Looking Sharp: A Guy’s Guide to Ironing

So I’ll admit it. I don’t iron. I never have, and I likely never will. As a stylist, I’m no stranger to a steamer. But, as a woman – I avoid ironing like the plague. Guys don’t get that luxury.  I can buy things that are wash and wear. Button-downs, collared shirts, slacks with pleats – I get it, you have to work a little harder to be wrinkle-free.

Now that the holidays are here (and party season is in full-swing), I thought it fitting to find out the best tips and tricks of the trade, when it comes to tackling the art of ironing.  Ryan Clark, Rowenta ambassador and creator of High Fashion Living, breaks it down for us.

Tools needed: an iron, an ironing board with a cover, and some starch spray (if you prefer!)

Plan Ahead: Start with articles or garments needing the lowest temperature and progress to those requiring the highest.  If you’re unsure, check the garment’s label. If there are no instructions, check the fabric and go by the guide on your iron (for example, cotton or linen typically uses the highest heat setting, but skip the steam).

Location, Location, Location: You can get hot and steamy in the bedroom in more ways than one. “Do your ironing in the bedroom. You’ll be able to use the bed to sort your laundry, and you’ll have hangers close at hand in the closet. This will help prevent wrinkles from forming on your newly ironed clothing,” advised Clark.

Cuffs & Collars: To prevent collars, cuffs, and hems from puckering, “iron them on the “wrong side” first. Then follow up by ironing them on the opposite side,” said Clark. “This ensures you have wrinkle-free, and straight collars and cuffs each time.”

The Dark Side: To keep from giving your darker colored clothing a sheen, turn the clothing inside out and iron the wrong side. 

Keep It Straight: Iron using straight, back and forth strokes (avoid circular movements). This can stretch out your fabrics and will shorten the life of your clothes, said Clark.

Stiffen Up: If you like a “stiffer fabric” and a crisper appearance (especially when it comes to collared shirts) don’t forget the spray starch. You simply spray each section just before you iron it, and don’t forget to skip the steam.