TOP-20 rating of the best iron models of 2021. Review, characteristics, pros and cons

An iron is a universal and indispensable home assistant , which no housewife can do without.

Despite the fact that today well-known manufacturers offer a large number of different devices for ironing clothes , choosing a functional device is not easy.

When searching for the best model, experts recommend taking a closer look at the devices that have become the best-selling in the domestic market and have taken leading positions in household appliance ratings.

Rating of the TOP 20 best irons

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What to look for when choosing an iron?

Note! Before you go to the store to buy an iron, you need to familiarize yourself in advance with the main parameters that must be present in the device.

It is worth paying attention to such criteria as:

• power. The higher it is, the faster the device will heat up and help smooth out items made from any type of fabric;
• sole material. Various models can be equipped with a sole made of high-strength ceramics, cermets, Teflon and stainless steel, as well as aluminum. A good solution would be a device with a ceramic or metal-ceramic sole;
• Possibility of vertical steaming. It will help to instantly smooth out an item placed on a hanger, which is especially convenient for people for whom every minute counts;
• Automatic shutdown when not in use. An option designed for safe operation, which is needed in order to prevent overheating or fire;
• self-cleaning and protection against scale formation. It will avoid the need to thoroughly clean the electrical appliance manually;
• presence of an additional attachment for delicate fabrics. The second pad is securely fixed to the sole of the device using clamps and has an ideal smooth surface for easy sliding over the fabric;
• anti-drip system. It will significantly reduce the risk of stains and drips on ironed clothes, since poured water will not be able to seep through small holes in the sole;
• splashing water. The function is necessary for easily moistening dried fabric with water using a special sprayer located in the spout of the device.

How to choose a steam iron? What to pay attention to

If you want to buy an inexpensive and high-quality steam iron, you should know the selection criteria on which the quality of the eyes depends. Particular attention should be paid to the following points:

1. The material from which the sole is made. It is the most important part of any iron. It should be light and glide well over the fabric. It is desirable that it has protection from scratches and other damage that can be caused by metal parts of clothing. Stainless steel, for example, significantly reduces the price of the device, but requires constant cleaning. Teflon is protected from burning and does not damage things, but is not scratch-resistant. Aluminum heats up quickly and is easy to clean, but will warp over time. Ceramic is a good material if you handle it as carefully as possible.
2. Power . This determines how quickly the sole heats up. Steam irons have a minimum allowable rating of 2200 W.
3. Anti-scale function . It extends the life of the iron and prevents your clothes from getting dirty. The particles fall into a specialized compartment, which must be washed periodically.
4. Vertical steam function . Almost all modern models have it. Particularly relevant for those who want to iron clothes directly on hangers. And with its help it is convenient to take care of curtains.
5. Anti-drop . This feature helps protect clothes from wet stains.
6. Steam boost . It will help get rid of tough creases that would be impossible to deal with without this option.
7. Economy mode . Needed for those who want to reduce electricity consumption by 20%, while the quality of ironing does not change.
8. Auto shutdown . Most models have it. Protects against tissue damage and fires.

Review of popular models

When choosing a device for the careful care of clothes or bed linen, you should consider the most popular models , taking into account their main technical characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.

We present the rating of the TOP 20 best irons for the home in terms of quality and reliability in various categories. All models are divided into 5 groups:

• budgetary;
• the best in terms of price-quality-reliability ratio
• models with vertical steaming;
• premium devices;
• with a steam generator.

For each device, the pros, cons, characteristics are described, as well as a short review.

Budget - up to 2000 rubles

#1

Polaris PIR 1007T

An easy-to-use device that guarantees quick smoothing of any fabric.

Travel iron Polaris PIR 1007T, characterized by compactness, functionality and attractive appearance.

The device is equipped with a unique high-quality sole made of stainless steel, which allows you to iron clothes in a matter of seconds while maintaining the integrity of the fabric.

There is a useful vertical steam option for instantly removing wrinkles from dry clothes.

Specifications:

• power – 1000 W;
• sole material – stainless steel;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• ergonomic folding handle;
• heating rate;
• easy glide on fabric;
• long power cord;
• measuring cup included.

