The Army combat uniform, also known as the ACU, is considered to be the working uniform of the United States Army. The ACU is designed with a digital camouflage print and neutral colors, allowing it to be worn in both green and desert environments. The top itself is equipped with hook and loop fastening strips for easy removal. There are also hook and loop fastening strips attached to the chest and sleeves for military patches. Improvements made to the ACU have also changed the way military tops are maintained, especially when ironing.

Set your iron to the nylon setting on moderate heat. Allow the iron a few minutes to heat up. Place the iron in a safe location while it heats, to avoid injury or property damage.

Lay the ACU top on the ironing board open and face-down. Begin ironing the top in an up-and-down motion to avoid bunching the material. Iron the front of the top in the same manner, one side at a time. Avoid direct contact between the iron and the hook and loop fasteners, as they could melt together.

Stretch the sleeves out across the ironing board. Position the sleeves, so that a crease will form down the length of the arm. Make sure your crease is positioned behind the hook and loop fasteners without applying direct heat to the fasteners.

Fasten the front of the ACU top together and lay it flat on the ironing board. Ensure the top button of the top is not fastened. Stretch the collar of the top outward so that the neck opening forms a v shape. Place the iron on top of the collar for a moment, so the v-shape of the neck will be pressed into place. Avoid leaving the iron on the top too long; then hang the top up to avoid wrinkles.