To do good ironing it is necessary to have a firm, unwarped ironing
board. This should be covered with some thick woollen material and a
white cotton cover that is clean, smooth, and tightly drawn. The thick
cover should be tacked on, while the top cover should be pinned, so that
it may be easily taken off to be washed. A heavy iron-holder should be
provided; and the irons should be clean and smooth. For this purpose
paper should be kept at hand, as well as a piece of beeswax, sandpaper,
or salt. A small cloth should be used to wipe the iron after using the
beeswax. A newspaper should be spread on the floor, to protect any
pieces that may hang down while being ironed. The coarser towels should
be ironed first, as the longer the irons are used, the smoother they
become. Starched pieces should not be ironed until the irons are very
hot. If the article is first laid smooth, it will be easier to iron it
and keep it in shape, and every piece should be ironed until it is
perfectly dry. As soon as the ironing is completed, the articles should
be hung up to air.