Ironing is an essential skill for looking polished and professional. While it may seem simple, having the right tools makes all the difference in achieving crisp, wrinkle-free results. Investing in high-quality equipment helps you work efficiently and effectively. Here are the must-have tools you need to iron like a pro:
A Quality Iron
The most important tool for impeccable ironing is a high-quality iron. Opt for one with a stainless steel soleplate which glides smoothly over fabrics and a pointed tip to reach tricky areas like collars and cuffs. Choose a model with variable temperature settings and a burst of steam feature for removing stubborn wrinkles. A lightweight iron with an ergonomic handle provides maximum control and comfort during lengthy ironing sessions. Brands like Rowenta, Maytag and Black+Decker offer reliable irons with professional grade features.
A Sturdy Ironing Board
An ironing board serves as your workstation, so stability and durability are key factors. The best ironing boards have a steel frame with rubber feet to keep the board firmly in place. Look for an ironing board cover made of heat-reflective material to avoid scorching. The cover should fit tautly and have a foam underlay for a smooth ironing surface. An adjustable height allows you to find the perfect working position. For efficient storage, choose an ironing board that folds up compactly.
High-Quality Ironing Board Cover
While many ironing boards come with a cover, investing in a high-end cover can make a difference in your ironing results. Opt for a thick cotton cover with heat reflective properties to prevent scorching. Silicone coated fiberglass covers offer excellent heat conduction. Tailored covers that fit your ironing board snugly provide a wrinkle-free surface for smooth ironing. Look for covers with convenient loops to keep the cord out of the way. Replace old covers periodically as needed to maintain optimal performance.
Iron Cleaner and De-scaler
To keep your iron running optimally, regular cleaning is a must. An iron cleaning kit uses agents like vinegar, salt and baking soda to dissolve residue and buildup. For heavily scaled irons, look for de-scalers with strong citric or hydrochloric acid formulas. Prevent future buildup by using distilled or de-mineralized water in your iron. Clean your iron every few months and descale once or twice a year for best results. This keeps the soleplate smooth and prevents spewing while ironing.
Heat-Resistant Iron Rest
An iron rest allows you to safely place your iron down without damaging delicate fabrics or surfaces. Opt for a sturdy metal or silicone rest designed to withstand high heat. Avoid plastic rests which can melt or overheat. Look for a compact iron rest with rubber feet that keep it stable on the ironing board. Some feature ventilation slots to let the iron cool faster after use. An iron rest protects your ironing surfaces and also keeps hot irons safely out of reach.
Spray Bottle or Mister
A spray bottle is great for smoothing out wrinkles and creases. Fill the bottle with plain water and lightly mist fabrics as needed while ironing. The moisture helps relax the fibers so wrinkles release easily under the heat. A spray also provides a burst of steam for removing stubborn creases. Look for quality plastic spray bottles with an adjustable nozzle for controlled misting. Keep one handy on your ironing board.
Ironing Board Pad and Cover
For optimal results, an ironing board pad provides an extra layer of cushioning beneath your cover. Opt for a 100% cotton pad filled with polyester batting. The padding helps prevent pressure points and can protect delicate fabrics. An additional cotton cover over your pad and board keeps your ironing surface smooth and wrinkle-free. Secure it tightly and replace old pad covers periodically. A quality pad and cover enhance your iron’s performance.
Laundry Starch or Spray
Starch is a secret weapon of professional cleaners and laundry services. This product provides stiffness and structure to crisp up soft fabrics. Liquid starch can be diluted in water and applied via spray bottle. Spray starches are convenient for direct application onto garments. Traditional starches require mixing powder with warm water in precise ratios. Starch helps collars and cuffs maintain their shape after ironing. Use it sparingly to avoid stiff, crunchy fabrics.
Clothing Steamers
While not a substitute for ironing, a garment steamer is ideal for delicate fabrics and hard-to-iron spots. The powerful steam relaxes fibers to release wrinkles and refresh garments in between washes. Handheld steamers provide vertical steaming for dresses, suits, and drapes. Full-size fabric steamers offer features like adjustable height and larger reservoirs for heavy duty use. Use steamers for touch-ups and skip the ironing board for delicate fabrics that require a gentle touch.
