The Old-Fashioned Way: Ironing Clothes With An Iron Pan

If you need to iron your clothes but don't have an iron, a metal pan can be used as a makeshift alternative. First, pick a thick metal pan with a spotlessly clean base and heat some water in it. Once the water reaches a boil, tip it out and place a towel down on a flat, hard surface. Then, use the pan base to press your garment on top of the towel. Be careful not to burn yourself, as the pan base cools quickly. Avoid ironing delicate fabrics or garments with plastic or vinyl, as the heat can warp them. This method should not be used on fabrics that cannot be ironed.

Choose a thick metal pan with a spotlessly clean base

When ironing clothes with a metal pan, it is important to choose a thick metal pan with a spotlessly clean base. This is because you will be applying heat directly to your clothes, and any residue on the pan may stain your clothes. A thick pan will also help to ensure that the heat is distributed evenly, reducing the risk of scorching or burning your clothes.

To clean the pan, start by washing it with hot water and dish soap. You can use a gentle scrubber to remove any stuck-on residue. Once the pan is clean, dry it off with a towel to prevent water spots. If there are any stubborn stains or residue, you can use a pan scourer or fine steel wool to gently scrub the pan until the stain is removed. Be careful not to scratch the pan too aggressively, as this can damage the surface and make it more difficult to clean in the future.

It is important to note that even with a clean pan, there is a risk of staining or scorching your clothes. This method of ironing should only be used in emergencies or when a traditional iron is not available. Always be careful when handling a hot pan, and consider using oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands from the heat.

Heat some water in the pan

To iron your clothes with a pan, you'll need to heat some water in the pan. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Choose a thick metal pan with a spotlessly clean base. A clean pan is important to avoid any dark streaks or stains on your clothes.
• Heat some water in the pan. Fill the pan with water and place it on a stove. Turn on the stove and wait for the water to reach a boil.
• Once the water reaches a rolling boil, carefully tip the pan and pour out the water. Be cautious when handling the hot pan and use oven mitts or a towel to protect your hands.
• Act quickly: The pan will start to cool down once you discard the water.
• Place a towel on a flat, hard surface, such as a table or a kitchen countertop. The towel will protect the surface from heat and create a soft base for your clothes.
• As soon as you've discarded the water, use the pan's base to press your garment on top of the towel. The hot pan will act as a makeshift iron, smoothing out wrinkles in your clothes.
• Be cautious to avoid burning yourself. The pan will be very hot, so it's important to work quickly but carefully.
• Avoid ironing delicate fabrics or garments with plastic or vinyl components, as the heat can damage or warp these materials.
• Additionally, refrain from using this method on fabrics that are not suitable for ironing, as you may damage them.

Tip the water out once it reaches a boil

Once the water in the pan reaches a boil, it's time to tip it out. Be very careful at this stage, as the water will be extremely hot. Use oven mitts if you have them, or wrap a tea towel around your hand to protect it from the heat. Pour the water away, taking care not to spill any on your clothes or the ironing surface. Work quickly, as you'll want to take advantage of the heat stored in the pan.

As soon as the water has been discarded, place the pan on the towel you've laid out on your ironing surface. You're now ready to start ironing your clothes. Lay the garment on the towel and use the flat base of the pan to press and smooth out any creases. Be sure to work quickly, as the pan will lose heat over time.

Take care not to burn yourself on the hot pan, and be mindful of the type of fabric you're ironing. Delicate fabrics may not be suitable for this method, and the heat could warp plastic or vinyl. If you're unsure, check the care instructions on the garment's label.

If you're ironing a large item, you may find it helpful to move the pan in a systematic pattern to ensure you don't miss any areas. Work from the outside in, or vice versa, and use your free hand to smooth the fabric as you go.

Place a towel down on a flat, hard surface

Before placing the towel, ensure the surface is sturdy and able to withstand heat. Avoid highly flammable surfaces. Also, make sure the area has enough space for you to move the iron pan around and lay out your clothing.

Once you have selected an appropriate surface and placed the towel, you can begin the process of heating the iron pan and preparing your clothes for ironing. Remember to exercise caution when handling the hot iron pan to avoid burns.

As soon as you tip the water out, use the pan base to press your garment on top of the towel

As soon as you tip the water out, you need to act quickly as the pan base will cool down fast. Place a towel down on a flat, hard surface. Then, wearing oven mitts to protect your hands, use the pan base to press your garment on top of the towel. Make sure you don't press delicate fabrics or garments with plastic or vinyl, as the heat can warp these materials. This method should not be used on fabrics that cannot be ironed.

Frequently asked questions