Choosing a good iron: important points and steps. Let's buy right!

Steaming capability and related functions

There are several types of this technique.

Standard iron

The device is intended for ironing synthetic and mixed lightweight materials. They have a pump-action sprinkler, but it is not present in all models. The main advantage of this type is its low cost.

Advice! If you choose a standard device, it is better to give preference to a heavier unit.

With steam generator

The most common device, presented in different price categories. In great demand. According to the principle of operation, it differs from conventional devices in one function - the presence of a steaming effect. Steam can be supplied independently if the soleplate is positioned vertically, or under pressure (steam boost). Copes with ironing any fabrics, including delicate materials and decorated items placed directly on the hanger.

However, this functional iron has its drawbacks. If you pour untreated water into the device, the steam channels on the surface of the sole quickly become clogged.

Steaming effect is a popular option among consumers

Advice! After using the device, any remaining liquid from the reservoir must be drained. By following this rule, you can easily extend the life of your equipment.

Travel iron

Compact equipment will help you effectively cope with ironing on the go. It practically does not differ in functionality from conventional devices. Most copies have a steaming function.

Main features:

• removable handle;
• small dimensions;
• special case for convenient transportation.

You can comfortably iron small wardrobe items and difficult areas.

Compact travel option

The disadvantage is the limited temperature range.

Wireless

In terms of external parameters, cordless irons do not differ from conventional irons, but heating occurs due to installation on a docking station - it accumulates heat. When a sound alert sounds or the indicator lights up indicating that it is ready for use, remove the device from the stand and begin ironing. The process is continued until the sole cools down (cooling occurs after 25-50 seconds, and heating occurs after 4-6 seconds).

The advantages of such a device include:

• fast heating speed;
• a light weight;
• functionality (steam blow, drop-stop, self-cleaning).

Functional wireless device

The disadvantages include:

• short period of battery life;
• average intensity of steam treatment.

Steam station

An effective technique consisting of a powerful device connected via a hose device to an external unit with a steam generator. A reservoir of at least 2 liters is filled with liquid, which allows it to be used for two hours continuously. The box is used as a stand. Used in professional areas - studios, laundries, clothing production.

The advantages are:

• the intensity of steam supply and temperature conditions are conveniently adjusted for different types of materials;
• ECO mode, which reduces power consumption.

Efficient steam station

The disadvantages of such a station include:

• high cost of the unit;
• strict requirements for the quality of water being poured;
• hose that limits the work process.

Basic criteria for choosing an iron for the home

There is a large selection of modern equipment in stores. If you want to purchase a high-quality, durable device, you should pay attention to the main characteristics.

Working surface

The main element is the work surface. The quality of ironing and the lifespan of the product depend on it. In order for the device to meet all requirements, you need to study the important parameters of the sole.

Material of manufacture

1. Aluminum. Lightweight and inexpensive material that heats up and cools down quickly. A big drawback in such specimens is considered to be low resistance to overheating and mechanical damage. The operating time of the aluminum sole is reduced to a minimum;
2. Stainless steel. It is one of the most durable materials; the working surface can only be damaged by falls or strong impacts. Models with a steel surface have average slip performance on fabrics and an optimal cost. They are easy to care for, but quite heavy. A significant disadvantage is that it takes a long time to heat up and cool down;
3. Teflon. The Teflon coating effectively smoothes any product, glides well, and is inexpensive. Disadvantages include the rapid thinning of the sole, the appearance of chips upon impact, and the ease of scratching on buttons and zippers;
4. Titanium. The durable titanium coating is easy to maintain, has high strength, and glides perfectly over the material. The titanium working surface takes longer to heat up. The downside is the high price.

Aluminum sole Titanium sole Stainless steel sole Teflon sole

Form

1. Spout shape. Rounded wide noses do not allow the surface to iron hard-to-reach areas on clothing. It is necessary to pay attention to the sharp spout of the device. This model makes it easier to iron collars and cuffs. In some specimens there is a depression in the area of ​​the cape, and at the junction of the sole and body there is a narrow groove. These benefits are designed to smooth out gaps among buttons;
2. Surface area. Considering the dimensions of the surface, it is necessary to remember that small narrow devices are good for their maneuverability, but ironing requires more time, especially when processing long large sheets and curtains.

