How to Press Military Uniforms
More modern military uniforms are now wash and wear, with little to no required pressing needed. However, some military uniforms such as the forest pattern battle dress uniform (BDUs) used by the Air Force and Navy still require pressing. Desert Camouflage Uniforms (DCUs) also require pressing. These uniforms cannot be pressed in any manner; careful attention must be given to creases, seams and insignias associated with them. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Iron
- Ironing board
- Starch
- Dryer (optional)
- Spray bottle with water (optional)
Instructions
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How to Press a Military Uniform
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1
Set up your ironing board to waist level. Ensure your iron has space for maneuvering, with the power cord free from any obstacles. Your iron should also have a place for cooling.
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2
Spray a light coat of starch on the utility uniform pants and shirt. Too much starch can cause flaking once the iron touches the uniform. Set aside the uniform for 30 minutes to allow the starch to seep in, or tumble dry on low heat for 15 minutes.
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3
Set iron to medium high heat. Turn on the "steam" option. Iron and begin by ironing the cuffs and collar until they are wrinkle free. Iron by using slow, deliberate strokes. If your iron doesn't have a steam function, spray water onto the uniform immediately before you press it.
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4
Press the sleeves on either side, paying careful attention to the natural crease should your upper sleeves have patches or rank chevrons. If your regulations instruct that you have a crease, ensure it is as centerline as possible to the patch/chevrons. Firmly press the crease using the outer edge of the iron.
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5
Press the front and back sides of the jacket. Press any pockets, tags or patches on the front first. To create the "military" crease along the back (if required), use the same instructions in step three as you iron one crease in the center line on the back side. Iron two other creases equidistant from the center crease.
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6
Iron the pants by first ironing the pockets. Iron any required creases in the same manner as step 3.
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Tips & Warnings
Ensure all pockets are free of objects. Ensure your uniform is also free of rips and tears.
References
- Photo Credit old soldier 102 image by Paul Moore from Fotolia.com
