Fitness and healthy lifestyle 

Types of modern irons. How to choose a good iron - types of modern irons for the home, their pros and cons

Irons can be attributed to those household appliances, which are indispensable in the household. Even if I wanted to, it would still not work. Therefore, if you really choose, then so that he could easily and quickly solve any task, would not spoil things and, more importantly, the mood of his owners.

If you briefly define the basic requirements that a good iron must meet, then when choosing, first of all, you should pay attention to:

  • power(for domestic use, usually 1.5-2-2.5 kW is quite enough, lovers of more powerful equipment should take into account that such a device will load the network too much and can easily ruin delicate fabric);
  • number of holes on the sole: in this case, the more, the better (at least 50, but better about 100), because the quality of steaming depends on this;
  • the weight(in this case, the golden mean is important: it will be difficult to smooth out, for example, linen or some dense fabrics with an iron that is too light, and a hand that is too heavy can quickly get tired);
  • water tank should be transparent enough so that you can easily control the amount of water remaining for steaming, and large enough so that there is no need to often turn off the iron during steaming for topping up;
  • power cord must be heat-resistant and of sufficient length (optimally 2-2.5-3 m) so that there are no restrictions in movement, in addition, it is very convenient when there is a 360˚ swivel mount and a place for winding;
  • additional features:
    • vertical steaming(the ability to iron clothes, coats, jackets directly on a hanger or curtains without removing them from the eaves);
    • steam boost(supply of steam of double power at the push of a button);
    • self-cleaning(descaling inside the device) can be performed by pressing a special button, automatically when the "turbo pair" function is turned on; in some cases, a removable anti-lime rod is included in the package, which will need to be periodically cleaned;
    • system "drop stop" (drip stop), which will be useful when ironing with steam at not too high temperatures, to prevent water droplets from entering the steam holes on the fabric;
    • fire protection- a function due to which the device is automatically disconnected from the power supply after it has ceased to be used (after 30 seconds with a horizontal position of the sole or 8 minutes with a vertical one).
  • outsole material which deserves special attention.

What is the best iron sole?

A lot depends on the material of the soleplate of the iron - ease of ironing, durability, ease of use. Therefore, manufacturers pay a lot of attention to the sole material.

The most reliable are irons with of stainless steel... Such a sole does not scratch, is not afraid of shocks and falls. The best irons with stainless steel soles are produced by Rowenta and Braun (Sapphire sole).

Irons with ceramic coating glide over fabric best. But ceramics are more fragile than other coatings - they cannot be dropped, easily scratched on metal zippers or rivets. The ceramic coating may peel off over time. The best ceramic-coated irons are produced by Tefal.

The rest of the coatings are complex combined materials- from steel, aluminum, ceramics, alloys. Manufacturers are looking for a compromise between ease of glide and durability. For example, Bosch produces metal-coated irons with ceramic elements. The coating of Philips irons - SteamGlide - consists of alloys of metals, silicon, ceramics.

Iron or steam generator - which is better?

If there is a lot of ironing in the family, it is worth thinking about steam generator... The first thing everyone pays attention to when it comes to a steam generator is the price. It is high, but quite adequately correlates with the level of comfort and the possibilities of using such a device at home. I would also like to note several features of operation (it is simply unfair to classify them as disadvantages - for which they fought ...): firstly, the base requires separate placement (the board does not support the weight and bends), and secondly, standard ironing boards made of plywood or chipboard do not endure such intense exposure to steam and quickly become unusable, and water seeps through the metal. However, there must be holes in the board, otherwise the steam will wet the fabric. And remember - steam ironing requires caution.

What water to use in irons

It is believed that an iron or steam generator is best filled with distilled or well-filtered water. Say, it will protect against scale, extend the service life and save you from troubles like "spitting" rust or calcium on light-colored clothes at the most inopportune moment, etc. etc.

In reality, you just need follow the manufacturer's recommendations, unequivocally spelled out in user instructions... Most modern irons are adapted for tap watering. And it's not that they are equipped with a cleaning system. Sometimes too sterile water in its properties does not correspond to the design features of individual models.

