subject: The Best Way To Iron A Shirt [print this page] Most people like their shirts to be free of wrinkles and creases when they go out or to work, but if you dont have drip-dry shirts the only way to get that crease-free look is to iron a shirt before you put it on. Ironing shirts can be a great deal easier if you know the right way to go about it. Many people depend on spray starch products these days to give shirts that crisp clean look and that is a good start.
Having a steam iron is also a necessity these days as the steam really helps to remove creases. However, when you go to iron that shirt, you should always start with the smaller sections such as the cuffs and collar. Since the material is doubled in these areas and the collar usually has stiffening, once these are ironed they are not likely to get crumpled while you are doing the rest of the shirt.
The sleeves should be done next and care should be taken not to iron a crease along the outside of the sleeve. Fold the sleeve from the inner seam and iron it, avoiding the other edge. Then flatten the sleeve out with the seam in the middle and iron it that way for a good flat finish.
When ironing the two front pieces they should be done from the inside first. This will ensure that the facings get ironed properly and it helps to save the buttons from damage by the iron. The underside of the pocket can also be done. Then turn the shirt over and do it on the outside. The back of the shirt should be done last, but if there is a back yoke, then it should be done before the bottom part of the back. Take care not to iron creases into the material if it is gathered along the bottom of the yoke.
Ironing can be made easier with a proper ironing board cover. The cover should fit the ironing board snugly so that there are no wrinkles in it. Some covers are made of metallic material that reflects the heat from the iron. This will help as you dont have to iron two sides of anything. However, you do have to be careful to adjust the heat settings on the iron a little lower; otherwise you could scorch the garment.
Once you get the hang of ironing you might find that it is easier than you thought. Many people actually like to do the ironing as they find it therapeutic and satisfying.
