The instructions on how to choose an iron for home: types of devices, their comparison and characteristics

Our homes are filled with things and clothes, and we are used to looking neat, so it is difficult to imagine a home without an iron.

The closet of modern man consists of a variety of fabrics. Some clothes require gentle steaming, while others require high temperatures and a heavy iron soleplate.

When choosing an appliance, all the nuances must be taken into account. Fortunately, there is a great variety of models on the market of household appliances with a variety of functionalities.

In this article we will try to understand the basic parameters of irons, highlight the main issues on the selection and care of them, as well as get acquainted with the rating of the best devices.

How to choose an iron?

Let's look at the main varieties of irons on the market of household products, as well as their basic characteristics.

Classic (conventional).

This is a unit without any special additional functions.

The process of ironing takes place thanks to the weight of the product and the hot soleplate. In stores, such models are not common, because it is problematic to use them.

The result after ironing is mediocre, and a lot of effort should be spent. The cost of the product is low - this is one of the few advantages.

Steam Station

It is a steam generator and an iron, which are connected to each other by a cord.

The appliance smooths clothes quickly and well. Bedding can be ironed by folding it several times.

The iron weighs considerably less than a device with a steam generator. It can also be used as a steamer.

The cost of the product is high. You will also need to allocate additional space to install the steam generator during use and for later storage.

With the steam option

Such a device will cope with any folds on fabrics.

The body of the iron has a special reservoir for water. It is better to buy a device with a capacity of at least 200 ml, so as not to refill the water often.

These are the most popular devices on the market.

Wireless

The unit consists of an iron, functioning from a battery and a charging station.

The absence of a cord greatly simplifies the process of ironing, but the short period of operation is an obvious disadvantage of the product.

Travel device

This iron is small in size and power.

It has a folding handle and is very light and fits in any bag or suitcase. It will not cope with complicated folds, but it will fix slightly wrinkled clothes after a trip.

Power Consumption

This indicator affects both the power of steam delivery and the heating speed of the device.

1. The power range in steam irons is considerable. It ranges from 1800 to 3000 watts. The most optimal values are those of 2200 to 2600 watts. The unit will have no problem heating up quickly and delivering the right amount of steam.
2. The power in appliances with a steam generator is slightly higher. You should not buy models with a value of less than 2200 watts. Lower specifications will result in poor steam generation.
3. Small travel irons do not require high power. For the device to heat up enough and 1000 watts will be enough.

Power at which steam is delivered

The quality and speed of ironing depends on both the power consumption of the device and the steam output. The latter is calculated in grams of water which are converted into steam per minute.

In irons, there are two such values - steam impact and steam delivery in automatic mode.

Let's take a closer look at each of them:

1. Steam blow. This is a one-time supply of steam of considerable power. You can activate the function with the help of a special button. But you can not use it constantly, because after 3-5 presses the steam stops forming. The device must cool down to a certain temperature. This option is used for difficult folds and creases on the fabric, for vertical steaming. The mode has increased steam supply parameters: a minimum of 50 g/min and a maximum of up to 230 g/min. Units with a built-in steam generator are capable of producing steam for a longer time.
2. Steam delivery (automatic). The function starts working when you put the iron in a horizontal position. In this mode, the steam flows continuously and the steam output can be adjusted. The values depend on the appliance model and range from 10 g/min to 60 g/min. Higher values guarantee that even the most troublesome fabrics and creases will be ironed with excellent quality.

Adjusting the temperature

The iron is fitted with a thermostat that provides the optimum temperature setting for different types of fabrics.

There are several settings on the appliance:

• for synthetic, silk and other delicate materials;
• for cotton fabrics;
• for ironing woolen garments;
• for difficult fabrics such as linen, etc.;
• option without adjustment mode.

Some modern machines may not have a thermostat, but this does not mean that the appliance will automatically select the desired temperature. Developers simply use the optimum temperature in the devices, which is equally suitable for most varieties of fabric.