A case in point: in the new powerful Philips irons, to activate a full steam boost, it is often necessary to “run in” the appliance with tap water so that the evaporating surface is covered with a thin layer of salt. And only after that it blows from the sole so that “Mama don’t cry”!

Finally

The best iron is different for everyone. Someone is interested in the price, for someone technical and operational characteristics, reliability, perhaps the prestige of the brand. One way or another, the purpose of creating our rating of the best irons was to save you from a long search and provide the most complete list of worthy models with their subdivision into current categories. But the final choice is always individual. And may it be truly successful!

Today we will consider with you another household device that will help our clothes always have a beautiful well-groomed look - iron... In this article you will find out what are the irons, what are their main characteristics, and also pay attention to the correct choice of iron... So...

Iron ( English Iron) - an element for smoothing out folds and wrinkles on clothes. The smoothing process is called ironing or ironing. The iron is one of the main assistants of any housewife. How much the ironing process will be pleasant, easy and fast depends on its correct choice. And, accordingly, how neat and tidy your clothes will be. Before making the final choice of iron, read the information below, and it should help you choose the iron you need.

How to choose an iron?

The main characteristics of the iron that you need to pay attention to when choosing it:

Power

The higher the power of the iron, the faster it heats up, saving time, and the more efficiently ironing.

– 1400-1500 W the iron will handle just about any fabric.

– 1800-1900 W, this suggests that the iron will not only perfectly smooth out even strong wrinkles in fabrics, but will also heat up quickly.

– 2000 watts and is more comparable to professional devices.

Sole

The base of the iron is made of aluminum, steel and their derivatives. The simplest and most common soles are from the usual stainless steel... This material is very durable, does not scratch, heats up and cools down rather quickly, glides on the fabric quite easily, it is easy to clean. In case of contamination, such irons can be easily cleaned with any detergent powder and warm water.

Another option is teflon coating... But he has one bad property - he is afraid of metal, such a sole will quickly be scratched by metal buttons and zippers. Irons with aluminum soles are quite common. Irons with such a sole heat up and cool down very quickly (faster than with steel), in addition, they are quite cheap. But with careless handling, damage can appear on the sole, which in turn can leave puffs or cuts on the clothes. If you do not observe the temperature regime, the synthetic fabric can stick to the sole of the iron, as a result, both the device and the clothes will be damaged.

One of the latest innovations - sintered sole(e.g. Cera-glisse). Such an iron easily glides over the fabric without crushing it; it is quite easy to clean it. Think about how often you drop your iron. If such cases are not uncommon for you, cermets are not for you, since in terms of strength it is inferior to other coatings.

The highest rank today is sapphire-coated outsole... She is not afraid not only of lightning, but also of metal buttons.

Another technological novelty - clump... This iron can be ironed without gauze - there will be no shine on the fabric, silk and synthetics will not shrink. And if you remove the second sole, you get an ordinary iron with which you can iron the most recalcitrant fabrics.

Pay attention to the groove in the sole. It is designed to easily iron under the buttons, even on blouses made of very delicate fabrics. And the “Drop-stop” system prevents water from flowing out of the steam holes on the sole.

Ironing modes

- One dot and the inscription "nylon" and "silk" means that in this mode it is allowed to iron silk, nylon, chiffon and other light fabrics.

- Two dots and the word “wool” mean that wool and semi-wool are ironed in this mode.

- Three dots and the words "cotton" and "linen" indicate the possibility of ironing in this mode cotton, linen, tweed, drape and other fabrics that are difficult to iron and require high temperatures.

If you cannot determine the temperature regime, look at the tag on the product. It will definitely indicate the optimal heating of the iron soleplate.

A high-quality iron must accurately maintain the temperature indicated on the regulator. This is especially important for synthetics and silk. A soft rubber pad on the regulator will provide a clear setting of the mode.

Steam humidification system

In modern irons, there are several options for supplying steam:

Steam boost- the function of enhanced steam supply, convenient for processing dry clothes, jeans and linen.

Vertical steaming- steam supply in the vertical position of the iron. It is necessary for ironing a coat, jacket. In this case, the products do not need to be removed from the hanger.

