How to use a vertical steam iron to get great results, effortlessly
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There are some who put up with the "pain" of ironing their clothes religiously, even during the torrid heat of summer; then, there are some who don't even know where the iron is kept! In what can be described as a "compromise" between these two extremes, there is the use of a vertical steam iron. Using this appliance, you can iron your clothes easily and quickly, and the amount of heat given off by it is much reduced (when compared to regular clothes irons). While the results may not be exactly the same as when you use a traditional iron, your clothes will ironed to an acceptable level using a vertical steam iron - if you do it right!
Can a vertical steam iron replace a traditional iron?
If you are wondering whether it is worth buying a vertical steam iron, the answer is probably "yes": these irons are small and compact, suitable for transporting in a suitcase, and do not need an ironing board. So, if you want a convenient and efficient alternative for removing the creases from most clothes, a vertical steam iron is for you.
That said, if you need your clothes to be ironed precisely and comprehensively (as you do for pleated clothes, for example), then a traditional iron remains unbeatable.
How to make the most of your vertical steam iron
There are different models of steam irons on the market: there are hand-held, portable, rechargeable models; then, there are those that have an extension cord which plugs into regular power sockets; other models come with a water tank that sits on the ground and the steam is delivered via a long tube/hose. But no matter the model used, the following "rules" usually apply:
- First of all, fill the tank according to the manufacturer's instructions;
- Then, turn on the iron to bring the water in the tank up to the right temperature;
- In the meantime, get some hangers and hang up the clothes you want to iron carefully. This is perhaps the most important step: use hangers that allow the garments to hang up with as few creases as possible. Avoid using wire hangers, as these will rust over time and leave rust stains on your clothes. Hang your clothes up so that they are not too close to a wall or near furniture: there must be space around the garments to allow the steam and humidity to dissipate freely. Additionally, ensure the clothes do not touch each other as you do the ironing.
- Ironing: having one hand free is very handy, as this will allow you to keep the edges of the garment taut while you're steaming it, giving a much better result. Each steam iron comes with instructions on how to use it, but it is usually recommended to hold the steam-dispensing nozzle 3-5cm from the fabric of the garments you're ironing. Start from the bottom of the garment and work upwards, being careful not to get steam on your hand (if you're holding up the garment on a hanger by hand). If you notice any creases remaining after your first pass, repeat the process;
- Allow to dry out and air: allow any residual humidity and heat to dissipate by leaving the ironed clothes on their hangers and away from the rest of the ironing. When your garments are cool and dry again, you can wear or put them away like your normally would.
We're sure you'll agree that this is a lot better than struggling with an ironing board and suffering the heat given off by a traditional iron, right?
