Sometimes, a little steam is all it takes to get creases out of a garment no pressing required. But you can use them to steam vertically. Like their conventional cohorts, vertical irons allow you to steam horizontally as you iron. These are a more “modern” take on the traditional steam iron. Of course, you’ll want to keep yourself out of the hot vapor’s path. It’s just a matter of getting used to them if you’re not accustomed to appliances releasing puffs of steam. Just release the vapor, and apply the iron to the fabric.Īnother plus, you may be able to snare a steam iron that has the aforementioned helpful features like a retractable cord and automatic shut-off. The iron is equipped with a little tank that holds water for the steam. They’re definitely a step up from the basic variety. Steam irons are the most widely-available.
You’ll probably also be hard-pressed to find one with a retractable cord, so they don’t store as conveniently as the higher-end models. Plus, a basic iron usually won’t shut off automatically, so make sure you turn it off when you’re done. Without enough liquid to help the process along, the iron – and therefore also my clothes – could be prone to scorching. When I had mine, I found I had to be generous with the water or starch. But you’ll need some accessories, like a spray bottle of water or starch, to get the most out of this no-frills tool. Well, they say you get what you pay for, and that’s the case with this kind of iron. When I was a struggling college student, I snagged one for about five bucks. It’s a good go-to if you’re looking for something cheap. It consists of a metal plate for pressing and a dial for temperature-adjustment. Related: Best Clothes Iron | Best Ironing Board | Ironing Board Alternatives | Small Ironing Boards Types of Clothes Irons Basic Clothes IronsĪ basic clothes iron (also known as a dry iron) has nothing in the way of extra features. This article will iron out (pun intended) any confusion you might have about pressing your clothes at home. Your task will be much easier with the right appliance. Ironing is something most of us have to do at some point. The Chicago Tribune reports that 99% of US households own an iron, and about 14 million of the devices are sold in the country every year. Ironing clothes is more of a “thing” than you might realize. Or, when all else fails, smoothing the fabric with your hands and putting it on, hoping the creases will work themselves out. Turning the shower to its hottest setting and hanging the clothes in the steamy bathroom. Throwing them in for an extra spin in the dryer.
If you’re like me, you’ll try every stopgap solution to avoid pressing them. We take clean clothes out of the laundry only to find them wrinkled. Learn about different types of irons and how to choose the right one.įor most of us, it’s a dreaded chore. Having the right kind can make your task much easier. Clothes irons have come a long way since then. People have been enduring it since ancient times. If ironing isn't your favorite chore, you're not alone.