I have actually used my dining table to iron things. I have an old blanket I put on top of the table, then I put a sheet down and tie the ends together underneath the table. Works great!
My dining table is not one of those expensive tables. It's a pedestal (press board) that we bought 20 years ago...I love my table.
I wouldn't recommend doing this on a table that is made from cherry/oak or something else.