How to choose an ironing board for your home: features of construction materials and a list of convenient modern options

Which ironing board to choose?

There are many types of ironing boards: mobile, folding, floor-standing, transformable, professional, supplied assembled with furniture, etc.
With such diversity, the question becomes relevant: “Which ironing board to choose?”

People who regularly go on business trips, on the road, students, touring performers, etc. A mobile, compact, not bulky ironing board with a light perforated metal or plastic tabletop is just right.

Amenities in apartments with small rooms will not be disturbed by built-in, folding or exit boards.

For example, the built-in and folding ones can be placed on the wall and decorated with something. Outdoor furniture can be purchased at the same time as home furniture.

For maximum convenience and practicality, in living spaces with dressing rooms, you can install a chest of drawers or a cabinet. But when choosing, be sure to give preference to a board with a cover made of durable material (synthetic, canvas) and a durable batting lining to avoid quick re-upholstery and additional hassle at the beginning of use.

For large families living in private residential buildings and cottages, the best option is to purchase an ironing board measuring 1.5 x 0.4 m with a solid metal surface for ironing, an iron stand, a platform for ironing sleeves, and a linen shelf.

Such a board would be the optimal choice for families who use a steam generator rather than an iron for ironing.

Tips on criteria: which ironing board to choose

The choice depends not only on price and design, but also on the quality of the material, as well as fasteners. If you are interested in an inexpensive board, then it is better to choose a material such as chipboard - with frequent use it leads to deformation, and it is also very susceptible to temperature and moisture. The mesh will be useful for those who are concerned about the natural removal of steam from the board. Solid metal boards are considered the highest quality, but it is better when it is covered with a wooden board on top, since steam can increase the corrosion of the metal base. The most expensive board is considered to be a thermoplastic board. So far it is not very popular with us, but you will have to pay well for such a thing.

Thanks to the design of the ironing board, it can be adjusted in height

Thermoplastic has almost all the advantages, for example, such as: lightness, durability of the case, strength, heat reflection.

You also need to pay attention to the legs, which is also very important, more on that later.

Built-in folding

How to choose an ironing board: the best types of ironing boards and tips for choosing them (135 photos)
It is gaining popularity along with built-in appliances, promoting harmonization and unity of space.

Pros:

compactness;
ease of folding/unfolding;
does not disturb the space;
complements the interior, taking shape as a decorative wall element.

Minuses:

high cost;
occupies part of the wall;
requires space for layout in the mounting area;
lacks mobility.

The name speaks for itself - such a board is installed in a closet, the pros and cons are similar to the previous built-in model.

It does not require additional space on the wall, is not limited in size, is convenient, and is better suited for ironing large items.

The best floor models

Advantages and design features of stove heating for a private home

If the dimensions of the apartment allow, floor ironing boards are the best option for any family. They have a sufficient table width, are easy to fold and are almost always equipped with a convenient iron stand.

Brabantia 124x45 cm (C) – high-quality board with stainless steel stand

5.0

★★★★★

editorial assessment

96%

buyers recommend this product

See review

The product of the famous Dutch company, which celebrated its centenary this year, is made in Belgium and is distinguished by its high quality. Chrome parts are not subject to corrosion. It’s not for nothing that manufacturers give a 10-year warranty on the board. Using Brabantia is comfortable for many reasons: it has an increased width of the desktop made of thermoplastic, there is a convenient shelf for linen that folds easily, a stable frame on 4 legs with anti-slip caps and protection against accidental folding, and it also provides the ability to place the iron on both the right and left.

Advantages:

the floating mesh design will prevent the board from deforming due to high temperature;
elastic foam pad;
possibility of fixing in folded position;
branded service.

Flaws:

high price.

The board does have a high cost, but it more than pays for itself in terms of convenience and long service life. This model is suitable for every family that can afford an expensive purchase.

Ege Carino – with sleeve platform

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

96%

buyers recommend this product

The Turkish-made model allows you to iron products of any shape and do it with high quality. To do this, she has a convenient work table measuring 38x120 cm with perforation and a sleeve platform. Two double metal legs make the structure stable, and special caps prevent them from sliding. The board is equipped with a folding shelf for linen. The height of the table can be adjusted.

Advantages:

convenient stand for iron;
removable cover;
own socket;
shelf for linen;
sleeve platform included.

Flaws:

considerable weight - 7.1 kg.