In modern irons, the number of steam supply modes has about six degrees of intensity. Moreover, the thicker the fabric and the more it is crumpled, the more intense the steam should be. If the maximum steam output is 15 g / min, you are unlikely to be able to iron thick fabrics with this value.

For effective and even steaming, the holes should be located along the entire sole, or special grooves can be laid on it for supplying steam.

Spraying

Note the presence of a function such as "Spray", which provides a spray of water to moisturize the surface of the product when ironing.

Water tank

A transparent container is ideal: you can clearly see through it how much water is left. When choosing, you should also pay attention to how conveniently the water is poured.

Safety system

Almost every iron has an anti-lime rod or cartridge (built-in or removable) to soften the water. Unfortunately, such systems do not always completely prevent the formation of scale. For this, some models are equipped with a self-cleaning iron button.

Also, some models of irons are equipped with a convenient automatic shutdown function: if the iron remains stationary in a horizontal position for more than 30 seconds or in a vertical position for more than 8 minutes. This completely eliminates the likelihood of a fire.

Descaling the iron

To clean the iron from scale, it is best to use professional products, the so-called "Anti-scale", because at home, actions with the help of citric acid and other folk remedies, after some time, lead to damage to the iron. Antiscale can be purchased at home appliance stores, and they are inexpensive and last for a long time.

Important! It is not recommended to use folk remedies, such as soda and citric acid, instead of decalcification. if these tools are misused, the product can quickly fail. Additional anti-scale agents, and generally about scale, can be read in this article.

Power cord

The longer the cord, the less constrained you will be during ironing.

Some models have a ball cord fastener to prevent twisting of the cord during ironing, it allows it to rotate 360 ​​°, which protects the winding from quick wiping.

In addition, modern models are also available - wireless. The iron is located on a special stand to which the wire is connected. That is, the iron heats up only when it is standing on it. Working without a cord looks very attractive, but unfortunately the outsole cools down quickly (within 30-60 seconds). You can't particularly iron large things with such an iron, but for any small things this option is very convenient.

The weight

The iron should not be too heavy to hold it comfortably in your hand, and not too light to ensure good smoothing of the fabric without pressure.

One of those home appliances that no family can do without. Usually it does not cost a lot of money, but we use it regularly - so why not pay more attention to choosing a more convenient, functional and simply beautiful model? Comfortable handle, light weight of the iron and additional features will definitely make ironing faster and more enjoyable.

A quality iron can be purchased for either fifty or three hundred dollars - it all depends on your needs and wishes. Is it worth spending an extra hundred or two hundred dollars on this device? We hope this article will help you answer this question.

In the next section, we will talk about the most important parameters of the irons, which you should pay attention to when choosing a specific model, and in the next section, we will give some practical advice. In the last section, we will tell you about ten models worthy of your attention that you can find and buy in our catalog.

Key features to look out for

Power, W

Everything is very simple here - the more energy the iron consumes, the (in general) the better it ironing and steaming clothes. The recommended power of a good modern iron is not less than 2000 W.

Sole material and work surface coating

Most often, iron soles are made of stainless steel (strong, durable, glides well) or ceramic (fragile, but easy to clean and glides well). There are also models with a sole made of aluminum (not as durable as steel, but heats up quickly, which allows you to quickly start ironing), cermets (stronger than conventional ceramics), titanium and Teflon (the most durable materials).

However, now it is not so much the sole material of the iron that is important as a special coating, which is developed by the engineers of each company separately. Each company tends to name its coating (or several types of coatings) something catchy - for example, Palladium glissee or T-ionicGlide. Unfortunately, it is difficult to say something specific about such coverage - when choosing a specific model, it is best to refer to its independent tests from specialized sites.

Use on the road

Some irons are classified as travel irons - they are small, lightweight and sold with covers or carrying bags. For those who often go on business trips, such an iron can be useful, for the rest it is unlikely, since the power of the "road" models is much lower than that of the usual ones.

For obvious reasons, batteries and accumulators are not used in such irons.

Steam supply

Most modern irons have special holes in the sole, through which hot steam is supplied during ironing. It helps to quickly smooth even the most wrinkled clothes and prevents deterioration. We do not recommend buying an iron without this function.

