Foot ironing man… a profession on the brink of fading

Foot ironing was one of the ancient Egyptian professions, which was practiced only by strong men.

Written by: Farah Amr / Edited by: Aya Amr

Foot ironing man was one of the most prominent professions in old Egypt. Which also appeared widely in Egyptian cinema. But over time, it became limited to a few provinces.

Chinese were the first to invent the foot iron in the fourth century, then the idea

moved to Europe and continued to develop until it reached the form of the modern electric iron in 1882.

Foot ironing profession depends on simple tools, a heavy iron made of iron that takes the shape of a triangle with a long wooden arm, preferably not less than 50 cm in length and weighing no more than 30 kg, to make it easier for ironing man to press it with his foot. There is also the wooden stand, covered with a piece of white cloth in order to iron on it and was used to put the folded clothes. Also, a piece of wood was used to be put over the iron to protect the ironer’s feet from burning during ironing.

This iron should be heated on fire from 5 to 10 minutes, depending on its size and weight. The temperature of the iron was known by experience without relying on measuring devices. This foot-iron is durable, unbreakable, and affordable. It may last for decades as long as it is preserved from rust.

Since it is rare to see anyone working in this profession. I advise you to go watch this video, to live the full experience as if it is right in front of your eyes and to know how difficult it was.