Wondering if it’s worth your time to iron your baby’s clothes? Check out these five valid reasons why ironing baby clothes can be a good idea!
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Ironing your baby’s tiny and fiddly clothes can sound like a lot of work and hassle (Ain’t nobody got time for that, right?). As busy parents, we are always looking for ways to simplify our lives (and for good reason!) and make the time for things that are important to our families.
You might have already gotten this advice about ironing your baby’s clothes from an old aunt or mother-in-law and written it off as an outdated practice, but is it really? I have personally learned not to discard any advice too quickly, and after doing some research on the subject, ironing baby clothes can actually be a good idea!
While ironing your baby’s clothes is by no means necessary, there are actually some very valid reasons for taking the time to iron your baby’s clothes, even if it is just occasionally.
So, without further ado, here are five valid reasons to iron your baby’s clothes:
#1 Ironing Your Baby Clothes Kills Microorganisms
Did you know that ironing your baby’s clothes is a sure way to kill microorganisms and other harmful bacteria? Microorganisms are invisible to the naked eye and are present on all surfaces, including clothes.
While most microorganisms are harmless, some can cause infections, like strep throat and ear infections. Ironing your baby’s clothes, especially during the newborn stage, can help protect your baby’s delicate skin from any harmful microorganisms that linger on the clothes after being washed.
This matters most if you’re not using a dryer with a sanitizing option, which can also kill microorganisms. If you are using a dryer, ironing your baby’s clothes is still a good way to make them feel fresh and clean especially if your baby is prone to rashes and irritation.
#2 Softens Baby Clothes
This is actually one of the main reasons why people iron clothes, not just baby clothes. The heat from the iron smooths out the fabric fibers, making them softer and more pleasant to wear.
If you’ve ever tried to put a wrinkled shirt on, you know that it can feel uncomfortable and even a little bit scratchy. The same goes for baby clothes! No one wants their baby to feel uncomfortable, so ironing your baby’s clothes can help ensure they are as soft and comfortable as possible.
Related: How to Get Static Out of Baby Clothes: 5 Effective and Natural Ways
#3 Eliminates Unwanted Odors from Your Baby’s Clothes
If you know, you know. Those spit-up and poop stains can be tough to get out, and even when they do get out, they can sometimes leave behind a lingering odor.
The heat from the iron helps to eliminate any unwanted odors from your baby’s clothes, leaving them smelling fresh and clean.
This is especially important if you are using cloth diapers, as they can sometimes hold onto smells even after being washed.
#4 Helps to Get Rid of Detergent Residue
Have you ever noticed that your baby’s clothes sometimes feel a little bit stiff after being washed? This is because detergent residue can build up on clothes over time, making them feel less soft and more rough.
Even if you’re using the most gentle detergent for washing your baby’s clothes, detergent residue can still build up and make clothes feel less than fresh. Ironing your baby’s clothes can help to get rid of any detergent residue trapped on the clothes after washing, and makes them less itchy and irritating for your baby’s skin.
#5 Gets Your Little One Photo Ready
Last but not least, ironing your baby’s clothes is also a great way to make them look nicer. If you’re planning on taking your baby out for the day or taking some photos, ironing their clothes beforehand can help them to look neater and more put together.
No one wants to see wrinkles in baby’s photos!
So there you have it, five valid reasons to iron your baby’s clothes. Now if you are willing to iron your baby’s clothes, here are some tips to do so without damaging the clothes:
– Read the label instructions on each garment carefully to pick the right temperature setting for the fabric. Most baby clothes are made of natural fabrics such as cotton, bamboo, and wool, which can be easily damaged by high heat.
– Use a steam iron to help reduce wrinkles quickly and easily. If you don’t have the steam feature on your iron, you can use a spray bottle to lightly mist the clothes with water before ironing. This will help to dampen the fabric and make it easier to iron.
– Use a pressing cloth between the iron and the garment to protect delicate fabrics from direct heat. A pressing cloth is a piece of fabric, usually made from cotton, that you place between the iron and the garment to protect it from direct heat.
– If you’re ironing a garment for the first time, be sure to test the iron on a small, hidden area of the garment first to make sure it doesn’t damage the fabric before applying the iron to larger areas on your baby’s clothes.
– Make sure to iron your baby’s garments inside out to avoid damaging any delicate embellishments on the outside of the clothing. This will also help prevent discoloration from the iron.
Read Also: How Much Do Baby Clothes and Diapers Weigh?
Bottom Line
With these tips in mind, you should be able to iron your baby’s clothes safely and easily. So go ahead and give it a try! Your little one will be looking sharp in no time.
What are your thoughts on ironing baby clothes? Are you ready to start ironing your baby’s clothes? Let us know in the comments below!
The purpose of this article is informative and educational only. It’s not a substitute for medical consultation or medical care. We do not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss, or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here. Babycious may earn compensation from affiliate links in this content.
