What can be so complicated when choosing the right steam iron? However, even in such a seemingly trivial matter, there are some details that deserve our attention:
1. Power
The ability of the iron to heat up quickly, smooth the fabric and generate the necessary amount of steam depends on its power.
On average, modern irons are rated at around 1700-2300 watts, with the ones with the best power performance using around 2400-2750 watts.
2.Sole
The soleplate of a griddle can be made of aluminum or stainless steel and can also have a coating of ceramic (smooth glide), titanium (non-stick surface) or even palladium (self-cleaning).
In addition, the quality of ironing also depends on the number, size and arrangement of steam holes and the availability (or absence) of special guide channels.
It is highly desirable that the “nose” of the iron have additional holes for the supply of steam for hard-to-reach areas of the ironed clothes.
3. Water tank
As a general rule, the water tank of a modern iron has a capacity of about 300 ml, although some models have water tanks of up to 425 ml.
A water fill system can be conventional or rapid (with a tight cap of the water fill hole).
4. Constant steam
The simplicity and speed of ironing with medium and high soleplate heating temperatures largely depends on the constant amount of steam.
Most modern iron models produce 20-35g of steam per minute, while advanced models can generate up to 50g per minute.
5. Burst of Steam
The average power of the steam boost in most modern iron models reaches 100 to 150 g per minute, with a maximum of 200 g per minute.
6. Vertical steam
In vertical steam mode, the steam has a higher density and strength, so it hits its target with almost no dispersion.
The vertical steam mode allows you to care for things made of delicate fabric without direct contact of the soleplate with its surface. For example, it is used to steam and remove wrinkles from clothing on hangers, coats, jackets, or clothing, including curtains and draperies.
7. Variable steam indicator
This indicator adjusts the amount of steam released and can be located not only at the top, but also at the bottom of the handle of the iron, which is quite convenient.
It should also be mentioned that only a few advanced models allow you to adjust the temperature of the steam emitted individually for specific types of clothes.
8. Steam ionization
The ionization function makes it possible to generate finer steam particles that, due to their size and flow pressure, can easily penetrate the fibers of the fabric.
9. Anti-drip function
The anti-drip function prevents water from leaking onto the fabric during ironing, when the soleplate temperature is not yet sufficient for instant evaporation. This function is necessary because the presence of water on the fabric can both prevent the sliding movement of the iron and damage the fabric.
10. Anti-scale system
Not all models of domestic irons have protection against the accumulation of sediment. The anti-scale system can be repaired or without maintenance.
Irons without such protection can be equipped with a self-cleaning system.
11.Temperature control
The iron’s operating temperature can be controlled using a classic thermostat controller, a button switch, or even a touch screen control system.
The most advanced models control the use of the temperature and have an automatic shutdown system that works as a timer or responds to the touch of your hand.
In the first option, the timer turns off the iron automatically, if it is not used for a preset period of time (8 to 15 minutes). Plus, the iron automatically shuts off if it’s left on with the soleplate down without movement within 30 seconds.
In the second option, the iron turns on only when you touch its handle and turns off as soon as you take your hand off the iron’s handle (the power of these irons is around 2400 to 2750 watts).
12. Spray
This basic feature sprays clothing with a fine mist of water and is typical of most modern steam irons.
13. Handle
The iron handle can be made not only of plastic, but also with the use of latex or rubber elements that facilitate grip.
14. Power cord
The length of the cable of domestic models varies from 1.5 to 3 meters. The longer the cord, the more freedom of movement it allows while ironing.
It is desirable that the iron is equipped with a swivel cord. This mechanism helps in handling the iron and protects the cord against premature wear.
15 weight
A domestic iron usually weighs between 1 and 1.45 kg.
At the same time, a heavier iron is not always better as the quality of ironing also depends on the power of the iron, its ability to generate a sufficient amount of steam and the characteristics of its soleplate.
In conclusion, I hope my article will help you choose the right model of a steam iron for clothes.