Ironing while using a wheelchair can be uncomfortable or even impossible with standard ironing boards. This guide will help you find the right accessible solution for your needs—making ironing safer, easier, and more comfortable.
Over the last decade, the variety of ironing boards on the market has been steadily growing. In the past, a custom made ironing board was often the only choice, but there are now some great off-the-shelf options to get your hands on.
Types of ironing board to consider:
Wall mounted and door mounted ironing boards
Unlike freestanding ironing boards, wall mounted models don't have legs that can get in the way of your wheelchair or footplates.
✔ Great access, can be set at custom height and saves floor space. Some are compatible with height adjustable wall units for maximum flexibility.
❌ Needs to be installed and stays in one spot.
A range of wall mounted ironing boards or door mounted ironing boards that have no supports touching the floor can be found on Amazon.
Drawer integrated ironing board
A similar solution to a wall mounted or door mounted board, this style packs away into a drawer so it's not always on show.
✔ Space-saving, clear underneath and hidden when not in use.
❌ Smaller surface, requires custom cabinet installation and may be harder to reach.
These can be found online by searching for ‘drawer ironing board’, or a reputable kitchen supplier may be able to advise.
Tabletop ironing boards
If you already have a table or desk that works for you, using a tabletop ironing board on top can be a great simple solution that means you could avoid needing to store more large pieces of equipment. Generally, table top ironing boards are available with legs to give a similar flexibility to freestanding ironing board, or as a foldable mat that simply protects the surface underneath from heat.
✔ Portable, lightweight, easy to store, can use on any flat surface.
❌ Needs a stable table, look for non-slip feet. Normally a smaller ironing surface.
Tabletop ironing boards have become quite popular, especially among people with limited storage space, with brands such as Beldray, Joseph and Joseph, Ikea and Minky all having something on offer.
Freestanding Ironing boards
If the standard cross-legged style of an ironing board doesn't work for you, you may like to consider a design optimised for ironing from a seated position. Unless you have the space to leave a freestanding ironing board set up when not in use, it's worth considering how you might move and set up the ironing board for use.
✔ Adjustable and can use wherever you want.
❌ Check carefully – many still have legs that block wheelchair access. Try before you buy if possible!
The Brabantia 'D' style ironing board had curved legs which give more room for your knees and feet.
For the serious ironer, Phillips offers an all-in one ironing station on a pedestal base which allows for steaming and ironing in a variety of positions.
Extra features to consider
- Secure Locking Mechanism – Especially important for wall and pull-out models
- Iron Rest Placement – For safety this should be within easy reach from your seated position
- Ironing surface area - A larger board will mean you can iron more of your garment before needing to reposition it, however you may also need to reach further with the iron
Final Tips
- Check dimensions and measure your wheelchair height (especially any armrests!) before buying.
- Consider how often you iron and how much space you have. A large ironing board that you use infrequently may quickly become an annoyance to store.
- If possible, try before you buy or read reviews focused on accessibility from sources you trust.
- Remember to consider your iron! There's a range of types that vary in weight, so if you struggle to lift and move your iron a lighter one could make all the difference.
Need help picking one out or comparing models? Let us know—we're happy to assist!