Ironing board - great helper at home. With its help it is much easier to iron clothes than on the floor or on the table. But choose the right one ironing board, which will be both comfortable and fit into the interior of the room, is not so easy. In this article we will give some tips to help you understand such a complex matter.
Variety of species
On modern market There is a wide range of ironing equipment available. Basically they can be divided into the following types.
- Built-in ironing board, fixed to the wall at one end. It does not take up space in the room; it can be pulled out if necessary. This board is a great option for a small apartment. Such boards are usually built into a wardrobe or mounted in a special cabinet. They can become a decorative element if outer side the board will be made in the form of a picture.
Built-in ironing board is often used in small spaces
- Portable ironing board. This is a small folding device, the main advantage of which is mobility. You can iron on such a board in any room, and then fold it and hide it in a secluded place.
- A linen drawer or chest of drawers with a built-in ironing board. In this case, the work surface is located on the chest of drawers and folds out to the right size. This chest of drawers with a board will fit very well into the decor of the room.
- Ironing boards built into furniture. They are installed inside furniture walls and cabinets, so they significantly save space. These boards have rollers that allow them to move out of the box and back into the box.
Purchasing a board built into the furniture will save space
- Ironing boards with additional features. Such possibilities include, for example, a steam generator or other devices operating from the electrical network. They help securely fix things on the board, dry them and steam them. These boards are suitable for synthetic and elastic fabrics.
Board with an additional function - steam generator
Basic requirements when purchasing
Every year new models of ironing boards appear. Manufacturers are constantly improving them, supplementing them with various devices, making them more convenient and mobile. In order not to get confused among so many offers and not incur unnecessary costs, you need to decide in advance what you need, based on several properties.
- Ease. Ironing boards are mainly used by women, so the device should be lightweight.
- Strength. The structure must be stable, not shaky or sagging. It is very important that the lightness of the board is not compensated by its strength.
- Compactness. The board should take up little space when folded for easy storage.
- Quality. The coating of the board should be soft and non-stick.
- Convenience. The board should have a wide working surface on which the ironing process will be quick and easy. It is advisable that the board be provided with a stand for the iron and a carrier with a socket mount.
- Mobility. The board should be height adjustable so you can adjust it to your height. The adjustment should be simple and the fastening should be reliable.
If the ironing board you like meets all these parameters and also has an affordable price, you can safely buy it. But first, it’s worth paying attention to some more features.
Tabletop
This element of the ironing board is one of the most important. You will be ironing clothes on the surface of the countertop, so it is important that it meets certain criteria.
There are four types of tabletops:
- net;
- solid metal sheet;
- thermoplastic.
Thermoplastic ironing board
Chipboard boards are the cheapest, and therefore the most accessible. In addition, they are quite lightweight. But they have a significant drawback: over time, under the influence of steam and moisture, the plywood becomes deformed and becomes wavy.
The mesh can be different: wicker, all-metal with holes for steam to escape, etc.
Boards with a tabletop made of solid metal sheet are distinguished by their durability and quality. Over time, such a foundation does not sag. But if there are few holes in it for steam to escape, the cover will quickly deteriorate. It is better if the iron tabletop is covered with wood.
Thermoplastic is new material, invented relatively recently. It is excellent for making ironing board countertops because it is lightweight, highly durable, reflects heat well, and allows steam to pass through. True, such an ironing board is expensive.
Dimensions
There are no standard, average sizes of countertops. But it is generally accepted that the most comfortable boards with a surface width of 38 cm and a length of about 150 cm.
On sale you can most often see models with the following parameters:
- 110 X 30 cm and 120 X 38 cm - classic;
- 140 X 40 and 148 X 45 cm - modern.
If you choose an ironing board according to the size of the tabletop, then main role your personal preferences will play out. But ironing is much more convenient on a wide working surface.
Case material
You also need to choose the cover for your board wisely. It is not only a reliable coating, but also a colorful accessory that can enliven the interior. In addition, the cover wears out quickly and may need to be replaced over time.
