Ironing check list

1. First, get that ironing board straight

• Before getting started, make sure that your ironing board surface is flat, even and tightly wrapped with a good-quality cover

2. Start with a clean base plate of the iron

• The most common mistake is not checking the sole plate for stains before going to town with the iron. Please do not proceed with ironing if the base is dirty

3. Inspect the fabric

4. Check the (correct) heat for your garments

• First, separate your clothes into low temperature items like delicates and synthetics (thin silk, polyester, and nylon), and high temperature items made of cotton. Then, set your iron to the lowest temperature. Start ironing the low temperature items first before increasing the temperature for your cottons. Take extra care with synthetics since high heat can melt the plastics and cause a shiny surface. Pro tip: for even more protection, lay a pressing cloth over your low-temperature items.

5. Turn out your pockets

• Avoid pressing a pocket outline into your clothing by turning your pockets inside out before ironing over the area.

6. Navigate tricky cuffs, collars and hems by ironing the reverse side first

7. Hang-dry your clothes and let gravity take some of the load

8. Drain leftover water to avoid calc build-up

9. MAKE SURE YOU PLUG OFF THE IRON