Whether you’re replacing your ironing board cover because of stains or other damage, this article covers everything from measurement to the final fit. Most generic covers will fit many of the popular brands’ sizes but you should know your exact measurements before ordering a new cover.
Also see our best ironing board covers article for our top covers or visit our best ironing boards review for a complete set.
1. How to Replace an Ironing Board Cover (Attach, Fit & Tighten)
There are 4 types of fastening systems: draw-string, bracer clips, velcro straps or hook-and-loop straps.
All the systems allow some margin for error and can be adjusted smaller (but usually not larger) by tightening the adjustment below the board and gathering the excess fabric, leaving you with a smooth ironing surface.
-
- Remove the old cover
- Lay down the foam backing if it is not built into your board cover
- If the foam backing is separate, align the new cover with the foam
- Adjust the single or double layer on top of the board until it is straight
- Hold the cover down while gently tightening and adjusting the fastening system
- Smooth the surface as you tighten in stages
- When the fit feels righ, secure the drawstring, clips or straps below the board
- Tuck any excess fabric below the board
Note: If you find your ironing board cover is too big, draw-strings are easily adjustable and can be tightened to fit. Small adjustments and a little patience are all you need.
2. How to Measure Your Ironing Board for a New Cover
Simply measure the surface of your ironing board to get the correct dimensions
- First, measure the length of your ironing board from tip to tail excluding the iron rest
- Next, measure the width of your ironing board at its widest point from side to side
- You don’t need to factor in the board thickness or height of the padding
You should end up with a common ironing board size around 54 inches long and 14 inches wide. Try to buy as close to this measurement as possible. If you can’t find the exact size, you should go slightly larger, not smaller.
If you need more info, see our ironing board size guide.
When it comes to specialized boards with unique shapes like a professional ironing board for quilters, ordering a standard cover is not advisable. You’ll need to find the exact brand match online, or contact the manufacturer directly if you need a replacement cover. This way you’ll be guaranteed a perfect fit.
3. Where to Buy an Ironing Board Cover
Because of the variety and availability as well as better pricing, we suggest buying your ironing board covers online at Amazon.com. Shipping is superfast and you get a favorable Amazon returns policy.
4. What is the Best Material for an Ironing Board Cover?
Most board covers are cotton which works well for the average home’s ironing needs. If you find that you are cycling through covers faster that you’d like, then you could look at upgrading to a metalized or silicone coated board cover which has excellent durability and will last you longer.
Cotton Ironing Board Cover
This natural and strong fabric gives good heat control while allowing steam to penetrate the fabric easily without causing underlying dampness. Because it can withstand higher temperatures, it is less likely to discolor after repeated use.
Metalized Cotton Cover
Metalized cotton suits slightly more heavy-duty needs. The cotton cover is reinforced with a metal like aluminum or copper. This works by reflecting heat back into the garment to allow for faster ironing time. It’s suitable for both steam and dry irons.
Silicone Coated Board Cover
Silicone Coated board covers are extremely heavy-duty as well as being scorch and stain-resistant. (The jury is still out on whether silicone or metalized is better.)
Polyester Cover
Stay away from cheap Polyester covers!
5. Best Ironing Board Foam Padding Replacement
Most ironing boards come with padding included but it’s advisable to replace your ironing board foam if you can feel the hard metal base of your board. Foam padding can become compressed after extended use and exposure to heat. The padding on an ironing board helps absorb pressure when ironing over seams.
Without adequate padding (at least 1/16 of an inch), you risk scorching or shining garments. In some cases, the metal mesh grid on the base of your ironing board could even leave an imprint on your clothing.
There are three types of padding you can add to your board. Keep in mind, some board covers are already padded so you may not need an additional layer.
Felt Padding
Both natural and synthetic options are available. The compacted fibers and density of felt gives you a firm and durable ironing surface that will not stretch out of shape. The felt pad should be larger than your board and then cut to fit your board’s shape. Brabantia has a one-size fit all option (53 inches long x 19 inches wide x 0. 2 inches thick) and suits both small and large boards.
Foam Padding
Foam is heat-resistant but has average durability. It’s a cheap synthetic material and quite porous, so it has a tendency to stretch out of shape. Thicker foam inners are more durable.
Wool Padding
Wool is much more durable, breathable and heat-resistant. The compression of the natural fibers in wool padding allows heat to flow through the clothing when you iron and then reflect back up into your fabric. This heat retaining efficiency shortens your ironing time.
6. Drawstring vs. Elasticised Edges
Drawstring covers can adjust much easier to fit slightly smaller boards whereas Elasticised edges have a much smaller margin for error and should be ordered to fit exactly.