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Whether you are checking off things to buy for your first home or you need to replace your existing ironing board, there are four types of ironing boards to consider.
Before you start shopping for a new ironing board, find out how to compare your options.
The cost of an ironing board depends on the type, the brand, the workmanship and the special features or accessories included. These are the price ranges you can expect to see:
Freestanding: $20 to $200
Table top: $15 to $50
Wall-mounted: $200 to $300
Built-in: $300 to $600
There is a large difference in price with freestanding models. While it's possible to pick one up for as little as $20, it may not last you as long due to flimsy legs or substandard workmanship.
Board size can vary between brands and models. For freestanding boards, you can see widths of between 33cm and 48cm and lengths of between 120cm and 140cm. Table top and wall-mounted models can be just as long as freestanding boards but they tend to have shorter lengths of between 70cm and 105cm.
Opt for a wider board so you are not needing to reposition your clothes as much, and if you iron a lot of pants or maxi skirts, then a longer length is more desirable. On the other hand, if you only tend to iron a few smaller items from time to time, a smaller board may be all that you need.
Your ironing board should sit at a height that is level with your hips if you iron standing up. Most freestanding boards can be adjusted to be between 70cm and 92cm tall, although some may have a smaller or larger range. If there will be more than one person using your ironing board, you should look for a model that can be adjusted for the comfort of everyone.
Height is not so much of a concern if you are opting for a wall-mounted or built-in model as you can fit these to the appropriate height.
An ironing board needs to be sturdy enough to take the weight of you pressing down without it collapsing or falling over, especially when you have a steaming hot iron. Cheaper and lightweight ironing boards tend to squeak and move, and can even topple over with gentle knocks. Generally, more expensive models have a more stable and longer-lasting structure.
Padding should be between 4cm and 8cm thick. Foam is often used in cheaper ironing boards but as this can lose shape over time. Heavy felt or cotton fibre is a more desirable choice.
Ideally, a cover should be smooth and scorch-resistant. Reflective covers make ironing easier by transferring heat back into clothes and non-stick covers avoid material adhering to the board. Teflon-covered or silicone-coated cotton covers are a popular choice as they are easy to clean and prevent clothes sticking.
Ironing can be a chore, but thanks to some modern accessories and special features you can have an easier and quicker experience. You may find some of these are included when you purchase a new ironing board, especially in high-end models, or you may be able to purchase certain accessories separately.
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