Iron weight

This is the indicator that determines your comfort during the ironing process.

Some users prefer light models, while others prefer heavier models.

Modern units have different dimensions from 400 grams to 12 kg. Much depends on the material of the soleplate. The lightest devices are made of aluminum, more massive make of steel.

The universal weight of an iron for home use can be considered the index of 1.5-2 kilograms.

Material and shape of the soleplate

Iron soleplates are made of different materials: stainless steel, ceramic metal, titanium, ceramic, nickel, teflon and aluminum.

Let's take a closer look at each of them, as well as understand the advantages and disadvantages of the coatings presented.

Steel - strong, fast heating and very heavy

Stainless steel - the material is characterized by resistance to corrosion and durability.

The soleplate will not be damaged by contact with buttons, buttons or metal zippers. Heating is fast, but there is a risk of ruining the fabric.

Advantages of stainless steel coating:

• Not susceptible to scratches;
• the soleplate heats up quickly and retains heat for a long time;
• smooths out creases without any problems and gently moves over the fabric;
• metal is not prone to corrosion and is durable.

Disadvantages:

• there is a possibility of burning the product, as the soleplate heats up quickly;
• metal weighs the iron, so it is difficult to iron a large number of items.

Ceramic - the coating is easily damaged, but nothing sticks to it

Ceramic soleplate - this is a very fragile coating. To make it stronger, the composition is supplemented with chromium and nickel. After these manipulations, the alloy is called metal-ceramic. It differs from ceramic in its heavier weight.

An iron with a metal-ceramic coating is better stored in an upright position, so as not to damage the soleplate.

Advantages:

• holds heat for a long time;
• demonstrates high speed of heating;
• Gently glides over the fabric;
• coating can be easily cleaned with special agents.

Disadvantages:

• easily scratched if handled carelessly (e.g., hitting a button or zipper);
• if the iron is dropped, there is a high probability that the coating will break.

Aluminum is very light, but can deteriorate quickly

Aluminum is a metal that is soft and vulnerable. This material was the first to be used to make the soles for electric irons.

Can leave a sheen on the fabric of the product, so it should be moistened with water before the ironing process.

Advantages:

• The iron with aluminum soleplate is very light, you can iron a lot of laundry and your hand will not get tired;
• heats up quickly to the right temperature.

Disadvantages:

• The thing can easily be ruined with the wrong temperature setting;
• dents and scratches from metal buttons and zippers remain.

Titanium - ideal, but it takes a long time to heat up

More recently, appliances with titanium soles have appeared. They are lightweight, but scratch much less.

Advantages:

• Have a non-stick coating;
• low overall weight;
• are resistant to damage;
• Excellent for ironing creases and glides gently.

Disadvantages:

• Takes a long time to heat up, increasing energy costs.

Teflon - won't damage fabric, but can scratch easily

The aluminum or steel soleplate is coated with Teflon. Steel irons are considerably heavier than aluminum irons and are better at smoothing out creases.

Some manufacturers add special coatings to reduce Teflon damage.

Advantages:

• Thoroughly smooths out creases and glides gently over fabric;
• Will not damage even the most delicate fabric.

Disadvantages:

• Can easily get scratched and lose its nonstick qualities.

Nickel - has non-stick properties, but may damage fabric

In order to obtain non-stick properties, nickel is coated exclusively on steel soles.

Advantages:

• corrosion resistance;
• will not need to clean the appliance often, since the coating is non-stick.

Disadvantages:

• scratches easily;
• spoils the fabric by clinging to the damaged surface.

Sheet shape variations

It is not just the material used to make the iron's soleplate that affects the quality of ironing. Pay attention to its shape as well.

For smoothing difficult areas, such as collars or folds, models with a pointed spout are perfect. A good option is when there are special holes on the spout for steam.

Wired or cordless

On the market of household appliances, models that do not need to be constantly connected to the mains are becoming more and more popular. A wireless iron is convenient to use, but no one cancelled the usual wired units.

