How does an Iron Box work?

Ironing is the use of a heated tool (an iron) to remove wrinkles from clothes. The temperature needed for this is usually around 180-220oC depending on the type of cloth. Ironing works by loosening the bonds between the long-chain polymer molecules in the fibres of the cloth. The fibres are straightened by the weight of the iron while the molecules are hot, and they hold their new shape as they cool. Some fabrics, like cotton, require the addition of water to loosen the intermolecular bonds. The electric iron was invented in 1882, by Henry W. Seeley.

The basic principle on which the electric iron works is that when a current is passed through a piece of wire, the wire heats up. This heat is distributed to the sole (base) plate of the electric iron through conduction.