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Trouser press
Trouser press
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Wall-mounted Corby trouser press, open

A trouser press, also referred to by the trademarked name Corby trouser press, is an electrical appliance used to smooth the wrinkles from a pair of trousers. They are commonly provided in hotel rooms worldwide, though may also be purchased for home use; they are generally associated with use by businessmen who require a formal appearance to their suit.

RAF veteran Peter Corby, the inventor of the press, died in August 2021, at the age of 97.[1][2]

Trouser pressing process

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Most trousers creases occur on the bottom two-thirds of trouser legs, particularly around the back of the knee. Trouser presses are typically the tool for removing these creases without damaging the trousers. On a typical trouser press, the side levers are raised; and the trousers placed between the pressing plate and the cushioned heating pad. The press is slowly closed, the trousers gently pulled so that they align properly and the press dial turned on for heat. The press heats to around 60 °C (140 °F) regardless of model type. It can take roughly 15 to 45 minutes to press the trousers depending on the model type and the thermostatically controlled heating pad will warm up and gently press out creases and wrinkles without scorching the trousers.

Corby Trouser Press

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The Corby Trouser Press brand is the generic trademark for the product. John Corby Limited was established by John Corby in Windsor, Berkshire, in 1930 as a manufacturer of valet stands. These were later improved with the addition of a pressing area and the first Corby trouser press was launched. These subsequently became electrically heated during the 1960s.

In 1977, John Corby Limited became part of what is now Jourdan plc and relocated to Andover, Hampshire in 1986. In 2005, the company moved manufacturing to the premises of a sister company, Suncrest Surrounds Limited in Peterlee, Co Durham. All sales, marketing and service operations continue to operate from Andover, though the business was acquired in 2009 by Fired Up Corporation Ltd, based in Huddersfield. The brand was later re-launched, reverting to its founding name of "Corby of Windsor".

[edit]

During the 1960s the trouser press was an aspirational product for the British middle classes, and this led to a thread of satire and cultural references. The Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band recorded the song, "Trouser Press", for their 1968 album The Doughnut in Granny's Greenhouse, satirising 1960s consumerism, and making numerous references to the trouser press as emblematic of middle class life. Author and journalist Ira Robbins founded an influential alternative music magazine titled Trouser Press after the Bonzo's song, and his book The Trouser Press Record Guide: The Ultimate Guide to Alternative Stone is a reference work on alternative and outlandish music first published in 1983 and the fourth edition was published in 1991 (ISBN 0-02-036361-3).[3]

The ubiquitous presence of the trouser press in British commercial hotels has made them a recurring theme, along with "tea and coffee making facilities", in British comedian Bill Bailey's monologues. The Tea, Coffee and Trouser Press Census tour diary along is included as an extra feature on his Part Troll DVD. Bailey's Tinselworm show has a spoof infomercial in the style of Kraftwerk, Hosenbügler (German for trouser press), which sees Bailey and Kevin Eldon riding around the stage on Segways with trouser presses mounted on them.[4] It has also been featured in the British comedy I'm Alan Partridge during the episode "Basic Alan" in which Alan dismantles a Corby Trouser Press in his bored desperation.[5]

See also

[edit]
Wikimedia Commons has media related to Trouser presses.

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Trouser press

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
A is an electrical appliance designed to remove wrinkles and creases from by applying and between two padded boards. Typically featuring adjustable heated elements that reach temperatures up to 60°C, it allows users to place trousers inside the device, set a , and leave them to press overnight or for several hours, resulting in a smooth finish without the need for . Often integrated into a stand with additional features like a jacket hanger and a for small items, the modern has become a staple in rooms worldwide, particularly for travelers seeking convenience. The concept of trouser pressing devices predates electrical models, with non-heated mechanical versions appearing as early as 1905, such as the patented "Trouser Presser" by Augustus T. Knorzer, which used clamps to hold and shape . By the , "heatless" presses like Leahey's 1914 design allowed users to maintain creases while sleeping or traveling, relying on simple tension rather than heat. The electric iteration gained prominence in the mid-20th century, evolving from stands developed in the 1930s by John Corby in Windsor, England, which provided basic hanging and pressing without heating. The iconic Corby trouser press, a trademarked brand, was innovated by Peter Corby—John's son and a former RAF flight engineer— who patented the heated version in the early 1960s. Inspired by a Concorde engineer's solution for heating the aircraft's nose cone, Peter incorporated low-voltage electric pads into the design, enabling efficient crease removal in under an hour for quick use or longer cycles for deeper pressing. Launched through the family business in the early 1970s, it quickly became an aspirational household and hospitality item, with early customers including retailer Austin Reed; by 1977, Corby sold the company, but the product continued production in Britain and expanded to over 60 countries. Peter Corby, who passed away in 2021 at age 97, left a legacy of a device that symbolized British ingenuity, even earning cultural notoriety through satire in media like the BBC's I'm Alan Partridge.

