Frugal's Bugle: STRIKE WHILE THE IRON IS...WHAT?

Could it be that Old Mother Frugal is bringing back ironing?

In all honesty, it never went away for me as it had for others.

As a new bride, I've recounted how I did not know how to cook.

The other skill that I did not acquire was ironing shirts.

I excelled at pillowcases and handkerchiefs. However, much like cooking, mom never delegated shirts to me. But I spent hours observing her technique.

My lack of precision pressing became abundantly clear to the new groom’s coworkers.

Unless he told them about the non-existent cooking skills, they were none the wiser. However, it didn’t take much to realize the new bride had no idea how to press a shirt.

I had to learn to hone my skill because in keeping a frugal household, sending shirts “out” to be laundered was not a chore that I was willing to pay someone else to do.

When money is tight and you need to be on a bare-bones budget, if you are sending out the shirts/blouses to be laundered, help is on the way.

Once washed, the first step is to toss the shirts into the dryer for no more than 5 minutes.

Then hang and allow to air dry. This step will take many of the wrinkles out of the shirt. Not sure of the science behind this phenomenon, but it works. It will also prevent undue shrinkage.

Next step is to set up your ironing board with iron in front of a TV or some music in your ears. It makes the time go faster.

Ready…Set…Press!

Start with the collar. Then the left sleeve and cuff. Flip it over and do the back of the left sleeve and cuff.

Now press the right sleeve. Flip it over and press the back of the right sleeve.

Turn shirt to the pointy side of the ironing board and press the narrow strip that runs below the collar. I never knew what it was called; I just call it the narrow strip under the collar. [See photo].

You are now ready to press the body of the shirt. Right front, back and then left front. Be sure to press the button holes flat as well.

Well done! Hang it…button it…and admire your work and the money you have saved!

SOUND THE BUGLE! Today’s tip: Some dry cleaners offer special discounts and coupons to frequent customers. As a regular customer, my discount is 20% on services. Check with your dry cleaner and see if any discount is available to you too!

Start with the collar