A cover with a pattern can decorate your interior
When choosing a case, pay attention to the following:
- Material. For inexpensive models of ironing boards, cotton covers are most often used. Expensive models are equipped with a coating of heat-resistant, moisture-proof and non-stick fabrics.
- Softness. The cover should have a double lining, this will make ironing easier.
- Convenience. Many manufacturers make removable covers, which is very convenient for replacing them. Such a cover should be securely attached to the surface and not move around the board.
- Additional functions. Modern models often use special inclusions on the surface of the cover that clean the iron, or metal inserts that provide the effect of double-sided ironing.
Note! A removable cover is much more convenient than a fixed one - it is easy to replace if damaged. When choosing such a case, choose one that is attached with ropes and not with elastic bands. The former, unlike the latter, will not stretch over time.
Height and stability
These parameters are also very important; the convenience of the workflow depends on them.
Legs are a structural element that provides stability. It is better if their width protrudes slightly beyond the edges of the board. This will lead to a slight loss of compactness, but will significantly increase durability. The legs should be made of lightweight material, such as aluminum. This determines how light and compact the design will be when carried. To avoid damaging the floor, the legs should be equipped with plastic or rubber tips.
The ease of use will depend on how the ironing board is installed.
The legs are attached to the board using:
- welding;
- bolts;
- rivets
Please note: rivets are the most unreliable fastening option, as they can become loose over time. A better and more convenient way is with bolts.
Among the methods of fixing height, smooth and stepped ones are distinguished. With a smooth fixation, you will have more opportunities to choose the desired height, but such a board will quickly become loose. It is better to choose the step fixation option. It assumes 3 installed levels, but the device will last much longer.
These criteria will help you choose a reliable and safe ironing board.
Additional accessories
Modern ironing board models may have many additional accessories. Some will think that these are excesses, but most housewives are happy with such innovations, as they greatly facilitate the ironing process.
The ironing process is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. The convenience and safety of this procedure largely depends on what iron and ironing board it is used on. Even the choice of a design such as an ironing board must be approached carefully. In stores you can find a large number of ironing boards with a variety of parameters, from the design to the material from which the covering of the flat element is made. All these factors must be taken into account before purchasing so as not to regret an unnecessary purchase later.
What is an ironing board for?
Ironing can be of high quality only when it is carried out on a convenient and compact ironing element. The board is used as a surface on which items of clothing and fabric household items that have undergone the washing procedure are placed. By ironing on a flat, high-quality surface to which stickers and label elements do not stick when heated with an iron, you can quickly and efficiently tidy up clothes even made from delicate fabrics. In order to avoid such unpleasant situations, you need to choose natural material ironing board coatings, and not common synthetics, which can damage the iron. A correctly selected board will not be noticeable in the interior and will simplify the ironing procedure, reducing the time spent on it.
What to look for when choosing?
When arranging your home and making it cozy, pay attention to the fact that every piece of furniture and interior is not just beautiful, but also practical. This rule also applies to the ironing board. When choosing it, you should be guided by several parameters, based on individual characteristics your home. The board should be:
- Light in weight so that it is convenient and easy to move from place to place.
- Compact in size so that after ironing it can be put away in an inconspicuous place where it will not disturb anyone. The compact ironing element can easily fit between a wall and a closet or around the corner of a hallway where guests will not see it.
- High quality. The folding mechanism should not be loose or have protruding elements. Otherwise it will not be safe.
- Easy to assemble and disassemble. No special effort should be made to fold the board structure.
- Adjustable to human height. The board mechanism must be height adjustable.
Based on the main criteria for choosing a high-quality ironing board, we can highlight the main points that you should pay attention to when purchasing it:
- The material from which it is made should be light and durable. The legs should be made of light but durable material (wood or iron).
- The surface of the board should have a fabric base lined with dense material(foam rubber). Particular attention should be paid to the quality of the fabric. It must be dense and withstand the heat of an iron so that you can iron a large amount of laundry.
- The dimensions of the board should be equally convenient when folded and disassembled, so that it does not take up much space.