This board is suitable for those who are looking for good quality at a reasonable price.

Vileda Viva Express Premium Plus – with increased working surface

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

84%

buyers recommend this product

Produced under the German brand Vileda, this model will delight you with the expected good quality. The 44 cm wide work table allows you to iron even bed linen with ease. Its base is made of metal mesh, and the three-layer cover has thermal and vapor-repellent properties. Thanks to this, condensation does not accumulate on it and the fabric does not get wet.

The board has only two legs, but they are spaced widely and therefore are especially stable. The special Click&Stop system allows you to reliably fix the selected table height in the range from 70 to 96 cm. It will also prevent the board from folding spontaneously.

Advantages:

there is a holder for the wire;
two colors to choose from;
the ability to use both an iron and a steam generator;
increased tabletop size;
stable design.

Flaws:

heavy - more than 7 kg.

This model has an average price category, and good quality will suit any housewife.

Anyday Katarina – with height adjustment

4.5

★★★★★

editorial assessment

80%

buyers recommend this product

The model from the Russian manufacturer from the Citi series has two folding legs and an ironing table measuring 110x33 cm. The cover is made of white cotton with prints. When folded, the board takes up very little space. A 1.4 m long power cord allows you to install it wherever you need it, and the iron can be plugged into an outlet located on the stand with which this model is equipped.

Advantages:

Convenient height adjustment – you can iron even while sitting;
light weight - only 4.3 kg;
affordable price;
easy to fold;
There is a socket on the stand.

Flaws:

wobbly legs.

The model is suitable for a small apartment and people with moderate income.

Criteria for choosing an ironing board

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Before buying an ironing board, pay attention to the following parameters:

Tabletop size;
The material of its manufacture;
Upholstery and cover material;
Availability of a stand for the iron;
Availability of built-in socket and cord holder;
Availability of a sleeve platform;
Additional functions.

Tabletop size

The dimensions of the ironing board tabletop vary depending on the type of device. The most common boards with a tabletop size are 110×30, 120×38, 130×35 cm. The largest floor models have a tabletop of 150×45 cm. The tabletop of tabletop models usually does not exceed 70×30 cm.

Tabletop material

The frame and legs of the ironing board are usually made of metal, most often steel or aluminum pipe is used for this.

It is worth paying attention to the presence of rubber tips that will protect the floor from scratches. The tabletop can be made of different materials

Most often used for this:

Pressed wood boards (MDF, chipboard, chipboard, plywood). These are the cheapest options. Such models are distinguished by their large mass. In addition, a wooden tabletop is afraid of exposure to wet steam; under its influence it swells. When exposed to high temperatures, the material may delaminate. Solid wood is not used to make the tabletop. Plastic is a lightweight, but at the same time quite durable material. For the manufacture of tabletops, perforated thermoplastic sheets. The holes are necessary to remove moisture during steaming. Some expensive models are equipped with a heat-reflective coating to increase ironing efficiency. Metal (steel or aluminum) is one of the most common options. In this case, the ironing board turns out to be quite durable. This is the main advantage of such structures, however, there are also disadvantages. Aluminum countertops may be too thin and sag when ironed

When choosing a trowel with a steel surface, pay attention to the processing of the material. Otherwise, corrosion may occur under the influence of wet steam.

Upholstery and cover material

The backing can be made of padding polyester, foam rubber or batting. Synthetic substrates quickly deform, and the presence of lumps negatively affects the quality of ironing. Foam rubber is also not durable enough. Batting or felt can accumulate moisture and is recommended for use only with perforated countertops.

The cover can be made of cotton, canvas, heat-resistant synthetic fabrics or carbon fiber. Cotton covers are the thinnest and most inexpensive. If the upholstery is of poor quality, the design may be imprinted on the linen when ironing. Heat-resistant synthetic materials have non-stick properties. Carbon fiber is the most technologically advanced material; it is used to make covers only on expensive boards. This material reflects the heat of the iron well and does not allow hot steam to pass through, which increases the efficiency of ironing clothes made from delicate and “complex” fabrics, such as linen. Some ironing boards are designed for use with steam generators. Their main difference is a multilayer porous structure that is resistant to steam.

Iron stand

Many ironing boards of different price categories are equipped with an iron stand. This small device allows you to place the iron while ironing while the owner takes another item or straightens the laundry.

