A guide to ironing
Whether you think of ironing as a labour of love or just hard labour, we’re on hand with the latest advice on how to get your favourite clothes beautifully wrinkle-free.
In this page:
Choosing the right equipment
Find the right iron
The first rule of ironing is to buy a good quality make. It should last longer, be more reliable and work out cost-effective. To help remove creases, get one with steam controls.
Use a high ironing board
Whatever your height, choose a tall ironing board to avoid bending over and straining your back. If you share ironing duties it might be wise to buy an adjustable board.
De-scale your iron
If you live in a hard water area then choose an iron with an anti-scale feature to stop limescale damaging it. Limescale from your iron can sometimes mark clothes, so it’s worth paying to prevent it.
Perfect your technique
Watch the heat
Make sure you use the right setting on your iron so you don’t accidentally ruin your favourite dress or trousers. Use an iron with a protective sole for delicate items.
Iron when damp
Iron clothes when they’re slightly damp for the best and easiest results. If they’re completely dry, you’ll need to moisten the fabric to get any dried-in creases out.
Iron only when necessary
Unless it’s your favourite hobby, ask yourself if an item is really creased enough to need ironing. Many man-made fibres shake out small creases as they’re worn.
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