Flaws

• there is no auto shut-off function;
• small volume of water reservoir;
• difficulties when filling the compartment with water.

#2

Galaxy GL6107

A powerful device, presented in a white and turquoise case, designed to become an indispensable assistant for a housewife.

Iron Galaxy GL6107 with a self-cleaning system against scale, a steam boost option and a ceramic sole that prevents the appearance of stains and scorches on the fabric.

The built-in anti-drip system helps avoid the appearance of unsightly stripes.

The automatic shut-off function and thoughtful overheating protection are responsible for comfortable and safe operation.

Specifications:

• power – 2800 W;
• sole material – ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• the presence of an effective self-cleaning system;
• possibility of dry ironing;
• capacious liquid reservoir;
• system that prevents water spillage.

Flaws

• poor equipment;
• heavy weight;
• rapid scale formation.

#3

Polaris PIR 2479K

A functional model with an ultra-resistant and durable ceramic coating on the sole for gentle care of clothes.

Advanced home assistant Polaris PIR 2479K with innovative Smart Heat technology, which ensures uniform temperature distribution over the entire surface of the treated fabric.

The effect is achieved by calculating the optimal thickness of the sole in accordance with the size of the heating element, shape and power of the device.

The device is also equipped with options such as a system against liquid splashing and vertical steaming.

Specifications:

• power – 2400 W;
• sole material – ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• the ability to independently adjust the steam supply;
• convenient wireless use;
• self-cleaning from accumulated scale;
• uniform temperature distribution over the surface.

Flaws

• Water stains may remain on the fabric;
• lack of auto shut-off function;
• Buttons are too tight.

#4

Philips GC1436/20 Comfort

A steam iron with an impressive range of useful options for easily ironing out stubborn and tough creases.

Philips GC1436/20 Comfort electrical appliance that provides constant high steam output.

The device is equipped with a special descaling slider, so the user does not have to clean it manually.

What makes this model stand out is the presence of indentations for buttons, a pointed tip and an attractive design.

Specifications:

• power – 2000 W;
• sole material – ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost;

Advantages

• reliable protection against plaque and scale;
• non-stick sole;
• fine spray;
• perfect glide on any fabric;
• convenient temperature setting.

Flaws

• small volume of water reservoir;
• there is no smooth adjustment of steam;
• water flow.

The best devices in terms of price-quality-reliability ratio

#1

Steam iron Morphy Richards Saturn IntelliTemp 305003

The intelligent iron-steam generator Saturn IntelliTemp 305003 is a British new product on the Russian market and, in terms of technical characteristics, the absolute leader in the middle price category.

Saturn IntelliTemp requires no adjustments when ironing, regardless of the type of fabric. The built-in steam generator uses a pump to supply steam at a pressure of 1.5 bar to 485 holes on the sole, creating a steam cushion effect.

Powerful steam boost 230 g/min. copes well with difficult folds. The iron is equipped with a descaling system: the cartridge absorbs scale, the self-cleaning system cleans the cartridge. The device is absolutely safe: it automatically turns off after 30 seconds of inactivity on the sole and after 10 minutes. - on the heel.

Specifications:

• Automatic temperature and steam settings – yes;
• Built-in steam generator - yes;
• Power – 2400 W;
• Pressure – 1.5 bar;
• Constant steam – 50 g/min;
• Steam boost – 230 g/min.

Advantages

• ironing in several layers;
• does not require settings;
• 485 holes on the sole;
• powerful vertical steam;
• self-cleaning from scale.

Flaws

• the price is higher than that of an iron without a steam generator.

#2

Philips GC2990/20 PowerLife

A high-quality device with a scratch-resistant soleplate and stable, powerful steam output.

Philips GC2990/20 PowerLife is one of the most reliable steam irons with a built-in self-cleaning function, an ergonomic handle and a drip-stop system.

The five-layer coating of the sole with non-stick properties ensures a long service life of the device, and scratch resistance allows you to maintain the original appearance of the unit and clothing.

Specifications:

• power – 2300 W;
• sole material – glass ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• built-in slider for removing plaque;
• comfortable textured handle;
• fast heating;
• long network cable;
• anti-drip system.