Availability of socket and iron cord holder

Some ironing boards have a built-in power outlet with an extension cord. The long cable allows you to choose a convenient place for ironing, which makes the process much more comfortable. The ironing boards are also equipped with an iron cord holder, protecting it from twisting and tangling.

Sleeve platform

The sleeve platform is a separate or removable narrow extension. It is convenient to iron the sleeves and collars of blouses and shirts. Additionally, the board can be equipped with a net for storing ironed laundry.

Additional functions

Professional ironing boards have additional functionality in the form of air blowing, a steam suction system using a built-in fan, and tabletop heating. These “gadgets” are found only on expensive products. This active ironing board significantly improves the quality of ironing.

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Types of ironing boards

New technologies are being introduced into every area of the life of a modern person; innovations have not spared household items.

A few of the most common models:

With drawers for linen - an ironing chest of drawers. It includes two roles at once: a surface for ironing clothes and space for storing them. The ironing surface folds, which makes the model compact. You can put an iron in the chest of drawers; the ironing surface is equipped with a special stand that ensures safety during high heat. The disadvantages include the difficulty of rearranging and the fact that the ironing board cover cannot be changed.
Cabinet. Similar to a chest of drawers, but more compact. It consists of three doors, which, when unfolded, reveal an ironing surface and imitate shelves for linen and a stand for an iron. Wood is used in production, and you can also change the cover if desired. However, the ironing surface itself is small, which can cause inconvenience.
Tabletop. It is light in weight, which makes it much easier to carry to any convenient place. Some models are equipped with a mount that allows you to hang them on the wall. By placing such an ironing board in the dressing room, you hide it from prying eyes. Quick to install and remove. However, under heavy load the surface may bend.
Ironing system . Combines surface and iron. At the same time, the cord is located very conveniently, does not get tangled or twisted, which allows you to achieve maximum usefulness. Such systems are equipped with a special fan that blows air in and out. This function is a lifesaver when you need to iron very delicate fabrics. Inflating the product prevents the appearance of creases, and with a slight heating of the surface of the iron, a good result is achieved. Air injection fixes the product and is used, for example, when ironing arrows. The special shape of the edges of the ironing surface is designed in such a way that it is convenient and quick to iron shirts. Some models have a heating function for the work surface. Inappropriate purchase for small amounts of laundry.

With a mirror. A mirror is a necessary accessory for any woman; it’s especially nice when it also functions as an ironing board. It is difficult to imagine such an unusual device, but it exists. Visually, to an unaware person, it seems that there is simply a mirror hanging on the wall. When unfolded, the structure can support up to 20 kg. The cover is removed from the surface. However, the large weight of the structure requires reinforced fasteners.
Stepladder . Combining a stepladder and ironing board allows you to store clothes and iron them at the same time. The advantages include good stability of the structure and the ability to replace the cover. However, it is heavy and takes up a lot of space.
With a wide ironing surface. Particularly necessary if a woman carefully irons her bed linen. These models differ in width up to 48 cm. However, due to their size, the structures can be heavy, which complicates the moving process.
Wall-mounted. A particularly necessary model if the apartment is small. An empty area on the wall is required for installation. When folded, it takes up minimal space. Looks stylish, especially in a modern interior. However, the design is not mobile, and there is no way to adjust the parameters specified during installation.
Folding . The peculiarity of these models is that they do not simply fold out, but this model is a built-in ironing board in a sliding wardrobe. The doors of the structure open in any direction.
Transformer . A distinctive feature is that the design folds out into other objects. As a rule, such models include boards that extend from furniture. They slide out quickly and are invisible to strangers. Thus, the board is pulled out from the tabletop, which can later be used to fold laundry and place an iron.

The best floor models

Brabantia 124x45 cm (C) – high-quality board with stainless steel stand

5.0

★★★★★ editorial assessment

96% of buyers recommend this product

See review

Advantages:

the floating mesh design will prevent the board from deforming due to high temperature;
elastic foam pad;
possibility of fixing in folded position;
branded service.

Flaws:

high price.

The board does have a high cost, but it more than pays for itself in terms of convenience and long service life. This model is suitable for every family that can afford an expensive purchase.

Ege Carino – with sleeve platform

4.8

★★★★★ editorial assessment

96% of buyers recommend this product

Advantages:

convenient stand for iron;
removable cover;
own socket;
shelf for linen;
sleeve platform included.

Flaws:

considerable weight - 7.1 kg.