- The joints on the legs must be strong to withstand a lot of assembly and disassembly.
- The cost of the board must correspond to all of the above qualities without being unreasonably inflated.
Before buying an ironing board, you need to compare its quality, specifications and cost. If they correspond to each other, then you should be interested in such a model.
Tabletop size and coating material
Despite the importance of the joints in the ironing board, you should choose it primarily based on the tabletop, its size and the materials with which it is covered. After all, it is on this part that the laundry will be ironed. Tabletops for ironing boards are made from various materials. Chipboard is the basis for the cheapest category of ironing boards. The main disadvantage of this material is that it is susceptible to the effects of steam and heat, which are inevitable when ironing. Boards on this basis deteriorate very quickly, break, crumble and become deformed.
Metal mesh in different configurations and different ways weaving. On the one hand, this is a good option, since boards on this basis are very light, but this is also their drawback. If you accidentally touch the board, it will inevitably fall, even if you simply pull the tangled cord of the iron.
The solid metal sheet that became the basis for the board is the key to its durability and strength. As a rule, thick sheets of metal are not used to make such equipment, but they are able to withstand heat from an iron and constant contact with steam for many years.
Thick thermoplastic is used to make boards by only one German manufacturer. The thermoplastic composition is an innovative development unavailable to competitors. Nevertheless, the countertops of this company are distinguished by their durability, ability to withstand heavy loads, up to human weight, and the ability to serve their intended purpose for a long time. The only disadvantage of this model is the very high cost.
One of the main problems with ironing boards is wear and tear on the countertop cover. Since all the effects of temperature and steam fall primarily on it, the cover wears out quite quickly and requires replacement. But choosing an option of similar quality and size can be problematic. That is why you should initially pay attention to the quality of this element, so as not to look for a replacement in a month.
The texture of the material from which the cover is made should be soft, without any hairs, pellets or a “glued” effect. To avoid the need to cover the ironing board tabletop with some other material, you should immediately see if the cover has an additional internal lining.
The most common material for board covers is cotton fabric. It withstands heat from the iron surface well and does not deteriorate from frequent use pair.
If the board has a removable cover, you must immediately check how tightly it sits on the tabletop so that it does not start to slip and move during ironing.
For expensive models of boards, the material for the cover may be expensive fabrics with non-stick, moisture-resistant and heat-resistant functions. Here, each housewife must decide for herself how important these additional characteristics of the cover are for her.
Folding ironing boards
The ironing boards familiar to most people have a simple folding design and consist of a tabletop and two intersecting legs. When assembled, the board looks like this:
- Compact.
- Easily fits into narrow spaces.
- Doesn't spoil the interior.
The main problem is that over time, the fastenings on the legs begin to become loose, and the structure itself becomes less stable and crooked. And not all types of residential premises have storage space even for such a compact design. Today, due to the limited number of square meters, built-in, wall-mounted and combined models of ironing boards are becoming increasingly popular.
Folding ironing boards
One of the most convenient options is a folding ironing board. The design involves its installation in a wall or wardrobe. Depending on the model, the board may be equipped with a rotating mechanism that allows it to move 180 degrees. A folding board is very convenient to hide in a wall niche or storage closet. Due to this factor, it is possible to save space in the room and make the ironing process as convenient as possible. There are options for folding boards that come complete with a wall box, the surface of which is decorated with a mirror. When assembled, the entire structure looks like an ordinary wall mirror, and when disassembled, it looks like an ironing board.
Ironing board chest of drawers
Those who like furniture from the 2-in-1 category will be very interested in the ironing board-chest of drawers. Such models are valuable not only in terms of efficient organization of space in the room, but also as decorative elements. The design of this piece of furniture is unique. The design of an unusual chest of drawers does not take up much space. The assembled board resembles a section of a book-table. If necessary, the tabletop rises up and is secured with a special mechanism. The main thing here is to foresee in advance where the ironing board/chest of drawers will be placed so that there is enough space to open the table top.