Holes

Another criterion by which a working surface is selected is holes. They are used to release steam. Their number depends on the manufacturer. Using holes increases the efficiency of the device. Their number and size may vary significantly on different samples. But the most important rule is the uniform placement of the eyes around the entire perimeter.

The holes should be evenly spaced

Healthy! When choosing a high-quality device, you need to pay attention not only to the material of the working surface, but also to its shape, the number of steam holes and their location. The presence of additional Teflon and non-stick coatings will extend the service life and have a positive effect on the further performance of the equipment.

Power

The rate of heating and the time for leveling the clothes depend on this indicator. Powerful equipment consumes a lot of electricity:

• 1000-1500 W. The low power of the unit is suitable for ironing T-shirts, dresses and clothes made from lightweight materials. It takes a lot of effort to straighten towels and bed linen. Convenient to use when traveling;
• 1500-2000 W. Household devices in this range can handle all types of fabrics, even dry clothes. The best option for a family where ironing occurs several times a week.

Modes

Modern standard irons operate at a minimum of 3-4 heat levels. The modes are indicated on the controller by a different number of dot images or by generally accepted definitions of materials:

1. Delicate fabrics (silk);
2. Cotton;
3. Wool;
4. Linen.

Steam supply system

1. Constant steam (20-80 g/min). Converting more water into steam per minute is necessary for smoothing thick fabrics and heavily wrinkled clothes. The steam supply speed directly depends on the power indicators. For everyday use, 20-30 g/min is sufficient;
2. Steam boost (over 150 g/min). By pressing a button, a jet of steam is directed to the desired area of ​​​​the fabric to soften coarse fibers. Thus, the material is quickly smoothed out, and the need to make additional efforts disappears;
3. Vertical steaming. A convenient function in a home iron that completely replaces a steamer. This mode allows you to iron any type of clothing on hangers, as well as curtains, without removing them from the curtains. Steam is supplied through the holes in the sole with the force of a steam boost.

Vertical steaming is an important and convenient function

Design

When purchasing an iron, it is important to pay attention to the design itself. Comfortable location of the regulators, a comfortable handle with rubberized inserts and a stylish appearance - modern technology combines many criteria.

Do not forget that the original design can be much more expensive than a model with the same functionality, but with a classic case.

Weight

A very light device will not cope well with creases on clothes made of thick fabric, and a heavy one will tire your hand during the ironing process. You need to focus on averages.

Important! The main requirement for travel irons is light weight. It won't take up much space in your luggage and will help deal with wrinkled fabrics.

Power cord

The optimal length of the power cord is 2.5-3.5 m. These parameters allow you to easily maneuver the device. The winding consists of heat-resistant fabric. Some models have an automatic wire rewind option.

The optimal cord length is from 2.5 to 3.5 meters

How to choose the right iron: analysis of characteristics

An iron is a household ironing appliance that is essential in any home. Our mood when performing this tedious work will depend on the correct choice. Let's figure out what characteristics of an iron you need to pay attention to when purchasing.

Choosing this electrical appliance is not so difficult, by and large it all depends on what kind of things and how often you iron and how much money you are willing to spend on purchasing the device.
This is to put it briefly, but now let's take a closer look at this issue. How to choose an iron for home use: classification of irons

How to choose an iron for your home: weight and power

The first thing you should pay attention to is weight. Your hands will not get tired if you choose a device with the right weight. You should know that a light iron does not do its job well; the optimal weight of the iron should be 1.5-1.7 kg. In the store, try to hold the device in your hands and compare it with other models to understand whether it will be comfortable for you to work with.

One of the important technical indicators is the power of a household iron. What iron power is best? It is believed that the higher the power, the stronger and faster the device heats up. However, you need to understand that such equipment consumes more electricity.

1. Irons with a power of up to 1.5 kW are suitable for items made of thin fabrics.
2. Irons with a power of 1.6 to 2.2 kW are considered optimal for home use in a small family.
3. Irons with a power of more than 2.2 kW can be used for a large number of items made from dense and overdried fabrics.

Choosing an iron sole

The sole is one of the important components of this electrical appliance. The choice of iron soleplate is a matter of taste: for some consumers design is important, for others ease of use and quality are important. Sometimes there is no need to chase after models that are very popular.

