Types of irons
Sellers, as a rule, try to offer customers the most modern and expensive iron models.
Important! In order not to overpay, it is worth deciding in advance which device is needed for everyday use.
Ordinary
Models with a minimum set of functions. Usually there is only temperature or power control.
Therefore, the smoothing of the fabric depends only on the weight of the device and the user’s efforts.
The advantage of this option is its affordable price.
Road
Compact, self-contained models with a folding handle that are convenient to take with you on a trip.
The power of such devices does not allow ironing heavily wrinkled, rough fabrics.
But such a device will be enough to tidy up your wardrobe.
With steam function
Note! Popular devices that generate steam using a built-in water tank.
Using steam makes the fabric softer and eliminates creases and folds. Such devices are often purchased for home use.
With steam generator
The device is supplied with a stationary steam generator that supplies steam under high pressure through a special hose.
A similar device for the home
allows you to iron folded bed linen , as well as wardrobe items on hangers.
The disadvantages of a product with a steam generator are its impressive dimensions and high cost.
Wireless
Modern technology with a charging station powered by a battery.
Thanks to the absence of a cable, you don’t have to depend on the presence of an outlet.
Stay up to date! In wireless mode, the device operates for no more than 15 minutes.
Photo tips for choosing an iron
Read here! How to choose a humidifier - instructions for finding the best devices and their use
The main parameters on the basis of which the choice is made
Having decided on the type of iron, you need to pay attention to the technical characteristics and features of the device.
This will make the ironing process as comfortable as possible.
Sole
The material the sole is made of determines how easily the device will glide across the fabric. The following options exist:
- Aluminum. Inexpensive, lightweight material that heats up quickly. Cons - the aluminum surface quickly becomes scratched and can ruin delicate fabrics, leaving shiny spots on them.
- Stainless steel. Durable, resistant to damage and scratches, glides well and is easy to clean. In addition, you can purchase a product with a stainless steel sole relatively inexpensively. Disadvantages include prolonged heating and heavy weight.
It is worth noting! Dirt accumulates in scratches and chips on the sole of the device. In addition, the device begins to have difficulty moving across the fabric.
To increase the functionality of the iron, various coatings are applied to its sole:
- Ceramics. Facilitates sliding, cleans well, does not stick to fabric. The downside is the high price. Conventional ceramics are fragile. A more durable, chip-resistant option is metal-ceramics.
- Teflon. Glides well, a little worse than ceramics. A device with a Teflon coating is inexpensive, but during use its sole becomes thinner and scratched.
- Titanium. Expensive material that takes quite a long time to heat up. Pros: excellent glide, comfortable cleaning and durability.
For your information! When considering the sole, you should pay attention to its shape. The total area and configuration of the spout (cape) is of greatest importance.
The pointed toe makes it easy to iron small details: ruffles, collars, buttons.
Some models have a recess in the nose area, and a groove at the junction of the sole and body.
This makes ironing items with buttons easier. As for the area, it is wiser to choose the golden mean .
The small and narrow device is easy to operate, but ironing takes much longer, especially if large fabrics are processed - curtains, bed linen.
Power
A device with high power heats up stronger and faster, which allows you to smooth the fabric in a short period of time.
You should know! Such an iron can overload the network because it consumes a lot of electricity.
Based on power, devices are divided into several categories :
- up to 1.5 kW – for ironing small quantities of delicate fabrics or as a travel option;
- from 1.6 to 2.2 W – suitable for most families;
- more than 2.2 W – necessary for ironing dense fabrics in large volumes.
Weight
It is worth choosing a device with average parameters.
A heavy product will quickly tire your hand, and a light product will not be able to cope with creases in dense fabric.
Handle shape
The most comfortable are rubberized handles with finger rests.
Tank volume
Keep in mind! To avoid having to frequently add water when ironing a large number of items, you should choose models with a spacious reservoir.
But in this case you need to be prepared to increase the weight of the iron.
Cord length and features
The optimal length of the power cord is from 2.5 to 3.5 m. Preference should be given to the hinged type of wire fastening .
