How to Iron Dress Shirts
When it comes to learning how to iron dress shirts, there's a lot of information out there. It can be a little intimidating, but there's no reason to be afraid of your iron. Once you check out these simple steps for ironing at home, you'll have absolutely nothing to worry about!
This foolproof guide to ironing cotton will keep your dress shirts crisp, whether they are 100% cotton or a blended material. Our tips and tricks for ironing will help you say goodbye to wrinkles and hello to your iron!
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Project TypeLearn a Technique
Materials List
- Dress shirt
- Steam iron
- Ironing board
- Water
Instructions:
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Read the label. Make sure you know what kind of fabric your shirt is made of before you iron it so you can adjust your iron’s temperature setting accordingly.
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Ensure the iron has water in it and situate your ironing board near the closest outlet.
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Next you will iron the shirt collar. Always remove the collar stays, or they will leave a mark from ironing. First iron the underside from one point of the collar to the other. Repeat the process on the outside of the collar.
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To iron the cuffs unbutton the cuff first. Iron inside and outside the cuff for a crisp, finished look.
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Start with the side of your shirt that has buttons and carefully work the iron around the buttons. Pay special attention to the placket of the shirt (the double layers of fabric where the buttons are), as this area is most visible, especially when wearing a jacket.
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Now move the iron to the shoulder of the shirt and then iron down that shirt’s side. Move to the other side and follow the same procedure.
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Place your shirtfront on the ironing board so the back of the shirt is visible and the front and sleeves hang down on either side. If the shirt takes up more space than your board allows, then move the shirt over so half of it is on the board. Begin with the yoke (top fabric between shoulder blades) and work your way down that side first. Then shift the shirt and do the opposite side.
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Next, lay one sleeve on the ironing board. Make sure the fabric is smooth and flat before applying the iron. That includes the top and the bottom of the shirtsleeve. Some ironing boards have sleeve attachments that allow you to easily press inseams and sleeves. If your ironing board doesn’t have this feature then you can insert a rolled up towel. The best ironing boards have a sturdy frame and a well-padded cover.
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Hang up your shirt and inspect your handiwork. Enjoy a confident start to the day.
