How to Use a Steam Press
How to use a steam press
Here´s a step by step guide to help you get the best out of your Steam Press..
Firstly, check the water level of the tank and top up if nesessary (Tip – Using ice cubes is the same as sterilized water). Switch on the press and set the temperature to the correct setting for the fabric you are pressing. Plant fibre fabrics like cotton and linen need a higher temperature than animal fibers like silk and wool. Pressing a wool suit on a high temperature setting will likely result in scorching and you may get a very unpleasant smell. Man-made fibers, such as polyester etc, require a low heat to avoid melting. To get the best results ensure you choose the right setting and start with garments that require the lowest heat so you can increase the heat as necessary, presses take longer to cool and you will avoid scorching clothes this way. 
Before you start ensure that the Press is up to it´s working temperature so that it presses correctly – to start, simply lay out the garment onto the board and using your hand smooth out any wrinkles or creases by hand, beware touching the upper surface as you may burn your knuckles and then lower the top to apply pressure – wait for a few seconds – then just repeat the process, pressing each item in sections being careful not to wrinkle the parts already pressed. You will have to be extra careful with sleeves to not press in any creases and also with collars – they can be a little tricky until you´ve done them a few times.
Here´s few tips that should help you – an old army trick of rubbing soap inside the crease of a trouser leg will give you sharper, longer lasting creases and you can use this trick to remove creases from altered garments too.
When ironing pleats start at the bottom and work your way to the top.
Garments that are freshly pressed can easily crease quickly afterwards so hang them up for few hours afterwards ensuring they are not crushed up on the rack allowing air to circulate, where applicable fasten top and bottom buttons to maintain the shape.
Similarly, if you have to fold garments always fold them crosswise as opposed to lengthwise after pressing and airing as the creases will drop out of the length more easily. 100% cotton garments will press more easily and look smarter if you sprinkle them with water, roll them up loosely, put them inside a plastic bag and place it in the fridge or a cool place overnight. If you have extremely thin fabric to iron then place a towel on the board first and experiment with the amount of pressure to apply.
If you´re using your steam press for the first time then I recommend you experiment with some old clothes of differing fabrics to gain experience!!