Ironing! Love it or not, but it is a necessary household chore that everyone must perform!
If you’re like us, you probably wish there was a way to get wrinkle-free clothes straight out of the dryer. But, as frustrating as it is, it’s not possible. However, it’s certainly possible to make ironing a not-so-dreadful task by investing in a good, sturdy ironing board.
It can be hard to find your perfect match – considering the number of options available – but don’t worry because we’ve got you covered.
After thorough research, we’ve made a list of the top 13 ironing boards that’ll make ironing smooth and hassle-free. We’ve also included a buying guide and FAQs section to clear all your doubts and confusion.
Our Top Picks
In a hurry? Have a look at our top picks before you go:
| Image | Model | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | Brabantia Steam Rest Ironing Board with Linen Rack |
| Check Price |
Best For Small Space  | Household Essentials Over The Door Small Ironing Board With Iron Holder |
| Check Price |
Best for Traveling  | Honey-Can-Do Foldable Tabletop Ironing Board |
| Check Price |
Best For Occasional Use  | HOMZ Contour Stable Ironing Board |
| Check Price |
Types of Ironing Boards
If you’re buying an ironing board for the first time, you might get confused after looking at the different types. Here’s a brief description of the 3 most common types of ironing boards:
1. Freestanding Ironing Boards
First up, we have freestanding ironing boards. Out of the three, these ironing boards are the most popular as they’re effortless to use. You can lock them into one place for better stability and adjust the height according to what suits you.
The best part? You can easily fold and put them in the cupboard after use, which doesn’t take much storage space. Folding ironing boards are typically more sturdy and durable than the other two options.
2. Tabletop Ironing Boards
Don’t have space to keep a freestanding ironing board? No worries, you can get a tabletop ironing board. These boards are compact and don’t have legs, meaning you can place them on any hard, flat surface. They’re the ideal choice for small spaces.
However, keep in mind that tabletop ironing boards are significantly smaller than freestanding or mounted ones, making them unsuitable for people who do a lot of ironing. Also, you might have to purchase a padded cover separately to use with the tabletop board.
3. Built-in or Mounted Ironing Boards
The third type of ironing board is the built-in or mounted ones. The conventional built-in ones are attached to a wall, and there’s also a more fashionable type that disguises itself as a cupboard.
Built-in ironing boards are convenient for people who iron their clothes often. They don’t take up much space, and those with a cupboard also stay out of sight. Just keep in mind that they can be a bit difficult to install, so you might need professional help.
Factors to Consider When Buying An Ironing Board
Just because all ironing boards have the same function doesn’t mean they’re all cut from the same cloth. Besides the type, here are some things you should keep in mind when searching for the best ironing board:
1. Intended Use
Before you start browsing options, you must ask yourself this: do you plan to use your ironing board on a daily basis, or do you need it only for special occasions?
If it’s the former, then you should consider getting a freestanding or mounted ironing board. However, you can get a tabletop board to save space if you need it for occasional use only.
2. Ease of Installation
Another factor to consider is the ease of installation. If you’re looking for an easy-to-install ironing board, then you should consider getting a freestanding or tabletop board.
However, if you’ve got time in your hands and don’t mind a bit of hard work, then mounting an ironing board can be an interesting DIY project. Installing built-in ironing boards can be difficult, but it’s nothing impossible.
3. Surface Area
A standard ironing board surface is about 14 by 48 inches. This size is enough for ironing clothes and other small items, but for large items like curtains and sheets, you’re probably going to need a bigger ironing board.
You can get one with a surface as big as 19 by 56 inches, but keep in mind that the larger the board is, the more space it will take in storage. If you have limited space, then a large ironing board is probably not a feasible option for you.
4. Iron Rest
You have to give your hand a break while ironing, and for that purpose, you need something to put your iron on while doing this chore. So, don’t forget to check if the board has a dedicated iron rest.
Having an iron rest is an excellent feature as it helps keep the iron secure while you flip your clothes to the opposite side or just take a break. Most tabletop ones don’t have an iron rest, but you can always protect the surface underneath with a cover.
5. Type of Cover
Besides the quality of the ironing board, you also need to pay attention to the type of cover you use with it. It’s essential to look at the ironing board cover as each has its advantages and drawbacks.
We won’t go into much detail here, but just make sure you pick one that fits your requirements and keeps your clothes – as well as your ironing board – safe.
6. Storage Options
Whether you get a compact or large ironing board, you’d want to get it out of your sight when it’s not in use, and for this, you need proper storage space.