Let's consider the pros and cons of both options.

Wireless iron

Pros:

• Has a special stand for heating and does not need a direct connection to the network;
• high mobility of the device;
• comfortable ironing conditions for the user.

Cons:

• slower pace of ironing laundry due to the need to heat the device on a special stand;
• the cost is higher than that of a wired device.

Wired iron

Pros:

• Constant heating temperature;
• high rate of ironing the laundry.

Cons:

• If the iron is rigidly connected to the cord, the latter can quickly crack and fall into disrepair;
• low mobility.

There are plenty of choices on the market and everyone can find the right option for him.

Additional features

There are many additional options in modern models and they are designed to provide comfort for the consumer.

Let's consider the most essential of them.

Auto turning off

Nowadays, even in the absence of an auto shut-off function, no iron heats up to the point of combustion.

But there are situations when in the hustle and bustle you forgot to turn off the device. This option will save energy and nerve cells for the owner.

Anti-Drip System

It prevents delicate garments from getting wet.

When ironing at low temperature, water may leak from the holes on the soleplate which is undesirable for chiffon or silk blouses.

If you want to make the ironing process neat, you should choose a machine with a special sign - Aqua-stop. Water will not get on the fabric at any temperature of heating.

Ability to use plain tap water

Buying an iron without a useful anti-scale option, while using tap water, can shorten the life of the unit.

So for a long and effective life, it is better to buy an appliance with an anti scale function. It allows you not to worry about the safety of the appliance.

Ball cord and cord length

It is important to pay attention in corded irons to the degree of flexibility of the cord connection to the device. This is necessary to avoid quickly damaging the cord.

Not on the last place should also be the length of the cord. The longer it is, the more convenient the ironing process is.

Self-Cleaning Function

The iron is in contact with water when it works, so the appliance has a high probability of scale formation. It contaminates the unit and can stain clothes when ironing.

If you use non-distilled water in the iron's tank, you need to descale the iron once a month. This is easy to do with the self-cleaning function.

You only need to press a special button on the device and it will clear unnecessary dirt.

Maintain your iron

To prolong the life of the unit should be properly cared for.

It is necessary to apply:

• a special cleaning pencil to clean the iron's soleplate of limescale, dirt;
• Distilled water to prevent the household appliance from becoming encrusted;
• A silicone nozzle to protect the soleplate of the device from damage and the fabric from burning;
• Powders and descaling tablets, if the iron does not lend itself to self-cleaning.

Do not use folk remedies such as salt, vinegar, wax, or baking soda on modern machines. It is better to use professional products than to test the iron's durability.

What brand to choose

The leaders in the production of irons, which are distinguished by the use of advanced technology, high quality and modern functionality can be called brands:

• Philips;
• Tefal;
• BORK;
• Rowenta;
• Bosch.

In the medium-price segment we can distinguish the companies:

• MIE;
• Morphy Richards;
• Electrolux.

Among inexpensive devices with an optimal set of functions can be distinguished:

• Clatronic;
• Vitek;
• Polaris.

Top 5 best irons by price/quality for 2021-2022

Philips GC4909/60 Azur

The iron of this model makes the ironing process fast and productive. The device has a useful self-cleaning feature that avoids limescale and other contaminants.

The self-switching system will save you from unnecessary waste of electricity and protect you from fire. In the horizontal position the automatic shutdown occurs after 30 seconds and in the vertical position after eight minutes.

The device is equipped with a steam function, eco-mode, anti-drip system.

It has three temperature control modes, a large water tank for 300 ml.

Convenient lengthened iron spout with holes for steam is able to smooth out any scuffs on the fabric, to get into hard-to-reach places between the buttons.

The device is equipped with a non-slip handle, as well as a swivel cord fastening. The length of the power cord is comfortable - 3 meters.

The weight of the product is about 1.7 kg., there is an energy-saving mode and a ready-to-use indicator.

