The top generally included a hinged lid or opening through which fuel could be inserted.
A handle allowed the user to pick up the iron without touching the hot metal body.
Inside, charcoal could be placed to generate heat.Chemistry
The bottom of the iron was made from metal and became hot enough to press fabric.
The overall design was intended to balance several needs at once.
It had to become hot.
It had to retain heat.
It had to be heavy enough to press clothing effectively.
And, most importantly,
