As stated, the sock is just for preventing scratches. A towell will most likely not let enough heat through to set off the adhesive.
And, by the way, I have used a household iron before in a pinch, but I didn't tell the wife
I would spend the money and get a good iron, like the 21st century coverite iron. That is the best one out there. Lots of power, so it heats up quickly and won't lose it's heat while using it...