Ironing is a skill we all know a little about, but mastering it? That's another story. As someone who's learned from a true ironing expert—my grandmother, whose shirts never had a wrinkle—I'll share her proven techniques to iron efficiently without damaging your clothes.
These insider secrets ensure crisp results every time. Follow her simple order of operations to avoid mishaps and achieve professional-quality finishes.
Start with the button plackets on the wrong side, then move to the cuffs, lay the sleeves flat, iron the collar, the front panels, and finish with the back. This sequence prevents creases from reforming.
My grandmother's genius trick: Slip kraft paper between the two layers. This keeps the back seams from showing through on the front, for a flawless finish.
Begin at the waistband on the reverse side, then the pocket hems. Turn right side out and iron the top sections by rotating the pants on the board for even coverage.
Use the same method as pants: Iron the waistband inside out first, then pocket bottoms. Flip right side up for the flat seams, and finish with the hem.
If your iron sticks to fabrics—common with older models—don't worry. Rub the hot soleplate with dry soap, then wipe clean with newspaper for smooth gliding.
For extra glide and longevity, clean the soleplate regularly with a sprinkle of salt.
These tips won't make you rich, but you'll love pulling out crisp, like-new clothes. Iron faster to trim your electricity bill, and enjoy longer-lasting garments from better glide and less wear.
