How to Iron a Shirt: The Ultimate Guide
When it comes to the ability to (correctly) iron a shirt, most men tend to either fall into one of two categories:
1. You learnt as a teenager and have been ironing your own shirts ever since
2. It’s a task that you avoid like a neighbour in the supermarket, or delegate to someone else.
If you fall into the second category, we’re here to help. And listen, we get it - knowing how to properly iron a shirt isn’t exactly a survival skill. That said, it’s one of those essential life skills that every man should master: not only does a crisp, well-ironed shirt make you look more polished and put-together, but it can also boost your confidence and help you make a great first impression in any situation. Also, if your partner is currently in charge of ironing your shirts, learning to do it yourself can materially improve your relationship. Just trust us on this.
So, let’s take you through the steps to ironing a shirt like a pro, so you can elevate your style with minimal effort.
Gather Your Tools
Before you start ironing, make sure you have all the necessary tools on hand. You'll need an ironing board, an iron (preferably with adjustable temperature settings), a spray bottle filled with clean water, and a hanger for your freshly ironed shirt. It's also a good idea to have a pressing cloth nearby to protect delicate fabrics or prevent shine on darker garments.
Check the Care Label
PRO TIP! Always check the care label on your shirt before ironing! As a general rule, natural fabrics like cotton and linen can withstand higher temperatures, while synthetic materials like polyester require a lower heat setting. Adjust your iron accordingly to prevent damage or shine - many good shirts have been ruined by improper ironing, so always read the label - it’s there for a reason, after all.
Start with the Collar
Begin by ironing the collar, as this tends to be the most visible part of the shirt. Lay the collar flat on the ironing board, with the underside facing up. Press the iron firmly along the length of the collar, moving from the center outward. Flip the collar over and repeat on the other side. For a crisp, sharp collar, gently fold it down and press along the edge with the tip of the iron.
Move on to the Cuffs
Next, tackle the cuffs. Unbutton them and lay them flat on the ironing board, with the inside facing up. Press the iron along the length of each cuff, making sure to smooth out any wrinkles or creases. Flip the cuffs over and repeat on the other side. If your shirt has French cuffs, fold them back and press the edges for a neat finish.
Iron the Front and Back
With the collar and cuffs done, it's time to iron the body of the shirt. Start with the front, laying it flat on the ironing board, then begin at the shoulder and work your way down, using long, smooth strokes of the iron. Pay extra attention to the placket (this is the front panel with the buttons and buttonholes), as this area tends to wrinkle easily. If your shirt has a pocket, iron it from the inside out to avoid creating a visible outline.
Then, you’ll want to flip the shirt over and repeat the process on the back. Make sure to smooth out any wrinkles or creases around the yoke (the upper part of the back) as well as the pleats or darts, if your shirt has them.
Tackle the Sleeves
Now onto one of the tricker parts, aka the sleeves. Start by laying a sleeve flat on the ironing board, with the seam aligned with the board's edge. Smooth out any wrinkles with your hand, then press the iron along the length of the sleeve, moving from the shoulder to the cuff. Flip the sleeve over and repeat on the other side.
For a crisp finish, fold the sleeve in half lengthwise, aligning the seams and press the iron along the fold to create a sharp crease. Repeat the process with the other sleeve, and you’re finished!
Hang and Admire Your Work!
Once you've finished ironing, immediately hang your shirt on a hanger to prevent new wrinkles from forming. Button the top button to keep the collar in place, and smooth out any remaining creases with your hands. Now, you can step back and admire your handiwork – a perfectly ironed shirt that's ready to impress!
Invest in Quality Shirts
Final tip: while knowing how to iron a shirt is important, investing in high-quality shirts for men can make the process much easier. Well-made shirts constructed from premium fabrics are less prone to wrinkling and often require less ironing overall, so look for shirts (like ours) that are made with natural fibres - these tend to offer the best combination of comfort, durability, and wrinkle resistance.
And there you have it! With a little practice and patience, you'll soon be ironing your shirts like a pro, and enjoying the benefits of a crisp, polished look every day. You’re welcome!