Dry Ironing
The most basic form of ironing, using only heat with no steam. Best for fabrics easily damaged by moisture, like silk, and for a crisp finish on items such as dress shirts.
Steam Ironing
Uses heat plus steam to relax fabric fibres, making wrinkles easier to remove. Best for heavier fabrics like cotton, linen, and denim. Technique: fill the reservoir, set the steam function, hold the iron slightly above the fabric to let steam penetrate, and iron from top to bottom to avoid creating new wrinkles.
Vertical Steaming
Applies steam directly to a hanging garment rather than pressing it flat on a board. Best for delicate fabrics like silk and velvet, and items like curtains and suits that are hard to iron flat. Technique: hang the garment, hold the steamer close without touching the fabric, and move in downward strokes.
Pressing
Involves lifting and setting the iron down on the fabric rather than sliding it back and forth, used to set seams, pleats, and creases without distorting the fabric. Best for tailored garments and sewing projects. Technique: place the iron on the fabric, hold for a few seconds, lift, and repeat across the next section — using a press cloth if needed.
Damp Ironing
The fabric is lightly dampened (sprayed or taken from the wash before fully dry) before ironing, which helps remove stubborn wrinkles more effectively. Best for heavier fabrics like cotton and linen.
Ironing With a Press Cloth
A protective cloth is placed between the iron and the fabric to prevent direct heat damage or shine, particularly on delicate or dark fabrics like wool, polyester, and silk.
Rolling (Mangle) Ironing
Passes fabric through a large heated roller, typically in commercial settings, for efficiently pressing large flat linens such as bed sheets and tablecloths in hotels or laundry services.
Understanding these different methods helps you choose the right technique for the fabric and result you need.