Steam feed rate, g / min

Depends on the power of the iron and the number of holes in the sole. Not such an important parameter - the main thing is that there should be this steam at all. A level of 25-35 g / min is considered acceptable, and for expensive ones, the feed rate reaches 50 g / min.

Steam boost

Pressing a separate button in models with this function allows several times more steam to be released from the soleplate - this will greatly help when ironing very thick and very dry fabrics. The Steam boost function is present on most modern models. Typically, the steam boost rate for a steam boost is three to four times the normal steam rate. In most cases, 100-130 g / min will be enough, but if you are going to iron something especially thick, it will not hurt to take a closer look at the expensive models, whose steam flow rate reaches 200 g / min with a steam boost.

Steam generator

The steam generator is a separate unit with a water tank and its heater. Thanks to its large capacity, you can iron with such an iron much longer than with an ordinary one - the water that is used to generate steam will have to be refilled much less often. However, this design also has a minus - the steam generator is connected to the iron with a special hose (which can easily withstand high temperature and pressure), which may not be very convenient to use.

Water tank volume

The larger this reservoir, the less often you will have to refill the iron with water to create steam. You can roughly calculate the water consumption by dividing the volume of the tank by the weight of the steam that is released in one minute.

Vertical steaming

This feature is also present in almost all modern models. It allows you to steam clothes hanging on a hanger, delicate fabrics and sensitive materials like wool - no contact of the hot soleplate with them occurs.

Splashing

Another useful feature for smoothing tricky creases is that at the press of a separate button, the iron will spray a little water on them. Also supported by most modern models.

Dry ironing option

If you sometimes need to quickly iron something that does not require steam, then an iron with this option will be a good choice - it will take much less time to get ready and start ironing without water. In addition, some fabrics are "afraid" of wet ironing and require dry ironing.

Button groove

The presence of a special groove on the soleplate of the iron helps iron garments with buttons, but such a groove is very rare. In the vast majority of cases, you can do without it.

Delicate attachment

A specially designed attachment is sometimes supplied with the irons, which attaches to the sole and allows you to iron very thin and sensitive to heat fabrics without fear of damage. This nozzle is usually perfectly smooth and does not heat up above the manufacturer's specified temperature.

Anti-drip system

More expensive and advanced models that can steam clothes also have a system to prevent water from leaking from holes in the sole. This cannot be called a necessity, but the presence of such a system somewhat facilitates the ironing process - at a low temperature of the sole, water will not leave stains on the fabric.

Self-cleaning system

Many irons have a special function to clean the insides of dirt and scale - all this comes out with a strong jet of steam. Irons without such an opportunity will either have to be cleaned on their own or sent to the scrap much earlier.

Scale protection

If the water in your home is highly saturated with iron, then it is better to take a closer look at buying an iron with this function. Such models have special filter cartridges that need to be changed once a month or two. You can also use rods that you can descale yourself. Thanks to their use, scale is practically not formed on the rest of the insides of the device.

Auto power off

If you consider yourself an inattentive or forgetful person, then models with this function are designed just for you - such irons turn off by themselves if they are inactive for a certain period of time. With them the phrase "I forgot the iron at home!" loses its meaning - the threat of fire is no longer worth it.

Wireless use

Very rare models of irons are heated using a special stand, which is connected to the mains - the iron itself does not have wires, which makes ironing a little more convenient. A little - because his sole has to be constantly heated on a stand. Usually such models are more expensive than others.

Pay attention to the weight of the iron that you are going to buy - the smaller it is, the easier and more pleasant the ironing process will be. Also, the length of the cord affects this (pre-determine the place for ironing at home and the presence of a socket nearby).

Inspect the junction of the cord with the iron body - it is better if a special hinge is used for this. In addition, many irons have a special groove on the body, in which the cord fits perfectly during storage.

Irons with a transparent body or (semi) transparent inserts on it make it easy to determine the amount of liquid remaining inside by eye and top it up in time.

As with other electronics, the most important characteristic of an iron is its reliability. If the design of the device is flimsy, then it is better to refuse the purchase - you cannot iron a lot with a broken iron, and you will have to spend time and money on repairs. Time and money can usually be saved by choosing an iron from a well-known and reputable company like Tefal, Philips, Braun, Bosch, etc.

If possible, try to hold the iron in your hand - evaluate the ease of use (handle, weight, accessibility of buttons) personally.

With the help of a high-quality iron, you can iron your clothes in a short period of time. Agree that it is very pleasant to walk in neat ironed clothes. Choosing an iron is not an easy task, since at first glance all models are absolutely identical. Before buying, you should study as much information as possible about this type of household appliance.

What criteria to look for when buying an iron?

Modern electronics and household appliances stores are almost overflowing with a wide variety of iron models. In order to buy the best of the best, you need to take into account the presence of several basic functionalities. They will be described below.

The presence of a steamer and related functionality

Many modern irons have a steamer. Applying high pressure steam helps to deal with tough creases in any type of fabric. Moreover, you do not need to make any special efforts to smooth this or that thing. Irons with steamers are divided into two types:

  • Having a water tank installed. It looks like a small container built into the body of the iron itself. During the operation of the device, the liquid leaves this reservoir, heats up, and then transforms into steam and leaves the ironing sole. The liquid should be poured approximately every twenty minutes.
  • Irons with steam generators. The design feature of these models is the presence of a small water tank, which has a built-in heating element and a hose that supplies steam. The supply of steam in such an iron occurs under high pressure. There is no need for constant liquid addition.

An iron with a steamer must have the following parameters:

  • The tank intended for water must have a volume of at least 250 milliliters, and for irons with a steam generator, this volume is 2.5 liters.
  • Steam should be supplied in quantities of 40-60 grams per minute.
  • The presence of the function of vertical steaming.
  • Self-cleaning capability. The iron itself removes the scale accumulated in it.
iron with steamer

Quality outsole

The quality of fabric processing will directly depend on how the working surface of the iron is made. Let's find out which iron sole is considered to be of the highest quality. Basic properties:

  • material;
  • sole shape;
  • the number of holes through which steam passes;

Work surface material

When choosing an iron, it is especially important to pay attention to what its sole is made of. After all, the iron during ironing should easily slide over the clothes without spoiling its appearance. For the manufacture of the working area of ​​irons, the following types of materials are usually used:

  • Stainless steel. This material is very relevant specifically for irons. Indeed, during the ironing process, a huge amount of liquid is released, which means that the coating must be resistant to rust formation. The main advantages of this surface are the optimal price, ease of maintenance, and easy sliding. The disadvantages include considerable weight and long heating.
  • Ceramic coating. Ceramic helps the iron to glide well on any type of fabric, washes well, does not adhere to clothes. Of course, there are also downsides. Irons with a ceramic surface are quite expensive. This sole is very fragile. Even from the slightest blow, a chip will surely appear.
  • Teflon surface. Such an iron will slide easily, and also has a low cost. Teflon coating wears out quickly.
  • Titanium coated. Titanium is a high-strength material, due to which the iron runs perfectly on fabrics of different fineness. It just cleans and washes. The disadvantages of this material are the prolonged heating of the sole and the overpriced.

stainless steel sole

ceramic sole

teflon sole

titanium outsole

Sole shape

In order to choose the right shape of the sole of the iron that is convenient for you, you should pay attention to two main aspects - this is the appearance of the spout, as well as the total area of ​​the surface itself. Remember that a pointed nose is considered the most convenient to use. Since with it you can easily smooth out the space between the buttons, collar, ruffles, as well as other smallest details located on clothes. If you dwell on the total area of ​​the soleplate of the iron, then here you need to decide for what needs you are purchasing it. For example, a small iron is convenient when traveling or on the road, but it will take much more ironing time with it. And, here's an iron with a large work surface, great for home use.

sole shape

Holes for steam

Take a closer look at irons, which have a huge number of small holes in the sole for steam to pass during ironing. After all, the more holes of this kind, the higher the quality of ironing will be. One hundred such holes are considered optimal.

Iron power feature

The main technical parameter that must be referred to before purchasing an iron is its power. Of course, the more powerful the iron, the faster it heats up. With such an iron, you do not need to spend a lot of time smoothing the fabric. But models with high power characteristics consume a lot of electricity and often overload the general house network. All iron models can be divided into several categories depending on their power characteristics:

  • up to 1.5 kilowatts - irons with this power are mainly used for ironing a small amount of clothes or as a travel option;
  • from 1.6 kilowatts - such irons are considered standard and are popular with many modern people;
  • more than 2.3 kilowatts - these models are recommended to be used for processing a huge amount of various clothes. These types of irons are often used in laundries or hotels.