Pull-out ironing boards
A good option for a compact ironing board is a retractable model. This type has a folding design, placed in a desk drawer or bedroom set. A board folded in half takes up space in only one drawer and is very convenient to take out when necessary. This design has no legs, and the entire load goes to fastening the box. Do not think that such models are very flimsy. They can withstand the standard load of ironing perfectly.
Before choosing an ironing board for your home, you should understand the variety of existing models, among which you will definitely find one that will suit your individual needs. living conditions, wishes of the hostess and room design.
I want the house to be comfortable and cosy. People arrange their homes in step with the times. At the same time, there are things that are necessary for everyday use. You need to choose them carefully and slowly, so as not to be disappointed later. A very important item in the house is the ironing board. Which one is good? Let's consider all the options, and it will immediately become clear which one to purchase.
Making a choice
Shops and markets are overflowing with goods. The ironing board is no exception. Manufacturers from many countries around the world offer us their products - metal, wood, plastic, folding, mobile. There are so many ironing devices that have been invented!
But once upon a time our grandmothers simply laid a blanket on the floor and started steaming their clothes. We enjoy all the benefits of civilization, so we must not make a mistake with our choice.
Main settings
Every home should have a convenient ironing board. Which is better? The one that meets all the requirements:
- Durability, reliability. The board must be stable, not flimsy, otherwise it will break after a few months.
- Light weight. Lightness is also an important criterion, because the product will need to be carried by hand from the storage location to the source of electricity.
- Dense surface. Pay attention to the quality of the cover; it should be cotton, thick, with a layer inside.
- Mobility. Do not take a huge board, it will take up a lot of space and will be inconvenient to use.
These are the basic parameters, but there are still a great many additional questions. Which ironing board is better - wooden or metal? How many kilograms should she weigh?
Tabletop
The main element of the board is the tabletop. It is made from various materials, and each has its own advantages:
There are so many different types of ironing boards. Which ones are better? When choosing, you can trust the reviews of housewives.
Personal opinions
It turns out that many buyers face a problem when choosing an ironing board. After all, you need to take everything into account: size, stability, quality of the case. Many housewives claim that they have never seen a better countertop than one made from chipboard. It does not deform over the years, is stable, moderate severity. This is an almost perfect ironing board! How good it is - statistics compiled from reviews of ordinary people will tell you. The cover must be cotton and removable. It can be washed or replaced with a new one over time. Most suitable size boards for frequent use - 150x40 centimeters. This is a universal size of the product, but the height can be adjusted using the legs.
Buyers are advised to pay Special attention on fasteners, additional accessories. Branded products from trusted manufacturers usually come with a retractable iron stand and sleeve ironing device. This is the best ironing board! Customer reviews help you choose exactly the product that you like and can afford.
Go Russia!
Products produced in our country undergo strict quality control. Therefore, manufacturers are trying not to fall on their face. The equipment in factories and workshops is modern, the raw materials are of high quality and, fortunately, domestic. Our country has always been able to make excellent ironing boards. Which ones are better? Russian made, naturally! These include the following brands:
There are many large board manufacturers in Russia. Every city has its own skilled businessmen. They produce good products, high quality, strong, but these companies are popular only in the regions.
Case
The covering of the ironing board tabletop plays not only an aesthetic role, but also a practical one. The cotton cover meets all requirements except safety. After all, it can flare up in a second. But the heat-resistant synthetic cover is absolutely not flammable. Both types look attractive and bright.
Choose a model with a removable cover. After all, it will need to be washed and cleaned periodically. Check how it is attached. The product should not fidget or move. It is also better to choose a case with a thick lining, otherwise you will have to lay something down.
Additional functions will not be superfluous. The sleeve holder is a very convenient device that allows you to iron a sleeve of any size without wrinkles or creases.
An iron stand made of high-quality metal is a must to avoid burning the case. Shelves for things or a built-in basket for clean linen would also be useful. An ironing board is useful in any home. Which one is good? The one that meets all your requirements. It doesn’t matter who the manufacturer is or how many years it has been on display!
