If you have ever wondered how to iron trousers with a crease, without a crease, or without making them shiny, then this page will really help you out. In this article we will take you through the top tips to help making trousers a simple and easy thing to do.
Now it is worth knowing from the start that trousers are made from many fabrics. Some people also call jeans trousers and we want to avoid any confusion. We will include a separate article on how to iron jeans. In this article we are talking about trousers such as cotton, polyester or a mix of a both. In other parts of the world such as the USA and Canada, trousers are often referred to as pants.
Well-ironed trousers contribute significantly to a polished and professional appearance. Whether you're heading to the office, a business meeting, or a formal event, neat trousers create a positive first impression. Regular ironing helps maintain the integrity of the fabric by preventing wrinkles and creases from setting in. This is particularly important for high-quality fabrics that can lose their luster and structure without proper care.
Properly pressed trousers ensure a comfortable fit, allowing for ease of movement throughout the day. Ironing plays a key role in maintaining the tailored look of trousers. It ensures that pleats, creases, and hems are well-defined, contributing to a well-fitted and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
What options are available for ironing trousers?
When it comes to ironing trousers there is more than one option. We have listed those just below:
- The steam iron
- The steam generator iron
- Garment steamer (handheld or professional)
- The trouser press
- The steam press
So as you can see there are some choices available. For the vast majority of people in the UK, the steam iron is going to be the most popular choice. Let's start with this option.
1. Using a steam iron
Most UK homes own a steam iron and it remains the most popular choice for ironing trousers. Trousers and jeans can be a real pain to do. This is especially true if you are attempting these for the first time.
Always check and see the label on trousers as you can then find out what material they are made of. That way you can adjust the temperature on your iron to suit the fabric. Take the time to make sure legs are perfectly matched to avoid the horrible sight of double creasing on formal, dress or suit trousers. Casual trousers should not have a crease and these are much easier to iron.
Features and Benefits
- Variable Steam Settings - Steam irons come with adjustable steam settings, allowing you to tailor the steam output based on the fabric type. This versatility ensures the best results for different materials.
- Precision Tip - Many steam irons are designed with a precision tip, facilitating easy access to tricky areas such as seams, buttons, and pockets.
- Vertical Steaming - The ability to steam vertically makes steam irons versatile for both traditional ironing and refreshing garments on hangers, making them ideal for quick touch-ups.
- Automatic Shut-Off - Modern steam irons often include safety features like automatic shut-off, preventing accidents if the iron is left unattended for a specific period.
Step by step guide for ironing trousers
- Use distilled water to fill the steam iron's water reservoir. Refer to the iron's user manual for the recommended water level.
- Set the steam intensity based on the fabric of your trousers. Higher settings for cotton and linen, lower settings for delicate fabrics. Always check the garment care label.
- Allow the iron to heat up to the desired temperature. Wait for the indicator light to signal that the iron is ready for use.
- Group trousers based on fabric type to ensure you use the appropriate heat and steam settings for each pair.
- Start ironing from the waistband, working your way down the trousers. Smooth out wrinkles with the iron's soleplate, applying gentle pressure.
- For stubborn wrinkles, use the steam burst function by pressing the designated button. Hold the iron slightly above the fabric to allow steam to penetrate effectively.
- Use the precision tip for detailing areas such as pleats, seams, and pockets. This ensures a thorough and efficient ironing process.
2. Using a steam generator iron
There is no difference in the method used and it follows the same rules as a steam iron. Steam generator irons simply produce more steam at a higher pressure and get the job done faster. You still follow the same rules as the steam iron method shown above.
Advantages over Standard Steam Iron
- Continuous Steam Output - Steam generator irons typically provide a higher and continuous steam output compared to standard steam irons, making them efficient for large laundry loads.
- Separate Water Tank - The separate water tank in steam generator irons allows for a larger water capacity, reducing the frequency of refills during ironing sessions.
- Reduced Wrist Fatigue - The lightweight iron connected to the base unit by a flexible hose minimises wrist fatigue during extended ironing sessions.
Step by step guide for ironing trousers
- Fill the larger, separate water tank of the steam generator iron with distilled water. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for the recommended water level.
- Connect the iron to the base unit using the provided hose. The separate base unit ensures a continuous and powerful steam supply.
- Switch on the steam generator and allow it to reach the desired temperature. Most models have indicator lights to signal when they are ready for use.
