Loading the iron: Using tweezers, the hot coal was carefully placed into the hollow chamber of the iron.
Lock the lid: The hinged top is locked to help retain heat and ash.
Temperature testing: The soleplate was checked before ironing. If it was too hot, it was allowed to cool; if it was too cold, more charcoal could be added.
Gentle ironing: The user irons the fabric with controlled movements, replenishing the charcoal as needed throughout the day.
Caution was required: too much heat could scorch the material, while not enough heat made it difficult to remove creases. The ashes also had to be emptied regularly to reduce smoke, spillage and other hazards.
But what made this unusual iron such a significant advance over previous designs? Its built-in heat source changed the way people approached everyday household chores.
Why was it revolutionary?
