It takes about 10 minutes for an iron to get to full temperature.

It is always best to start with thecoolest temperature settingrecommended for what you are ironing.

you’ve got the option to always increase the heat but cooling an iron takes longer.

ironing board

The Spruce / Letícia Almeida

The shine effect is most noticeable on dark colors,silk, rayon, linen fabric, and acetates.

For corduroy and textured fabrics, ironing on the wrong side prevents crushing.

Repeat with the second leg and then do the front of the pants.

Person preparing an ironing board

The Spruce / Sanja Kostic

Skirts should also be ironed from the bottom to the top starting with the body of the skirt.

Then iron the waistband.

Ironing Shirts, Hems, and Collars

Shirts can be tricky because of the different pieces.

Using spray starch on a shirt

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Start by ironing each sleeve.

Place the body of the shirt flat on the ironing board and iron the front and back.

These areas, especiallycurled hem edges, will benefit from extra dampness or steam during ironing.

Ironing a shirt collar

The Spruce / Nelly Cuanalo

Do not iron over zippers, buttons, or any decorations that might melt.

Lift the iron off of the fabric immediately.

If youscorch a garment while ironing, take steps to correct the situation immediately.

Never leave a hot iron unattended or lying flat on the ironing board.

When the task is complete, always unplug the iron.

Do not wind the electrical cord around a hot iron.

Check the supply cord regularly for any damage and replace it as needed.

Additional Ironing Tips

Never iron sequins, rhinestones, velvet, or screen-printed clothing.

Choose otherwrinkle-removal methodsfor synthetic fabrics that can be harmed by excessive heat.

Yes, irons can get build-up or residue caked on the ironing plate over time leaving unsightly marks.

Wipe clean with a damp cloth.

A cool iron is the lowest temperature setting on your iron usually used for delicates.

Nylon, acetate, and delicate silk or lace fabrics require the cool setting.