- Set the steam intensity based on the fabric of your trousers. Refer to the garment care label for guidance.
- Begin ironing at the waistband and work your way down. The continuous steam output and powerful pressure make the ironing process efficient for larger fabric surfaces.
- Take advantage of the precision tip for detailed areas such as pleats, seams, and pockets. The flexible hose provides easy maneuverability for precise ironing.
3. Using a garment steamer
Garment steamers, also known as clothes steamers are now becoming very popular. The one shown in the video above is a professional steamer, also known as a vertical steamer. There are however handheld steamers that are much cheaper and can do a similar job. As you can see the trousers are hung up and then steamed to remove wrinkles.
Garment steamers are not good at creating sharp creases in formal type trousers. To achieve those will require a steam iron.
Ideal Situations for Garment Steamers
- Delicate Fabrics - Garment steamers are perfect for delicate fabrics such as silk and chiffon, where direct contact with a hot iron might cause damage.
- Quick Touch-Ups - Ideal for refreshing and removing wrinkles from trousers quickly, garment steamers are especially handy for last-minute touch-ups before heading out.
Step-by-Step Guide to Steaming Trousers
- Hang trousers on a hanger or a garment steamer board, allowing you easy access to all parts of the garment.
- Allow the garment steamer to heat up before use. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended preheating time.
- Start steaming at the top of the trousers and work your way down. Use smooth, continuous strokes to remove wrinkles effectively.
- Some garment steamers come with a protective glove. Use it to hold the fabric taut and protect your hand from steam.
- After steaming, allow the trousers to air dry for a few minutes to ensure the fabric sets properly and any residual moisture evaporates.
Specialised Equipment
4. Using a trouser press
One of the best ways of ironing trousers is to use a trouser press. This is the type of item that you may find in hotel rooms. Unfortunately they are expensive enough. They cost around £80-150 depending on which type or brand that you want to buy.
These usually come with a timed setting. You place the trousers inside and then allow the timer to do the work while you get on with doing something else. They are thermostatically controlled, and you can buy them as either wall mounted, or as a free standing option.
These can quickly remove those wrinkled areas from the backs of the knee. You can also adjust them if you have turn-ups on your trousers. Typically they also come with a jacket hanger to help keep a suit for example in one place. Most people who use these will put the trousers in after work, or before they go to bed. They then hit the timer, and leave them there, ready to go to work in the morning.
The heating elements within the press generate heat to penetrate the fabric, helping to eliminate wrinkles and create sharp creases. Many trouser presses come with adjustable settings for temperature and pressing duration, allowing users to tailor the process to different fabric types.
Trouser presses are known for their quick operation, making them an efficient tool for those who need perfectly pressed trousers in minimal time. The clamping system and controlled heat application ensure professional-looking results, with well-defined creases and a polished appearance.
The design of trouser presses minimizes the risk of fabric damage, making them suitable for delicate materials that may be more susceptible to heat.
5. Using a steam press
We love the steam press and they are great for getting ironing done really quickly. Using these to iron trousers does take a little practise and you will need to use the steam iron to do the upper part of the trousers. The steam press is very good for adding sharp creases very quickly.
Steam ironing presses like Speedypress are equipped with a large ironing surface, accommodating more extensive fabric areas for efficient ironing. These presses boast a powerful steam output, ensuring that steam penetrates through layers of fabric, resulting in crisp, wrinkle-free trousers.
Speedypress and similar models often feature multiple temperature settings, catering to a variety of fabric types and ensuring safe ironing. They also have built-in safety features, such as auto shut-off and safety locks, which enhance user safety during operation.
Efficient Trousers Ironing with a Steam Ironing Press
- Lay the trousers evenly on the large ironing surface, ensuring they are aligned with the desired crease lines.
- Select the appropriate temperature and steam settings based on the fabric type. Consult the garment care label for guidance.
- Lower the press onto the trousers, ensuring the fabric is evenly distributed across the ironing surface. The clamping mechanism holds the trousers in place.
- Wait for the steam to penetrate the fabric, effectively removing wrinkles and creating sharp creases. The large surface area allows for efficient ironing in one pass.
- Lift the press and inspect the trousers for desired results. If needed, repeat the process for specific areas that require additional attention.
- Once ironed, fold the trousers neatly to maintain the freshly pressed appearance. Store them appropriately to prevent wrinkles.
