{"id":2211,"date":"2020-06-29T11:41:26","date_gmt":"2020-06-29T11:41:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/?page_id=2211"},"modified":"2023-12-29T15:12:06","modified_gmt":"2023-12-29T15:12:06","slug":"ironing-board-types","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/ironing-board-types\/","title":{"rendered":"Ironing Board Types UK"},"content":{"rendered":"

In this article we explain what types of ironing boards are available, what are the best brands to look for and explain all you need to know about sizes and covers for these boards.<\/p>\n

This can get complex but don’t worry we take you through this ironing board guide step by step and answer all of your questions.<\/p>\n

Types of Ironing Boards in the UK<\/h2>\n

There are several different types of ironing boards available on the UK market. These include:<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Standard size ironing boards<\/a> for normal steam iron use<\/li>\n
  2. Traditional Wooden Ironing Boards<\/a><\/li>\n
  3. Steam generator ironing boards<\/a> which are larger and wider than a normal sized board<\/li>\n
  4. Table top ironing boards<\/li>\n
  5. Heavy duty ironing boards<\/li>\n
  6. Wall Mounted ironing boards (Space saving boards)<\/li>\n
  7. Ironing boards for shirt sleeves<\/li>\n
  8. Ironing board centres<\/li>\n
  9. Travel Iron Mats<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    So even with something as basic and simple as an ironing board, you can already see, there are lots of different types, and they do have different purposes. We will explain these just below so as you know exactly what is available on the UK market. That way you can make the best decision for your own personal needs.<\/p>\n

    Most UK buyers will want a standard size ironing board, and for anyone who owns a steam generator iron, they will want the slight larger and stronger steam generator ironing board. The other types described here are for specific uses.<\/p>\n

    Standard Sized Ironing Boards<\/h3>\n

    \"typical<\/span><\/p>\n

    There are thousands of ironing boards sold in the UK every year. The vast majority of these are standard sized ironing boards that are designed for use with a normal steam iron. We do have to use the term “standard size” pretty loosely as the sizes do vary slightly.<\/p>\n

    In terms of size these can be anything from 120-135 cm long and the width can be anything between 35-45 cm. The size varies by brand and by the individual model of board. It is important to note the exact size though when you are buying a cover as a proper fit is vitally important.<\/p>\n

    Most of these have adjustable height settings, fold away for storage and will have an iron holder at one end.<\/p>\n

    Traditional Wooden Ironing Boards<\/h3>\n

    \"typical<\/span><\/p>\n

    Many UK buyers really like this traditional wooden style of ironing board. They tend to be more expensive than a standard steel ironing board, but they do look very attractive, and they are built to last.<\/p>\n

    Most manufacturers make these from beech or cherry wood, but will use treated plywood for the surface, that has been perforated to allow the release of steam underneath the board.<\/p>\n

    They are heavier than standard ironing boards and the better quality ones will have wheels that allow for much easier transport. Most of them also have a laundry shelf underneath.<\/p>\n

    Most of these are made in Italy. They are the board of choice for most Italian households.<\/p>\n

    Steam Generator Ironing Boards<\/h3>\n

    \"typical<\/span><\/p>\n

    You can use a normal standard board for a steam generator iron, but it isn’t recommended. Steam generator irons are larger and much heavier than a standard iron. That is because of the much larger water tank. Steam generator ironing boards are designed specifically to be much wider, and much stronger than a standard board.<\/p>\n

    These ironing boards are manufactured to be stronger and their width will be 45 cms+. The better ones will have a steam unit holder where the base element of the iron can be placed securely. These unit holders are also referred to as a platform.<\/p>\n

    The Brabantia brand for example do one which measures 124 cm long and a 45 cm width. It has a separate steam unit holder that can accommodate steam generator irons with a size of up to 39 x 29 cm.<\/p>\n

    Polti also do a version of these boards which have wheels on the bottom for easier transportation. <\/p>\n

    Many of these boards will also have additional features that include a clothes shelf, a cable holder and a sleeve board.<\/p>\n

    Table Top Ironing Boards<\/h3>\n

    \"typical<\/span><\/p>\n

    These are an alternative to large ironing boards. They can be very useful in any home with limited storage, or for a holiday home. They are compact which makes them light and very easy to store. Many online buyers use one of these in the nursery as it can be handy.<\/p>\n

    These table top boards are also popular for people living in smaller living spaces such as a small apartment or flat, student accommodation or caravans.<\/p>\n

    These are usually smaller than a normal ironing board, and they come with short fold away legs for easier storage.<\/p>\n

    Heavy Duty Ironing Boards<\/h3>\n

    \"typical<\/span><\/p>\n

    These are multi layer ironing boards usually made of composite materials. They will have a gravity balance design that helps avoid accidents around the home. The legs have been welded to a much stronger standard than your average ironing board, and this prevents any risk of the legs snapping or breaking off.<\/p>\n

    The legs and frame will be made of steel and they are usually further supported with triangular stays. There are not a lot of these on the UK market as many users simply find them to heavy.<\/p>\n

    Wall Mounted Ironing Boards<\/h3>\n

    \"typical<\/span><\/p>\n

    These are a good option for anyone working with limited space. A small frame is attached to a wall. The ironing board is then attached to this frame, and it can be quickly folded away when not in use. Some buyers get one of these as they can be fitted inside a cupboard or unit, where something like a door will keep it concealed.<\/p>\n

    Just be sure if that appeals to you, that the board will fit inside the available cupboard space.<\/p>\n

    The better models can rotate through 180 degrees so as you can have different positions for ironing.<\/p>\n

    These boards are not a very popular choice, but they do offer an alternative for anyone with limited space in their home. There is no doubt that these work well as a space saver, but they are not as big as a standard ironing board, so just be aware of that.<\/p>\n

    Ironing Boards for Shirt Sleeves<\/h3>\n

    \"typical<\/span><\/p>\n

    As the name would suggest, these are designed to quickly iron the dreaded shirt sleeve. The sleeve ironing board gives you the precision you need when ironing shirts. These have a narrow surface, usually around 10 cm, and you slide the board into the sleeve and quickly iron them to perfection.<\/p>\n

    The better ones come with some type of non-slip cap that prevents sliding, and they can then be placed on top of your existing ironing board to use.<\/p>\n

    These are not big boards and will typically measure 60 cms long and 10 cms wide.<\/p>\n

    Ironing Board Centres<\/h3>\n

    \"typical<\/span><\/p>\n

    These are designed to keep all the ironing activity in the one place. They are popular for use in utility rooms. You will find these used in many contemporary homes, where an ironing board centre can be fitted into a specific space to try and keep the laundry managed in a specific environment.<\/p>\n

    They are available in a few different styles and typically include some laundry baskets and an ironing board. The board usually folds down at either end when not in use to keep it neat looking.<\/p>\n

    Travel Iron Mats<\/h3>\n

    \"typical<\/span><\/p>\n

    These are mats that can be used for ironing when you are travelling. They are small and light so they can be rolled up and easily fit inside your suitcase. They can be used on a work desk, caravan or in the sewing room or haberdashery.<\/p>\n

    These are handy when travelling as well, though we think it is important to manage expectations here. They are not as good as your normal ironing board, but they are good enough when on holidays.<\/p>\n

    Ironing Boards by Brand<\/h2>\n

    There are a number of laundry brands who make ironing boards, and we have listed those below.<\/p>\n