Grayson West
Ironing might seem like a routine task, but it’s easy to overlook the small mistakes that can have a big impact on your clothes. The wrong heat setting or ironing over stains can all lead to permanent damage. Here are some easy habits that will help keep your clothes in excellent condition and extend their lifespan.
Ironing Clothes While They’re Completely Dry
Dry fabric is more likely to scorch and can leave you with permanent marks that can ruin your clothes. Instead, aim to iron clothes when they’re slightly damp or apply the steam function on your iron. This helps to smoothen the wrinkles more effectively, which ensures your clothes stay in good condition for longer.
Ironing on an Inappropriate Surface
The surface on which you iron makes a difference in the outcome. Using a flat surface like a hard table or countertop doesn’t provide the necessary resistance to avoid stretching or damaging delicate fabrics. Whereas, a well-padded ironing board ensures the fabric’s fibers can relax, keeping the shape intact.
Ignoring Fabric-Specific Settings
Fabrics are not the same, and each one needs its own care. Wool requires a lower temperature, while linen needs a higher setting for wrinkle removal. Using the wrong heat setting for a fabric risks damaging its fibers. For example, silk can burn with high heat, while denim can withstand much more heat.
Ironing Over Stains
Stains and wrinkles don’t mix well when it comes to ironing. Ironing over a stain not only sets the mark into the fabric but also makes it harder to remove later. Heat activates the stain, making it more permanent. Treat stains with appropriate stain removers or techniques before ironing, especially for fabrics like cotton or linen.
Ironing Against the Grain
Fabrics have a natural direction, known as the grain, and ironing against it can cause the fibers to stretch or distort. This is particularly noticeable in fabrics like denim or twill, where the fibers can lose their original texture. Ironing in the direction of the grain ensures the garment retains its shape and feels comfortable to wear.
Not Cleaning the Iron Regularly
A neglected iron can become a silent culprit in damaging clothes. If the soleplate collects residue from fabric or starch, it will leave streaks or scorch marks on your garments. Over time, this buildup can affect the heat distribution. Regular cleaning with a moist cloth will ensure that your iron is functioning at its best.
Improper Use of Steam
While steam can be a helpful tool for wrinkle-free clothes, too much steam can cause excess moisture to accumulate in fabrics, leading to dampness or distortion. Oversteaming can leave thick fabrics soggy or cause them to lose shape. Be mindful of the steam setting and use it primarily for tough wrinkles.
Storing Ironed Clothes Too Soon
Once your clothes are ironed, allow them to cool completely before storing them. When you place them in a closet while they’re still warm, wrinkles can return and might even set in new ones. This is usually important for delicate fabrics like silk or chiffon, which require time to fully “set” after ironing.
Overloading the Ironing Board
Using an overcrowded ironing board can make it difficult to properly smooth out wrinkles, especially on larger garments. Clothes need enough space to be ironed without restriction. Overloading the board can result in uneven pressing and cause extra wear on the fabric.
Using Excessive Starch or Fabric Spray
If you overuse starch or fabric sprays, it can cause a buildup on fabric that makes it stiff and prone to damage. While these products can add crispness, using them too often can break down the fibers over time. Apply them sparingly to keep your clothes looking fresh without harming the fabric.