![\"laundry](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/wrinkled-clothes-in-laundry-basket.jpg?resize=337%2C337&ssl=1\" "\\"wrinkled")
<\/span><\/p>\nUnderstanding Your Ironing Needs<\/h2>\n
Each person will have slightly different needs. It’s best to ask a few questions to try and identify your exact ironing needs.<\/p>\n
- \n
- Ironing Frequency <\/strong>– How often do you have to do ironing? Is this a daily task, are you a weekend warrior, or do you just iron as and when you have to?<\/li>\n
- Fabrics<\/strong> – What types of fabrics do you have to iron? Are there a lot of silks and woollens, or are cotton shirts and denim your biggest workload? It’s important to understand that the main fabric types you have to do will guide your soleplate choice and steam output needs.<\/li>\n
- Time<\/strong> – Are you a “quick crease, out the door” kind of ironer, or do you have time for longer ironing sessions with time for adjustments and precision? This will influence factors like water tank size and temperature controls.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n\n
\n \n Type of Ironing<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/th>\n
\n My Recommendation<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n
\n \n Frequent Ironer<\/p>\n<\/td>\n
\n A lightweight compact iron with a decent-sized tank will be your best friend. Consider a ceramic soleplate for its glide and scratch resistance.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n \n Fabrics<\/p>\n<\/td>\n
\n For delicate materials like silk, a smooth ceramic or anodised soleplate with precise temperature control is crucial. Look for irons with low, adjustable steam settings to avoid scorching.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
\n \n Time restrained<\/p>\n<\/td>\n
\n A powerful steam output ensures fast wrinkle removal, while a large water tank minimizes refills. An auto-off feature adds peace of mind, especially for the hurried ironer.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all steam iron. By assessing your ironing needs and preferences, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect fit for a better ironing experience!<\/p>\n
Key Features of Steam Irons<\/h2>\n
Many of the brands advertise their irons in certain ways which can lead to some confusion. Just below we have identified those key features that you should pay attention to.<\/p>\n
Soleplates<\/h3>\n
This is probably the single feature that causes more confusion than anything else for potential buyers. This is the part of the iron that touches your clothes. In simple engineering terms it is a metal plate with holes in it that allow the steam out.Most good quality steam irons will have a ceramic plate or a steel plate infused with ceramic. The reason ceramic is used is to help the iron glide smoothly over your clothes. It also gives a smoother finish to the sole and this prevents snagging of the clothes.Manufacturers talk a lot about the soleplates and their gliding properties. They used to give problems but the process has become very refined and soleplates are all very good in almost every iron.<\/p>\n
![\"soleplates\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/steam-iron-soleplate.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1\" "\\"steam")
<\/span><\/p>\nThe choice of soleplate significantly impacts ironing performance and garment compatibility. Popular options in the UK include:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Ceramic<\/strong>: Better for exceptional smoothness, scratch resistance, and even heat distribution, making it ideal for delicate fabrics.<\/li>\n
- Stainless Steel<\/strong>: A widely used option due to its affordability and quick heat-up time. However, it can be prone to scratches and less forgiving on sensitive materials.<\/li>\n
- Anodized<\/strong>: An enhanced stainless steel variant, offering improved smoothness and scratch resistance compared to its parent material, catering to a broader range of fabrics.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Steam Output – Constant Steam and Steam Boost<\/h3>\n
Steam output usually comes in two ways. The first is a continuous steam rating and the second is a steam shot, sometimes called a steam boost.<\/p>\n
There are dry irons on the UK market which don’t use steam at all, and some people prefer to use those as it does keep the clothes drier.The majority of irons use steam as a quick means of ironing out wrinkles and creases.<\/p>\n
With steam irons there is usually a continuous steam and also a steam shot.<\/p>\n
![\"steam](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/steam-iron-steam-shot.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1\" "\\"steam")
<\/span><\/p>\nContinuous Steam<\/strong><\/p>\n
The continuous rate of steam produced by an iron has a technical measurement known as grams per minute. (g\/min) Usually this varies between 30-50 grams per minute. It is simply the amount of steam an iron can produce. The higher this is the better as it is steam which is very effective in removing wrinkles quickly.<\/p>\n
Steam Shot <\/strong>(Steam Boost)<\/p>\n
A steam shot is also measured in grams per minute. This will always be a higher measurement and is usually between 100 to 150 grams. At the higher end this can get up to 200 grams per minute.<\/p>\n
This shot is used for very stubborn creases in material like jeans or linen. It can be very useful and again the higher this number is the better.<\/p>\n