Legs
The basis of the device for ironing clothes is the legs. They should be metal, wide and hollow inside, preferably aluminum, otherwise it will be very difficult to lift the board. The legs should protrude beyond the edges of the tabletop in width, then the structure will be stable. Plastic or rubber tips - required condition. After all, you will be moving the board around the room, so there is a risk of scratching the floor.
Attaching the legs to the tabletop can be different - welding, bolts, rivets. The most reliable and durable is bolt fastening. If the legs become loose over time, you can tighten the bolts a little and the board will be as good as new.
Step height fixation is very convenient. Usually it has three or four positions. They are quite enough to adjust the size to your height. This is the best ironing board!
Best assistant
An ironing board is an indispensable item in the home. After all, housewives use it every day, and a good product will make their work easier. Manufacturers offer many additions to the board. A hanger stand is an excellent solution for those who iron a lot of shirts, body shirts, jackets, and shirts. They can be hung on hangers without leaving the board. The laundry racks below are also very convenient. There is no need to place a chair or stool to fold ironed items. A built-in extension cord with socket makes work easier for women. There is no need to move the board closer to the power source.
Love yourself and pamper yourself! Choose the best products for your family!
Comfort in the house is ensured by many things. Every housewife has hardworking “helpers” with whom domestic issues solved easier and faster. Ironing clothes is an integral part of the usual routine. homework. You can do without ironing for a day, two, three, a week... But then you still have to do it, perhaps again for a week. Ironing board- an indispensable attribute. To modern man In everyday life, it is quite difficult to do without an iron and ironing board, especially if there are children in your family.
Of course, there are stories about how you can iron on a table, sofa, or even on the floor. But it’s still better on the ironing board. After all, with its help, comfortable ironing is ensured. And the effectiveness of the whole process and your mood after a lot of ironing depend on how convenient it will be for you.
Choosing a smart ironing board will save you time and effort. So, in order for ironing not to be so tedious and as productive as possible, you should approach the choice of an ironing board with all seriousness.
What types of ironing boards are there?
According to the type of location and installation method, ironing boards are divided into:- Floor ironing boards
- Tabletop ironing boards
- Built-in ironing boards
Tabletop ironing boards are similar in folding principle to floor ironing boards, with the only difference being the size. The legs on models of such boards are miniature, and the height when unfolded is 10-20 cm. Such a board can be installed on any table. Disadvantage: small size.
A built-in board can be “hidden” in a closet, pantry, or even a mirror. For example:
- folding ironing boards, fixed in one part to a wall or cabinet;
- boards with a retractable folding principle built into the furniture;
- ironing boards combined with special cabinets or a linen closet in the form of a hinged lid, etc.
Ironing board for iron or steam generator?
Some housewives do not use an ordinary iron, but a modern steam generator. Therefore, the choice of ironing board may differ slightly for a particular device. Each steam generator board is suitable for ironing with a simple iron, but not every board can use a steam generator.The main difference is the material that comes into contact with the ironing board tabletop. Ideally, the coating of the board for the steam generator should be multi-layered to ensure ease of sliding and free circulation of hot air. The bottom layer should be water-repellent, the next one should be porous, then there is a layer of foam, and the top one is a thick cotton material that is resistant to high temperatures and mechanical stress.
The technical characteristics of ironing boards are presented by a number of important parameters.
Board material
Board material – important point, which affects the service life, cost and results obtained during use. Traditionally, several material options are used. Countertops are made of: wood (chipboard, MDF, plywood), plastic, and metal.Wooden countertops– a high-quality and safe option. However, the price of the issue is significantly higher than in other cases. A high-quality wooden tabletop should be equipped with sufficient thickness. This will ensure that there is no deformation during the ironing process. Disadvantage - steaming can promote delamination of wood.
Chipboard- an accessible material that can be deformed under the influence of moisture and steam. Despite this, chipboard countertops are a popular option. Its disadvantage is its large significant weight. Few people always have their ironing board in disassembled ready mode. The large weight will cause inconvenience in assembling and disassembling the device.