Thanks to it, the cord can be rotated 360 degrees, with no risk of damage to the winding
It is important to ensure that the cable winding is made of heat-resistant fabric.
Some irons have an automatic cord winder feature. This device is convenient to store.
Steam power
For everyday use, steam generation of 70-110 g/min is sufficient.
Those who spend a lot of time steaming should choose a more powerful model.
Cleaning, protection against drips and scale
If you are looking for how to choose the right iron for your home, be sure to pay attention to whether the selected model has three things: an anti-drip system, anti-scale protection and a self-cleaning function .
Without them, the iron will leak when ironing, and a limescale deposit will appear on the sole and parts inside, which will have to be periodically cleaned with soda, lemon and other folk tricks.
The formation of plaque increases the risk that the iron itself will burn out - here, if not a fire, then you are definitely in danger of buying a new iron. Luckily, most modern irons come with all three anti-lime features.
Even this inexpensive REDMOND - we again present this model as an exemplary example of price-quality ratio:
REDMOND , by the way, also made one of the best multicookers of 2021 - here is its independent review.
What additional functionality should you pay attention to and in what cases?
Additional functions of the device are designed to make everyday care of your wardrobe easier.
Anti-drip system
Reference! This function allows you to avoid liquid leakage during steam supply and when the device is idle.
If drops get on your clothes, you will have to wait until they dry.
Therefore , for those who iron immediately before going out, models with an anti-drip system are suitable.
Self-cleaning
Self-cleaning is necessary for users who plan to fill the device's reservoir with tap water.
When you press the button, the nozzles are flushed with water and scale is removed from the device.
In some cases, purification occurs through the release of steam.
To avoid staining the fabric, do not turn on self-cleaning while ironing.
Anti-scale protection
Remember! Any equipment that comes into contact with water is susceptible to scale formation. If the iron's holes become clogged, it will have to be repaired.
To avoid this situation, you can choose a model with anti-scale protection or use exclusively distilled water.
Automatic shutdown
The device is protected from fire by the automatic power off function.
It
is triggered after 30 seconds of inactivity of the device in a horizontal position and after 10 minutes of inactivity in a vertical position.
Some models have hidden legs that move out of the case when the device is not in use.
This feature is useful for those who are afraid that they will forget that the iron is on.
Vertical steam supply and steam boost
Most modern irons have a steam function. Do not confuse the mode of uniform steam supply and steam boost.
The latter is activated by pressing a special button, allowing you to smooth out creases in dense material or put things in order that the sole of the iron cannot be placed against.
If steam is supplied vertically, an iron can be used instead of a steamer.
Removable sole
It may be useful for those who do not understand temperature conditions and are afraid of burning delicate fabric.
The iron may come with several removable pads for different occasions.
Types of irons
Its functionality, safety, and quality of work depend on the type of electrical appliance:
- A simple classic model is a variant of a budget product that is produced without a humidification and steam supply system. There is a thermostat on it that allows you to select the temperature for ironing different types of fabric: from light silk to thick woolen fabrics. Humidification is carried out manually.
- The spray iron is losing its popularity, although the low price attracts buyers. There is a hole above the spout through which water sprays, moistening the fabric.
- An iron with a steam generator and a sprayer can handle any fabric, kinks, folds, or hard-to-reach places. He will iron even heavily wrinkled clothes. A water tank has been added to its design, which must be refilled periodically. Water is poured into the tank at room temperature, boiled, and after ironing the remains must be drained.
- The travel iron is small in size and weight and is used when traveling. It has a built-in water tank, steam generator and vertical or impact steam supply.
- The steam station is a professional product and is designed for ironing large volumes of laundry, light fabrics, and difficult wrinkles. Its design consists of a boiler and a removable water tank. Water from the container is supplied to the boiler, heated and supplied to the fabric using a steam generator
- New innovative iron without a cord for plugging into the mains. It is included in the equipment of a smart home; heating is carried out on a stationary base, which turns on automatically.