A strong and consistent steam output is really important for effective wrinkle removal. Consider these guidelines:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Light Ironers<\/strong>: For occasional touch-ups, a continuous steam output of approximately 25g\/min is sufficient.<\/li>\n
- Regular Ironers<\/strong>: For most ironing tasks, a steam output between 30g\/min and 40g\/min will provide efficient performance.<\/li>\n
- Heavy-Duty Ironers<\/strong>: For tackling thicker or heavier fabrics and stubborn creases, go for a steam output exceeding 50g\/min. Additionally, explore the functionality of steam shots for targeted wrinkle removal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Water Tank Capacity<\/h3>\n
These can vary in size quite a lot. A typical steam iron has a 300 millilitre water tank. That will last for about an hour of normal ironing before it needs to be filled up again.<\/p>\n
Some models will have a 400 ml water tank so will last about 90 minutes.<\/p>\n
Be aware though, that the larger the tank, the heavier the iron will be. A larger tank will also take slightly longer to heat up.<\/p>\n
One thing worth noting is that some models of irons have what is called an “easy fill option.” That basically means they have a wider opening than most models, and this allows you to fill the iron faster.<\/p>\n
![\"steam](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/water-tank-in-an-iron.jpg?resize=300%2C276&ssl=1\" "\\"water")
<\/span><\/p>\nTank size selection should be based on ironing frequency and the number of garments you have to iron. Compact options with capacities around 200ml are ideal for travel or occasional use, while larger tanks (300ml+) cater to frequent ironing sessions and bigger laundry loads. Anti-calc features are highly recommended to minimise limescale buildup and protect the iron’s lifespan.<\/p>\n
Temperature Control and Material Selection<\/h3>\n
This is another area of complexity. Different materials react differently to heat. For example a pair of jeans will take a high heat whereas a silk blouse would burn at the same temperature. That is why there are different temperature settings on an iron.<\/p>\n
By selecting the appropriate temperature you can be sure that is the right one to use for a particular material.<\/p>\n
The temperature adjustment is usually a simple dial.<\/p>\n
It is worth noting that by adjusting the temperature, you are actually changing the temperature of the soleplate. This can take up to 30 seconds to change so always be aware of that.<\/p>\n
![\"adjustable](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/steam-iron-adjustable-temperature.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1\" "\\"steam")
<\/span><\/p>\nProper temperature control ensures the very best garment care by accommodating the varying heat tolerance of different fabrics. Look for irons with variable temperature settings, while advanced models with fabric sensors or preset modes offer added convenience and precision.<\/p>\n
Wattage and running costs<\/h3>\n
All steam irons have a boiler inside them that heats up the water and turns it into steam. Watts are a unit of power and the higher this number is, then the faster your iron will heat up.The majority of steam irons will use around 2,400 watts of power to heat the boiler, and the iron will be ready to use in about 45 seconds to a minute.<\/p>\n
Some irons will have a higher wattage such as 2600, 2800 and as high as 3100 watts, so these will heat up faster.<\/p>\n
![\"steam](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/wattage-of-a-steam-iron.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1\" "\\"wattage")
<\/span><\/p>\nYou should also be aware that the higher the wattage is the more electricity it will use. Electricity is measured in a unit known as a Kilowatt Hour (Kwh) A Kilowatt hour is classed as one unit of electricity. It is based on an appliance using 1,000 watts of power for one hour.<\/p>\n
The average cost of a unit of electricity in the UK is about 14p. (Rates vary qite a lot)<\/p>\n
- \n
- So a 2400 watt steam iron being used for one hour would cost about 33.6 pence to run<\/li>\n
- And a 3100 watt steam iron being used for one hour would cost about 43.4 pence to run<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
This is not a big issue for most people but we thought it was worth noting.<\/p>\n
Limescale Prevention<\/h3>\n
If you look at kettles or irons you will often see signs of a white residue at the bottom of the product. This is limescale and it happens when water meets with a heating element of any kind. Certain particles in the water react with the heat and form limescale.This can be really bad in areas that have what is called hard water. (It is essentially any water that comes from soft rock areas of limestone)Over time this can build up, and will eventually reduce the efficiency of the iron, and ultimately stop it from working altogether.<\/p>\n
During the build up, the first signs are usually water spluttering and spitting out what look like rust spots. That is exactly what they are, and it has ruined many a piece of clothing. These spots come from dirty water in the boiler pushing out through the holes in the soleplate of the iron.<\/p>\n
![\"anti](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/descaling-an-iron.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1\" "\\"descaling")
<\/span><\/p>\nDuring the build up, the first signs are usually water spluttering and spitting out what look like rust spots. That is exactly what they are, and it has ruined many a piece of clothing. These spots come from dirty water in the boiler pushing out through the holes in the soleplate of the iron.<\/p>\n
