Q&A for How to Use an Iron

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  • Question
    Is it better to use an iron or a steamer?
    Susan Stocker
    Susan Stocker
    Professional Cleaner
    Susan Stocker runs and owns Susan’s Green Cleaning, the #1 Green Cleaning Company in Seattle. She is well known in the region for outstanding customer service protocols — winning the 2017 Better Business Torch Award for Ethics & Integrity —and her energetic support of green cleaning practices.
    Susan Stocker
    Professional Cleaner
    Expert Answer
    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.
  • Question
    What hand do I use?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Use your dominant hand (the hand you write with), or whichever feels more stable or comfortable.
  • Question
    Should I put hot or cold water in the iron?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    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.
  • Question
    What do I do if my iron isn't working?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    See if you can diagnose why it s not working. If you can't, you may need to buy a new one.
  • Question
    Do I have to add water to a steam iron?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    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.
  • Question
    What setting should I use to iron polyester?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Medium or synthetics setting, and have the item slightly damp. You can use the spray option on your iron if you have one.
  • Question
    What should I do if my dominant hand gets tired while ironing?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    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.
  • Question
    Why should I always check the iron dial setting?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    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.
  • Question
    What is cool ironing?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    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.
  • Question
    Should I put water in before ironing my clothes?
    Nathan Dieck
    Nathan Dieck
    Community Answer
    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.
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