Ergonomics and design features

Of course, the technical characteristics of the iron are very important, but you should also not overlook such a factor as the ease of use. After all, we use the iron almost every day. Comfortable operation will be influenced by:

  • Iron weight. Agree, if the device is too light, then it will not cope with even the simplest wrinkles on the fabric, and if it is weighty, it will be difficult for the hostess to use it. Therefore, choose an iron of medium weight, which is in the "golden mean".
  • The iron handle should be non-slippery, pleasant to the touch and made of heat-resistant materials.
  • Cord length. This little thing can get you into a lot of trouble. For example, if you want to iron while sitting on the couch watching your favorite movie, and the iron cord does not reach the outlet, this will significantly spoil the overall impression of using this device. The optimum wire length is three meters. Also, take a closer look at the type of attachment of the cord to the iron. It is better to give preference to the swivel connection.

light iron

Types of modern irons

Currently, several types of irons are produced. We will describe each of them in detail below.

Iron classic

Classic irons are not very functional and can cope poorly enough even with simple technical tasks. These models do not have a humidifier, which is usually in the form of a sprayer. Usually this process is replaced by a manual one. You will have to spray water onto the fabric yourself to smooth out the large crease. In classic irons there is a thermoregulation of the working surface. Now such models are produced in small quantities and their choice is not great. Irons of this configuration have many more negative sides than positive ones. The disadvantages include the lack of all functions, with the exception of thermoregulation, as well as a small selection in stores. And the pluses are only low cost.

classic iron

Spray iron

Irons with a liquid sprinkler are somewhat different from the classic model. Basically they are intended for simple ironing, they are not able to cope with dense and wrinkled fabric. This device has two advantages: low cost and built-in spray device. The negative sides include a limited functional set and a lack of demand among consumers.

spray iron

Steam iron

Steam irons are typically used for two types of ironing: dry and liquid. Such models are considered the most popular among modern housewives. The undoubted advantages include the presence of the most basic and important functions: thermoregulation of the sole, a steaming system. These irons glide easily over the garment surface, and also have a special notch for passing the area between the buttons. The only drawback is the overpricing.

steam iron

Travel iron

Many of us wondered what to do with rumpled things on trips or business trips. It is for such situations in life that small travel irons were invented. Due to their small size, these devices have a minimal functional set, but on the road, as it is right, they simply do not need more. Their advantage over other irons is their small size and low cost. The disadvantages include only limited functionality.

travel iron

Description of the best models

Let's take a look at the best and most functional models of modern irons released over the past few years. These include:

Philips GC 4780

It has a power of 2600 watts, a liquid reservoir with a volume of 350 milliliters, steam is supplied at a speed of 50 grams per minute. Equipped with the function of vertical steaming and automatic shutdown. The average cost is 6,000 rubles. The advantages include a rich functional set, and the disadvantages only the high price.

Phillips

Bosch TDA 2630

This model has a power characteristic of 2000 watts, a water tank with a volume of 290 milliliters, steam is sprayed at a speed of 80 grams per minute. There is a vertical steaming function, automatic shutdown. The average price is 3000 rubles. The advantages include low cost, sole surface (ceramic), wire hinge. Cons - poor performance of the anti-drip system.

Bosch

Braun TexStyle TS765A

Its power is 2400 watts, the water tank has a volume of 400 milliliters, and steam is supplied with a run-up of 50 grams per minute. Average price from 7000 rubles. The positive aspects of this iron are the intensity of steam propagation, high-quality sole material. The disadvantages can be considered overpriced, bulky and heavy.

Brown

The iron is one of the most demanded types of household appliances. Before buying it, try to study as much useful information as possible about models, firms, prices, characteristics, and so on. To facilitate household chores, it is better to choose an iron model that is more expensive and with a lot of useful functions.

