All About Ironing Boards: Your Ultimate Guide
Discover all about ironing board in Australia through this in-depth guide.
We dive straight into the types, features, and top brands you’ll find Down Under.
Whether you’re seeking a space-efficient design or a board brimming with features, get ready to unlock the secrets to selecting the perfect ironing board for your home.
Short Summary
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Learn about ironing board styles: freestanding, tabletop, wall-mounted, and built-in types, each catering to different spatial and usage needs.
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Ironing board features to consider: height adjustment, stability, lightweight design, mobility (wheels), and a built-in iron rest.
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Regular maintenance such as cleaning the board, the legs, and washing or spot cleaning the cover based on its material.
Topics in This Article:
Types of Ironing Boards in Australia
A wide variety of ironing boards are available in Australia, catering to different needs and preferences.
Freestanding ironing boards are the most common, known for their versatile height adjustments and collapsible X-shaped legs, making them a suitable choice for different users.
If you’re working in a smaller space, tabletop ironing boards provide a compact and convenient solution that easily fits on any flat surface.
Not to be overlooked are the wall-mounted and built-in ironing boards, which take space-saving to a whole new level.
Wall-mounted units can be folded up when not in use and are typically found in laundry rooms or dedicated ironing areas, offering an efficient use of space.
On the other hand, built-in ironing boards provide a permanent fixture solution, folding out from a cabinet and offering storage for ironing accessories.
Essential Features to Look for in an Ironing Board
Selecting an ironing board goes beyond superficial appearances.
Specific features can enhance your ironing process, facilitating efficiency and ease of task.
One such feature is a height adjustable design, which accommodates various users and allows ironing in both sitting and standing positions, ensuring comfort during use.
Stability is another key consideration.
You want to ensure your board has a solid frame and a reliable board surface, but without compromising on its weight or dimensions.
A lightweight design guarantees easy management and manoeuvrability, especially when wheels are involved.
Lastly, a built-in iron rest is a must-have, providing a safe and secure place for your iron when not in use, enhancing safety and utility of the board.
An example of an ironing board with such features is this Joseph Joseph brand.
Choosing the Right Ironing Board Cover
Selecting an appropriate cover for your ironing board is as critical as the decision of the board itself.
Natural unbleached cotton covers are a popular choice due to their no-slip surface and durability.
They’re also machine washable, making for easy maintenance.
When it comes to padding, covers with a heavy felt lining outlast those with foam padding and better maintain their shape and effectiveness over time.
A thick pad and a cover made from materials like muslin, silicone, or Teflon can enhance heat reflection, offer scorch resistance, and facilitate smoother movement of clothes.
Don’t forget to measure your ironing board to ensure a perfect fit for your cover.
Consider this Sunbeam Ironing Board Cover - it is 100% cotton, machine washable, and has a reversible design, so you can choose either one depending on your mood.
Making the Most of Your Ironing Space
Optimal use of your ironing space is key to achieving an organised and efficient laundry area.
Solutions such as retractable clotheslines, wall-mounted rods, and over-the-door hooks are effective for making use of vertical space without taking up floor area.
Floor-to-ceiling shelving and pegboards offer even more possibilities for maximising vertical storage.
Having a well-organised ironing space not only enhances efficiency but also improves the aesthetics of your laundry area.
Stylish and functional containers, such as woven baskets, glass jars, and labelled bins, can enhance decor whilst also organising your supplies in a cohesive unit.
Ironing board organisers with compartments for the iron, board, and supplies keep ironing essentials within reach and well arranged.
Remember, a well-organised ironing space is a productive ironing space!
Tips for Steam Ironing Success
Successful steam ironing isn’t solely dependent on a good iron; your ironing board usage also plays a vital role.
Vent holes in the board ensure steam escapes and prevents moisture build-up, promoting efficient ironing.
A solid iron rest allows the iron to be placed upright, preventing wet iron rests and uncontrolled steam release.
Be patient and wait for the steam iron to reach a consistent flow of steam before you start ironing to ensure effectiveness.
Metallic covers with a copper-woven surface can reflect heat back onto the fabric, speeding up ironing and conserving energy.
Remember, technique matters too; iron the front of sleeves first to effectively tackle wrinkles and achieve a professional finish.
A good example is this Sunbeam Ironing Board.
Compact Ironing Solutions for Small Spaces
Even without the benefit of a spacious laundry room, an efficient ironing setup can still be achieved.
Wall-mounted ironing boards like this one from Duwee, offer a space-saving solution, able to be folded up against the wall when not in use.
Some even feature the capability to rotate 180 degrees and lock in different positions for user comfort.
For those with limited space, ironing mats and tabletop ironing boards can be easily placed on any flat surface and tucked away when not needed.
Brands like Brabantia provide compact tabletop ironing board options, alongside a broader range of ironing board sizes and features.
Remember, no matter the size of your space, there’s always a solution for efficient ironing!