Flaws

• no auto-shutoff function;
• noise during operation;
• loose valve fit.

#3

Braun TexStyle 7 TS735TP

An elegant steam device designed to perform complex tasks with minimal user intervention.

The Braun TexStyle 7 TS735TP device is equipped with a steam regulator, a 360-degree rotating cord and a self-cleaning system for descaling.

A distinctive feature of the model is the presence of a capacious water tank designed for 400 ml of water.

With its help, you can quickly steam the fabric, eliminating all unnecessary folds.

Specifications:

• power – 2400 W;
• sole material – aluminum;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• nozzle for delicate and thin fabrics included in the set;
• spacious water tank;
• self-cleaning system from limescale;
• fastening the cable to the body using a ball method;
• a small measuring cup included with the device.

Flaws

• too sensitive temperature controller;
• weak blow of steam;
• rapid contamination of the housing.

#4

Bosch TDA 5028010

An attractive model from a well-known German company that produces durable home appliances.

Bosch TDA 5028010 iron with a long power cord mounted on hinges, a sophisticated steam supply system and a small water container.

For comfortable operation, the manufacturer has equipped the device with several buttons on the handle, anti-scale protection and the ability to dry iron.

The device also has an anti-drip system, as well as a self-cleaning function.

Specifications:

• power – 2800 W;
• sole material – ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• stepless temperature controller;
• LED indication during operation;
• steam distribution system;
• intuitive controls;
• splashing liquid on fabric.

Flaws

• there is no automatic shutdown;
• rough sole;
• inconvenient filling of the tank with water.

#5

Philips GC3581/30 SmoothCare

A modern model with a large water tank for ironing without frequent refilling of water.

Philips GC3581/30 SmoothCare iron with a large water tank, Calc Clean function that prevents limescale, a drip-stop system and a ceramic soleplate.

To eliminate sweetness and vertical steaming, the user can use the steam boost function.

Specifications:

• power – 2400 W;
• sole material – ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• preventing the occurrence of limescale;
• high-quality sole;
• convenient steam regulator;
• simple cleansing;
• gentle care for delicate fabrics.

Flaws

• inconvenient cord location;
• difficulties when ironing with steam;
• high probability of water leakage.

Vertical steaming

#1

Morphy Richards Turbosteam lIntelliTemp 303131

This powerful smart iron adjusts the temperature itself without your help and has an enlarged water tank.

The iron smoothes out any fabrics and wrinkles, thanks to its high power of 3100 W, high steam consumption of 55 g/min and 200 g/min with a steam boost. Supports vertical steaming to freshen curtains or upholstery.

The device has a capacious water tank of 400 ml. A 3 meter long cord provides freedom of movement.

A security system is provided. If you leave the iron on the heel for 8 minutes or on the sole for 1 minute, the auto shut-off function will work. The self-cleaning system removes accumulated scale, extending the life of the iron.

Specifications:

• Power – 3100 W;
• Continuous steam consumption – 55 g/min;
• Steam boost – 200 g/min;
• Tank volume – 400 ml;
• Cord length – 3 meters.

Advantages

• automatic temperature adjustment;
• possibility of vertical steaming;
• high power and steam consumption;
• auto shutdown;
• long cord.

Flaws

• none.

#2

Braun TexStyle 7 TS745A

A good iron for getting high results when ironing any wardrobe items.

An improved model of Braun TexStyle 7 TS745A with a self-cleaning system from plaque, anti-scale protection and an automatic shut-off function for safe operation.

An ideal result and the simplest possible use of an electrical appliance are guaranteed by a high-quality sole, which does not show scratches or other mechanical damage.

Specifications:

• power – 2400 W;
• sole material – ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• distribution of water throughout the fabric;
• thoughtful protection against plaque;
• spacious water tank;
• fabric protector;
• long power cord.

Flaws

• additional costs for purchasing nozzles;
• dimensions;
• meager equipment.

#3

Philips GC4905/40 Azur

A model that effectively combines high technical characteristics and modern design.

A powerful electrical appliance Philips GC4905/40 Azur, capable of ironing any fabric in a matter of seconds.

