Why ironing makes you happier

When I'm stressed, I iron. As if I'm wiping the wrinkles out of my life. Of course, it doesn't work that way, but when your life is a mess, it gives you peace to organize everything you do have influence over. Isabella Rosselini once said that her hobby was cleaning the house, and I understand that completely.

Duvet covers are my favorite objects on days filled with thoughts. Nice large surfaces that first look very messy and voluminous are transformed back into a wrinkle-free package. If only you could do that with situations too.

Aside from bringing peace to your mind, ironing has more benefits:

1. You can save shrunk clothing by ironing
Accidentally washed that woolen collar in the washing machine at 60 degrees and got a children's sweater back? With ironing, there's a chance you can get it back to the right size. It's worth a try.

2. You kill bacteria
Even if you were warm, there's a chance that bacteria can survive. When you iron, your clothes (or your dish towels) are really completely clean.

3. Ironing removes unpleasant odors
The heat can make less pleasant smells disappear. Ideal if you want something (like a knitted sweater, for example) to smell fresh but prefer not to wash it.

4. Ironing protects your clothing
It seals your clothing, creating a small protective layer that makes your clothes last even longer.

5. Your clothes look nicer

6. Your closet has a nicer appearance when you open it and look at ironed clothes

7. You look nicer and neater when your clothes are ironed

8. And just think about how nice you sleep when you crawl under smooth sheets

I haven't been able to find any studies on the effects of ironing on your psyche, but if there are psychologists reading along, I would say: research it. I'm sure there's a connection.