Ironing boards with a base made of plywood and MDF with They cost a little more, but have less weight and have the same characteristics as previous version.
Plastic– modern durable material. Despite its lightness, a thermoplastic tabletop will not sag or be subject to deformation. The heat-reflecting effect of the material contributes to economical energy consumption. The structure of the plastic tabletop is represented by cells. This allows steam to function unhindered, which helps extend the life of the cover. A significant disadvantage is the high cost.
Metal table top– strong and durable. During operation, it may be subject to corrosion. Therefore, it may be necessary to replace the cover. To prevent this from happening, you should pay attention to the presence of holes in the metal. This will protect the surface from excess moisture evaporation and extend the life of the board itself. Great option It is considered metal that is covered with wood.
A popular model is a tabletop made of metal mesh. The frame for such a surface is a metal frame. This design is solid and not heavy. The unhindered passage of steam ensures no deformation. However, along with these advantages, such models have a significant drawback - traces of the mesh surface can be imprinted on linen and clothing. This will most often occur on ironing boards with a large mesh.
Availability of iron stand
Ensuring the convenience and efficiency of the ironing process is the main point that requires attention. An iron stand is a necessary feature. After all, during work you constantly need to put the iron down to turn over the laundry, pick up another item, etc. The presence of this accessory will allow you to iron anywhere, without having an additional platform at hand where you can place the iron (table, chair, etc.). The stand with a special clamp for the iron cord is especially convenient.
The stand on the ironing board also has different design features depending on what you are using - an iron or a steam generator:
- iron platform
- steam generator platform
Any platform is suitable for a regular iron, but for a steam generator, the stand must be as large in area as possible and level, without any recesses.
Availability of a sleeve platform
The sleeve ironing stand is indispensable when you have to iron shirts and blouses. If the wardrobe consists of large quantity such items, be sure to take into account the presence of this accessory included with the ironing board. In some ironing board models, the sleeve platform is a removable part. This makes it possible to use the stand exactly at the moment when it is really needed, and the rest of the time simply remove it. As a rule, the sleeve platform is simply placed on the board, less often it is attached using a special clamp.
Availability of socket
A socket with an extension cord on the ironing board allows you to work with the board in a place remote from the socket. Of course, you can get by without this option using a standard extension cord, but models with a built-in socket will be more convenient and eliminate the need to use additional devices.Board dimensions
An important characteristic of an ironing board is its size. A narrow board is not very convenient to use. Imagine how much time it takes to iron a large surface of fabric, such as a curtain.
Therefore, it is more rational to opt for a wider board. The width of the board can vary from 29 to 45 centimeters. The length of the board can also vary. The length of the board can be from 91 to 150 centimeters. The best option is a tabletop with dimensions of 40*122 centimeters.
The height of the board is an equally important point. After all, a correctly selected option will ensure convenience and comfort during the ironing process. Minimum board height in different models there will be a distance from 40 to 96 centimeters. The maximum height that can be provided is from 70 to 100 centimeters. Most ironing board models have an adjustable height. This will allow you to independently set a comfortable height.
The ability to adjust is especially convenient not only for height to suit a person’s height, but also for choosing optimal position for ironing - sitting or standing.
Linen shelf
A number of ironing board models have a special shelf for temporary storage of ironed items. This allows you to minimize the waste of time and effort. After all, during the ironing process you have to move many times to remove the “finished” linen. With such an accessory there is no need for constant movement.There is also no need to fold laundry on an adjacent chair or on the edge of the same ironing board, the surface of which should be free.
In practice, many housewives, even if they have this shelf, few use it. Therefore, when choosing ironing boards, the presence or absence of a linen bracket should not play a determining role
Strength of legs
The stability of the board is a point that requires attention. After all, a fragile structure will wobble and sag, which will certainly affect the result of the work. The legs of the structure must be equipped with high-quality metal clamps and rubber tips. This will limit their movement and protect the floor from possible damage.