An ironing board lives next to steam and moisture, and is often stored in a bathroom, on a balcony or in a cupboard. Within a few years the leg hinges collect dust and rust spots, the locking mechanism sticks, and every time you set it up it squeaks loudly.
You can fix this in 10 minutes by cleaning the metal frame and lubricating every moving joint. Below is how to do it without getting lubricant on the cover or on clean laundry.
What you will need
- WD-40 Smart Straw with its straw for precise application
- WD-40 Multi-Use for wiping the frame
- two clean cloths
- old newspaper or plastic sheet under the board
- screwdriver in case screws need tightening
Important: Before you start, unplug the iron and take it off the board. Do not spray the cover or foam padding: greasy marks would transfer to clothes. After treatment, wipe off excess lubricant thoroughly and leave the board for 15-20 minutes before ironing.
Step 1
Turn the board over
Spread newspaper or plastic on the floor, fold the board and turn it face down. This brings all the hinges, rods and screws to the top and keeps the product off the cover.
If the cover comes off easily, remove it while you work and wash it at the same time.
Step 2
Open the legs and clean the frame
Raise the legs to expose all the joints. Brush dust and lint off the hinges and the locking rail.
Put a little WD-40 Multi-Use on a cloth and wipe the metal legs and frame. It removes dirt, shoe scuffs and early rust spots and leaves a thin protective film against moisture.
Step 3
Lubricate the hinges and screws
Raise the straw on WD-40 Smart Straw and apply it precisely to every metal hinge, rivet and screw where the legs attach to the frame and to each other.
If any screw has worked loose, tighten it with a screwdriver: some of the squeak comes from play in the joint.
Step 4
Treat the locking mechanism
Separately treat the notched metal rail or plate that the height lock runs along, and the holes in it. This is where the mechanism most often sticks and clicks when you adjust it.
Be generous on stiff spots, but do not apply so much that it drips onto the floor.
Step 5
Work the mechanism and wipe off excess
Fold and unfold the legs smoothly several times and run through every height setting. Movement helps the lubricant work deeper into the hinges.
Wipe away every drip with a clean cloth, especially near the edges of the ironing surface. Stand the board up, check the squeak has gone, and only then refit the cover.
Tip: Do not store the board in the bathroom or on an open balcony: moisture quickly brings rust back to the hinges. If there is no alternative, wipe the frame with a WD-40 cloth every few months.
What next
Maintenance every six months keeps the board free of squeaks and corrosion. WD-40 Multi-Use and WD-40 Smart Straw are also useful at home for clothes airers, folding chairs, door hinges and locks.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».