How to iron a shirt in five easy steps

This video offers a meticulous, step-by-step tutorial on the lost art of removing wrinkles from clothes:

Step 1: Start with the back of the unbuttoned shirt flat on the board and the sleeves hanging down either side of the rounded end. Press using gentle circular motions. Work away from the center to the side seams.

Step 2: Select a sleeve, placing the underarm seams straight along the board and nearest to you. Smooth it out, holding it tight and flat, while you firmly press the seam itself. Work away from the seam. Be careful to sharpen any pleats. Repeat with the other sleeve.

Step 3: Move on to the cuffs, opening them completely face up. Iron from the sleeve edge of the cuff and work out to the ends and sides of the cuff. Press a sharp fold in the coff only after you have pressed it open. Do not press the folded-back cuff flat. The only crease should be the one around the very end of the cuff.

Step 4: Move on to the front of the shirt, laying each side of the shirt flat and smoothing it out. Work around the buttons, taking care to press the placket on both sides firmly. Work away from the placket to the side seams.

Step 5: Open the collar face up and lay it fully flat. Working from the outside edge of the collar, use tiny, circular movements to avoid creasing the cotton against the stitching on the edge of the collar, which would be obvious and unsightly. Keep the iron pointed to the shirt label. Fold the collar down and pres in the top ridge firmly with your fingers.

Master the art of the fresh-pressed shirt with this housekeeping how-to from Esquire Magazine.