If you don’t want to look like a wrinkled and rumpled mess, ironing your shirts is a must. Performing this task will give you a crisp and pressed look that makes a great impression when it counts.
Before you start ironing your shirt, make sure it’s clean and free of stains. Anything left on it will be forever cemented into the fabric. It’s also a smart idea to check the fabric care label of any garment before you begin to ensure that ironing is recommended.
Once you’ve determined your shirt can be ironed, here’s how to begin.
Get the Iron Ready
It’s best to err on the side of caution with the iron’s temperature and choose the coolest temperature recommended for the garment material. Linen, cotton, and denim materials will require a high temperature while anything made from polyester will need a medium temperature. If you’re ironing a shirt made with acetate, nylon, or acrylic, the temperature should be low.
Irons take about 10 minutes to warm up to the proper temperature. Don’t just turn it on and start ironing or you won’t get the right results.
Turn Your Shirts Inside Out
Most fabrics will fare better with a hot iron when you iron them inside out. This will preserve the appearance of your shirt, preventing a shine from developing on darker colors or delicate materials.
Iron Some Clothes While They Are Damp
Some shirts will come out better when ironed while still a little damp. You can lightly spritz your garment with water, or use the steam or water spray feature on your iron. An ironing spray like starch can also add moisture.
Pay Attention to Collars, Cuffs, and Pockets
You’ll need to pay special attention to the collars, cuffs, pockets, and even the hems of your shirts that are thicker than the rest of the fabric. Iron on the inside first, then again on the outside to smooth out any wrinkles. These areas will also benefit from a little dampness from steam or starch to get a perfect press.
After ironing, hang your shirts immediately to keep them looking immaculate. It helps to keep some hangers handy near your ironing area.
The Best Way to Get Perfectly Pressed Shirts
If you have attire that has designs or is made from fabrics that make it difficult to iron, or the label instructs you not to iron, it’s better to take it to a dry cleaner. They will know how to get your clothing looking fresh and wrinkle-free.
Of course, if you find that you don’t have time to iron garments that you could safely iron at home, a dry cleaner can help you with that. Universal Cleaners – Shirt Laundry in Carmel, IN recommends you use a dry cleaner to get your shirts pressed and ready whenever you need them. If they offer free pick up and delivery, you’ll save time, making it the best way to iron a shirt.
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