Braun TexStyle TS775ETP

The real winner among irons with Eloxal Plus, high-tech anodized aluminium soleplate and TexStile Protector attachment.

It has a useful limescale protection system to extend the life of your iron.

The appliance has a steam function as well as an anti-drip system. It has a power of 2.4 kW, the option of steam impact, makes vertical steaming.

The iron is equipped with a 400 ml water tank.

The unit is equipped with a swivel cord fastening, non-stick coated soleplate. The length of the power cord is comfortable - 2.5 meters.

The weight of the product is about 2 kg, there is an indicator of readiness to work.

Advantages of the Braun TexStyle TS775ETP:

• high-quality nozzle for thin fabrics;
• sturdy body;
• powerful steam blow;
• practical cord fastening.

Disadvantages:

• unfortunate placement of the steam blow button;
• No auto shut-off function.

REDMOND RI-C265S

This is a smart iron, which can be controlled remotely through a mobile app.

The device is equipped with a limescale protection system, which extends the period of use, as well as a self-cleaning system.

The appliance has a steam function as well as an anti-drip system. It has a power of 2.5 kW, the option of steam impact, makes vertical steaming.

The iron is equipped with a voluminous water tank for 300 ml.

The unit is equipped with a swivel cord fastening, the soleplate has a ceramic coating. The length of the power cord is convenient - 3 meters.

The weight of the product is about 1.1 kg, there is an indicator of readiness to work.

Pros:

• auto shut off in any position of the device;
• Increased power of steam blow;
• Smart Home concept;
• excellent results of all types of tests.

Cons:

• none identified.

Electrolux EDB 1740

The iron of this model is functional, convenient and reliable.

The unit has a self-cleaning function, which allows you to avoid limescale and other impurities.

The self-switching system saves the appliance from wasting energy and protects it from fire.

The device is equipped with a steam function, as well as an anti-drip system. It has a 250 ml water tank.

The handy extended iron spout with holes for steam is capable of smoothing complex folds on clothes and laundry, getting into hard-to-reach places, such as the collar area.

The device is equipped with a ceramic soleplate, as well as a swivel cord fastening. The length of the power cord is comfortable - 3 meters.

The weight of the product is about 1 kg, there is an indicator of readiness to work.

Polaris PIR 2821AK

The iron has a practical self-cleaning option, which makes it possible to avoid limescale and other impurities.

Self-disconnection system will save from unnecessary power consumption and protect from fire. In a horizontal position the automatic shutdown occurs after 30 seconds, and in the vertical position after 8 minutes.

The device is equipped with the function of steaming, as well as anti-drip system. Has a large water tank of 400 ml.

Comfortable extended iron spout with holes for steam is able to smooth out any crease. The device is powerful at 2800 watts, which allows you to heat the soleplate quickly.

The iron has a convenient swivel cord fastening. The length of the cord is universal - 3 meters.

The product is quite weighty. The manufacturer provides a two-year warranty, which indicates confidence in the quality of the device.

Checklist for choosing an iron

In order to choose the right iron and not to overpay for extra money, you should follow the following rules:

1. It is necessary to carefully study the models on the market of household appliances, decide on the subsequent purpose of the device: use on trips, in the office or at home.
2. It is important to make sure the convenience of operation. You can hold the iron, assess how comfortable the handle, whether it is easy to regulate the power of the device.
3. You should decide on the power of the unit. A setting of 2000 watts will be quite sufficient.
4. It is necessary to pay attention to the function of steaming and sprinkling, as well as the performance of steam generation.
5. A key factor in your choice is the soleplate material. It is not unreasonable to study the features of coatings to make a decision, but stainless steel can be considered the best option. This is a practical and durable coating.
6. The temperature of heating should also be taken into account.
7. Also important are the auto-off function, anti-drip protection, self-cleaning and the option to prevent limescale.

Useful video

Find more information on how to choose your iron in this video: