How to choose an iron for your home? Parameters worth paying attention to

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.

Wired or Wireless

In the market of household appliances, models that do not require constant connection to the power supply are becoming increasingly popular. A cordless iron is convenient to use, but no one has canceled conventional wired units.

Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of both options.

Cordless iron

Pros:

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

Minuses:

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

Corded iron

Pros:

• constant heating temperature;
• high speed ironing.

Minuses:

• if the iron is tightly connected to the cord, the latter can quickly crack and become unusable;
• low mobility.

There are enough choices on the market and everyone can choose the option that suits them.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

Choice of sole material

The soleplate of the iron is an important part of the equipment. It performs the necessary functions, including smoothing the fabric.

There are several types of soles based on material.

Aluminum

Budget iron models are usually produced using aluminum soles, which is why they are very popular among many consumers. In addition to its low price, the aluminum alloy base is lightweight and has high thermal conductivity.

But that's where all the positive qualities end. Many manufacturers of aluminum soles subject the material to anodization, or rather heat treatment.

Compared with conventional ones, anodized surface has improved performance, good durability and long service life.

Stainless steel

Equipment with stainless steel metal soles is slightly more expensive than aluminum alloy products. However, if you consider the quality and characteristics, they are more practical and durable.

The positive qualities of equipment with stainless steel soles include the following:

• High strength;
• Long service life;
• Increased resistance to mechanical stress;
• Resistance to corrosion damage;
• Good glide;
• Excellent thermal conductivity;
• The surface heats up quickly and evenly.

Among the disadvantages, only one can be highlighted - compared to aluminum, iron with a stainless steel base is quite heavy.

Ceramics and metal ceramics

Ceramic and metal-ceramic models are very popular among many consumers. Advantages:

• Easy and simple sliding of the device over the surface of the fabric;
• Uniform heating;
• Easy care. Dirt and plaque can be washed off with a regular sponge.

However, ceramic products have a significant drawback - high fragility. The device can be easily damaged by contact with buttons, locks and metal rivets.

Metal-ceramic devices have increased strength. They can withstand increased loads and will not be damaged when in contact with hard metal and plastic components.

But unlike ceramics, they are expensive.

Teflon coating

A Teflon-coated iron has many positive qualities, which is why these devices are very popular. They are suitable for ironing clothes made from various types of fabrics.

The advantages of Teflon coated products include:

• Ideally copes with delicate products without damaging them;
• During the ironing process, threads and dirt will not stick to the surface and form plaques;
• Provides easy and simple gliding;
• Will not cause tissue damage, will not cause swelling or formation of hooks.

But there are also negative qualities:

• Teflon coating is fragile;
• Due to the low strength of the product, it cannot be placed on a metal bracket;
• Over time, the Teflon coating wears off.

Titanium coating

Irons with titanium soles are among the most expensive models. This is due to the fact that this metal is the strongest and is used in the construction of spacecraft.

In addition, the price of titanium-coated products depends on many advantages:

• High reliability;
• Useful features
• Abrasion resistance;
• The titanium coating cannot be scratched, even if done intentionally;
• These devices have characteristics such as simplicity and ease of sliding;
• It is easy to remove dirt and grime, but you must wait until the equipment has cooled completely.

However, the coating also has disadvantages:

• The price of these devices is very high;
• Heavy weight;
• Long heating time.

Many brands use unique technologies to make soles for their irons; they also have their own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is important to familiarize yourself in advance with the features of the soles of certain models.

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.

Self-cleaning function

During operation, the iron comes into contact with water, so the appliance is highly likely to form scale. It contaminates the unit, and stains may also appear on clothes during ironing.

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

You just need to press a special button on the device and it will be cleaned of unnecessary contaminants.

Price categories

Irons are classified depending on their cost:

1. Budget models - from 700 to 2,000 rubles. This category includes travel devices and simple irons with a steam option.
2. Middle class - from 2,000 to 7,000. Devices with good technical characteristics and steam stations without frills.
3. Premium segment – ​​from 7,000 and above. Here you can find irons with many functions, as well as cordless devices and modern steam stations.