Iron-on Interfacing
Interfacing provides structure and thickness for specific garment pieces like collars, cuffs, and plackets. This fabric goes between the outer fabric and inner lining. Fusible interfacing has an adhesive coating to “fuse” or adhere to fabrics when ironed on. Various weights add the perfect amount of body based on the garment design. Interfacing makes ironing collars, cuffs, and other multilayered sections easier to manage. A must-have for flawless ironing of dress shirts and blouses!
Seam Sealant
Hate ironing around all the seams and trim details on formal wear? Seam sealant is a liquid sealant that gets applied over stitches before ironing. It penetrates the fibers and stops them from fraying to help garments keep their shape. This allows you to iron right over seams without damaging the construction. Smooth, crisp edges also lie flat against the body for a polished silhouette. Great for designing garments and reducing irritation from exposed seams.
Tailor’s Ham
Shaped like a ham, this firmly stuffed, teardrop-shaped tool helps iron tricky contours and angles. The ham’s curved sides enable you to press hard-to-reach spots like darts, pleats and sleeves evenly. Made from densely packed cotton, wool or linen, a tailor’s ham allows you to apply pressure with the iron to flatten and shape fabric. An essential tool for properly ironing fitted garments.
Seam Roll
A smaller version of a tailor’s ham, a seam roll is cylindrical in shape. The narrow diameter is ideal for pressing thin and curved seams flat. Made of densely packed fabric, the firm but yielding surface lets you iron with pressure to prevent imprints. Seam rolls assist with specialized tasks like ironing piping into a collar or applying crisp pleats to a skirt waistband. A staple for perfectly pressing intricate seams on finer garments.
Sleeve Board
The tapered shape of a sleeve board allows you to iron sleeves flat and seamless. The narrow end fits easily into cuffs and armholes for smoothing and shaping. Pad and cover sleeve boards with cotton for optimal steam conduction and to prevent water marking delicate fabrics. Quality boards have padded ends to prevent impressions on fabrics. Sleeve boards keep the arm of the garment taut for easy, crease-free ironing.
Press Cloth
A press cloth is a lightweight piece of fabric that protects delicate items during ironing. Made from materials like cotton muslin or silk organza, a press cloth is placed between the garment and the iron. It prevents direct contact with the hot metal surface. A press cloth also absorbs excess moisture and prevents shine marks. Use press cloths when ironing laces, silks and synthetics which can scorch or melt.
Ironing Blanket or Mat
Protect your ironing board and surfaces with an ironing blanket or mat beneath your project. Mats provide a layer of insulation against the heat of the iron. Dense materials like silicone fiber or wool felt work best for retaining heat while safeguarding your counters. An ironing mat also prevents water seepage into porous surfaces. Use an ironing blanket to keep large items like curtains, linens and tablecloths taut for easy pressing.
Ironing Water Spray Bottle
A spray bottle is an invaluable tool for ironing success! Fill it with plain water and mist your fabrics while ironing. The moisture evenly hydrates the fibers so wrinkles release and shapes smooth out perfectly. The fine mist prevents excess water for optimal results. A spray also provides bursts of steam to tackle tough wrinkles and creases. Cool shot settings help set shapes. A must-have item!
Distilled or Demineralized Water
For keeping your steam iron running optimally, use distilled or demineralized water. Tap water contains minerals and chemicals that can buildup in your iron over time. This calcification prevents proper steam production and can damage the interior. Distilled water eliminates minerals that cause white scale on your soleplate. Demineralized water also prevents corrosion. Your iron will run smoothly for much longer!
Iron Cleaner/Descaler
While water prevents buildup, regular use still leaves residue in your iron. A cleaning kit or descaler removes this buildup to restore performance. Monthly cleaning with agents like vinegar, salt and baking soda dissolves gunk and grime. For heavy scale, a citric or hydrochloric acid-based descaler breaks down minerals. Prevent future buildup and extend your iron’s lifespan with proper care and maintenance.