This board is suitable for those who are looking for good quality at a reasonable price.

Vileda Viva Express Premium Plus – with increased working surface

4.7

★★★★★ editorial assessment

84% of buyers recommend this product

Advantages:

there is a holder for the wire;
two colors to choose from;
the ability to use both an iron and a steam generator;
increased tabletop size;
stable design.

Flaws:

heavy - more than 7 kg.

This model has an average price category, and good quality will suit any housewife.

Anyday Katarina – with height adjustment

4.5

★★★★★ editorial assessment

80% of buyers recommend this product

Advantages:

Convenient height adjustment – you can iron even while sitting;
light weight - only 4.3 kg;
affordable price;
easy to fold;
There is a socket on the stand.

Flaws:

wobbly legs.

The model is suitable for a small apartment and people with moderate income.

A little about additional accessories

If you analyze the assortment of modern ironing boards, you will notice that manufacturers abundantly equip them with special accessories. Sometimes it may seem that these modifications are not of particular interest and only increase the cost of the product, but in practice this is not always the case. As a result, you can significantly simplify the ironing process and make it simpler, while saving money, because all these elements will not have to be purchased additionally in the future.

Iron stands have been installed on ironing boards for the last few years, and this element really makes ironing much easier, since the iron will always be close to the work area. It is often used as a side mount and is small in size.

Iron stand on ironing board

The presence of a separate board for ironing sleeves will also be a great addition. This will not increase the cost of the product significantly, but it will be more practical to use. You can iron your shirt sleeves without the slightest crease in just a few minutes. When choosing an ironing board, make sure that this part is removable, as otherwise it can significantly reduce the size of the work area.

Ironing board with stand for ironing sleeves

An excellent addition is a stand with which you can secure the cord from the iron. Many housewives know that during operation the cord from this electrical appliance constantly touches the edges of the ironing board, and it is this element that will allow you to avoid this unpleasant phenomenon. Also, modern boards are equipped by manufacturers with an outlet with an extension cord, which allows you to install the board in the right place and not be tied to the nearest outlet. It is extremely inconvenient to constantly use another carrier for this, so it makes sense to choose just such models.

Ironing board with built-in socket

A specialized shelf for ironed linen can also be a convenient addition. Many housewives agree that in the absence of such an element, no special complications arise. But its presence will not be superfluous at all and will allow you to perform ironing as quickly, comfortably and efficiently as possible.

Ironing board with linen shelf

Some models are equipped with a special shirt rack, the function of which is somewhat similar to the previous board addition. The element is fixed on the side and makes it possible to immediately hang ironed items, which is very convenient. The absence of this accessory will not cause much trouble, but will allow you to avoid constant trips to the closet to place the ironed item in it.

Bracket for shirts on ironing board

All these additional bonuses may or may not be present on the ironing board, but this will not change the function of the product. If you want to make your work as easy as possible, then it makes sense to choose ironing boards equipped with the latest modern technology.

It is important to know when to stop, as a huge number of accessories will ultimately make the board bulky and heavy.

What size should be according to the standard

Width height length

Universal (classic) ironing boards are relatively lightweight. Even a miniature girl can independently unfold such a structure and, if necessary, fold it and put it behind the closet without anyone else’s help.

Such boards are produced in the following dimensions:

large ones are from 140 cm to 120 cm in length, the width of the ironing surface is from 38 cm to 40 cm, in the folded position the length will be from 163 cm to 168 cm. This board allows you to iron things of different sizes. At the same time, it is quite light;
small ones have a length from 110 cm to 120 cm, a surface width from 30 cm to 35 cm, when folded the length will be from 133 cm to 143 cm;
Both sizes are only seven centimeters wide when folded, making them easy to hide in a small apartment.

When installed for ironing, classic boards have two folding mechanisms.

The smooth mechanism freely adjusts the height of the table to suit the needs of the hostess. The step mechanism is more common. It has about five layout levels, which is quite enough to choose your own comfortable ironing height.

Description of small boards, standard

The desktop model can be considered classic and equally common. It takes up little space and weighs even less than previous models. The ironing surface is only one hundred by thirty centimeters. The disadvantages include the inability to adjust the height and the small size, which does not allow you to iron large items.

There are compact ironing boards on sale, made of steel, which are comfortable and lightweight. It hangs on the wall using a metal hook. Easy to hide and easy to take out to iron small items.

