Can You Iron Corduroy?
How to Iron Corduroy
What's a Myth, what's a best practice, everything you need to know.
Since the 18th century corduroy fabric has been a huge staple in the fashion world for decades, offering a unique texture and a timeless appeal. However, when it comes to taking care of corduroy clothing, questions arise about the best ways for maintenance. One very frequently asked question is whether or not it is safe to iron corduroy. In this post, we will debunk the myths and provide you with the most up to date tips to help you keep your corduroy clothing looking impeccable.
Understanding Corduroy Fabric:
Before we dive head first into the specifics of ironing corduroy, let's first understand what makes this fabric unique. Corduroy is a very durable and ribbed fabric that is normally made from cotton or some sort of cotton-blend. It is characterized by its vertical ridges or "cords" that give it a unique appearance and texture. These ridges are created by the filling yarns, which are woven into the fabric to form the raised parallel lines.
The Ironing Myth:
There is a common misunderstanding that corduroy should never be ironed due to the risk of damaging the fabric. However, this belief is not completely accurate. Corduroy can indeed be ironed, but it requires a bit more special care than normal to prevent flattening the cords or leaving shiny marks on the fabric.
Tips/tricks for Ironing Corduroy:
- Always test with Low Heat: Before ironing the entire fabric, it's crucial to test a small area first. Set your iron to the lowest heat setting and press the iron onto the fabric gently for a few seconds. Check for any negative effects, such as shine or any damage to the cords. If the test area is good to go, you can advance with ironing the rest of the garment.
- Use a Pressing Cloth: To protect the delicate cords of your corduroy item, place a pressing cloth, such as a thin cotton fabric, between the iron and the corduroy garment. This will help distribute the heat evenly and prevent direct contact between the iron and the fabric.
- Iron on the Reverse Side: To further protect the texture of the fabric, it is recommended to iron corduroy garments on the reverse side. This will help maintain the distinctive ridges while allowing you to smooth out any unwanted wrinkles or creases.
- Avoid Pressing to Hard: When ironing corduroy, it's a must you apply gentle pressure rather than pressing down forcefully. Excessive pressure can lead to negative effects such as flattening the cords, causing them to lose their unique look. Move the iron slowly and smoothly over the fabric to avoid applying too much pressure in one specific spot.
- STEAM STEAM STEAM: Another effective way to revive your corduroy and get rid of any wrinkles is by using a steamer. Hang the corduroy garment on a hanger and hold the steamer a few inches away from the fabric. Gently pass the steamer over the garment, allowing the steam to penetrate the fibers and relax the wrinkles.
- The On The Go Shower Steam: If you are traveling and don't have a steamer handy, don't freak out. Turn the shower on high heat water and hang the shirt on a hanger in your bathroom. This is most effective by placing a damp towel under the door to keep an as much steam as possible.
That is All She Wrote - The Corduroy Conclusion:
Contrary to normal popular belief, corduroy can be ironed when done correctly. By following these easy tips, you can safely & effectively remove wrinkles from your corduroy garments without compromising any of the unique texture. Remember to always test a small area, use a pressing cloth, iron on the reverse side, apply gentle pressure, or have a steamer handy to maintain the appearance and longevity of your corduroy clothing. With proper care, your favorite corduroy pieces will continue to look top notch, stylish as ever and feel comfortable for years to come.
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