I'd been thinking about investing in a better iron.

I searched, read loads of articles and reviews, and one caught my eye — about a steam generator iron. Since I also wear wool and merino, it seemed like a great idea. I ordered one. I waited eagerly for delivery, and after unboxing started reading the manual to figure out how it works.

My model has a one-litre water tank — I've never filled it all the way up, and I've always had enough left over even after ironing everything that needed doing. After plugging in and switching on, steam takes a while to build up. When the indicator light goes off, it's time to start ironing. Trousers practically iron themselves — the steam has real power and handles even thicker fabrics with ease. Same with shirts. T-shirts, handkerchiefs, hoodies, and so on. For woollen items I hang them on a hanger and push steam into them from close range, but without contact! Not only does this clean the fibres but it also draws out all the odours! (Eliminating cigarette smoke from clothing has taken on a whole new dimension). As a bonus there are the "therapeutic" effects — the steam in the sinus cavities completely cleared up my cold.

Ironing is now far more enjoyable for me.