There’s nothing more annoying than picking out a fresh outfit from your wardrobe only to discover it’s riddled with creases. While getting the iron out is a simple fix, it’s also a bit of a chore that nobody really wants to do. Clothes can come out of the wash full of creases for many reasons, with overloading your washing machine and using the wrong temperature being the most likely culprits.

When the machine is overloaded, clothes don’t have enough room to move freely during the wash and spin cycles, and it means your washing powder might not get to all the items properly, causing a buildup of residue that can then contribute to the unsightly wrinkling. A high temperature can also make the fibres of your clothes more malleable, making them more susceptible to creases.

Tumble dryers can help with the problem of creases as some have a steam feature that helps to relax fibres and release wrinkles, and a low heat setting can also be used to alleviate creases. But tumble dryers are expensive to run so if you don’t have one – and want to avoid a pile of ironing – you can use two natural items to combat those pesky creases instead.

According to cleaning experts, a solution of vinegar and water is an effective – and cheap – way to remove creases from clothes. The moisture from the water helps to relax the fabric, while the vinegar works as a natural fabric softener and together the solution helps to loosen and remove creases.

Simply mix one part vinegar to three parts water in a spray bottle and apply this to your creased clothes, then hang them up to air dry.

Bakers Centre Laundry explains: “If you don’t have a wrinkler remover spray – no problem! You can quickly make your own with some everyday household items. Try mixing one part vinegar with three parts water. 

“Using a spray bottle, mist the garment all over and let it air dry. Alternatively, you can mix one cup of distilled vinegar, one teaspoon of fabric softener, and one teaspoon of rubbing alcohol and spray the wrinkled area.”

Speaking to Martha Stewart, Kathy Cohoon of cleaning company Two Maids, said this DIY spray is ideal for when you’re in a hurry at home or on-the-go, but recommends testing it on a small area of fabric first before spritzing your whole garment.

She said: “The water and fabric softener or vinegar help to relax the fabric fibers, making wrinkles easier to remove. You’ll want to test the spray on a small area first to ensure compatibility with the fabric.”