Want to do some virtual vacuuming? Now there's an app for that

(Apple)

iPhone owners who need a bit of practice when it comes to domestic chores can now hone their skills with what is claimed to be the "world's first" vacuuming game, launched May 12 by a major appliance company.

Launched by Electrolux as a marketing stunt, the free application, called iVAC lets the user choose from one of the brand's vacuum cleaners and get 'cleaning' by tilting the iPhone or iPad at the right angle in order to 'pick up' dust from different surfaces and rooms.

According to Electrolux, the app includes "realistic sound effects," thereby giving users all the sensations of a real-world vacuuming experience - apart for, of course, the benefit of actually having cleaned their house.

The app includes a timed mode, and users can share their achievements with their friends via Facebook and potentially could even win a vacuum cleaner from Electrolux.

If vacuuming isn't your thing and you prefer to do some virtual ironing, the IronBoard app has the answers. The €0.79 app is described by the manufacturers as "simulating the only satisfying part of steam ironing " as it allows users to pretend to remove creases from their pretend clothes.

The iVac application can be downloaded for free via: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/ivac/id433382958?mt=8&ls=1&ref=nf

The IronBoard application priced at €0.79 can be downloaded via: http://itunes.apple.com/fr/app/ironboard/id403580836?mt=8#