How To Iron Corduroy? The Golden Rule Inside Out
Before you even plug in your iron, remember the single most important step: always turn the corduroy garment inside out. This is non-negotiable.
“Ironing corduroy inside out protects the delicate ribs on the fabric’s surface from being flattened by the direct pressure and heat of the iron. Once those wales are crushed, the damage is almost always permanent,” notes Sarah James, a veteran tailor with over 20 years of experience.
Ironing the reverse side allows you to smooth out wrinkles from the base of the fabric without ever touching the prized texture on the front.
Step-by-Step Guide to a Perfectly Pressed Corduroy
Follow these steps for flawless results every time.
Step 1: Preparation is Key
- Check the Care Label: Always start here. The manufacturer’s instructions are your best guide for temperature and washing.
- Dampen the Fabric: Ironing corduroy is most effective when the fabric is slightly damp. You have two options:
- Lightly mist the inside-out garment with a spray bottle filled with water.
- Use a steam iron on an appropriate setting as you go.
- Set Up Your Ironing Board: Ensure your ironing board cover is clean to avoid transferring any dirt or stains.
Step 2: Configure Your Iron Correctly
This is where precision matters. Using too high a heat setting is the most common mistake.
- Heat Setting: Set your iron to a low to medium heat. If your iron has fabric settings, the “Synthetic” or “Wool” setting is usually safe. Never use the “Linen” or “Cotton” high-heat setting.
- Steam: Ensure your iron’s steam function is on. Steam is your best friend for relaxing wrinkles in corduroy.
- No Steam? Use a Pressing Cloth: If your iron doesn’t have a steam function, place a thin, damp pressing cloth (a clean tea towel or pillowcase will work) between the iron and the inside-out fabric. This creates a similar steaming effect.
Step 3: The Ironing Technique – Press, Don’t Glide
Forget the back-and-forth motion you use on a cotton shirt.
- Use a “Press and Lift” motion. Place the iron down on a section, hold it for a few seconds to let the steam penetrate, and then lift it straight up.
- Move to the next section and repeat. This focused pressure and steam will erase wrinkles without distorting or flattening the wale.
- Pay Attention to Seams and Pockets: Iron around these areas carefully. You may need to use the tip of the iron to press up to the seams without creating creases on the raised sections.
Step 4: The Final Touch – Let it Rest
Once you’ve pressed the entire garment, turn it right-side-out and hang it on a padded hanger immediately. This allows any residual moisture to evaporate and lets the fabric settle, ensuring a crisp, clean finish.
Corduroy Wale Comparison: Ironing Different Types
Not all corduroy is created equal. The size of the wale (the cord) affects the fabric’s weight and requires slight adjustments in care.
The following table compares the main types of corduroy wale:
| Wale Type | Description (Ribs per Inch) | Common Uses | Ironing Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine-Wale | 11+ ribs per inch | Delicate shirts, dresses, tailored pants | Most prone to crushing. Be extra diligent with low heat and the inside-out method. |
| Medium-Wale | 8-11 ribs per inch | Jackets, skirts, standard pants | The most common type. Follow standard guidelines for perfect results. |
| Wide-Wale | 3-7 ribs per inch | Heavy-duty jackets, upholstery, workwear | More durable but can still be damaged. The grooves are deeper, so ensure steam penetrates fully. |
| Pinwale | 14+ ribs per inch | Very fine, often in shirts and blouses | Treat with the utmost care. A pressing cloth is highly recommended even when ironing inside out. |
Pro Tips and Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- The Velvet Hack: If your corduroy is velvety and has a noticeable nap (a direction in which the fibers lay), iron in the direction of the nap for a richer, deeper color. You can feel this by stroking the fabric; one direction will feel smoother.
- Never Iron Over Stains: Heat will set stains permanently. Always treat and remove stains before ironing.
- Beware of the Shine: If you see a shiny patch developing, you’ve used too much heat and/or pressure. Unfortunately, this damage is usually irreversible.
- The Steamy Bathroom Trick: For minor wrinkles, hang your corduroy garment in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. The steam can help release wrinkles without needing an iron at all.
“When in doubt, err on the side of less heat. You can always press a section again with a bit more steam, but you can’t undo the damage from a too-hot iron,” advises James.
Conclusion
Ironing corduroy doesn’t have to be a high-stakes task. By embracing the core principles of turning the garment inside out, using low heat with plenty of steam, and employing a press-and-lift motion, you can confidently maintain the distinct texture and sophisticated look of your corduroy pieces. Treat it with care, and this timeless fabric will be a durable and stylish part of your wardrobe for many seasons to come.