Built-in boards are a great option as they keep your iron hidden from the public eye. However, not everyone has enough closet space for that. You can always get a tabletop ironing board as these take up less storage space or a standing one that you can simply fold up and store in a cupboard or laundry room.
7. Height Adjustment
Do you have other family members or roommates who are going to use the ironing board? If yes, then you might want to consider getting an ironing board with adjustable height. This way, anyone who is tall or short can adjust the height accordingly and iron without any issues.
Freestanding ironing boards usually allow you to adjust the height according to what suits you, making them suitable for households with multiple iron users. But if you’re the sole user, then this probably doesn’t apply to you.
8. Weight
Ironing boards are generally lightweight for greater portability. However, the weight might differ from one model to another as some are made from metal, whereas others are made of plastic.
Lightweight ironing boards are easy to move around, but keep in mind that they might also be less sturdy and durable. We recommend that you opt for an ironing board with reasonable weight to ensure sturdy construction with portability.
The Best Ironing Boards We Recommend
1. Nisorpa Closet Built-In Retractable Ironing Board
(Best Retractable Ironing Board)
- Space-saving design
- Offers easy installation
- It has a heavy-duty steel frame for sturdiness
- The board size is smaller than the standard size
- Requires reinforced wall as the item is quite heavy
Additional Specifications
- Swiveling design – can be swiveled 180 degrees
- It comes with a heat-resistant ironing board cover
What We Liked About Nisorpa Closet Built-In Retractable Ironing Board
This ironing board features a heavy-duty steel frame with a space-saving design, so you can easily mount it in a drawer or closet. It’s easy to install and retractable, meaning you can fold the board when not in use.
The package includes a heat-resistance ironing board cover as well to protect the board surface. You can remove the cover and wash it when needed.
What Could’ve Been Better About Nisorpa Closet Built-In Retractable Ironing Board
This board can help save space, but that comes at a price. The surface area is smaller than the standard size, making it unsuitable for larger items. Moreover, you need a reinforced wall to install this board as it’s pretty heavy.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
What makes this ironing board unique is the swiveling design with 180-degree rotation when folded or unfolded. The board can be locked in a left, right, or inclined position to fit your room or closet (wherever you install it).
2. Honey-Can-Do Foldable Tabletop Ironing Board
(Best Foldable Ironing Board for Travelers)
- Compact and travel-friendly design
- Very easy to fold and carry
- It has a wide ironing surface
- Made from plastic – not very durable
- The size of the board may be a bit small for some users
Additional Specifications
- Includes a metal iron rest to prevent scorching
- Has short legs to fit on a table or an elevated surface
What We Liked About Honey-Can-Do Foldable Tabletop Ironing Board
If you travel often and are looking for a compact ironing board that you can fit easily in your suitcase, this ironing board is an ideal choice. It’s easy to fold and carry, making it travel-friendly. The board is compact yet has a wide ironing surface.
The best part? Despite being compact, it comes with a metal iron rest to hold the iron securely, so you adjust the clothes while ironing them.
What Could’ve Been Better About Honey-Can-Do Foldable Tabletop Ironing Board
Although this board has a metal iron rest, the structure is made from plastic which isn’t very durable. Also, it’s important to note that it’s not a full-size ironing board, which means it will be more time-consuming.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
Unlike other tabletop ironing boards, this one mimics the design of a full-size ironing board, meaning it’s more sturdy as well. It also has a metal iron rest to hold the iron, which is a plus.
3. Honey-Can-Do Tabletop Ironing Board
(Best Tabletop Ironing Board)
- Portable and lightweight design
- Collapsible; stores easily as a closet ironing board
- It comes with a cotton cover and foam pad
- No hook to hang when not in use
- Small board surface – not suitable for larger items
Additional Specification
- Includes metal iron rest to prevent scorching
What We Liked About Honey-Can-Do Tabletop Ironing Board
This is a lightweight and portable ironing board designed for effortless use. It’s collapsible so that you can store it easily as a closet ironing board. Moreover, it comes with a cotton cover and foam pad to provide a firm ironing surface and protect the board from excessive heat damage.
What Could’ve Been Better About Honey-Can-Do Tabletop Ironing Board
The only issue with this ironing board is that it doesn’t come with a hook to hang behind the door or closet when the board is not in use.
Also, it has a small surface, making it unsuitable for larger items, but that’s the case with all tabletop ironing boards.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
This ironing board stands apart from other tabletop ones because it has an attached metal iron rest that you can use to put the iron securely while flipping or adjusting clothes during ironing.