Caring for Your Ironing Board and Accessories
To ensure their longevity, your ironing board and accessories, like all household items, require regular care and maintenance.
Regular cleaning involves removing the cover and wiping down the board and legs with a damp cloth.
If your cover is machine washable, washing it on a delicate cycle will maintain its cleanliness and integrity.
If your ironing board cover isn’t suitable for machine washing, spot cleaning should be performed to remove any soiled spots.
emember, a well-cared-for ironing board not only lasts longer but also ensures a smooth ironing experience.
Safety Precautions When Using an Ironing Board
Despite being a common household task, ironing involves certain hazards.
Therefore, it’s crucial to follow safety precautions when using an ironing board.
Always ensure that the ironing board is placed out of reach of small children and pets to prevent them from pulling on the wires or hanging on the board.
Moreover, never leave the iron unattended while it is powered on, and always unplug it when not in use.
By following these safety precautions, you can ensure a safe and hassle-free ironing experience.
How to Choose the Perfect Iron to Pair with Your Ironing Board
The selection of an ideal iron to accompany your ironing board can notably improve your ironing process.
When selecting an iron, consider aspects such as:
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Stability
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Comfort in the hand
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Ease of setting adjustments
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Simplicity in filling and emptying the tank
Modern irons come with features like:
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Self-cleaning action
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Extra steam release
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Automatic shut-off
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Cordless use
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Targeted steam jets
These features significantly contribute to efficient ironing.
Modern iron like the Philips Azure Steam Iron has steam boost and vertical steam features which will surely make your ironing day a breeze.
A light iron can also reduce fatigue during ironing and allow quicker heating and cooling times.
Remember, the right iron can make all the difference!
Popular Ironing Board Brands in Australia
Now that you’re aware of what to look for, let’s explore some popular ironing board brands in Australia.
Brands like Brabantia, Sunbeam, and Hills have earned a well-deserved reputation for their quality and extensive product range.
Read on as we delve deeper into what each of these renowned brands brings to the table.
Brabantia XL Steam Ironing Board C
Brabantia's XL Steam Ironing Board C is large and in charge, providing a spacious ironing surface of 124 x 45 cm for efficient pressing of shirts and larger textiles.
Its size is complemented by a steam unit holder, accommodating units up to 40 x 22 cm, ideal for steam ironing aficionados.
The board's height adjusts from 75 to 98 cm, offering ergonomic comfort and reducing back strain.
Its PerfectFlow cover, cord binder, and Stretch-System team up to banish creases effectively.
For easy storage and transport, it features a transport lock to keep it folded.
Brabantia's commitment to the environment is evident as this ironing board is Cradle-to-Cradle Certified at the Bronze level.
Sunbeam SB4400 Mode Ironing Board
Experience quick, easy ironing with the Sunbeam SB4400 Mode Ironing Board.
Its robust dual leg construction provides heavy duty strength and durability, ready to tackle large piles of ironing.
Iron and hang as you go with the retractable iron rest that offers extra room when needed, and includes a handy rail to hang garments, ensuring they remain crease-free.
The board comes with a machine-washable, 100 percent cotton cover with a separate thick felt padding underneath.
This padding retains heat and prevents dampness, making ironing easier and more efficient.
With a generous board size of 120cm x 40cm and adjustable height ranging from 75cm to 95cm, this ironing board is designed for comfort and ease of use in any ironing session.
Hills Classic Ironing Board
The Hills Classic Ironing Board is designed with a reversible cotton cover that is elegantly tailored with an elastic hem...
...and an adjustable toggle, ensuring it fits perfectly and stays in place.
Underneath the stylish cover, you'll find a luxurious 10mm foam underlay, enhancing your ironing experience by providing a comfortable, efficient surface.
The board's height can be effortlessly adjusted, and it can be folded up with ease, courtesy of its user-friendly release catch.
For superior stability, the board is equipped with protective foot caps.
A convenient leg locking device is also in place to keep the board neatly folded and compact for storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
In Australia, you can find freestanding, tabletop, wall-mounted, and built-in ironing boards.
Each type offers different benefits and convenience for ironing.
When choosing an ironing board, it's essential to look for features such as adjustable height, stability, and a built-in iron rest for added convenience.
These features will ensure a seamless ironing experience.
When choosing an ironing board cover, consider factors like material, padding, and size.
Natural unbleached cotton covers with heavy felt lining are a popular choice.
When using an ironing board, make sure to keep it away from small children and pets, and never leave the iron unattended when it is on.
Always prioritise safety first.
To care for your ironing board and accessories, regularly clean the board and wash or spot clean the cover to ensure their longevity.
Final Words
We’ve embarked on a comprehensive journey, exploring various types of ironing boards, their essential features, popular brands, and much more.
We’ve also delved into how to choose the perfect ironing board cover, maximise your ironing space, and achieve steam ironing success.
With the right knowledge and tools, you can turn the mundane task of ironing into an efficient and enjoyable experience.
So, are you ready to revolutionise your ironing routine?
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