You can drape a sheet or other press cloth over your ironing board before you press. Then spray the fabric and let the sizing or starch soak in a bit. You can even let it dry. Then simply wash the press cloth when you are finished.
I just take off the ironing board cover and wash it when it gets too sticky or dirty. lol
You can also clean the iron be ironing over a paper bag or piece of wax paper. Or, you can buy drops to clean the plate of your iron at most stores in the laundry aisle.
Or, use the Mary Ellen's. It smells wonderful.