With time and wear, dress pants often develop shiny areas. You will usually notice these areas on the seat of the pants and on the back of the legs. Sitting or frequent ironing flattens the nap of natural fabrics, like wool, and is even more likely in fabrics with synthetic fibers. You can use several techniques to restore the nap and return fabric to its original look.
Things You'll Need
Small brush
Dry sponge
Damp pressing cloth
Iron
Ironing board
Bath towel
White vinegar, optional
Soft-bristle toothbrush, optional
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Step 1
Place the pants on the ironing board. Brush the shiny areas with a small brush or dry sponge to roughen the fabric nap.
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Step 2
Cover the ironing board with a towel. Fold the towel lengthwise to make two layers of toweling. Lay the pants on the towel.
Step 3
Cover the shiny areas with a damp pressing cloth. Press gently with the iron, on the wool setting, but do not use steam. Do not apply strong pressure with the iron; it will flatten the nap and cause shine to return.
Step 4
Cushion the impact of the iron on the material. Some experts prefer to use a nearly dry pressing cloth, apply gentle pressure and use a steam setting on the iron. Other experts set the iron on steam and hold it very slightly (1/4-1/2 inch) above the fabric. The goal of all of these methods is the same.
Step 5
If the pants are washable, brush up the nap before you wash them. Turn them inside out before putting them into the washing machine.
Step 6
According to one expert, you can use white vinegar to remove unwanted shine from your pants. Mix one part white vinegar with one part water.
Step 7
Brush the solution onto the shiny spots with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Pat the area dry with a towel. Those who use this method believe that the vinegar diminishes wrinkles, too.
Tip
If you usually dry clean your pants, bring the shine to the attention of your dry cleaner.