If the damage has not gone too far, you can descale the iron, and also clean up the soleplate. However, if the damage is permanent, then the iron will have to be replaced. This is what ruins most irons.<\/p>\n
Automatic Cut Off<\/h3>\n
This is an important safety feature that we believe every iron should have and all of the better quality irons do. If left unattended, and let’s face it that does happen, then the iron turns itself off.<\/p>\n
Usually there are two features of this, one when the iron is left with the soleplate down, and one when the iron is left in the upright or vertical position.<\/p>\n
- \n
- When left with the soleplate on the surface most irons will cut off after 20 seconds<\/li>\n
- In the vertical position this is usually a few minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
We think you should be certain that your iron has this as a feature.<\/p>\n
![\"steam](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/automatic-cut-off-on-a-steam-iron.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1\" "\\"automatic")
<\/span><\/p>\nAnti-Drip Features<\/h3>\n
This features is actually a bit of a gimmick. No iron should rip otherwise it is pretty useless. When manufacturers advertise this they are talking about the iron not dripping if toppled over.<\/p>\n
They mean that the iron will not spill out the water that is already in the tank, or they mean that the tank is easier to fill as it has a wider spout.<\/p>\n
The better manufacturers are however referring to the small holes that you find in the soleplate, and how those holes are actually designed.<\/p>\n
This helps stop water drip, especially from the tip of the iron, when the iron is held at an angle.<\/p>\n
![\"anti](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/steam-iron-anti-drip.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1\" "\\"steam")
<\/span><\/p>\nErgonomics and Ease of Use: Prioritising Comfort and Efficiency<\/h3>\n
You should also consider a lightweight design, comfortable handle, and long cord as these all contribute significantly to user comfort and movement freedom. Additionally, consider safety features such as auto shut-off to prevent accidents, and spill protection to safeguard garments and surfaces.Remember, the optimal feature combination depends on your individual needs and preferences. Carefully evaluate your ironing habits, budget, and fabric types to make an informed decision and navigate the technical battlefield with confidence, ensuring a smooth and efficient ironing experience.<\/p>\n
Which Brands Make Steam Irons?<\/h2>\n
The main household names make most of the steam irons that are currently available on the UK marketplace. These include:<\/p>\n
- \n
- Tefal – Known for their innovative technology and user-friendly designs, Tefal offers a range of irons, such as the FV9845, FV5872 and the FV 5696. Read more about Tefal steam irons here.<\/a><\/li>\n
- Philips – Another leading brand, Philips offers irons with features like SmartFlow technology for consistent steam output, and OptimalTEMP technology for automatic temperature adjustment. Their popular models include the Philips Azur 8000 series and the Philips PerfectCare Elite Plus steam irons. Read more about Philips steam irons here.<\/a><\/li>\n
- Morphy Richards – Renowned for their reliability and value for money, Morphy Richards offers irons with features like vertical steaming and anti-calc systems. Their popular models include the Morphy Richards Power SteamElite 332014 and the Morphy Richards 302000. Read more about Morphy Richards Steam Irons here.<\/a><\/li>\n
- Russell Hobbs – Providing a range of budget-friendly options alongside premium models, Russell Hobbs offers irons with features like glide-on ceramic soleplates and variable steam settings. Their popular models include the Russell Hobbs One Temperature iron and the Russell Hobbs Freedom Cordless iron. Read more about the Russell Hobbs steam irons here.<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Philips – Another leading brand, Philips offers irons with features like SmartFlow technology for consistent steam output, and OptimalTEMP technology for automatic temperature adjustment. Their popular models include the Philips Azur 8000 series and the Philips PerfectCare Elite Plus steam irons. Read more about Philips steam irons here.<\/a><\/li>\n
- Tefal – Known for their innovative technology and user-friendly designs, Tefal offers a range of irons, such as the FV9845, FV5872 and the FV 5696. Read more about Tefal steam irons here.<\/a><\/li>\n
- Regular Ironers<\/strong>: For most ironing tasks, a steam output between 30g\/min and 40g\/min will provide efficient performance.<\/li>\n
- Stainless Steel<\/strong>: A widely used option due to its affordability and quick heat-up time. However, it can be prone to scratches and less forgiving on sensitive materials.<\/li>\n
- Fabrics<\/strong> – What types of fabrics do you have to iron? Are there a lot of silks and woollens, or are cotton shirts and denim your biggest workload? It’s important to understand that the main fabric types you have to do will guide your soleplate choice and steam output needs.<\/li>\n
![\"cost](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/steam-iron-cost.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1\" "\\"steam")
<\/span><\/p>\n![\"cordless\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/steamgenreview.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/cordless-steam-irons.jpg?resize=300%2C300&ssl=1\" "\\"cordless")
<\/span><\/p>\n