Price categories
Irons are classified depending on their cost:
- Budget models - from 700 to 2,000 rubles. This category includes travel devices and simple irons with a steam option.
- Middle class - from 2,000 to 7,000. Devices with good technical characteristics and steam stations without frills.
- Premium segment – from 7,000 and above. Here you can find irons with many functions, as well as cordless devices and modern steam stations.
Steam irons
For more efficient ironing, holes are made in the sole of these irons. A reservoir with water and a heater is built into the body.
The tank capacity is 200-250 ml, which requires refilling when using the constant steam function and a large volume of laundry.
Top manufacturers and models
Philips:
- Philips GC2990/20 PowerLife;
- Philips GC2998/80 PowerLife;
- Philips GC4566/80 Azur;
- Philips GC4908/80 Azur;
- Philips GC1436/20 Comfort.
Bosch:
- Bosch TDA 3024010;
- Bosch TDA 2325;
- Bosch TDA 702421E;
- Bosch TDA 703021A;
- Bosch TDA 5028010.
Brown:
- Braun TexStyle 7 TS745A;
- Braun TexStyle 7 TS735TP;
- Braun SI 3041 GR;
- Braun SI 3054 GY;
- Braun TexStyle TS775ETP.
Tefal:
- Tefal FV3910;
- Tefal FV4913 ULTRAGLISS 4;
- Tefal FV4961;
- Tefal FV9710 Ultimate;
- Tefal FV1844 Maestro 2.
REDMOND:
- REDMOND RI-C265S;
- REDMOND RI-C263;
- REDMOND RI-C273S;
- REDMOND RI-C257;
- REDMOND RI-C255S.
Rowenta:
- Rowenta DW 5135D1;
- Rowenta DW 1120D1;
- Rowenta DW 6010;
- Rowenta DW 4110D1;
- Rowenta DW 4120D1 Autosteam.
The best irons for the home - rating 2021. Which iron is best to buy for the home in 2021?
8 Tefal VIRTUO FV1711
Tefal VIRTUO FV1711
8.Tefal VIRTUO FV1711
Our list starts with a good inexpensive iron with a power of 1800 W with a constant steam supply of 24 g/min and a drip-stop system. The temperature and steam pressure are adjusted manually. If this is not difficult for the housewife, you can choose this budget device and use it for your pleasure. As they write in the reviews, the iron is good, the sole glides over the fabric easily.
As stated in the specifications, the sole has a non-stick non-stick coating. Therefore, your laundry is under reliable protection. The anti-slip handle and convenient location of the steam boost button are a priority and add comfort to use.
- Manufacturer: France
- Steam boost: 80 g/min
- Intelligent mode (ironing without settings): no, everything is done manually
- Steam generator functions: push-press steam boost and continuous steam supply
- Auto power off: no
- Self-cleaning system: descaling (anti-lime rod)
- Vertical steam: yes
They write that it perfectly irons natural fabrics (linen, cotton, wool), and synthetics. Always use it to steam a blouse, T-shirt, trousers and other clothes. The only exceptions are bed linen and stale clothing. As they write in reviews, heavily wrinkled and rough items are more difficult to iron. Then the steam power is not enough. The downside is the lack of auto shut-off. If the iron is left on the ironing board, a fire may occur.
7 Braun SI 3041 GR
Braun SI 3041 GR
7.Braun SI 3041 GR
We present an iron from a reliable manufacturer with a spacious 270 ml tank and a powerful steam blast. The most important advantage of the ironing unit is the design and material of the sole. It uses the FreeGlide 3D innovation and ceramic coating.
The sole is rounded at the back, which makes ironing several times easier. After all, when the housewife moves the iron to a vertical position, the back of it may accidentally touch the laundry and “draw” creases on the fabric, or touch the buttons. With the Braun SI 3041 GR home appliance, such troubles are eliminated. The nose is slightly narrowed, the holes are located around the perimeter and in the area of the nose, and have an oval shape. The device weighs 1.3 kg.
