperature (275°F): Synthetic fabrics like nylon, Lycra, and acrylics.
Medium Temperature (300°F): Polyester, silk, lace, satin, bamboo, rayon, and wool.
High Temperature (400°F): Linen, cotton, and denim.
2. Iron While Clothes Are Damp
For the best results, iron clothes while they are still slightly damp. If they’re dry, lightly spray them with water, use the steam function on your iron, or apply a starch or sizing spray. Ironing on the wrong side of the garment can help prevent shine and preserve the fabric’s appearance. This is especially useful for dark colors, silk, rayon, and linen.
Ironing on the wrong side also helps prevent unwanted crushing for textured fabrics like corduroy.
3. Ironing Pants and Skirts
Pants: Begin with the back of the pants and iron from the bottom of the leg up to the top. Flip the pants and repeat with the other leg. Finish by ironing the front of the pants. If you want a crease, fold the pants and iron along the fold.
Skirts: Start with the body of the skirt, ironing from the bottom up. Then, move to the waistband. For skirts with pleats, use paperclips or clothespins to hold the pleats in place before ironing. Press firmly at the top of each pleat and work your way down to the hem.
4. Ironing Shirts, Hems, and Collars
Shirts can be tricky due to their multiple parts. Start with the sleeves by laying them flat on the ironing board and ironing from the cuff to the shoulder. Next, iron the body of the shirt front and back. For collars, cuffs, and hems, iron the inside first, then the outside, using a pressing cloth to protect the fabric. Extra steam or dampness may be needed for stubborn wrinkles. Avoid ironing over zippers, buttons, or decorations that might melt.
5. Correct Ironing Mistakes
If you notice the fabric catching or feeling too hot, lift the iron immediately. Adjust the heat setting or use a cotton pressing cloth between the garment and the iron. If you accidentally scorch a garment, act quickly—try removing the marks with laundry detergent, white vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, or oxygen bleach.
Ironing Safety
Ensure the ironing board is placed away from busy areas and that the iron’s cord isn’t a tripping hazard. Never leave a hot iron unattended or lying flat on the ironing board. Unplug the iron when you’re finished and avoid wrapping the cord around the hot iron. Regularly inspect the cord for damage and replace it if necessary.
Additional Ironing Tips
Never iron clothes with stains or dirt; heat can set the stain permanently.
Start with the coolest fabrics and work your way up to avoid accidental melting or scorching.
Hang clothes immediately after ironing to maintain their freshly pressed look.
Avoid ironing over sequins, decals, or screen-printed designs to prevent melting.
Clean your iron regularly to prevent build-up and ensure optimal performance.
Replace or wash the ironing board cover when it becomes soiled.