4. Household Essentials Over The Door Small Ironing Board With Iron Holder
(Best Over-the-Door Ironing Board)
- Includes hooks for standard and commercial doors
- Sturdy design made from steel mesh
- The ironing surface is relatively bigger compared to other space-saving ironing boards
- Height is not adjustable
- It might make noise when folded and unfolded
Additional Specifications
- OTD ironing board with self-close technology
- It has a hanger hook to store iron
What We Liked About Household Essentials Over The Door Small Ironing Board
If you don’t have enough space in your home to keep an ironing board, then you’re going to love this over-the-door board. It features a sturdy frame made from steel mesh and a wide ironing surface while being space-saving.
Moreover, it comes with hooks compatible with both standard and commercial doors, so you can easily hang the ironing board wherever you want.
What Could’ve Been Better About Household Essentials Over The Door Small Ironing Board
This ironing board doesn’t have an adjustable height, which might not suit users with different heights. Also, it might make a slight noise when folded and unfolded.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
This OTD ironing board features a self-close technology, which makes ironing more convenient. It also has a hanger hook to store the iron when it’s not in use.
5. Xabitat Wall Mounted Ironing Board
(Best Wall Mounted Ironing Board)
- Stress-free and easy installation
- The board has a big ironing surface but still saves a lot of space
- It comes with a cotton board cover
- The ironing board doesn’t swivel
Additional Specifications
- It’s steam and electric-iron friendly
- It has a retractable design with an easy lock mechanism
What We Liked About Xabitat Wall Mounted Ironing Board
Whether you live in a tiny apartment or a cramped dorm room, this wall-mounted ironing board is the ideal choice for you. It offers a large ironing surface, all the while being a space saver.
Moreover, the board is easy to install with four bolts only. It comes with a cotton cover to protect the surface and your clothes as well.
What Could’ve Been Better About Xabitat Wall Mounted Ironing Board
Although this ironing board is an excellent option, the only issue we found is that it doesn’t swivel. This means you might find it challenging to store and also use (if you’re left-handed).
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
This ironing board features a retractable design with an easy lock mechanism, making the ironing process smooth and hassle-free. Also, it’s steam and electric-iron-friendly, which is a plus.
6. Household Essentials In-Wall Ironing Board Cabinet with Built-in Ironing Board
(Best In-Wall Ironing Board Cabinet)
- It comes with a straightforward installation guide
- The ironing board rotates 90 degrees to the left and the right
- The built-in cabinet design keeps your home clutter-free
- Requires a cutting portion of the wall to fit the cabinet
- There might be bubbling on the white finish variant
Additional Specifications
- The height of the iron is adjustable
- The cabinet has two shelves
What We Liked About Household Essentials In-Wall Ironing Board Cabinet
If you have a spare wall in your home that you can dedicate to a wall-mounted ironing board, then you should check out this model. It’s a sturdy and ergonomic ironing board featuring a built-in cabinet design to keep your home clutter-free.
The package includes a clear installation guide, making it easy to install. Moreover, the ironing board can rotate up to 180 degrees so both left and right-handed people can easily use it.
What Could’ve Been Better About Household Essentials In-Wall Ironing Board Cabinet
This is an all-rounder ironing board that’ll make ironing a hassle-free task. The only downside is that it requires a complete wall to fit the cabinet, so it’s not suitable for people who don’t have much space.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
The best part about this ironing board is that the height of the stand is adjustable according to your size. Moreover, the cabinet has two shelves to store the iron and other accessories.
7. Brabantia Steam Rest Ironing Board with Linen Rack
(Best Ironing Board for All-Around Use)
- Ergonomic design and 4-level adjustable height
- It has a very wide ironing board surface
- Includes steam iron rest
- The ironing board is significantly heavy and hard to maneuver
- Not ideal for small spaces
Additional Specifications
- It comes with a 10-yr manufacturer guarantee
- Has linen rack to keep clothes while ironing
What We Liked About Brabantia Steam Rest Ironing Board
This ironing board features an ergonomic design with a wide ironing board surface. We particularly liked this board because it has four height levels, making it suitable for multiple users.
The package also includes a steam iron rest, an added benefit for those who use a steam iron.
What Could’ve Been Better About Brabantia Steam Rest Ironing Board
Although this board offers better stability, that comes at a price. It’s pretty heavy-weight and hard to maneuver. Moreover, it takes up substantial space, which means it’s not ideal for small spaces.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
This ironing board comes with a linen rack for easy storage until it’s time to put the laundry away. Also, the manufacturer offers a 10-year guarantee which isn’t something you get easily with ironing boards.