History

Origins and Early Inventions

The trouser press emerged in the late as a mechanical device to maintain the sharp creases in men's , which became a staple of formal attire during the . Fashion historians C. W. Cunnington and P. E. Cunnington date its invention to around 1890, coinciding with the increasing emphasis on tailored, crease-defined in Western menswear. Early models employed simple leverage mechanisms and adjustable clamps to apply sustained pressure without heat, allowing users to fold and secure between padded boards or panels for extended periods, often overnight. This design addressed the challenge of keeping fabrics crisp without irons, which could scorch or shine the material. A notable early was granted to inventor Leahey for a heatless on , 1914, emphasizing portability for travelers and sleepers. The device consisted of a heavy folder approximately 830 mm long, where were laid flat with legs aligned, then secured by clipping the flaps shut to exert even pressure. Intended for use during rest or journeys, it relied on manual tightening of clamps rather than , promoting crease removal through prolonged compression while avoiding damage to delicate fabrics. By the 1920s, mechanical innovations continued to refine the concept, focusing on integration into everyday furniture. In 1931, John Corby developed a trouser press mounted inside a door, using wooden panels and spring-loaded or manually adjusted clamps to leverage gravity and tension for pressing. Demonstrated to retailer Austin Reed, who was sufficiently impressed to place an initial order for his shops, this design highlighted the device's potential for discreet, home-based use and paved the way for broader commercial adoption. Overall, these early presses operated on principles of gravity-assisted weighting, spring mechanisms, or hand-tightened clamps to eliminate wrinkles over several hours, prioritizing fabric preservation over speed.

Development of Electric Models

The development of electric trouser presses marked a significant advancement in garment care appliances, transitioning from manual mechanical designs to powered devices that utilized heat for more efficient crease removal. In the early , John Corby Limited introduced elements to their trouser presses, transforming traditional stands into heated appliances that could press overnight at temperatures up to 60°C, significantly reducing the time needed for effective results. John Limited was founded in 1930 in , by John Corby as a manufacturer of stands and garment care products. In 1977, the company was sold to Thomas Jourdan plc. The company later relocated its operations to , and in 2009, it was acquired by Fired Up Corporation Ltd, leading to a rebranding as Corby of Windsor with manufacturing moved to . This acquisition preserved the brand's focus on UK-based production of electric models. The key innovation in electric models is attributed to Peter Corby, an RAF veteran who served as a during and later refined the designs for household and hotel use after joining the family business post-war. Drawing inspiration from a Concorde engineer's work on flexible heating pads to prevent ice buildup, Peter Corby patented the electric heating integration in the early , enabling safer and more uniform heat distribution. He passed away in 2021 at the age of 97. The launch of these heated versions in the positioned the Corby trouser press as an aspirational item for the British middle classes, symbolizing modern convenience and polished appearance amid post-war prosperity, which fueled rapid market growth and exports to over 60 countries.

Design and Operation

Key Components

A typical electric trouser press employs a sandwich-style design, where trousers are inserted between a rigid pressing plate constructed from aluminum or metal and a cushioned featuring a fabric-covered or rubber surface to ensure even and fabric protection. The core heating element consists of embedded electric coils or resistance pads that generate heat up to approximately 60°C (140°F), sufficient to soften fabric fibers and remove wrinkles without causing scorching or damage. Additional features include adjustable tension arms or stretcher bars with straps to securely hold in place, timer controls offering cycles such as 15, 30, or 45 minutes, a standard and plug compatible with household outlets, and an optional wooden or casing that provides aesthetic appeal and structural stability for wall-mounted or freestanding use. For safety, integrated thermostats regulate temperature to prevent overheating, while non-slip feet ensure stable upright positioning on floors or within wardrobes.

