Choosing an ironing board for a steam generator

An ironing board simplifies the ironing process, saving energy and time. The variety of types of modern devices is amazing. On a good ironing board for your home, you can carefully iron men's shirts and curtains, and flawlessly iron dresses of the most complex styles. Improved designs and functional characteristics of the boards have made caring for your wardrobe simple and enjoyable. In order not to make a mistake when choosing a good ironing board with a steam generator, you need to study and compare different types of structures, their configuration and functionality; listen to the opinions of experts and experienced housewives.

Criterias of choice

Ironing board type. Depends on installation method:

• built-in takes up little space. Thanks to the folding design, it can be easily stored in a wall niche or furniture. Easy to install, but impossible to move;
• tabletop rests on a workbench, table. It is not very convenient when working, because it has a small height. But it doesn't take up much space;
• floor - the most common type. Easy to use: mobile; fold up; have optimal sizes. The inconvenience lies in the heaviness of the object, but this disadvantage is hardly noticeable, because The board is used indoors.

Table top material. The working surface can be made of:

• perforated metal . Durable; resistant to moisture: steam escapes from the holes.
• Wood: plywood, chipboard, natural wood . Plywood and chipboard are lighter than wood, but less durable and reliable; deformed from moisture and high temperature.
• Metal mesh is a lightweight type of metal tabletop. The mesh is less reliable and durable than a sheet of metal, but it also does not deform and lasts a long time, allowing steam to pass through.
• Thermoplastic – light and durable countertops. Save energy thanks to the heat-reflecting effect of the material. The cellular structure facilitates the free release of steam.

Working surface size. The length ranges from 90 – 150 cm. The width of the ironing board is determined by the widest edge, it can be from 28 – 45 cm. The optimal size of the ironing board is 40x120 cm. The larger the size of the working surface, the larger part of the item can be ironed at once and the more convenient it is to iron.

Functions/capabilities. The board can have different capabilities and perform several functions simultaneously:

• iron stand – a platform made of heat-resistant material for installing the iron. It is convenient when it has a lock for the iron cord.
• Sleeve guard - a device for ironing sleeves. Narrow and long design made of the same material as the tabletop. Installed on a board or other flat support.
• Height adjustment – ​​the ability to change the height of the working surface in accordance with a person’s height.
• Built-in socket with extension cord allows you to work away from a stationary outlet. Convenient if the iron has a short cord.
• Heated ironing surface – the heating system is built into the working surface of the board. The item is ironed on both sides at the same time (useful when ironing wet linen or items made from thick fabrics).
• The ventilation function ventilates the internal volume of the work surface. If the cover is blown off, excess accumulated steam can be pulled out of the board. When inflated, it creates a surface that is optimal for thin material.
• The steam absorption function removes excess steam from the fabric; things turn out dry after ironing.

How to choose the best steam ironing system for your home

If you have decided to buy an ironing system (or are still in doubt), then be sure to read this article. In it we will tell you how not to deceive yourself and how to profitably invest in a truly high-quality ironing system for your home. By choosing the right device, you will be able to iron large volumes of clothes as quickly as possible and without spending a lot of effort.

All steam systems presented in the article meet the requirements of 2021 and have been included in various ratings more than once.

The ironing system consists of three parts: a steam generator, an iron and an ironing board (which necessarily has additional functions). Let's not beat around the bush and immediately explain what you should pay attention to when faced with a difficult choice in the store.

Steam generator

Removable steam generator model MIE Classico Plus

• Boiler volume

The largest models of steam generators for ironing systems hold up to 3 liters of water. But there is no point in overpaying for a large boiler volume if you do not iron that much and often. Keep in mind that 1 liter of water will last you 40 minutes of ironing.

• Power

The strength with which the system supplies steam depends on this indicator. The higher the power, the faster and better quality you will iron the product.

• Functionality

Steam generators come with a large volume boiler (steam boiler) and with a small boiler and water tank. Steam generators with a large boiler are able to supply steam constantly, which is very important in ironing. Steam generators with a small boiler are inferior in this quality, but they heat up faster. Thanks to the constant supply of steam, you can quickly iron the coarsest fabric, steam an item vertically, or (if special attachments are provided) even steam clean your home.

• Possibility of refueling during operation

Not every steam generator can be topped up with water during operation. Be sure to check this detail, otherwise you will have to turn off the device, wait for it to cool completely, add water, and then wait again for it to be ready for use. However, as already mentioned, a liter of water is enough for 40 minutes of ironing.

Iron

Professional steam iron ironing system MIE Classico

PTFE nozzle for ironing delicate fabrics

The iron in a good ironing system must be made of quality materials. For example, the MIE Classico model iron has a thick sole and a cork handle that will never slip out of your hands while ironing. It is important that the iron has a comfortable weight and is not too heavy or too light. It’s good if the iron comes with a special attachment for ironing delicate fabrics.

Ironing board

• Working surface dimensions

On the one hand, the larger the size of the working surface, the more convenient it is to iron. On the other hand, the larger the board, the more difficult it is to find a place for it in the apartment. The largest ironing surface among ironing systems of the MIE brand is the MIE Milano model (130 cm X 45 cm). On such a board you can completely lay out a long skirt or full-length trousers.

Ironing board model MIE Milano

• Mobility

The entire structure must be both stable and mobile. Choose a model with wheels to make it easier to move. Pay attention to the tips of the legs - they must be made of high-quality material so as not to damage the floor coverings when moving. Adjustment of the board height can be smooth or stepped. We recommend paying attention to height adjustment using gas lift (MIE Milano model). With just one button and two fingers, you can assemble and disassemble the board in a few seconds.