Which sole should you choose for your iron?

The choice of sole depends on the purpose of ironing. The sole is selected according to its shape, material and number of steam holes. Models with a pointed nose are needed to smooth out small, hard-to-reach places: collars, cuffs and small folds. If the steam holes are evenly spaced in the spout, the sole will do the job easily, sliding smoothly across the fabric.

Which iron sole material is best to choose? A good device must have a high-quality ironing sole. The following requirements are imposed on it: ease of sliding, ease of maintenance, stability. Stores offer models with different soles.

1. Ceramic - the choice of an iron with a ceramic sole deserves attention: it does not cool down for a very long time, and therefore is considered the most economical among other models. The cost of such devices with ceramic-coated soles is the highest, but they glide easily over the surface of the fabric, are easy to clean, and do not leave scratches;
2. Stainless steel – the best and most practical irons are those with stainless steel soleplates. The strong and durable sole will not be damaged even if dropped. Heats up and cools down at an average speed;
3. Aluminum – the advantages of an aluminum sole: rapid heating and cooling. Cons: such a sole can easily get scratches and dents during use. These irons are the cheapest and lightest. When ironing woolen items, they can leave a shiny mark;
4. Teflon – choosing a Teflon-coated iron for your home will be just a gift for you, because it can easily smooth out any fabric. Working with such a device is a great pleasure. Of the minuses: you cannot exert mechanical influence on the sole.
5. Titanium – irons with this modern and durable sole coating, thanks to its smooth surface, allow you to glide smoothly over the items being processed. The disadvantages are slow heating and high price.

Irons with steam function: types of steam supply

The functions of the iron are of primary importance to the consumer. All modern irons must have a steam function. There are holes in the sole (they can be of different shapes) through which hot steam escapes, while moistening the fabric.

How to choose an iron for your home

The modern market offers irons with various steam supply options.

1. The steam supply can be horizontal (just ironing with the steam function turned on).
2. Most modern irons have a built-in function with automatic steam supply. Choosing an iron with a steam generator will make your work easier.
3. Some models have a “turbo mode” button. It is needed to supply additional steam, if necessary. This need may be caused by smoothing very dense and thick fabrics.
4. To process over-dried laundry and laundry made from rough, thick fabrics, you can use models with increased steam output.

An iron with a vertical steam function is very convenient. This steaming can be used for curtains, tulle, and also to restore the former shine of jackets and coats.

After hanging the item on hangers or a mannequin, you need to treat the garment with hot steam on all sides, and then let it dry completely in this position. When processing, the iron with steam is brought no closer to the item than a centimeter.

As a rule, the manufacturer indicates in the characteristics the type of steaming and the function of vertical steaming. It’s a good idea if the device is equipped with a built-in sprinkler to additionally moisten the fabric.

What types of irons are there: additional functions

There is a wide range of types of irons in the retail chain. On average, a good iron with all the necessary functions costs between three and four thousand rubles.

There are modern devices with additional functions that significantly increase the cost. But you need to understand that additional parameters have virtually no effect on functionality.

1. Many modern irons already have additional protection against scale - an anti-lime rod, which should be removed once a month and cleaned with a special product. There are also modern irons with a self-cleaning function, which are in great demand among buyers.
2. Irons have appeared with a built-in steam self-cleaning system. In this case, you need to heat the device very much and press the cleaning button - a strong jet of steam will wash the scale through the holes in the base.
3. There are modern expensive models that are produced without a cord: they are placed on an equipped stand, which itself heats the sole, and during operation the stored heat is used.
4. In all appliances that use water and a heating element, scale forms. Therefore, the best option for liquid poured into a container is distilled water. This kind of water has already appeared in stores, but you can also purify water well at home.
5. Devices with removable soles and irons with an auto-shut-off function have appeared on sale. If you are afraid of burning clothes made from thin fabrics, or do not want to select the desired temperature regime, then you can purchase a unit with these functions.

Although additional features have little effect on quality, many users still opt for more expensive models. I don't think it's worth overpaying for replacement soles. In my opinion this is a waste of money.

