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How to create a built-in ironing board station

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Introduction

If you’re tired of dragging out a bulky ironing board every time you need to press clothes, a built-in ironing board station could be your new laundry room best friend. These compact, fold-out units fit neatly into a wall or cabinet, saving space while keeping your ironing essentials organized and ready to use. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to create a built-in ironing board station, from planning and preparation to installation and finishing touches.


Why a Built-In Ironing Board Station is a Game Changer

Installing a built-in ironing board station has several benefits:

  • Space-Saving: Folds neatly into the wall or cabinet when not in use.
  • Convenience: Quick to set up and put away, encouraging regular use.
  • Organization: Often comes with built-in shelves or hooks for storing ironing supplies.
  • Aesthetics: Keeps the laundry area looking neat and uncluttered.

Whether you choose a pre-made unit or build your own, this upgrade can make ironing less of a chore and more of a quick, easy task.


Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Built-In Ironing Board Station

1. Choose Your Station Type

You have two main options:

  1. Pre-Made Built-In Unit: Available at home improvement stores and online, these come with the ironing board, cabinet, and mounting hardware included.
  2. Custom-Built Station: You can design your own cabinet and use a fold-out ironing board mechanism for a personalized fit and style.

Pro Tip: Pre-made units save time and are designed for easy installation, while custom builds allow for more flexibility in size and materials.


2. Select the Location

  • Choose a spot near an electrical outlet for your iron.
  • Ensure there’s enough wall space for the cabinet and clearance for the board to fold down.
  • Avoid areas with plumbing or wiring behind the wall unless you’re prepared to relocate them.
  • Consider height—mount so the ironing surface is comfortable for your posture (usually around 36 inches from the floor).

3. Gather Tools and Materials

Tools:

  • Stud finder
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Level
  • Drill and driver bits
  • Jigsaw or reciprocating saw
  • Screwdriver
  • Safety goggles

Materials:

  • Built-in ironing board cabinet or custom cabinet materials
  • Ironing board mechanism (if building custom)
  • Screws and mounting brackets
  • Wood filler (for touch-ups)
  • Paint or finish (optional)

4. Mark the Installation Area

  1. Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs.
  2. Outline the area where the cabinet will fit, ensuring it’s between two studs.
  3. Double-check measurements against your cabinet’s dimensions.

5. Cut the Wall Opening

  1. Put on safety goggles.
  2. Use a jigsaw or reciprocating saw to cut along your marked lines.
  3. Remove the drywall carefully to expose the stud cavity.

Pro Tip: If you discover wiring or plumbing, you may need to adjust the location or hire a professional to relocate them.


6. Prepare the Cavity

  • Clean out debris inside the wall cavity.
  • If needed, add horizontal support blocks between studs to hold the cabinet securely.
  • Check that the cavity depth matches your cabinet depth—most built-in ironing board cabinets require 3.5–4 inches.

7. Install the Cabinet

  1. Slide the cabinet into the opening.
  2. Use a level to ensure it’s straight.
  3. Secure the cabinet by screwing it into the wall studs through pre-drilled mounting holes.

Pro Tip: If your cabinet doesn’t fit flush, use wood shims to adjust before securing.


8. Attach the Ironing Board

  • For pre-made units, the ironing board is often already attached—simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for securing it in place.
  • For custom builds, install the fold-out mechanism inside the cabinet, ensuring it’s level and operates smoothly.

9. Connect Power (Optional)

  • Some built-in ironing board stations have built-in outlets for the iron.
  • If your unit includes this feature, hire a licensed electrician to connect it safely to your home’s electrical system.

10. Add Storage Features

  • Install small shelves or hooks inside the cabinet for starch spray, ironing cloths, and other accessories.
  • Consider adding a heat-resistant resting pad for your iron.

11. Finishing Touches

  • Fill any gaps between the cabinet and wall with caulk or wood filler.
  • Sand and paint or finish the cabinet to match your laundry room decor.
  • Test the fold-out and fold-up functions several times to ensure smooth operation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Choosing the Wrong Location
    • Mistake: Installing where there’s not enough clearance for the board to fully extend.
    • Solution: Measure twice and test clearance with a mock-up before cutting the wall.
  2. Not Mounting to Studs
    • Mistake: A loosely mounted cabinet can pull away from the wall.
    • Solution: Always secure to wall studs or add blocking for stability.
  3. Ignoring Electrical Access
    • Mistake: No nearby outlet means running extension cords.
    • Solution: Pick a location with an outlet within reach or have one installed.
  4. Poor Leveling
    • Mistake: A slanted ironing board makes ironing awkward.
    • Solution: Use a level during installation and adjust as needed.
  5. Overcomplicating the Build
    • Mistake: Adding too many custom features at once.
    • Solution: Start simple, then add extras later if needed.

Extra Laundry Room Tips for Built-In Ironing Board Owners

  • Pair with a Fold-Down Drying Rack: Keep ironing and air-drying in the same area for convenience.
  • Use a Padded Cover: Makes ironing smoother and protects delicate fabrics.
  • Keep a Spray Bottle Nearby: Helps with stubborn wrinkles.
  • Install Task Lighting Above: Bright light ensures you see every crease.
  • Add a Mirror Inside the Door: Perfect for quick outfit checks after ironing.

For more laundry upgrades, check out our “How to Add a Backsplash to a Laundry Area” guide to complement your ironing station.


Conclusion

Learning how to create a built-in ironing board station is a rewarding DIY project that boosts convenience and organization in your laundry room. With careful planning, accurate measurements, and sturdy installation, you can enjoy an ironing solution that looks great, saves space, and makes the task far less tedious.

Pro Tip: If you’re short on wall space, consider a built-in unit that mounts inside a shallow cabinet on the wall’s surface rather than cutting into the wall cavity.

Bookmark this guide so you can tackle your ironing board station with confidence and add another functional upgrade to your laundry space.

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