- Manufacturer: Germany
- Steam boost: 150 g/min, power 2350 W
- Intelligent mode (ironing without settings): manually
- Steam generator function: steam boost, constant supply with manual control up to 45 g/min
- Auto power off: no
- Self-cleaning system: anti-scale and anti-drip
- Vertical steam: yes
The reviews wrote that after turning on the iron warms up within 35 seconds. Despite the fact that the sole, according to the manufacturer, is not afraid of metal elements, you should be careful when ironing and do not hit the fittings with the sole too actively in order to extend the life of the iron. Buyers like the design of the product and the design of the sole; they write that such an iron is ideal for a gift.
6 Philips GC2990/20 PowerLife
Philips GC2990/20 PowerLife
6.Philips GC2990/20 PowerLife
Our next entrant is renowned for its innovation and quality technology. The Philips GC2990/20 PowerLife iron features the best alloy steel SteamGlide soleplate with ceramic coating. It has teardrop-shaped holes along its entire surface, including the spout, to create a steam cushion so that your laundry always looks impeccable.
Parameters such as a spacious 320 ml water tank and good device power of 2300 W allow the iron to heat up in a matter of seconds, and you can iron a lot of clothes easily and quickly. This is confirmed in the reviews.
They write that the iron is easy to use, easy to turn, thanks to the long cord on the hinge, and is also not heavy to hold in your hands ( weight 1.25 kg ). Buyers also like the wide hole for filling water; they write that it closes tightly with a lid.
- Manufacturer: Netherlands
- Steam boost: steam boost force 140 g per minute, device power 2300 W
- Intelligent mode (ironing without settings): no, manual adjustment
- Steam generator function: continuous steam generation and steam boost at the touch of a button
- Auto power off: no
- Self-cleaning system: anti-scale and anti-drip
- Vertical steam: yes
One of the disadvantages of the iron is the lack of automatic settings, so the temperature mode must be set manually. Although the price of Philips corresponds to its quality and characteristics. Some write that the device may leak when it is turned vertically or vice versa horizontally; this short-term phenomenon can be explained by low water heating and incorrect settings.
Choosing the weight for the iron
Before buying, you should hold the iron in your hands.
One of the important characteristics when choosing an inexpensive iron for the home, because... No one wants their hands to hurt after ironing. The weight of the iron is largely influenced by the material of its sole. The lightest models have an aluminum base, followed by steel, then stainless steel and titanium-coated steel.
But an iron that is too light, like a travel iron, smooths things out worse. Therefore, it is important to find a balance between weight and power. The average weight of an iron with steam is 1.5. The steam generator has 1.3 kg. And the road one has only 0.5 kg.
Security and Service
Cord length. A power cord that is too short makes it difficult to use the iron, especially in a vertical position. Most devices are equipped with a two-meter cord. Some users are satisfied with this, but some find it insufficient - there are longer cords. It is also convenient if they are equipped with hinges to prevent twisting.
Automatic shutdown. Such systems are designed to prevent fires and protect the nerves of users. If you leave the iron without moving for a certain time, it will automatically turn off. In a horizontal position, the shutdown interval ranges from 30 seconds to 2 minutes, in a vertical position - from 8 to 10 minutes.
Premium iron with steam generator Tefal GV9071 Pro Express Care - it supports all the indicated features
Descaling. The scale accumulated in the iron harms the device and can get on things. There are various cleaning systems: automatic requires heating to maximum temperature and supplying maximum steam to remove scale particles. Washable anti-lime rods, replaceable cassette filters and separate scale containers are also used.
Anti-drip system. When dry ironing or at rest, water may leak through the steam holes; Sometimes a release of liquid is observed immediately after applying a steam boost. To avoid such troubles, an “anti-drop” system is installed on irons - however, not all devices are equipped with it.
Splashing water. Getting moisture on the fabric is sometimes undesirable, but sometimes it is worth moistening it - it all depends on the type and condition of the material. There are special hand-held sprayers on sale separately, but sometimes such devices are built into the iron itself - they take water from the steam reservoir and are activated by a special button.
