eremedies

Ironing like a pro

Getting wrinkles out can be time-consuming and frustrating if you don't know how to do it like the pros do. This should help:

* Get a good iron and an iron board to the right height. You'll want one you can stand or sit in front of, with the proper padding and adjustments.

* Use the right setting for the right cloth. Check the setting - if it's too low, it'll never get ironed, and if it's too high - well you know the danger! Wait until the iron's had time to heat up (don't check with your hand!)

* Use the steam when needed, press the iron down and move it vertically towards the pointed side. Don't go horizontally. Hold the edges of the cloth so you don't create new wrinkles.

* Whenever possible, iron only one layer at a time. So open up shirts and collars, and slip sleeves and legs onto the pointed end of the board. You can rotate the cloth around that end and iron without creases. If you need a crease, come back and line up the cloth and press the edges down.

* Hang your ironed clothes, at least at first. They're still hot and can crease now. Use a spray starch if you need to. Once the cloth is cool, fold it carefully or leave it hanging, which is best. Don't stuff folded clothes in the drawer - they'll wrinkle all over again!