Should you iron clothes inside out? Experts unanimously agree this is the best way to keep clothes looking like new
This is the best way to preserve the appearance of your garments


Although ironing is a task many of us despise, if we're to do it, we may as well ensure we're doing it the most efficient way possible for the best results. As such, this may beg the question: should you iron your clothes inside out?
Whether we like it or not, the best steam irons can only take us so far in leaving our clothes crease-free and neatly pressed because ultimately, technique is what will really change the game. As well as being sure to keep clear of falling foul to common clothes ironing mistakes, clueing yourself up on the best ways to keep your garments in tip-top shape is also highly recommended.
That said, yes, for most clothes, it's best to iron them inside out to maintain their original shape and appearance.
Why you should iron clothes inside out
'Ironing your clothes inside out is a wise decision given the number of delicate materials our clothes can have,' begins Thea Whyte, small appliances expert at AO.com. 'When you iron your clothes this way, it can help to prevent shine marks from developing in fabrics like silk, along with protecting delicate fabrics like satin or polyester from suffering damage via heat.'
However, this isn't to say that it's compulsory to iron all your clothes inside out but rather a nice thing to do and an extra safety precaution. 'This extra care and attention is especially important for preserving the integrity of delicate fabrics, and items with prints, embroidery or embellishments,' adds Henrique Conceicao, area manager at Total Clean.
'By ironing clothes inside out, it can prevent the iron from touching any buttons, zippers or other elements that could potentially snag the fabric or be damaged by the heat,' he continues.
Should you decide to employ this expert-approved ironing tip on all of your clothes, Thea assures that doing so will 'add an extra layer of protection and help to preserve each piece of clothing's unique features.' Not only that, but your clothes will also stay more vibrant for longer.
'I've found that this method can extend the lifespan of your clothing by minimising wear-and-tear during the ironing process,' further assures Henrique.
Alternative methods
Alternatively, if you're afraid of causing damage to more delicate garments of clothing, Petya Holevich, Fantastic Services' domestic cleaning expert advises steaming your clothes instead of ironing with the use of one of the best clothes steamers on the market.
'Steaming is a gentle and effective method to remove wrinkles, particularly for delicate fabrics and it can be safer for them than ironing. If you're worried about damaging your clothes with an iron, there are several other options you can use, such as handheld steamers or garment steamers,' she explains. But of course, similar to irons, it's also wise to be aware of clothes steamer mistakes you should avoid to preserve the appearance of your garments.
Shop our top-rated irons
All in all, ironing your clothes inside out is certainly recommended if your main priority is keeping them looking like new. Paired with the right technique and ironing settings, you're well on your way to preserving the appearance and shape of your clothes for a long time to come.
Get the Ideal Home Newsletter
Sign up to our newsletter for style and decor inspiration, house makeovers, project advice and more.

Jullia was Ideal Home’s Junior Writer from 2022-2024 and the Ideal Home Certified Expert in Training on Vacuums having spent over 60 hours testing different models. She’s always loved all things homes and interiors, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Architectural Studies from the University of Nottingham where her love for writing blossomed following her internship at ArchDaily. Now focused on home tech and cleaning, Jullia works on writing features and explainers to help people make the most of their home appliance investments, putting the newest launches through their paces. When she isn’t writing, she loves exploring the city, coffee shop hopping, and losing hours to a cosy game or book.
-
Wood drenching is the calming new twist on the colour drenching trend – here’s how to make the look work in your home
It’s easier than ever to embrace natural materials
By Maddie Balcombe
-
Aldi is launching a £200 day bed with four different features - its sleek design is suited to the whole family
You don't want to miss out on this Specialbuy
By Kezia Reynolds
-
How to set up a drip watering system that saves water and a lot of effort
Keep your plants hydrated (and your water bill down) with this clever garden watering solution
By Natalie Osborn
-
Aldi is releasing a budget alternative to the cult Joseph Joseph washing up bowl – it’s just £4.99
The Joseph Joseph washing up bowl is an Ideal Home favourite - now we can't wait to try Aldi's alternative
By Kezia Reynolds
-
I just bought my first home, and this £10 buy was the very first thing I bought for it to make it feel warmer and secure
If I did it all again, this would still be my very first buy
By Rebecca Knight
-
It’s normally impossible to find a Dyson vacuum for under £250 — but QVC has slashed the price of their bestselling models for a limited time
Run don’t walk to pick up the brand’s bestselling model for under £230 before it sells out
By Lauren Bradbury
-
Catherine Zeta-Jones has revealed the cleaning product she swears by to keep her home fresh - and it’s just £8 on Amazon
'I use it on my counters. I use it on my walls. I use it on my doors. When I smell it, I know my house is clean.'
By Kezia Reynolds
-
I tested the 12L Challenge dehumidifier in my damp Victorian home over winter — I haven’t spotted any signs of mould for the first time in five years
The Challenge 12L dehumidifier doesn’t have too many bells and whistles, but I can already see the difference it’s made to my damp home
By Lauren Bradbury
-
What is boiler flow temperature? Heating experts urge you to check yours now as you could be overpaying on your energy bills
Turning this little-known number down just a few degrees can result in some serious savings
By Lauren Bradbury
-
Stacey Solomon has shared 5 nifty wardrobe storage hacks to make getting ready in the morning easier — and they're genius
These five wardrobe storage hacks are a gamechanger
By Katie Sims
-
Cult cleaning brand Scrub Daddy has just launched a brand new butterfly mop — could it be the ultimate solution for banishing stubborn marks on your floor?
We're obsessed with all things Scrub Daddy
By Kezia Reynolds