Definition

• Ironing is smoothing out clothes with the use of a heated tool. The heated tool loosens the bonds between the long chain polymer molecules, and the weight of the tool helps straighten out the fabric.
  
  

Settings

• Always read the label on your clothing before ironing and adjust your iron to the type of fabric you are ironing. The most basic irons have different settings based on the fabric you are ironing. For synthetic fabrics such as polyester and rayon, you should use the lowest setting. Synthetic fabrics tend not to need ironing unless neglected for some time. When ironing silks or similar materials, you should choose the setting below synthetics, but it is recommended that you place a towel or fabric over your silks to protect the material from possible burns. For cotton wools and linens, choose the highest setting on your iron. It's recommended that you spray your fabric with water or starch to help with the stubborn wrinkles and creases. For delicate fabrics, you can use a steam iron. Simply hold it slightly above the fabric and steam it; this is also a quick and easy way to freshen clothes.
  
  

Helpful Hints

• When you iron certain fabrics such as pleated skirts or suits, there are ways to go about doing it. When ironing a pleated skirt, try using paper clips to hold your pleats in place. When ironing cuffs, collars or hems, try ironing on the wrong side first. This will help with puckering and make them look crisp and neat. To restore chintz back to its shinny texture, try ironing the fabric right-side down on wax paper. To iron a tie, place a piece of cardboard the same size as the tie on the inside and place a piece of cheesecloth on top. Use a steam iron and press lightly on the tie.
  
  

Features

• Irons have come a long way since the primitive tailor's stove. The key to getting the most out of your iron and your fabrics is to choose the right type of iron. There are many features and bells and whistles you can get with your iron to make the job easier and more effective. Make sure your iron has an anti-calcium filter, auto-shut off, cool mist, steam, stainless steel and non-stick surface. The anti-calcium feature helps prevent mineral buildup, and if your iron has auto-clean this usually does the same thing. Auto-shut off is an important feature all irons should have. In case you are in a hurry and forget to turn off your iron, auto-shut off will turn off the iron after a certain amount of time. Cool mist helps with tougher fabrics such as denim to help with stubborn wrinkles. The steam feature helps with tough wrinkles, and on some advanced irons it can get wrinkles out of drapes and clothes while they are hanging. Stainless steel and non-stick features help against scratches and residue buildup.
  
  

Warnings

• Always follow the directions on the labels of your clothes before you iron. If you have a pile of clothes to iron, it's best to iron the delicates first so you don't burn your clothes. It's best to buy an iron with an auto-shut off feature, but if you have an iron without this feature always make sure you shut off and unplug your iron. Ironing causes many fires and burns.