How you wash is how you iron

How successful your ironing goes is not only determined by yourself and the quality of your steam iron. You can make the task a little easier with what happens before: 

How you wash makes a difference to how you iron.

Crease protection

Most modern washing machines and dryers have a crease protection mode. It works in a purely mechanical way: After the washing or drying cycle is finished, the drum keeps up a periodical movement. The clothes don’t rest in the same position but are moved from time to time which prevents the development of creases. This is helpful when you can’t be around to take the laundry out immediately. The amount of shirts to iron is still the same, but it is easier to do.

Too dry is not too good

If you use a dryer or a clothesline – remember that moisture is needed for perfect ironing results. Yes, your steam iron uses steam to help you get the job done, but it is beneficial if you don’t have bone dry clothes to start with. So if your clothes need ironing, don’t let them get too dry if possible. Your subsequent ironing will be easier and will require less effort.

Use of fabric softener

Fabric softeners have a conditioner-like effect on the fibres. It prevents the individual fibres to develop too strong connections while drying, which is the reason behind the slightly hard feeling to the touch you can experience without them. As a consequence fabrics are smoother which allows the iron to glide better.