The iron is an indispensable household appliance in any home. Thanks to him, you can look neat, sleep on smoothed sheets and not be branded as a slob.

If earlier in Russia, a red-hot cast-iron frying pan coped with the function of an iron, then in the modern world you can get confused by the variety of models. Therefore, you should know how to choose the right iron for your home.

All models of irons offered in stores can be divided into three large groups:

  1. Regular irons that are not equipped with a steaming system. Now they are practically not used. These are the same models in which gauze moistened with water was placed on the fabric.
  2. Simple steam irons. These are models with a built-in water tank. They periodically need to add liquid.
  3. Steam generators. In turn, these models are divided into two subgroups:
  • Models with built-in steam generator. These irons have a more complex steam supply system than simple steam irons. Due to this, the cost also increases. But ironing with the help of steam generators is equated to professional and allows you to get rid of folds even on coarse and heavily wrinkled fabrics.
  • Models with a freestanding steam generator. These are professional irons found in specialized salons. They are able to smooth any fabric pretty quickly.

Iron power

From such an indicator as power, it depends on how quickly the iron will heat up and what complexity of the fabric it can smooth out.

Depending on how much time is spent on ironing, the power of the iron is also chosen. They can also be divided into several types:

  • Travel irons. Their power is about 1000 watts. It is impossible to smooth out heavy materials with such models, but they are convenient for travel, as they are small in size. Do well with suits, T-shirts or dresses made of lightweight fabric.
  • For a small family of one or two people, irons with a power of 1000-1500 W are suitable. Ironing almost any fabric, but heats up for a long time.
  • For a family of three to four people, irons with a power of 1500-2000 W are suitable. heats up quickly, also smoothes even heavily wrinkled laundry, without requiring effort from the owner.
  • For those families where ironing is given at least two hours per week, models with a power of 2000 W or more are suitable.


Video how to choose an iron:

Which soleplate is better to choose an iron

One of the main elements of an iron is its sole. You will have to choose the sole according to:

  • material of manufacture,
  • form,
  • the number and location of the steam holes.

Outsole material

When ironing, the soleplate of the iron is in direct contact with the product, therefore, special attention should be paid to the material from which it is made.

Aluminum

The cheapest are irons, the sole of which is made of aluminum. This material does not make the device heavier, and it is also easy to clean it from dirt. Aluminum heats up pretty quickly.

However, the soles of this material have their drawbacks.

Firstly, aluminum is fragile, so it can be easily damaged by metal buttons and zippers on clothes or when hitting something, and later the deformed surface can ruin the fabric.

Secondly, the aluminum sole should not smooth delicate fabrics. With an incorrectly selected temperature regime, synthetics may simply melt.

Ceramics and cermets

Ceramic soles are a fairly popular model. This material heats up quickly and glides well over fabric. In addition, it is difficult for them to spoil the thing, even if the temperature regime is violated.

However, ceramics are far from the most durable material. It can be easily damaged by metal clothing such as buttons or zippers.

Teflon

Teflon soles can serve for a long time, they iron delicate fabrics well, do not allow them to melt. However, Teflon deteriorates when it comes into contact with metal surfaces.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel is an inexpensive and high-quality material for the sole of an iron. Practically non-deforming and scratch-resistant, which increases the service life of the iron.

Suitable for quick ironing as it glides easily over the fabric. Also, the stainless steel sole is easy to clean.

Titanium

Titanium spraying on the steel soleplate of the iron is a modern technology that helps to increase the strength, and therefore the service life of the iron. Titanium provides ease of sliding during ironing.

The disadvantages include long cooling and heating of the work surface, and the high cost of such irons.

Also, a special attachment can be supplied with the iron, which replaces wet gauze when ironing trousers, etc.

Sole shape

It will be easier with the choice of the shape of the working surface of the iron than with its material. If you choose a sole with a large area, then the ironing process will be faster, but you will have to suffer with hard-to-reach places for high-quality smoothing.

The smaller the sole and the sharper its nose, the easier it will be to reach uncomfortable areas for smoothing, for example, between the buttons, but the ironing time will also increase.

Holes

The third parameter to pay attention to when choosing a sole is the number and location of the steam holes.

