Irons and Ironing boards

What Are Ironing Boards?

Not many enjoy ironing; however, getting the right ironing board can make it a painless, quick task. Therefore, it is essential to select the best one.

For many people, small ‘tabletop’ ironing boards are ideal for straightening their garments. But wall-mounted or large folding types are relatively better if someone has a large pile of clothes that need ironing. 

Selecting the right ironing board accessories and cover, and understanding how to set it correctly, will also save a lot of effort and time. But even if someone gets the perfect ironing board, it will be useless if they don’t have a functional iron. 

Types Of Ironing Board Surfaces

Heated Surface

Newer models have a heated surface that allows fabrics to dry quickly. This guarantees more manageable and faster ironing so that clothes can be immediately put away. 

Breathable Surface

On breathable surfaces, items do not move, which avoids wrinkle creation. Additionally, it helps the steam penetrate the fabric, so the board remains dry. 

Blowing Surface 

Nowadays, advanced models have a blowing surface installed; it releases a small puff of air, helping anyone iron without putting excessive pressure on the fabric. 

Features Of Ironing Boards

Iron Rest

The metal section is visible at the wide end of the board and acts as a holder for the iron. Its function is quite similar to drying racks. It is a standard practice among manufacturers to add iron rests to ironing tables. 

If someone has a steam generator, they need to ensure that the rest is sturdy enough to hold those heavy-duty irons. 

Tapered Tip

For people who often iron shirt sleeves and trouser legs, search for one that has a thin, tapered end. 

Child Lock

Many newer boards come with child locks, and they stop the board from unintentionally collapsing and keep it closed when it is being transported elsewhere. 

Non-Slip End Caps

Many ironing boards have built-in rubber end caps to ensure it does not slide and slip during ironing. 

Storage Rack

A storage rack is similar to laundry baskets & hampers. The only difference is that the latter stores clean and ironed clothes, while the former does not. 

Four Types Of Ironing Boards

Depending on the popularity and availability, there are four main types of ironing boards:

Wall Mounted

This type of ironing board is directly connected to the wall and does not have legs. Typically, the wall brackets help fold the board up when it is not in use. One can install them in the laundry room or any room with enough space to iron clothes. 

Table Top

One can set the tabletop ironing board on a benchtop or table so anyone can iron their clothes at the appropriate height without damaging the surface. It is also known as a small ironing board and has a smaller board with smaller legs. It is an ideal alternative for people who live in a confined space. 

Built-In Type

The built-in ironing board is typically fixed inside a wall-mounted cabinet. Therefore, one can’t move it around. However, one can simply start ironing by opening the cabinet door and folding the board. 

Freestanding 

They are the most popular ones typically found in homes. Freestanding ironing tables have X-shaped legs which fold down for easy storage and height adjustment. Moreover, they are portable and can be placed anywhere with easy access to an outlet.

Ironing Board Maintenance

The ironing board might not require weekly cleaning, but it is recommended to clean them every two months. Below are steps to do so:

Step 1:

The first step is setting up an ironing table. Set it up like anyone typically does it before ironing. Next, use a clean cloth to get rid of the loose dust from the board. 

Step 2:

The second step is to remove the cover of the ironing board. Then, carefully read the instructions on the care label to check whether it can be machine-washed. If it says yes, then toss it into laundry tubs for gentle cleaning. 

However, if it is not machine washable, then find the stained portion and spot-treat it. Mix two tbsp. vinegar, ½ cup water, and one tsp. baking soda in a bowl. Move this solution inside a spray bottle and spread it over stained areas. Let this solution sit on the stain for five minutes. Then, gently wipe it with a wet cloth. 

Step 3:

Carefully remove the pads fixed to the board without damaging them. Then, dust it with a clean cloth and get rid of loose dirt. Someone can also remove the accumulated dust via a vacuum cleaner. 

Step 4: 

Clean the board with a wet cloth. Make sure that all the areas are covered, including under the board and legs. Do not forget to clean corners where the board and legs meet. It is a typical hotspot for cobwebs. 

Step 5:

In the end, wipe it with a dry, clean cloth. And voila! Try this cleaning method, and the ironing board will last much longer. 

Other products for your laundry room

A laundry room is central to clothing care, where a clothes airer, irons, and laundry baskets are essential. Airers are economical for drying clothes, especially in limited spaces. Laundry baskets, preferably with handles, organise and transport clothes efficiently. These elements combine functionality with convenience, streamlining the laundry process. You can add laundry appliances like a washing machine and clothes dryer to complete your setup.