Iron Storage Case
When not in use, keep your iron protected with a storage bag or box designed for the appliance. Features like ventilation panels let the iron cool down after use before storage. Silicone bases keep the hot iron from direct contact with surfaces. Locks prevent accidental openings. Choose heat-safe bags that allow the iron to ventilate. Storage cases keep irons safe and prevent cord damage during storage.
Common Ironing Problems and Solutions
Even pros run into problems sometimes during ironing. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
Wrinkles Won’t Release: If your fabric remains stubbornly wrinkled, the iron may not be hot enough. Increase the temperature setting and allow it to fully heat up. Use the burst of steam function and mist the fabric with water to release wrinkles. Insufficient moisture is another cause – be sure your water tank is full.
Scorching: Scorching occurs when the iron’s too hot for the fabric. Immediately lower the iron’s temperature. Prevent it by checking fabric labels and starting with a lower temp before increasing heat. Use a press cloth between the iron and fabric to avoid direct contact.
Shine Marks: Excessive moisture and pressure can leave glossy shine marks on fabrics. Reduce the heat and steam settings. Let fabric dry fully between passes. Gently stretch fabric while ironing to restore fibers. Wipe the iron plate to remove starch buildup or residue.
Rust Stains: If your iron has a stainless steel plate, rust spots indicate it’s damaged. Clean thoroughly and replace if rust remains. Separate fabrics by color to prevent dye transfer that resembles rust. Cover your ironing board to prevent water damage that resembles rust.
Melting: Always check fabric content first and start with low temperatures. Synthetics like nylon, polyester and rayon melt under too much heat. Use a press cloth when unsure of fiber content. Switch to steam or avoid ironing altogether on delicate fabrics.
Ironing Tips and Tricks
Follow these pro tips and techniques for expertly ironed clothes:
- Organize fabrics by garment, weight and fiber content for efficient ironing sessions.
- Check fabric labels and start with cooler settings to avoid scorching delicate items. Slowly increase heat as needed.
- Iron collars, cuffs, sleeves and other intricate areas first while you have the most time and focus.
- For pleats, iron horizontal folds first, then vertical ones. Use spray starch or steam to set pleats firmly.
- Iron both sides of fabric for evenly smoothed seams and hems. Extra moisture and heat penetrates efficiently.
- For buttons and trim, place a press cloth over them while ironing to prevent scorching and impressions.
- Pull fabric taut widthwise and iron parallel to selvage edges to prevent stretching and distortion.
- Let heavy cottons and linens fully dry between passes. Iron damp to refresh fabrics and remove odors between washes.
- Clean your iron regularly and change water often for optimal steam and no mineral buildup.
Caring for Your Ironing Tools
Quality ironing tools and accessories are an investment. Follow these steps to clean and maintain them properly:
Iron: Empty water after each use and wipe down plate. Clean monthly with agent like vinegar and water. Descale regularly per manufacturer’s instructions to prevent mineral buildup. Store upright with water emptied.
Ironing Board: Wipe down after each use and cover when storing. Keep padding and cover taut and replace periodically. Fully open legs and avoid leaning on the board to prevent damage.
Garment Steamer: Empty water tank after use and wipe debris from vents. descale element per instructions to prevent buildup. Fully unravel hose for storage and avoid sharp bends.
Press Cloths: Wash regularly in gentle cycle and air dry.avoid chlorine bleach. Store folded, not balled up. Iron if wrinkled for a smooth pressing surface. Replace old cloths with worn edges or holes.
Covers and Pads: Launder padded covers occasionally according to instructions. Check for tears along edges and replace. Keep free of starch and sizing residue which impairs performance.
Regular cleaning and proper storage keeps your ironing tools performing like new! Proper maintenance preserves effectiveness and extends the lifespan of quality ironing equipment.
Storing Your Ironed Clothes
Once you’ve achieved crisp, flawless ironing, keep clothes looking their best with proper garment care between wears:
- Allow all garments to fully cool before hanging or folding to lock in shape.
- Hang delicate fabrics like silks and linens immediately to prevent new wrinkles from forming.
- Store folded knits and cottons in cool, dry drawers – not on shelves which can crush fabric.
- Use padded hangers for structured garments like jackets and suits to retain shape.
- Zip or button clothes and clip any dangling straps before storage to prevent distortion.
- Avoid overstuffed drawers and closets which strain fabrics – use breathable garment bags for storage.
- Spot clean stains immediately and freshen garments regularly with steaming.
Proper ironing is wasted if clothes wrinkle again before wearing. Follow these garment care tips and your crisp, pressed clothes will look runway-ready every time you wear them!
Ironing Different Fabrics and Garments
For fabulous results, tailor your method to the fabric and garment type. Follow these tips:
Cotton: Cotton requires high heat to relax fibers. Pre-treat any stains. Use spray starch for extra crispness. Iron on medium-high heat when slightly damp.
Linen: Wrinkles fall out easily with steam or spray. Iron when slightly damp on medium-high heat. Avoid pressing down hard to prevent shine.
Wool: Use low heat and steam to relax fibers – no direct contact. Iron on wool setting with press cloth. Let garments dry fully between passes.
Silks: Very low and no steam, as direct heat can damage fibers. Place silk facing down and iron only if needed using press cloth.
Synthetics: Polyester needs low heat. Acrylic and nylon are heat sensitive – use low temp and press cloth to prevent melting.
Rayon: Goes by fabric blend content. Check labels and use low heat, with cloth if needed. Avoid steam which causes water spots.
Sequins/Beads: Place press cloth over embellishments. Use no steam, just minimal pressure. Avoid flattening completely.
Collars: Pointed tip gets into points and corners. Fuse interfacing first on dress shirts. Stretch slightly when ironing.
Sleeves: Use sleeve board to evenly press along tapered shape. Roll cuffs and press outer layer first, then inner.
Pleats: Press pleats down before opening and ironing flat. Use spray starch and press firmly to set pleats.
Adjusting your method to the fabric allows you to achieve flawless, professional results on any garment type!
Ironing Tips for Common Garments
Each garment has its own specifics when it comes to ironing. Follow these pro techniques:
Dress Shirts: Starch underside of collar and use sleeve board for arms. Iron parallel to buttons. Hang immediately after ironing.
Blouses: Iron both sides of collar. Fill out gathers evenly across yoke and sleeves. Use tailor’s ham for curved seams.
Pants: Iron creases first, then leg. Place seam roll inside when pressing leg seam. Press cuffs and waistband flat.
Skirts: For pleats, press horizontal folds first. Hang to keep shape – do not fold at waist seam after ironing.
Coats/Jackets: Use sleeve board for arms. Press underside of lapels. Use tailor’s ham on curved edges like armholes or princess seams.
Dresses: Iron darts, waist seams and pleats first. Fill in gathers evenly across bodice and sleeves. Steam heavily and press for crisp detail.
Suit Jackets: Fuse interfacing on underside of collar and lapels first. Shoulder pads get pressed lightly. Use sleeve board.
Sheets/Tablecloths: Spread large pieces fully over ironing surface. Do not leave creases set at folds. Iron embroidered details last.
Each garment type presents unique challenges. Follow specialized techniques for flawless results on all your ironing projects!
Best Fabrics for Easy Ironing
While all fabrics require some level of care, these fabrics make the process easier:
- Polyester – Made from synthetic fibers, polyester resists wrinkling and maintains shape well. It requires minimal ironing at a low temperature setting.
- Microfiber – Extremely fine synthetic fibers give microfiber natural smoothness. It needs only light touch-up ironing due to its wrinkle resistance.
- Jersey Knits – The elastic properties of knit fabrics like interlock jersey allow them to bounce back readily once laundered. Light steaming freshens