Which is the best iron to buy for your home: expert opinion and price review
The opinions of ordinary users and specialists differ, so it is advisable to name three models that were highly appreciated by professionals.
Philips GC 4780 - reliable and easy glide
Thanks to its 2600 W power, the iron produces a strong stream of steam that smooths out creases even in hard-to-reach places. The device has an automatic shut-off and vertical steam function. Its average price is 6,200 rubles.
Price: ₽ 6,200
UNIT USI-281 - comfortable for daily use
The iron is equipped with a ceramic sole and has a power of 2200 W. The steam boost function will remove even the smallest wrinkles on clothes, and auto shut-off will prevent fire. The average price for a model is 1,300 rubles.
Price: ₽ 990
Panasonic NI-W950 - lightweight
Iron with automatic shut-off after inactivity. The device has a power of 2400 W and a steam supply of up to 40 g/min. This model has the ability to vertically steam coarse clothes. The average price is 6,500 rubles.
Price: RUB 6,594
Power
High. Household irons with a power of 2500 W or more are approaching professional models. They heat up quickly; it takes several tens of seconds to prepare them for work. Thick fabrics are available for such devices, but at the same time, their use requires good electrical wiring that can withstand heavy loads.
Premium iron Philips GC5033/80 Azur Elite - its power reaches 3000 W
Average. This category includes devices with a power from 1500 to 2500 W - such models are the most common. Warming up of such devices takes from 40 seconds to 2 minutes. They are able to cope with most tasks that arise during home ironing. Unlike more powerful models, these irons are not so demanding on electricity.
Mid-budget iron Philips GC1741/70 EasySpeed - its power reaches 2000 W
Low. Devices with a power of up to 1500 W are not designed for large volumes of ironing. Their long heating time and limited functionality allow you to put several things in order. Such irons are called travel or camping irons, since their small size and light weight are convenient for transportation - these devices are relatively inexpensive.
Choosing a sole for an iron
The quality of the sole determines how carefully the iron behaves with fabrics. If, for example, chips or scratches appear on the sole over time, they can ruin things during ironing and frustrate you.
Today, manufacturers offer two sole materials - aluminum and stainless steel with different coatings (ceramics, cermets, non-stick, etc.). If you see “composite” in the device passport, then this is an alloy, sputtering or other coating.
When choosing an inexpensive iron with an aluminum base, it will most likely serve you less even with normal ironing, but it will not burn and will protect any delicate fabric if it has a special non-stick coating.
Ceramics are less afraid of contact with locks or zippers, but such a device cannot be dropped. The same can be said about metal ceramics.
The best choice is a stainless steel iron, especially if it has a sapphire or titanium coating.
Choosing the right iron sole
The ease of use of the iron depends on the size of the working surface of the iron. For example, a fairly large sole will not be suitable for things that have buttons and decorative elements, but at the same time, the ironing process will be much faster.
If you purchase a model with a sole that has a narrow toe, then you will be able to bypass all the folds around zippers, fasteners and various applications.
The number of holes on the sole of the iron and their size: does this matter when choosing
It is necessary to choose a quality iron taking into account all the requirements. Be sure to check its sole for steam vents. The more there are and the more widely they are located, the better the ironing will be.
Advice!
If you need to regularly iron large volumes of clothes placed vertically (on hangers, on the backs of chairs), then it is better to purchase a steam unit that does not require contact with the fabric.
Conclusions, or how not to get confused about sole options
While it’s not so difficult to figure out the type of iron, you can easily get confused about the options for its sole. We have prepared a comparison table for you that will help you choose the best iron with the right soleplate.
| Sole | pros | Minuses |
| Aluminum |
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| Teflon coated aluminum |
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| Stainless steel |
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| Stainless steel with sapphire coating |
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| Stainless steel with titanium coating |
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| Stainless steel/aluminum with ceramic coating |
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| Stainless steel/aluminum with cermet coating |
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