Knowing textiles

Steam garments without touching them with the iron and without stretching them. Iron bouclé wool from the reverse and without pressure to keep it soft.

Iron from the reverse to avoid flattening, then turn the right way out and steam the outside without touching with the iron.

Cotton, iron bright or dark coloured items from the reverse to avoid fading and ironing marks.

With knitted garments, it is important not to stretch the fibres. Iron along the length of the garment.

If the garment is made of polyester, not a natural fibre, check the label before setting the temperature.

Start ironing when the fabric is very damp and continue until it's dry. A burst of spray starch after ironing helps keep linen stiff.

Cover with a cloth and at a very low temperature. Alternatevely, for a stiffer feel, iron inside out while still wet.