“It doesn’t matter how good your iron is if the board is substandard,” says Steve Boorstein, a Bethesda, Maryland–based cleaner who runs ClothingDoctor.com. So what features should you look for?

A supportive surface that’s smooth and a base that doesn’t bend or rock, says Kristin Martin, Rowenta’s product manager for garment care.

Though there is no ideal size or shape, make sure the width is at least equal to the front panel of a shirt and that the length can accommodate a pair of pants.

Look for wide, supportive legs — preferably with rubber tips, to prevent slippage.

For an ergonomic height, select a board that allows the palms of your hands to lie flat on the surface when your elbows are loose and slightly bent.