But irons with a built-in steam self-cleaning system and modern irons without cords, which are now gaining popularity, are worth paying attention to. It makes sense to overpay for these fashionable innovations, because it is in the spirit of modernity: convenience and time saving.

From the video you will learn how to choose the best iron for your home.

Additional selection criteria

Modern technology is endowed with sufficient functionality. When choosing an iron for use at home, you need to pay special attention to additional options:

• safety system. Some modernized models have a huge advantage - a security system. Such a device automatically turns off if it is inactive for some time. This function will help to avoid a fire if you forgot to turn off the iron;
• scale protection. Nowadays, almost all devices are equipped with this system, even inexpensive devices are designed with a built-in self-cleaning function. The descaling process occurs by pressing a special button. Thanks to this, you can fill with ordinary tap water;

  
  Anti-scale protection allows you to pour water from the tap

• water container. Standard container volumes for liquid are 200-250 ml. However, the higher this parameter, the longer you can steam clothes;
• anti-drip system. This program prevents heated liquid from leaking out of the container during ironing. This protects against burns and excessive water consumption.

Healthy! When buying a household iron, you need to choose a device that is comfortable to hold in your hand. A functional device can have many options, be comfortable and at the same time be quite inexpensive.

Functionality

The convenience of using an electric iron depends on the presence of additional functions. It’s better to determine in advance what you need and what doesn’t matter before purchasing.

Steam boost

With constant or adjustable steam supply, the flow power is 50-90 g/min. This is enough to deal with wrinkles without effort. In case linen or cotton laundry is very dry, some models have a steam boost function. When you press the corresponding button, 1.5-2 times more water evaporates to cope with unruly creases.

Sometimes, at the beginning of use, when you press the steam supply, you see how the iron “spits” droplets of liquid. Drop protection combats this.

Anti-drip system

When the iron cools down, condensation accumulates on the walls of the steam apparatus. When turned on again, the condensed vapors exit through the steam holes in the form of droplets with a characteristic hissing sound. This is not a breakdown, it’s just that the iron is not equipped with an anti-drip system, which is designed to prevent condensation from flowing down to the soleplate.

Constant steam supply

Many irons have a constant steam supply mode. When selecting the type of fabric (or auto-detecting the fabric), the steam flow saturation changes automatically from 10 to 150 g/min, depending on the manufacturer.

This is convenient when you don’t need to keep your finger on the steam button. However, in some cases, steaming fabric is not recommended (terry fabric becomes stiff).

Vertical steaming

You can use an iron to straighten hanging curtains if it has an appropriate mode. The iron does not touch the fabric, but only treats it with steam. The mode is suitable for refreshing the appearance of clothes for items made from delicate fabrics.

Self-cleaning system and anti-scale protection

If you pour tap water into your iron, sooner or later scale will form in it. The self-cleaning system is designed to prevent lime from damaging the functional elements inside the device. Many irons have such a system that needs to be used from time to time. It represents:

• the rod through which water passes from the boiler to the sole, leaving salts and impurities on it (you need to clean it sometimes);
• disposable anti-lime cassettes requiring periodic replacement;
• built-in cassettes with granules that soften and ionize water (Contra Calc);
• scale dissolution system (self-cleaning).

Indicators on the packaging: SelfClean, Calc Clean, AntiCalc and the like.

Rating of the best manufacturers of irons for the home

Budget models

Middle price segment

Premium models

Rating of irons and steam generators

The buyer is always interested in what brand of equipment it is. Nowadays popular manufacturers offer equipment with reliable assembly at an affordable price. Among the well-known companies are: Tefal, Braun, Rowenta, Bosch, Polaris, Gorenje and others.

Philips GC3803/30 Azur Performer

This iron has steam control and a temperature regulator, which will allow you to iron clothes more efficiently. If you need to process complex folds, the steam boost function is suitable. Even the most wrinkled and overdried items will be smoothed thanks to continuous steaming with a capacity of up to 40 g/min. The innovative SteamGlide outsole, made of ceramic, is durable and moves easily on any fabric. There is an interesting Calc Clean function, necessary for removing scale from the holes. If you additionally use anti-lime capsules, the iron will last for many years. The spout has a special shape for ironing buttons and hard-to-reach areas.