This parameter does not have any specific strict standards. The holes can be 20, and maybe 100. It is desirable that they are located on the entire working surface.

When choosing a good iron model, you should pay attention not only to the technical characteristics, but also to the nuances that make its operation more convenient.

Iron functions

A modern iron is no longer just a primitive device, it is the concentration of a large set of various technologies that facilitate and accelerate the ironing process.

Let's take a look at the most common functions found in modern electric irons.

Continuous steam function

To facilitate smoothing of heavy fabrics or simply dry linen with caked folds, water was previously used by splashing on the fabric.

Now the irons have the function of supplying steam both forcibly by pressing a button, and constantly. The more holes in the sole, the more steam is supplied and the easier it is to iron.

The holes should be located across the entire working surface of the iron, it is also good if there are grooves that contribute to an even distribution of steam.

The measuring characteristic of this function is the amount of water in grams that is converted into steam in 1 minute. Continuous steam supply can be from 10 to 150 g / min.

For ordinary, not overdried fabrics, an iron with a steam supply of 20-30 g / min is enough, and for heavy fabrics it is better to choose an iron with a constant steam supply of 80 g / min.

Pay attention to the water container. It should be transparent or translucent, which will allow you to monitor the level and add water in time.

It is also worth paying attention to the volume of this container, the more steam is supplied, the more capacious the tank with water should be. There are models with a capacity of 150-250 ml.

Steam boost

Steam boost is used on particularly difficult fabrics that cannot be smoothed with a simple steam.

The steam flow rate in steam powered irons must be at least 100 g / min.

Vertical steaming

Vertical steaming helps you cope with things like curtains, outerwear, and more.

The ironing process takes place in a non-contact way using steam, when things are in an upright position, for example on a hanger, and not on an ironing table.

Anti-drip system

The anti-drip system prevents water droplets from flowing out through the steam holes during ironing at low temperatures, which can lead to stains on the fabric.

Self-cleaning system

The self-cleaning system cleans the iron from scale, it is turned on with a special button after heating in the steaming mode.

If the iron is equipped with this function, then there is no need to fill in special water for irons and purchase cartridges that prevent the formation of limescale.

Auto switch off iron

Auto shut-off is a very useful function that prevents the possibility of a fire due to a forgotten iron that has not been turned off.

If the iron is in a vertical position motionless for about 10 minutes (for different models in different ways) or in a horizontal position for 30 seconds, it will automatically turn off.

The above are the main criteria for choosing an iron, but for greater convenience of work, some more features should be taken into account.

What you need to look for to make ironing easier

  • Cord - it is better to choose a model in which the power cord is attached to the iron with a hinge that can rotate in all directions. The braid of the cord must be fabric. Also, do not forget that the length should be at least 2 meters so as not to touch the wire when ironing.
  • The iron handle should fit comfortably in your hand, not slip, it is better if it is rubberized.
  • The weight should be about 1.5 kg. If it is easier, then when ironing, you will have to press the iron harder and, accordingly, apply more effort. If it is heavier, then the hand will get tired faster.
  • Temperature regulator - the wider the temperature range, the more different types of fabrics you can iron.

Rating of manufacturers and models

At the moment, according to customer reviews, there are several manufacturers of irons that have occupied the top lines of popularity for several years.

Which manufacturer of irons to choose is up to you, here is the rating of global manufacturers according to reviews:

  • Philips
  • Tefal
  • Braun
  • Rowenta
  • Scarlett
  • Bosch
  • Vitek

Choosing an iron from any manufacturer from the above rating, you will not be disappointed either in quality or in reliability.

Of course, it is difficult to choose the perfect, inexpensive iron, but after analyzing many models, we can recommend the Philips GC 1029, its cost is about 2,500 rubles. This model has incorporated all modern and necessary functions:

  1. power 2000W,
  2. powerful steam boost (100 g / min),
  3. steam supply 25 g / min,
  4. anti-drip system,
  5. auto shutdown,
  6. self-cleaning,
  7. ceramic sole.

This iron is ideal for home use.

Despite the variety of models, you can always choose the right iron, which will be easy to use and will last a long time.

If you have any questions, complaints or want to leave your positive feedback, you can do it below! Leave your feedback and suggestions in the comments!