8. HOMZ Contour Stable Ironing Board
(Best Ironing Board for Occasional Ironing and Seniors)
- Ergonomic and lightweight board
- Adjustable to multiple heights (can be used even while sitting down)
- Comes with a cotton cover
- The ironing pad is quite thin
- Not suitable for prolonged use
Additional Specifications
- Has a perforated steel top for even heat and steam distribution
- Folds flat for easy carry and storage
What We Liked About HOMZ Contour Stable Ironing Board
This is a lightweight yet ergonomic ironing board designed for daily use. The best part about this model is that it’s adjustable to multiple heights, meaning you can use it even while sitting down. Sounds awesome, right?
Included in the package is a cotton cover too, with a polyurethane foam pad to make ironing easier. It folds completely flat, allowing for easy carry and storage.
What Could’ve Been Better About HOMZ Contour Stable Ironing Board
Although this is a great ironing board, it does have its fair share of flaws too.
Firstly, the ironing pad is quite thin as compared to the standard width. Also, it does have multiple height levels but at the same time, it’s not very comfortable. Hence, we wouldn’t recommend it for prolonged use.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
This model features a perforated steel top that ensures even heat and steam distribution, ensuring every inch of your garment is smooth and wrinkle-free.
9. Reliable 320LB Home Ironing Board
(Best Ironing Board for Sheets and Professional Use)
- Very sturdy and ergonomic
- Wide and long ironing board (with extension)
- Has a metal iron rest/heat-resistant zone
- The metal iron rest is undetachable
- There might be a small bump when appending the extension board
Additional Specifications
- It has a wire rack for temporary storage
- The cover pad is designed to offers the smoothest ironing experience
What We Liked About Reliable 320LB Home Ironing Board
Out of all the options on our list, this is the most sturdy and ergonomic one. It features a wide and long ironing surface (with extension), making it perfect for ironing quilts and knitters.
Moreover, it comes with an attached metal iron rest and also a heat-resistant zone, allowing you to place your iron on the board with no worries.
What Could’ve Been Better About Reliable 320LB Home Ironing Board
We found two potential issues with this board.
Firstly, the metal rack is undetachable, which just adds to the weight of the board. Secondly, in case you decide to use the extension, you’ll notice a small bump between the board and the extension which can make ironing difficult.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
This board comes with an innovative cover pad. It’s made from memory foam which is lightweight, breathable and delivers the smoothest ironing experience. Also, it has a wire rack that can help in temporarily storing clothes.
10. Brabantia Ironing Board with Iron Parking Zone
(Best Ironing Board for Tall Person)
- Has a heat-resistant iron parking zone
- Wide board size allows for easy ironing
- It’s quite heavy and less portable than other ironing boards
Additional Specifications
- Offers ideal height adjustment (24in – 40in)
- Comes with a 10-year manufacturer warranty
What We Liked About Brabantia Ironing Board with Iron Parking Zone
This lightweight ironing board features a wide surface that enables ironing with ease. It also an integrated heat-resistant parking zone for temporary parking of hot iron while flipping or adjusting clothes.
What Could’ve Been Better About Brabantia Ironing Board with Iron Parking Zone
The only downside of this iron stand is that it’s quite heavy, which makes it less portable too. So, if you want an easy carry option, this model might not be the best choice for you.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
This model offers the ideal height adjustment, making it suitable for multiple users with different heights. Also, it comes with a 10-year manufacturer warranty, which is an added bonus.
11. Minky Homecare Ergo Plus Ironing
(Best Ironing Board for Steam Irons)
- Ergonomic design that’s ideal for steam iron
- Can be used by both left and right-handed people
- Comes with a removable rack
- Not ideal to hang on the wall in storage
Additional Specifications
- Features a naturally comfortable ironing rest position
- Has a heat reflective Prozone cover
What We Liked About Minky Homecare Ergo Plus Ironing
If you’ve got a steam iron, you should totally check out this iron stand by Minky Homecare. It features an ergonomic design that’s suitable for both left and right-handed people.
Moreover, the stand comes with a removable rack to hold your laundry temporarily.
What Could’ve Been Better About Minky Homecare Ergo Plus Ironing
The only downside to this model is that it’s not ideal to hang on the wall. So, if your storage space allows a hanging ironing board only, this might not be the right choice for you.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
This stand features a naturally comfortable iron rest position for greater convenience. Moreover, it has a heat-reflective Prozone cover that protects the surface as well as your clothes.