By using tools like trouser presses and steam ironing presses, you can achieve perfectly pressed trousers in a streamlined and efficient process, offering professional results with minimal effort.
Step by Step Guide
List of Steps
Step 1 - Fabric Type
Determine the fabric of your trousers as different materials may require specific ironing techniques and heat settings. Consider the sensitivity of the fabric to heat. Delicate fabrics may require lower heat settings to avoid damage. Always check the care labels on your trousers for specific instructions regarding ironing temperature, steam usage, and any fabric-specific recommendations. Adhere to any specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer to ensure proper care and avoid potential damage.
Step 2 - Setup
Set the ironing board to a comfortable height that allows you to maintain good posture during ironing. Ensure the ironing board provides a stable surface for effective ironing. Position your ironing board in a well-lit area to clearly see wrinkles and creases, ensuring thorough and precise ironing.
Step 3 - Creases and Pleats
Ensure trouser seams are well-aligned before ironing to create a straight and professional crease. Apply steam to the crease area before ironing to enhance the definition of the crease. Use a steam iron or a garment steamer for this purpose.
Lay pleated trousers flat on the ironing board to ensure each pleat is properly pressed. Iron over pleats gently to avoid flattening them excessively while still achieving a smooth appearance.
Step 4 - Trouser Press and Steam Ironing Press
Place trousers in the trouser press, ensuring they are flat and well-positioned within the clamping system. Adjust the temperature and pressing duration based on the fabric type. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines for the best settings.
After using the trouser press or steam ironing press, inspect the trousers for even creases and a polished appearance.
Common Problems
- Uneven Creases - Ensure consistent pressure and movement while ironing to create even creases. Avoid pressing too hard or too lightly in different areas. Apply steam to the crease area before ironing. The moisture helps relax the fabric, making it easier to form uniform creases.
- Creases Not Holding - Some fabrics may have difficulty holding creases. Consider using a fabric spray or starch to improve crease retention. If the fabric allows, increase the iron temperature slightly to help set the creases more effectively.
- Burn Marks - If you notice burn marks, lower the iron temperature. Check the garment care label to ensure you're using the appropriate heat setting for the fabric. Place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the fabric to act as a barrier, preventing direct contact and reducing the risk of burn marks.
- Wrinkles after ironing - Check the water level in your steam iron or generator. Refill if necessary to ensure a continuous steam supply. Clear any clogs in the steam vents that may be restricting the steam flow. Refer to the user manual for instructions on cleaning.
- Improper drying - Make sure the trousers have ample time to air dry after ironing. Folding or wearing them immediately can lead to new wrinkles. Hang trousers on hangers after ironing to maintain a smooth appearance. Avoid stacking freshly ironed items.
- Ironing technique - Ensure you're applying consistent pressure while ironing. Uneven pressure may result in wrinkles, especially on larger fabric surfaces. For minor wrinkles, use a burst of steam from your iron or a garment steamer to quickly refresh the fabric.
Trouser Ironing FAQ
Q. How to iron trousers without creating a shine?
When you iron trouser legs, you should never places a hot steam iron soleplate directly on to the fabric of the trousers. This is very important especially if you are trying to make a sharp single crease line. Doing that repeatedly will cause a shine to develop on the trousers which never looks good.
You can use a protective mesh cloth like the one shown to the left, or a tea towel to place over the trousers before setting the iron on top of them. That stops the very hot soleplate from scorching any delicate fabrics.
Q. What materials are trousers made from?
The majority of trousers for men are made from cotton. Linen is used for making lighter summer trousers and wool is used for more formal and suit trousers. You can also buy corduroy, acrylic, cashmere, polyester, leather, silk, viscose and even fur pants. Jeans remain the most popular in the UK.
In terms of styles there are formal or suit trousers, pleated trousers, twill chinos, cargo trousers, cropped trousers, tracksuit bottoms, and jogging pants.
For women the materials are pretty much the same as they are for men, with linen and cotton being the most popular. They styles do vary from suit trousers, chino trousers, bootleg, high waist, cropped, leggings, yoga pants, culottes and denim.
Always check the label as these should contain washing, drying and ironing recommendations.
Q. Crease or no crease in trousers?
In reality, only formal dress trousers, suit trousers or military clothing should have a crease down each leg. The rest of the trousers are classed as casual and usually don't have a crease. The choice is always personal though.
