Q&A for How to Use an Iron

Honestly, it depends. Ironing is the best option if you want tight creases and sharp lines, but it requires more care and skill. Steaming is quick and easy, being ideal for blouses and jackets.

Use your dominant hand (the hand you write with), or whichever feels more stable or comfortable.

You should only use filtered or distilled water, which can be at room temperature (or hot or cold). The iron will heat the reservoir to generate steam.

See if you can diagnose why it s not working. If you can't, you may need to buy a new one.

If you have a steam iron, adding water is recommended. Tap water works fine but distilled water is best because it won't add minerals that could eventually clog it up. Read the manufacturer's instructions for how to add the water and when.

Medium or synthetics setting, and have the item slightly damp. You can use the spray option on your iron if you have one.

Rest the iron standing upright on the board; do not leave it in direct contact with the garment. Shake out your dominant hand and switch to your other hand, if need be.

If you are careless, you might damage the fabric. It's much more efficient to use the correct dial. Start with low heat fabrics like silk. Then do cotton.

This refers to the approach for delicate fabrics that need a touch up but will melt if you used a hot iron. Once you have set the iron to cool, then iron the same as you would anything else.

Make sure you're using an iron with a steam setting. Simply fill the reservoir before each use and pour out whatever doesn't get used. Empty the water reservoir between uses of the iron to ensure a build-up of calcium doesn't clog up the steam vents. Be careful as this water may be warm. Irons are dangerous when misused. Just respect it and pay attention to one thing at a time.