Ironing board sizes

When purchasing a new model, it is recommended to study what sizes are available. Correctly chosen dimensions will help to fit this accessory into the interior of the apartment, and will also not cause inconvenience during ironing.

There are several most common models:

Built-in.
Retractable.
Folding.
Dresser.
Classic - folding.
Tabletop.

Each of these types has its own size characteristics. If you select a board from the first 4 options, all parameters must be selected individually.

You should choose a board based on the owner’s height. When unfolded, it should not cause discomfort when ironing. Nothing should interfere with the unfolding of the device; it is also necessary to ensure stability and an unobstructed approach.

Classic mobile model. It is easy to carry, disassemble, assemble, even for a woman. They are divided into:

Small-sized: working surface width up to 35 cm, length up to 120 cm, folded height up to 143 cm, thickness 7 cm.
Regular: width up to 40cm, length up to 145cm, folded height up to 168cm, width 7cm.

The large size of the working area allows you to speed up ironing. At the same time, the dimensional characteristics do not reduce stability and do not affect the folding mechanism.

Criteria for choosing an ironing board

How to choose an ironing board

Before buying an ironing board, pay attention to the following parameters:

Tabletop size;
The material of its manufacture;
Upholstery and cover material;
Availability of a stand for the iron;
Availability of built-in socket and cord holder;
Availability of a sleeve platform;
Additional functions.

Tabletop size

Tabletop material

The frame and legs of the ironing board are usually made of metal, most often steel or aluminum pipe is used for this.

It is worth paying attention to the presence of rubber tips that will protect the floor from scratches. The tabletop can be made of different materials

Most often used for this:

When choosing a trowel with a steel surface, pay attention to the processing of the material. Otherwise, corrosion may occur under the influence of wet steam.

Upholstery and cover material

This material reflects the heat of the iron well and does not allow hot steam to pass through, which increases the efficiency of ironing clothes made from delicate and “complex” fabrics, such as linen. Some ironing boards are designed for use with steam generators. Their main difference is a multilayer porous structure that is resistant to steam.

Iron stand

Availability of socket and iron cord holder

Sleeve platform

Additional functions

Design types of ironing boards and selection rules

Since technological progress does not stand still, we have moved far from standard standards and today on the market you can see several types of ironing boards that differ in design, material and, of course, construction.

Among the advantages of retractable ironing boards, it is worth noting their compactness and practicality.

Namely:

Portable, portable, folding (the most popular; their advantages are that they can be placed anywhere, which is very convenient, and they are also easy to transport anywhere). They are boards covered with textile fabric on top, attached to them with iron or wooden legs that cross each other.
Folding, permanently fixed at one end to the wall (suitable for those who have clearly decided on the place of the ironing board in their home). The board, held by fastenings to the wall, has no legs. During ironing, the board reclines, most often from bottom to top; it is less convenient than folding.
Retractable, built into furniture (suitable for those who want to decorate their apartment in some designer style). Most often, the board matches the color of the furniture. When ironing, the board is pulled out of furniture, for example, from a kitchen cabinet.
Linen cabinet (is the lid of the linen cabinet and serves as full-fledged furniture). The board can be pulled out during ironing.
Linen closet (represents a hinged lid attached to the wall of the closet). Doesn't take up extra space. Suitable for small apartments.

Ironing boards also differ in design, but you should remember that for any ironing board you can purchase or sew a cover yourself if it somehow does not fit the interior.

Ironing board base materials:

Plywood or chipboard is one of the most affordable materials. Among the disadvantages, it can be noted that it quickly fails (delaminates and deforms).
Reinforced metal plate is a strong and durable material. The disadvantages of this choice include too much weight of the structure and a small number of holes, which will not allow steam to escape normally.
The metal mesh is strong and durable, weighs significantly less than the analogue described above. The disadvantage is that over time, when the cover is pressed, the mesh base will be imprinted on the laundry, but this can be easily avoided if you change the cover for a new one from time to time.
Plastic is more durable than metal, just as durable and cannot leave a mark on laundry, but this option is only suitable for an iron with a steam generator.
Wood is much more expensive than its metal counterparts, however, it is more durable and of higher quality. Deformation of the material is prevented by impregnation with water-repellent compounds during the manufacture of the ironing board.

Various modifications of ironing boards may have additions in the form of shelves for linen, wheels for moving the structure, a holder for the iron wire, an electrical outlet attached to the iron stand, etc.