Prepare everything before you begin:
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A clean iron with adjustable temperature and steam settings
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A stable ironing board
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Clean water for the iron or a light misting bottle
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A clothes hanger
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A clean shirt that is slightly damp or freshly dried
Ironing a slightly damp shirt is generally easier than trying to remove deep creases from fabric that is completely dry. If the shirt has dried fully, use the ironβs steam function or apply a very light mist of water.
Choose the correct temperature
Read the care label and begin with the lowest suitable setting. Cotton shirts can generally tolerate more heat than synthetic fibres, while polyester blends, stretch fabrics and delicate materials require greater care.
If you are uncertain, test the iron on a hidden area such as the inside of the hem. Increase the temperature gradually rather than beginning too hot. Excessive heat can cause shine, scorching or damage to synthetic fibres.
For dark or delicate fabrics, ironing on the reverse side or using a clean pressing cloth can help protect the surface.
How to iron a shirt step by step
1. Begin with the collar
Unbutton the shirt and lift the collar. Lay it flat with the underside facing upwards. Iron from the outer points towards the centre; this helps prevent excess fabric being pushed into the tips. Turn it over and repeat on the outside if the care label allows.
Finish by folding the collar back into its natural position and giving it a light press. Avoid creating an unnaturally sharp line along the fold.
2. Iron the cuffs
Unbutton each cuff and lay it flat. Press the inside first, followed by the outside. Work carefully around buttons rather than running the iron directly over them.
For double cuffs, unfold them fully before ironing. Refold only after the fabric has cooled slightly.
3. Press the sleeves
Lay one sleeve flat, aligning the seams and smoothing the fabric with your hand. Iron from the upper sleeve towards the cuff in controlled movements.
If you prefer sleeves without a visible crease, avoid pressing firmly along the outer edge. Instead, iron the centre of the sleeve, then rotate it slightly to reach the remaining fabric. Repeat on the other side.
4. Iron the shoulders and yoke
Place the shoulder section over the narrow end of the ironing board. Work around the yoke and upper back in small sections, moving the shirt as required. This is easier than trying to flatten the shaped area against the wider part of the board.
5. Iron the front panels
Lay one front panel flat. Work around the buttons with the tip of the iron, taking care not to press them. Iron the placket, then move across the fabric from the shoulder towards the hem.
Repeat on the other side. Give the pocket area a light press from the bottom upwards to avoid creating folds at its edges.
6. Finish with the back
Lay the back of the shirt across the board and smooth it carefully. Iron from the upper section down towards the hem. If the shirt has pleats, arrange them into their intended shape before pressing.
What to do immediately after ironing
Place the shirt on a hanger as soon as you finish. Fasten the top button and one or two buttons down the front to help the collar and placket hold their shape.
Allow the shirt to cool and dry completely before putting it into a crowded wardrobe. Storing fabric while it is still warm or slightly damp can encourage new creases and trap moisture.
Should shirts be hung or folded?
Hanging is usually the best option for everyday shirts because it helps preserve the collar, shoulders and freshly ironed finish. Use a hanger wide enough to support the shoulders without stretching them or leaving pronounced points.
Leave some space between garments. Compressing shirts tightly together can crease the sleeves and body, even when they were perfectly pressed beforehand.
Folding is useful when drawer space is more practical, when travelling or when storing seasonal shirts. It also suits heavier knitted or highly textured shirts that could stretch on a hanger. Always follow the individual garment guidance.
How to fold a shirt for storage
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Button the shirt and lay it face down on a clean, flat surface.
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Smooth the collar, shoulders and body.
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Fold one side towards the centre and bring the sleeve neatly down the back.
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Repeat on the other side to create a long rectangle.
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Fold the lower section upwards once or twice according to the depth of the drawer or shelf.
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Store the shirt flat without placing excessive weight on top.
Avoid forcing too many shirts into one drawer. The pressure will create deep fold lines and undo the work of ironing.
How to store shirts for longer periods
Wash and dry shirts completely before long-term storage. Marks that appear minor can become harder to remove over time, while residual moisture creates an unsuitable storage environment.
Use a clean, dry and ventilated space away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade colour, particularly when the same section of a garment remains exposed for extended periods.
Breathable garment covers are preferable to completely sealed plastic for longer storage. Avoid wire hangers, which provide little support and can distort the shoulder line.
Common ironing mistakes to avoid
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Ignoring the care label
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Starting with an iron that is too hot
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Ironing directly over buttons
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Pressing stains, which may set them into the fabric
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Putting the shirt away while it is warm or damp
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Overfilling the wardrobe immediately after ironing
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Leaving water sitting in the iron between uses if the manufacturer advises emptying it
Give each shirt the care its fabric needs
Not every shirt is designed to look sharply pressed. Denim, jersey, waffle, jacquard and textured fabrics may require a softer approach, lower heat or no direct ironing. A neat shirt should still retain the character of its fabric.
Explore Larsson & Co long-sleeve shirts and short-sleeve shirts, and always follow the care instructions supplied with the individual garment.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to iron a shirt wet or dry?
A slightly damp shirt is often easier to iron than a completely dry one. It should not be wet. Use steam or a light mist of water for stubborn creases, subject to the care label.
What order should you iron a shirt?
A reliable order is collar, cuffs, sleeves, shoulders, front panels and back. Starting with the smaller structured areas prevents you repeatedly creasing the larger sections.
Should you iron over shirt buttons?
No. Work around buttons with the tip of the iron. Direct heat can damage buttons or leave impressions in the surrounding fabric.
How do you store shirts without creasing them?
Hang them on supportive hangers with room between garments, or fold them neatly and avoid overfilling the drawer. Let shirts cool completely after ironing before storage.
Internal links to add after publication: A Guide to Shirt Fabrics if commissioned later; Building a Menβs Capsule Wardrobe.