Ironing Tips and Tricks

Tip # 27 - Iron shirts like a pro

Start with the collar, working from the outer edges into the middle. Iron the shoulder next, followed by the cuffs and sleeves. Place the collar at the narrow end of the board so that one front panel of the shirt is extended flat. Iron the front panel from shoulder to shirt tail. Rotate to iron the back of the shirt. Rotate and complete the remaining front panel.

Tip # 34 - Tips for T-shirts

Straighten seams on t-shirts before hanging out to dry. To avoid damage to printed graphics and logos turn the t-shirt inside out and iron the reverse side of the print. Never iron areas of your t-shirt where perspiration marks are visible as the heat of the iron will permanently fix the stain.

Tip # 54 - Hung out to dry

When washing is complete, remove shirts from the machine immediately, shake them out and hang them on coat hangers to air dry

– this will keep wrinkles to a minimum.

Tip # 18 - Selecting the right temperature

If you are unsure of the correct setting for a particular garment, test a small area such as a seam or inside hem before ironing a visible area. Start with a low temperature and slowly increase the heat to find the best setting.

Tip # 33 - Don’t be afraid to iron silk

Don’t be afraid to iron silk. Although delicate in appearance, silk is the strongest and most resilient of all natural fibres. To achieve the best results, set to a low cotton setting and use regular shots of steam. Always use a pressing cloth to avoid shine marks.

Tip # 13 - Ironing the seam

Always press seams in the same direction they were made. When a garment is produced, the fibres will naturally settle in the direction they were initially pressed, so it’s best not to iron against the grain.

Tip # 26 - Sort types of fabric

Sort articles to be ironed according to the type of fabric. This will reduce the need to adjust the temperature constantly. Start with articles requiring lower temperatures and work your way through to items requiring higher settings.

Tip # 2 - Summer frocks and frills

Steam is the key when ironing delicate summer fabrics such as muslin, cotton and linen. Don’t press down with the iron, simply hover above the garment and steam it using a vertical shot of steam. Ruffling, netting, tulle or intricate hand detailing is also best ironed using this method.

Tip # 5 - Pressing your winter woollies

Steam is crucial when pressing your winter woollies. Woollen garments can be hung and steamed using the vertical shot of steam feature. After steaming, brush the garment with your hand to plump up woollen fibres. If ironing the garment flat it is best to use a pressing cloth. Don’t be afraid to apply pressure – steam and hold.

Tip # 42 - Table settings to impress

To avoid unwanted creases always iron your table cloth after taking it out of the cupboard. A dinner party is a special occasion, so treat the table cloth as you would your own outfit. For best results, lay towels across your table and iron the table cloth over the towels. This will save you time and ensure a beautifully presented table setting.