Pressing Mechanism

The operation of a trouser press begins with preparation of the garment. Trousers are inserted legs-first between the heated pad and the pressure plate, with the fabric smoothed out to align any existing creases evenly. The garment is then secured by closing the lever arms or straps, ensuring even distribution without bunching, while empty pockets prevent damage to the padded surface. During the heating phase, elements activate to warm the padded surface to approximately 60°C (140°F), softening the fabric fibers to allow the pressure to relax and realign them for removal. This typically lasts 15 to 45 minutes, selected based on fabric weight and type—shorter for lightweight synthetics like and longer for heavier natural blends—to allow sufficient time for penetration without scorching. The controlled avoids the high direct of irons, preserving fabric integrity. Pressure is applied mechanically through the compression of the padded surface against the plate once the arms are locked, combining with the heat to reform and sharpen creases by molding the softened fibers. This indirect contact method, unlike flat , prevents gloss or scorching on the fabric surface while ensuring uniform results across seams and thicknesses. Upon cycle completion, the remain in the closed press for a cooling period to set the fibers in their new configuration, yielding sharp, professional creases suitable for suits and dress pants. The device automatically shuts off, and the garment is removed only after full cooling to maintain the pressed shape.

Brands and Models

The Corby Trouser Press

The Corby trouser press originated with John Corby Limited, founded in Windsor, , in 1930 by Scottish inventor John Corby as a manufacturer of stands that incorporated early non-electrical trouser-pressing mechanisms. These initial designs evolved under the leadership of John's son, Peter Corby, who refined the product by introducing elements in the early , transforming it from a mechanical device into a heated appliance capable of more effective removal. The brand quickly became iconic in the UK, where "Corby" is often used generically to refer to trouser presses, reflecting its market dominance. Key models include the 4400, featuring a wood-effect finish and dual timer settings of 15 and 30 minutes, with the longer cycle suited for light to medium-weight fabrics to achieve a crisp crease. This model incorporates practical features such as a patented for taut trouser placement, auto shut-off via timer, a jacket hanger, coin tray, and options for freestanding or wall-mounted installation to integrate seamlessly into wardrobes. The premium 7700 builds on this with added flexibility, offering 15-, 30-, and 45-minute cycles to accommodate heavier fabrics, along with thermostatic controls and similar wardrobe-friendly mounting capabilities. Commercially, Corby achieved significant success by supplying trouser presses to hotels and resorts in over 60 countries worldwide, establishing itself as a staple in the . Since its acquisition by Corporation in 2009, Corby of Windsor continues production, manufacturing over 500,000 units annually as of 2025. As of 2025, models like the 4400 and 7700 remain readily available through retailers such as Amazon.

Other Manufacturers

Besides the dominant Corby brand, numerous generic electric trouser presses are widely available on e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, often manufactured in and marketed for home use. These models typically feature integrated steam functions, with power ratings around 1600W, and include accessories like spray bottles for pre-moistening fabrics and multiple pressing modes adjustable for different materials, including cushions or delicate items. Notable alternatives include attachments from SALAV, a garment care brand offering steam-based pants press nozzles like the GS49 and GS34 models, which attach to upright steamers to create precise creases on without requiring a standalone unit. For professional and commercial applications, Italian manufacturer produces specialized trouser presses such as the Pantamaster and DLP Double Legger Press, featuring horizontal bucks, automated ironing cycles, vacuum systems, and adjustable pressure for high-volume operations. Similarly, supplies utility dry work presses like the FPM4-D series, designed with manually operated mechanisms and even steam distribution for trouser finishing in industrial settings. These alternatives often emphasize affordability and versatility compared to premium options, with many cheaper imports originating from Chinese factories via platforms like Alibaba, focusing on portability for travel or multi-function capabilities such as pressing alongside . Modern heatless variants, reminiscent of early 20th-century designs, include compact mechanical folders or clip systems that rely on tension rather than heat, ideal for use but with enhanced clamps for better grip on fabrics. As of , the market for non-Corby trouser presses remains niche, with steam-integrated models gaining popularity for quicker results—often under 5 minutes per cycle—but user feedback highlights generally lower durability, such as faster wear on heating elements or pads compared to established brands.