Polaris PIR 2695AK

A distinctive feature of this model in the rating of irons is its power (2600 W). The PRO 5 Ceramic sole glides effortlessly across a variety of fabrics. Thanks to the innovative SMART HEAT technology, even thin creases can be ironed out easily. It distributes thermal energy over the entire surface of the sole. You can switch smoothing modes (dry, with steaming at a feed rate of 50 g/min). The steaming mode can operate in a vertical position, which is convenient for processing items directly on the hanger.

REDMOND RI-C273S

An interesting model that can be controlled from your own smartphone, just install the Ready for Sky application. The user, while away from home, has the opportunity to turn off the iron or block the heating of the sole (for example, if someone tries to turn it on). It’s convenient that you can select heating levels (four modes in total), which will allow you to iron different fabrics. Ceramic sole retains its integrity for a long time. Another feature is the “stop drop”. By turning it on, you can be sure that condensation will not start dripping from the holes.

Braun SI 3041 GR

The sole of this model is made of ceramic, the name of the coating is FreeGlide 3D. Glides well on any fabric and is durable. The working nozzles are located non-standardly, and in the area of ​​the spout the steam supply is increased, which will allow you to effectively iron any items. There is a water tank that holds 270 ml - enough to iron several trousers and shirts. There is a “Steam boost” function with a capacity of 150 g/min. By choosing this mode, you can easily deal with even stubborn creases. A lot of attention was paid to the ergonomics of this model, so even during long-term work you don’t feel tired.

Now let's look at models with steam generators.

Philips GC8735 PerfectCare Performer

Innovative OptimalTEMP technology will allow you to forget about complex settings for a specific type of fabric. The iron will independently determine what the steam supply and temperature should be. To iron products, a couple of movements are enough - steam is supplied continuously, there is a steam function, which not a single wrinkle can resist. Thanks to the automatic temperature control system, you can even leave the iron directly on the board without fear of burning the fabric. If too much scale has accumulated, an alarm will sound. By placing the iron on the base, the Smart Calc-Clean system will remove plaque in a few minutes. The ceramic sole, complemented by an internal titanium layer, is not only strong, but also durable.

Bosch TDS 6041

A functional model with high-quality assembly and good power (2400 W). It is enough to select the type of fabric, after which the device itself will determine the required steam power. If you turn on the steam boost, the productivity rises to 380 g/min. The equipment will last a long time, as it is equipped with a highly effective Calc'n'Clean Perfect descaling system. The iron will beep when cleaning is required. The Ceranium Glissee Pro ceramic soleplate heats up quickly and evenly, glides easily and is suitable for ironing any fabric. The security of the device was also taken seriously. The device will turn itself off after 30 seconds if there is no movement in a horizontal position. The only thing worth considering is the weight of the model, reaching 4.8 kg.

Braun IS 2043 CareStyle

This brand is a leader in the production of various household appliances in the world. The uniqueness of this ironing system is the special Eloxal FreeGlide 3D holes and DoubleStream technology, which produces twice as much steam. This will reduce the time spent ironing clothes. The steam supply is adjusted automatically (when working with delicate fabrics, the eco mode is activated). Another distinctive feature is the design. The iron is located on the steam generator in a vertical position, thereby saving free space.

Tips for choosing

1. Household steam irons make the ironing process faster and more comfortable. The list of materials and products that can be ironed with such a unit is unlimited;
2. Before purchasing, you need to determine the required purposes of the device. There is no need to overpay for design and parameters if you can purchase a cheaper copy with approximately the same options;
3. For families, a medium-power device with standard functionality is suitable. It consumes little electricity and does not overload the network;
4. For single people, the ideal solution would be to purchase a household item with minimal power;
5. If you choose an option for traveling, you should opt for a road version. It will take up minimal space in your luggage and is lighter in weight;
6. The durable titanium coating is easy to maintain, has high strength, and glides well over fabric, but you will have to spend a lot of money to purchase such a device;
7. Holes for steam supply should be located along the entire perimeter of the sole. The dimensions of the working surface should be of average parameters;
8. When purchasing, you need to pay attention not only to the technical parameters, but also to take into account the comfort of use, so that during a long work process your hand does not get tired from the weight.

Watch a video on how to choose the right iron