Gas lift button for the MIE Milano model

Accessories

The availability of accessories depends on the configuration of the device. For example, the MIE Extra ironing system is equipped with a sleeve platform (which can be rotated 180 degrees or removed), a hanger holder and a shelf for linen. This system also includes a clothes steamer iron and a fluoroplastic iron attachment.

Sleeve platform model MIE Extra Luxe

Linen shelf for the MIE Extra Luxe model

Sometimes the device comes with additional attachments. For example, the MIE Extra Luxe model comes with steam cleaning attachments.

MIE Extra Luxe model attachments

The board in a modern ironing system must have at least one of these functions:

• Vacuum

There are holes on the surface of the board through which air is constantly sucked in. Thus, the product is securely fixed on the work surface. The vacuum function is necessary for ironing light fabrics (silk, satin, lace). In addition, the vacuum removes excess steam during ironing.

• Boost function

This function is the direct opposite of vacuum. Air is not sucked in, but blown out of holes on the surface of the board, creating a so-called “air cushion”. If your wardrobe contains delicate items that do not like high temperatures (made of wool, decorated with decor, with small details), then you simply need steam blowing. Using a steam iron, you will steam things without touching them with the hot sole of the iron.

• Heating of the working surface

This feature essentially provides two-sided ironing, which greatly speeds up the process. Another advantage of heating the working surface is that it prevents the accumulation of condensation on the surface of the board. If you start ironing slightly damp items, they will not only be ironed, but also dry.

We recommend that you look at the review of the MIE Extra Luxe ironing system from Nina Green. In it, the woman talks in detail about each of the listed functions.

Classification

Each manufacturer divides ironing systems according to different principles: by price, by size, by function. MIE has its own classification of ironing systems:

• Economy

Economy class ironing systems are cheaper than others. This does not mean that they are worse than expensive models. Economy class is distinguished by a minimal set of functions, a small boiler volume for steam generators, and a compact size (which is a big plus for some buyers).

Ironing system MIE Completto Econom

The photo shows the MIE Completto Econom model. This is an example of a high-quality economy class ironing system. It is equipped with a powerful steam generator, a professional iron and a compact board with two functions: boost and vacuum.

• Classic

We call time-tested ironing systems that contain nothing superfluous by classic models. Only the necessary functions, elegant appearance, large working surface of the board, powerful steam generator.

Ironing system MIE Classico

The photo shows the MIE Classico model, a typical representative of the classic ironing system. The model has only the necessary functions, a removable steam generator, and a large work surface.

• Premium class

These are powerful models that can cope with daily work, even in production. Such ironing systems can operate without interruption for a long time and iron large volumes of items.

Ironing system MIE Primo

The photo shows the premium ironing system MIE Primo. In addition to all the basic functions, this model has many extras, including a steam iron for vertical steaming.

• Multifunctional

Here we have included ironing systems that have several functions. In addition to a regular iron, such models can be equipped with a steam iron for vertical steaming and attachments for cleaning the house with steam (a full-fledged steam cleaner).

Ironing system MIE Extra Luxe

The photo shows the MIE Extra Luxe multifunctional ironing system. In addition to the fact that the model does an excellent job of ironing any items, it has additional functions: steaming and steam cleaning. We can say that MIE Extra Luxe combines three devices at the same time: an ironing system, a steamer and a steam cleaner on wheels.

• Ironing board with steam generator

You can assemble a complete ironing system yourself. To do this, you need to choose a board with additional functions and an iron with a steam generator. This way you can choose the ironing system completely to suit your needs.

Ironing system MIE Gamma Stiro Pro 100

The photo shows the MIE Gamma Stiro Pro 100 model. This ironing system was assembled from a functional MIE Gamma ironing board and a professional iron with a steam generator.

conclusions

An ironing system is a device that can forever change the way you think about ironing clothes. Think about how often and what volumes of clothes you iron? Do you need a compact board or a large work surface on which you can place your full-length trousers? Do you want to just iron or steam and use the device as a steam cleaner? By answering these questions, you will choose the model that is right for you.

The MIE brand is the leader in sales of ironing systems in Russia. The brand has earned this level of customer trust thanks to the unsurpassed Italian quality of products, large selection, advanced and affordable service. When choosing an ironing system, trust the professionals.

We wish you to make the right choice!

Manufacturers rating

The most popular devices for gentle and quick ironing of things are produced by the following companies:

1. Nika – devices with folding cord holders and built-in sockets; heat-resistant stands for the iron and steam generator. The Nika12 Teflon and Nika GRANT NG models have Euro stands with Teflon inserts for irons with Teflon soles.
2. Bosch - active ironing boards that, in addition to ironing, perform various functions: heating, blowing and blowing air, drying (TDN1700P, TDN1010N). Designed for irons with steam humidifiers and steam stations.
3. Leifheit – boards for working with steam generators and conventional irons (AirSteam Premium M). The tabletops are perforated and covered with thermoplastic. The devices are lightweight and reliable (AirBoard XL Deluxe).
4. MIE transformers perform many functions: steam absorption, surface heating, ventilation (MIE Felina, MIE Prestige, MIE Grazia B).
5. Hausmann - models are portable and multifunctional, equipped with a travel lock (Light Board, HM-2121), a built-in socket (HM-3244).

The best ironing boards are considered to be practical, multifunctional products.

What is an active ironing board

It looks about the same as a standard steam iron board. With some exceptions. It has a specialized module for the steam generator, a socket and some accessories.

1. Heating the work area is very helpful if you need to iron still damp clothes.
2. Airflow helps to carry out protective treatment of fabrics that require careful handling, producing the effect of ironing “on an air cushion”.
3. Steam removal is most often used to create creases on trousers. It helps remove moisture from the fabric and from the board itself.

The operation of functions number 2 and 3 is usually achieved through a fan that is built into the design.

Video: how an active ironing board works