I put a large towel on my kitchen table and starch and press there.

My board cover doesn't really get stiff, but I use Best Press.

I use it right on the ironing board. never had any problems. It gets dirty get a new one or wash it. Just even put a new fabric right over the old.

I use my shape n press board covered with a pillowcase. When it's stiff I toss it in the laundry.

So I asked this question then went and put a new cover on my ironing board. I needed a new one anyways the cat decided he was going to climb the other one like a tree and ripped it. Anyways. I DON'T LIKE IT. LOL its not stiff and it feels "loose" or kinda fluffy. like I'm not pressing anything. So maybe the starch IS good on my ironing board cover. Thank goodness I have 12 yards of fabric to starch tomorrow. lol

Thanks everyone for your replies!

I spray on my Ironing Board and wash the cover every couple of weeks.

Wow I always starched on my ironing board cover, never thought about it. Only use the board for sewing and quilting, I do not iron clothing, well maybe one or two pieces.

When doing a lot of starching, I hold the piece I am starching inside a garbage bag and spray. That is to keep the starch overspray off the ironing board and hardwood floors. You will be surprised at how much starch winds up on the floor, no matter how careful you are. Sometimes, I step outside to spray starch on to my fabric or garment.

I don't starch ever. Hate the mess too much!

I cover my ironing board and lay a sheet on the floor.