How to use your iron safely!

Favourite t-shirt looking a bit wrinkled and shabby? Chinos carrying a few too many creases? It's probably time to dig out the ironing board and get them back to looking their best!

In your flat you'll have access to an ironing board and iron so here are a few essential steps that will help you get started.

Step 1 - Preparation

Due to fire regulations, ironing should only be carried out in the communal kitchen area so grab the ironing board and set it up in there. Top Tip: If your flatmate is having fried onions, boiled cabbage or eggs for dinner, it may be best to wait until the air has cleared before commencing!

Once set up, make sure that your ironing board is stable and located close to a power socket so that the cable doesn't end up being overstretched. You'll also want to ensure that the board isn't going to create an obstruction or cause a trip hazard.

As with all your electrical appliances, it is always good practice to carry out a quick visual inspection of your iron before you use it. If you notice any obvious damage to the iron, the cable or the plug then request a new one.

If you are going to be using the steam setting on your iron then fill the iron with water while the unit is still switched off and unplugged.

Step 2 - Ironing

Preparation is complete, what's next? Place the iron on the iron rest then plug into nearest socket to where you are working, making sure that that the cable won't get caught under your iron or create a trip hazard for you or a flatmate.

Check the laundry care labels on the items that you are about to iron so that you select the appropriate temperature setting on the iron. Different fabrics respond differently to heat so whilst your denims will be absolutely fine with a high temperature for instance, those silk pyjamas will need something a little cooler to avoid melting! For more info on ironing and fabrics, check out the brilliant Pressed Not Stressed Guide.

When the iron is heated and ready, you're good to get underway. Now, this may seem fairly self evident but hot metal, water and steam can cause some real nasty burns so take care not to touch the metal plate when you're using the iron or immediately after!

If you'd like more information on the actual technique of ironing, including different clothing types and when to use a damp cloth, WikiHow's How to Iron: 14 Steps is useful resource to help you get started. 

Step 3 - Job Done!

When you have finished your ironing, turn off the iron and allow it to stand a cool before you store it and the ironing board away again.