Ironing Boards: The New Trend Among Belgian Youths

Who said young people don't use ironing boards? In Belgium, a stroll through the streets of many cities reveals that it is one of the most used household items, albeit not for its intended purpose.

Several social media users have shared daily scenes of many young people walking - and even cycling - with an ironing board in tow. While some might think it's a new urban trend or even a marketing campaign, the real reason is that ironing boards have become the perfect accessory for outdoor gatherings and parties.

"Surely you didn't know this. A good habit in Belgium is for everyone to have an ironing board. They won't always use it for ironing. But if you see someone carrying an ironing board down the street, follow them, as they're likely heading to a party. They use it as a table," explained Álvaro Linares, an Instagram user who shared a video of several people walking with an ironing board under their arm.

For Belgians, the ironing board has become indispensable for their social gatherings in the streets, as it is lightweight, easy to carry, and adjustable in height. Whenever they meet in a park or at a festival, they bring out the ironing board to solve the problem of where to place drinks and food.

This idea has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some criticising the use of ironing boards as tables, while others praise the ingenuity of Belgian youths for using them as a stable surface for street events.

The phenomenon in Belgium stands out for its originality and its potential to become a trend in future outdoor gatherings beyond Belgian borders.