Which sole shape is best?

Before you start discussing which iron soleplate is best for you, you should decide on the shape of your work surface. There are several requirements for this parameter that determine the comfort of use and the quality of ironing of certain products:

• Pointed tip. It is used for smoothing small parts of clothing and smoothing areas near accessories. The pointed part allows you to iron fabric under a button or in the seam area.
• Rounded tip. Prevents the formation of folds on the fabric during reverse movement.
• Wide sole. It is used when ironing a large number of large items (sheets, curtains, towels).

It is believed that the sole with the largest working area is the best, because it is this solution that ensures fast ironing and energy savings.

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.

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

Philips GC4909/60 Azur

The Philips gc4909/60 iron will make ironing fast and efficient.
High power allows it to heat up to operating temperature in a few seconds. Moreover, it can maintain stable performance in all temperature conditions. Deep tissue hydration helps remove the most stubborn wrinkles.

A special collector collects scale to prevent damage to the heater and clogging of the capillaries. It can be cleaned within 15 seconds by rinsing it under the tap.

Now you don’t need to worry, the iron will turn off on its own when idle. The automation will work after 30 seconds if it is in a horizontal position, or after 8 minutes if it is in a vertical position.

The SteamGlide Elite sole is always smooth and distributes heat evenly. It can glide easily over delicate materials while maintaining their shape and texture.

A special valve limits water flow at low temperatures to prevent leakage and fabric damage.

Main characteristics:

• Power - 3000 W;
• Functions: boost of steam, constant steam supply, anti-scale protection.
• Vertical steaming;
• Anti-drip system
• Spray function;
• The volume of the water tank is 300 millimeters.

Pros:

1. Build quality.
2. Functional.
3. Good glide.
4. Heating rate.
5. Efficiency.

Minuses:

1. Heavy and bulky.

Braun TexStyle TS775ETP

Fans of exclusively designed household appliances will definitely like the iron from BRAUN, which is small in size and light in weight.
The TexStyle7TS775ETP iron provides 60% steam and more power for tough tasks, making your ironing process faster and more efficient. The proposed model provides self-cleaning from scale: a device that will allow housewives to quickly get rid of characteristic plaques. The power of 2400 W will ensure quick heating of the iron.

Steam pressure of 170 grams will improve the quality of ironing. The pleasant colors of the BRAUN iron blend harmoniously with the ironing board and furnishings.

A special container holds 400 milliliters of water. Using a sprayer and steam supply of 50 g/min, housewives will be able to smooth out complex folds on any clothing.

The Eloxal Plus sole installed in the iron is resistant to external defects and corrosion. The main advantage of this assembly is that it glides easily on any material.

Main characteristics:

• Power - 2400 W;
• Functions - steam boost, constant steam supply, self-cleaning system, scale protection;
• The volume of the water tank is 400 milliliters;
• Cord length - 2.5 meters.

Pros:

1. Heating rate.
2. Ease of use.
3. Efficiency.
4. Slip.
5. Powerful steam supply.

Minuses:

1. No auto shut off feature.

Polaris PIR 2821AK

The Polaris PIR2821AK is an incredibly high quality iron with even heat distribution across the soleplate.
The model has an ultra-resistant ceramic coating PRO 5 Ceramic. This means that the sole has five layers of coating, which makes it easier to glide over the fabric and protects it from mechanical stress. For safety, there is an automatic shut-off function.

Therefore, if you leave the device in a horizontal position, it will automatically turn off after 30 seconds, and if it is in a vertical position, it will turn off after 8 minutes. There are four operating modes: dry ironing, intense steam, continuous steam and vertical steam.

The anti-drip system ensures flawless ironing without any traces of water. There is also an anti-scale protection system and a self-cleaning function.

The power cord is 3 meters long and can also be rotated 360 degrees.