Usage and Cultural Impact

Practical Applications

Trouser presses serve as essential amenities in rooms, particularly for traveling professionals who require quick maintenance of to ensure a polished appearance during trips. These devices are standard in upscale accommodations worldwide, allowing guests to refresh garments without relying on services or irons. In home settings, they are integrated into wardrobes for routine suit and trouser care, enabling users to eliminate wrinkles and restore creases overnight for daily professional wear. Portable variants and compact models facilitate use, where overnight pressing cycles prepare attire for meetings or without bulky equipment. As of 2025, trouser presses continue to be a fixture in luxury hotels, supporting the needs of travelers, while adoption has grown among remote workers and professionals seeking wrinkle-free outfits amid busy schedules. Their cycle times, typically ranging from 15 to 45 minutes, align well with modern lifestyles by operating passively during sleep or downtime. As of 2025, however, they are increasingly seen as novelty items in some hotels, with reports of low usage and occasional repurposing for non-intended tasks like toasting sandwiches. Although there has been a shift toward handheld steamers, such as the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam, for their versatility in treating various garments quickly, trouser presses remain preferred for precise crease setting in and fabrics without introducing that could cause damage. This dry-heat method excels in maintaining sharp lines essential for formal attire. For frequent users, trouser presses offer cost-effectiveness through durable construction and minimal upkeep, often backed by multi-year warranties. They are also energy-efficient, consuming around 210 watts at lower temperatures than traditional irons, making them suitable for repeated use without high costs. In the 1960s, the trouser press became a symbol of middle-class aspiration in Britain, frequently satirized in humor as emblematic of suburban pretensions and domestic conformity. This cultural mockery found expression in the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band's 1968 song "The Trouser Press," a whimsical track from their album that lampooned everyday gadgets and British eccentricity through absurd lyrics and vaudeville-style comedy. The song's title directly inspired the naming of magazine, launched by Ira Robbins in New York in 1974 as a mimeographed dedicated to ; it evolved into a prominent print publication covering punk and new wave scenes until ceasing in 1984. In later , the trouser press served as a punchline underscoring the absurdities of business formality and hotel life, as in Bill Bailey's stand-up routines where he jests about repurposing the device for tasks like toasting sandwiches during travels. The 1990s BBC sitcom further amplified this irony in its episode "Basic Alan," where the hapless broadcaster, bored in a roadside , methodically dismantles a trouser press, portraying it as a mundane yet comically essential prop of professionalism.

References

  1. https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/trouser-press
  2. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9917547/As-trouser-press-inventor-Peter-Corby-dies-MARK-PALMER-insists-design-classic.html
  3. https://www.telegraph.co.uk/obituaries/2021/08/20/peter-corby-inventor-famous-electric-trouser-press-became-fixture/
  4. https://lexprotector.com/blog/todays-patent-trouser-presser/
  5. https://afinecollection.wordpress.com/2013/07/03/heatless-trouser-press-1914-1920/
  6. https://www.countypress.co.uk/news/19542579.cowes-man-trouser-press-inventor-peter-corby-dies-97/
  7. https://asufidmmuseum.asu.edu/learn/articles/intern-report-trouser-crease
  8. https://www.victorianweb.org/art/costume/nunn20.html
  9. https://collection.powerhouse.com.au/object/251849
  10. https://windsorlocalhistorygroup.org/the-corby-trouser-press/
  11. https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/917B5%2BxtQwL.pdf
  12. https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/artblog/2007/aug/29/classicsofeverydaydesignno18
  13. https://patents.google.com/patent/US3145490A/en
  14. https://ironinglab.com/how-to-use-a-trouser-press/
  15. https://www.hammacher.com/products/classic-corby-trouser-press-2
  16. https://www.amazon.com/Corby-Windsor-7700-Pants-Press/dp/B00BEHN0JQ
  17. https://www.amazon.com/Corby-Windsor-4400-Pants-Press/dp/B00BEHN1GI
  18. https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/A1bMFAjr7AS.pdf
  19. https://www.manualslib.com/manual/1262376/Corby-3300.html?page=9
  20. https://www.corbyofwindsor.com/about
  21. https://www.trouserpress.co.uk/package/3507/corby-4400-trouser-press-in-oak-uk-plug
  22. https://www.corbyofwindsor.co.uk/package/3515/corby-7700-trouser-press-in-black-ash-uk-plug
  23. https://www.hotelowner.co.uk/204777-global-supply-support-how-corby-of-windsor-supports-hotels-worldwide/
  24. https://www.amazon.co.uk/CORBY-4400-Trouser-Press-Finish/dp/B001ISKNRI
  25. https://www.amazon.com/Best-Sellers-Trouser-Pressers/zgbs/home-garden/3737881
  26. https://www.salavusa.com/collections/pants-press
  27. https://ponyitaly.com/products/presses/trousers-presses
  28. https://www.electroluxprofessional.com/commercial-laundry-equipment/finishing-equipment/
  29. https://www.alibaba.com/showroom/trouser-presser.html
  30. https://www.facebook.com/groups/dullmensclub/posts/1753310605325473/
  31. https://genius.com/Bonzo-dog-doo-dah-band-the-trouser-press-lyrics
  32. https://www.furious.com/perfect/trouserpress.html
  33. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cQQEuO4VDTA
  34. https://www.bbc.co.uk/comedy/legacy/partridge/life/iap4.shtml
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