A good ironing board should last decades or even a lifetime. However, the fabric covering it needs to be replaced every couple of years. You may also decide to change the original cover with a better one, to optimize the quality or efficiency of your work. Find the best coverage that fits your board, your job and your hobbies.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Evaluating the Various Options
Step 1. Let the heat reflect on the item of clothing you are ironing, using a metal cover
These models are always made of fabric, but the outer surface is also made by weaving copper. In this way, the heat from the iron is reflected on the material you are ironing, rather than being absorbed by both the cover and the dress.
This feature speeds up your ironing work, while also saving you energy, as more heat is transmitted using less electricity and working for less time
Step 2. Make sure the clothes do not move on the ironing board by choosing a non-slip coating
This is a particularly useful solution when carrying out tailoring or upholstery projects. It is essential to be sure that the fabric remains stationary on the axis if you want to create straight seams.
Step 3. Choose an unbleached natural cotton cover for everyday use
This pattern is a pretty handy solution for sewing and quilting too. The clothes stay firmly in place, do not slip on the surface and do not fall off the ironing board. Natural cotton is typically a thicker fabric, similar to canvas, and is very durable and washable.
- However, it can burn if you use an iron that is too hot or leave it on the same spot for too long. Although the burn marks on the cover do not damage the clothes, they are ugly to look at and impossible to wash away.
- Some manufacturers have designed thick cotton covers with a vapor-repelling underlay to give you a double benefit: a non-slip surface and heat reflected from below to make ironing easier.
Step 4. Consider a lining with a heavy felt pad
Some covers have a layer of foam rubber, but this material often tends to warp and is easily damaged. Felt is more durable and holds its shape.
- Make sure that the padding is thick enough to create a cushion between the garment and the perforated board, so that the mesh structure of the latter is not imprinted on the fabric you are ironing. Most padded seat covers are between 4 and 8 millimeters thick.
- If you find the perfect cover, but don't like its padding, you can always add one that meets your needs. Remnant shops sell upholstery foam and felt by the meter. You can cut a piece of it to fit the shape and size of the plank and then cover it all with the lining.
- Some people prefer not to remove the old padding and place the new one on top of it.
- Felt is a natural material that does not contain chemicals and can be used as padding.
Step 5. Get rid of any old coverings that might contain asbestos
The production and processing of this material have been illegal in Italy since 1992, but not the sale; therefore old coatings containing it could circulate. In the past it was considered a miraculous material because it is fire resistant and durable. For this reason chrysotile, a type of asbestos, was commonly used for the production of ironing board covers. However, with the passage of time, the strong link between this material and cancer has been found, so it has been declared dangerous and illegal.
- If you are using a cover made after 1992, the chances are that it does not contain asbestos.
- If you need to dispose of this material, you must contact a specialized company to take care of it.
Part 2 of 3: Finding the Model that Fits Perfectly on the Ironing Board
Step 1. Measure the width of the plank
For this purpose, use a tailor's tape measure. Make sure you take the measurement at the widest point on the surface, which is usually near the center.
Measure the width of the ironing surface only, do not wrap the tape measure around the edges
Step 2. Find the length of the axis
Measure the surface from front to back. During this operation do not consider the accessories, such as the plate to support the iron.
The length of the ironing board is the most useful data. Some board covers are made to fit models of different widths, thanks to the presence of rubber bands and cords, but they must be able to reach both ends of the structure
Step 3. Determine the shape of the tip of the ironing board
Different axes have differently shaped tips that are used for various purposes. You need to know if your model has a rounded, blunt or pointed end in order to find the correct cover.
Step 4. Take your data with you when you go to the store to buy the upholstery
Many ironing boards come in standard sizes, which will fit most ironing boards, but it is always helpful to have the correct values on hand to make sure you are buying the right product. This is especially important when you have to take a coating for an abnormally shaped or sized board.
The size of the cover should be indicated on the package; choose the model that fits the size you found
Part 3 of 3: Choosing Additional Features
Step 1. Secure the cover to the plank with the cord
If you've measured the surface correctly and found the cover to fit perfectly, you shouldn't have a hard time getting it to fit completely with no wrinkled areas. Some models have a drawstring to help you tighten the cover onto the frame.
If your ironing board has a stand to rest the iron on, a drawstring cover is easier to apply than with rubber bands, because it is easier to slide the wire between the board and the stand, compared to one elasticized end
Step 2. Easily slide the stretch cover over the board
Some models are made with an elasticated edge and not with a drawstring that must be tied to the bottom of the plank, from which it often hangs. This way you are sure that the cover adheres completely to the surface with well-defined and linear edges.
If the board has an iron holder, you should first disassemble this element and fix it again after putting the cover on
Step 3. Choose the cover that also suits you aesthetically
There is a wide variety of decorated and colored cotton models. This detail could be interesting, especially if you regularly use the ironing board and leave it almost always open.
Some people find drawings distract from work. They can create some difficulties in identifying the seams of the garment or in understanding if the wrinkles have all been removed
Advice
- If you have decided to buy a cover at the supermarket, bring the measurements and a sketched drawing of the plank with you.
- Many online retailers of ironing board covers provide a drawing of the surface appearance of the board, in addition to the measurements of the cover. Find the drawing that matches your axis in the list or call customer service for help.
- If you are lucky enough to know the manufacturer name and model number of your ironing board, you can call the manufacturer and ask for help in purchasing a replacement cover.