12. Mabel Home Extra-Wide Ironing Pro Board with Shoulder Wing Folding
(Best Ironing Board for Clothes with Sleeves)
- Extra width from retractable shoulder wings for clothes
- Has a heat-resistant metal iron rest
- It’s heavier than other ironing board types
- The wings aren’t leveled with the board
Additional Specifications
- Adjustable height with 6 pre-set levels (27.5in – 36in)
- Has a safety locking system
What We Liked About Mabel Home Extra-Wide Ironing Pro Board
Do you find it difficult to iron clothes with sleeves? If yes, then you’re going to love this ironing stand that features innovative retractable shoulder wings for clothes. The stand also has a heat-resistant metal iron rest for extra support.
What Could’ve Been Better About Mabel Home Extra-Wide Ironing Pro Board
Having retractable shoulder wings is great, but it can be a hassle to use them if they aren’t leveled with the board. That’s exactly the issue with this model. Also, it’s heavier than other ironing boards on our list.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
Besides having retractable shoulder wings, this ironing stand also has an adjustable height feature with 6 preset levels, making it suitable for multiple users.
13. ironMATIK Space Saver Ironing Board
(Best Ironing Board for Easy Storage)
- Ergonomic design suitable for both left and right-handed persons
- Offers easy storage
- Might not fit on small storage cabinets
Additional Specifications
- Offers height adjustment with 8 preset levels
- Comes with a triple-layer cover and padding
What We Liked About ironmatik Space Saver Ironing Board
This ironing board features an ergonomic design that’s suitable for both left and right-handed individuals. It’s also very easy to use and store, making ironing a hassle-free task.
What Could’ve Been Better About ironmatik Space Saver Ironing Board
The only flaw in this ironing stand is that since it’s larger than the standard size, it might not fit mall storage cabinets. You’re going to have to dedicated proper space to it.
What Sets It Apart Among The Other Products
What makes this ironing stand unique is that it doesn’t have 2 or 3 but 8 height levels, so the whole family can use it with ease. Moreover, it comes with a triple-layer cover and padding for heat protection.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard height of an ironing board?
The standard height of an ironing board usually ranges from 27 to 39 inches off the ground, depending on the size you opt for. Most ironing boards come with an adjustable height, which is a plus.
How does an iron sit on an ironing board?
To make an iron sit on an ironing board, you need an iron rest to hold it securely. The iron can stand straight or lay flat on the iron rest. Some iron rests also have a unique design to store the iron more securely.
Why do some ironing boards have holes?
Some ironing boards have holes for ventilation. These ‘holes’ in the surface allow the steam to penetrate and escape. This is generally a good thing, but keep in mind that these holes can make an impression on the fabric you’re ironing.
How do the lock mechanisms on ironing boards work?
While the ironing boards differ from one model to another, the locking mechanisms are pretty much the same. Opening, closing, and folding your ironing board may seem like a hassle at first, but it’ll be straightforward once you get the hang of it.
Once you’re done ironing, tilt your ironing board in a way that the pointed nose faces upwards. While holding the board securely, push the lever – located under the board – in and away. After this, move the legs so that they fold up flat against the board and secure them in place using the leg locking system – and you’re done!
How do you store an ironing board?
There are many ways to store an ironing board, depending on the type of board you use. One of the most common ways to store your freestanding board is to hang it at the back of your laundry room door using an ironing board holder.
For tabletop ironing boards, you can simply put them in the store when not in use. Lastly, for built-in or mounted ones, you can fold and put them back in the cupboard (if you’ve mounted the board in one).
How do you close an ironing board?
You can close an ironing board by following these steps:
- Find the lever press by looking at the underside of the ironing board (it’s usually located on the nose or at the edges)
- With one hand, hold on to the lever, all the while pushing on the board with the other hand on the opposite side
- Move down with board into a squatting position
- Keep lowering the board all the way to the floor
- The legs will be folded, so secure them using the leg locks
Our Verdict
We hope that by now, you’re familiar with all the excellent ironing board options you have. To help you save more time and effort, we also included sections on the different types of ironing boards, factors to consider when choosing the best ironing board, and FAQs about ironing boards in general.
After careful consideration, we were able to pick the top 3 contenders from this list.
Suppose you’re looking for an ergonomic and easy-to-handle ironing board that multiple family members can use. In that case, the Brabantia Steam Rest Ironing Board with Linen Rack is the ideal choice for you. This board has an extra-wide surface with non-slip feet, adjustable height level, and a handy transport lock for ease of use and portability.
However, if you’re looking for a compact ironing board for your personal use, Household Essentials Over The Door Small Ironing Board With Iron Holder and Honey-Can-Do Foldable Tabletop Ironing Board are two options worth considering. They’re sturdy yet compact and will make ironing a hassle-free job.
With that said, no option in our list is inferior to one another. So, if you think another model is a good fit for you, you should opt for it without a second thought!
Happy ironing!