Main characteristics:

• Power - 2800 W;
• Functions - steam boost, constant steam supply, self-cleaning system;
• The volume of the water container is 400 milliliters.

Pros:

1. Heating rate.
2. Good glide.
3. Efficiency.
4. Steam power.
5. Ease of use.

No cons found.

Philips GC4555/80 Azur

The power of the Philips gc4555/80 iron is 2400 W.
Thanks to this, it warms up quickly and provides excellent ironing results, including when steaming work items on hangers. The rubber handle fits comfortably in the palm of your hand and confidently controls every movement. The steam penetrates the fabric and softens it, so you can easily remove wrinkles.

If they are too hard, you can increase the feed at the touch of a button. The SteamGlide Plus base is made of durable materials that are difficult to scratch.

It glides well on various fabrics. This model provides a fast Calc exhaust system.

This allows you to remove scale in the shortest possible time, thereby increasing productivity and extending the life of the equipment.

Main characteristics:

• Power - 2400 W;
• Functions - steam boost, constant steam supply;
• Anti-drip system;
• Spray function;
• Anti-scale protection;
• Auto shutdown;
• The length of the cord is 2 meters.

Pros:

1. Heating rate.
2. Build quality.
3. Slip.
4. Efficiency.
5. Steam power.

Minuses:

1. Short cord.

Tefal FV5718 Easygliss Plus

The Tefal Easygliss Plus iron is designed for frequent home use.
The model has various heating modes and is used to smooth thick, delicate, synthetic or natural fabrics. There is also a vertical steam function for treating curtains or furniture interiors. The volume of the liquid reservoir is 270 ml. Durilium AirGlide cast iron sole is made of cermet. The material is not susceptible to scratches and also prevents fabric from sticking during use.

A special system protects the internal passages of the equipment from scale formation, which significantly extends the service life. The handle of the Tefal Easy Glass Plus iron has a rubber coating to prevent slipping.

There is an operating status indicator on the front panel of the model. The device is connected to an AC power source and consumes up to 2500 W. This helps save energy and resources.

Main characteristics:

• Power - 2500 W;
• Functions - steam boost;
• Vertical steaming;
• Anti-drip system;
• Spray function;
• The volume of the water tank is 270 milliliters;
• The length of the cord is 2 meters.

Pros:

1. Steam power.
2. Heating rate.
3. Good glide.
4. Efficiency.
5. Build quality.

Minuses:

1. Sometimes it leaks.

Bottom line

To choose an iron, you do not need to have any special knowledge or understand its technical structure. It is enough to familiarize yourself with the main characteristics: power, sole material, functions and additional capabilities.

If you are satisfied with these parameters, then feel free to buy such a device. It is likely that it will end up in the group of inexpensive devices, and then you will be able to save money.

Tell me, how often do you have to iron? Which iron did you choose for yourself? Or are you still looking for the right one?

Classification

The following types are currently available:

1. Classic or ordinary.
2. With thermostat and sprayer.
3. Steam.
4. Road.

Classic irons are presented in a simple version and have little functionality. A regular iron is not equipped with a device for moistening the laundry, and when using it, this process is carried out manually. There is a thermostat that regulates the heating of the sole. Today, these models are produced in small batches, since this type is unsuitable for ironing thick laundry and is not particularly popular among consumers.

Irons with a spray were the very first models in which a humidifying device was built into the device.

Travel irons are small-sized, convenient for transportation in bags. Designed for travel. Their technical capabilities are simplified.

Slip

The better the iron glides over the fabric, the easier it is for you to iron. At the same time, the sliding is almost the same for all surfaces, but according to user observations, Teflon increases friction.

Carefully choose the base relief and its shape:

• Narrow nose. Helps iron all difficult places in clothes (collars, pockets, etc.);
• Hole for buttons. Now all modern models have it, which makes it easy to iron the fabric near the fittings;
• Rounded edges. They will not wrinkle the fabric if you point the iron backwards;
• Steam hole. They are located on the base and the more there are, the higher the quality of ironing.