planchar

Planchar is the act of using a heated iron to press fabric in order to remove wrinkles and give clothing and textiles a smooth, neat appearance. In Spanish, planchar is a transitive verb meaning to iron, and the noun form for the tool is plancha.

Equipment commonly used for planchar includes an electric iron or steam iron, an ironing board, and optionally starch or sizing, a spray bottle, and a water reservoir for steam. Irons offer various temperature settings to suit different fabrics, such as cotton, linen, wool, synthetic blends, and delicate materials.

The basic technique involves sorting garments by fabric, preheating the iron to the appropriate setting, and ironing in a deliberate, even motion. It is typical to start with areas that wrinkle least, followed by more detailed sections such as collars, cuffs, and pleats. Steam and moisture help relax fibers; a minimal amount of moisture or a damp cloth can improve results on stubborn wrinkles. Some fabrics benefit from pressing rather than sliding to avoid stretching.

Safety and care considerations include avoiding burns by handling hot items carefully, never ironing over zippers or buttons, and ensuring the iron is supervised and unplugged when not in use. Emptying the water reservoir after use helps prevent mineral buildup. For delicate fabrics or non-iron garments, alternatives such as garment steaming or professional pressing may be appropriate.

Etymology and usage: planchar derives from plancha, the iron plate. The term is widely used in Spain and many Latin American countries to refer to ironing clothes.