The device is equipped with an auto-shut-off function when not in use, a steam boost, a quick descaling system and a scratch-resistant sole.

There is a water tank designed for 300 ml of liquid.

Specifications:

• power – 3000 W;
• sole material – glass ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• instant descaling;
• instant smoothing of hard wrinkles;
• ball method of attaching the cable to the body;
• "stop-drop" system.

Flaws

• weak blow of steam;
• the need for regular cleaning of the body;
• weight.

#4

Panasonic NI-W950

A stylish device that makes it easy to keep your favorite things looking attractive.

Model Panasonic NI-W950, equipped with a heavy-duty sole, a leakage protection system and a dial temperature control.

To conveniently clean the electrical appliance from scale, a triple cleaning system is provided, relieving the user of the need to remove dirt manually.

The device also has an ergonomic handle for comfortable use.

Specifications:

• power – 2400 W;
• sole material – aluminum;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• scale protection
• ironing without using water;
• optimal volume of water tank;
• steam supply adjustment;
• light weight.

Flaws

• There is no measuring cup included;
• loud thermostat;
• the cost is higher than analogues.

#5

Bosch TDA 702421E

An ironing device with a wide range of useful options necessary for comfortable care of clothes.

Powerful Bosch TDA 702421E iron, characterized by its compact size and light weight.

The device has a capacious water tank designed for 350 ml of liquid, a heating indicator and an option that allows for a burst of steam.

The device is equipped with a reliable protection system that guarantees safe use.

Specifications:

• power – 2400 W;
• sole material – aluminum, ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• self-cleaning mode;
• reliable fastening of the cable to the body;
• long power cord;
• splashing of previously poured water.

Flaws

• The set does not include an attachment for delicate fabrics;
• specific smell of plastic;
• inconvenient plastic cover.

Premium models from 8,000 rubles

#1

Tefal FV5605

A functional household gadget designed for daily use for a long time.

Model Tefal FV5605 with innovative technology for better glide of the device over fabric.

Small holes located throughout the soleplate ensure precise distribution of steam, and high power makes ironing more efficient and faster.

A steam boost helps smooth out stubborn wrinkles or freshen things up.

Specifications:

• power – 2600 W;
• sole material – metal ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• eco mode;
• automatic steam adjustment;
• collector for collecting scale;
• attachment for ultra-thin fabrics;
• instant heating.

Flaws

• the power cord is not long enough;
• rapid contamination of the housing;
• weight.

#2

Philips GC5033/80 Azur Elite

A highly effective home assistant for high-quality ironing of linen and favorite things.

Smart model Philips GC5033/80 Azur Elite for quickly ironing clothes from any fabric without much effort.

The preset DynamiQ mode provides automatic steam delivery.

The ECO mode saves up to 20% on energy, while the Max mode delivers constant steam to remove stubborn creases.

The user can turn off the steam supply using the OFF mode.

Specifications:

• power – 3000 W;
• sole material – stainless steel;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• large hole for filling water;
• anti-drip system;
• energy saving mode;
• accelerated smoothing of wrinkles;
• quick descaling.

Flaws

• overcharge;
• weight;
• easily soiled body.

#3

Rowenta DW 9240

A powerful iron with a built-in steam generator to keep your clothes looking their best.

Modern device Rowenta DW 9240 with LED control panel, built-in water tank and automatic shutdown function when not in use.

The steam boost instantly penetrates deep into the fabric, so the user does not have to worry about the possibility of wrinkled clothes after ironing.

Specifications:

• power – 3100 W;
• sole material – stainless steel;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• ergonomic shape;
• self-cleaning option;
• modern and elegant design;
• long cable for connecting to the mains.

Flaws

• the need for regular cleaning of the soles;
• you have to add water frequently;
• dimensions.

#4

Braun SI 9187EWH

One of the best-selling models, designed for professional-level clothing care.

Braun SI 9187EWH steam iron with innovative iCare technology that protects clothes by selecting the ideal temperature.

Three active steam zones provide quick removal of wrinkles from various fabrics, and the triangular steam zone at the tip of the device allows you to smooth out even the most difficult to reach areas.

High-quality steam production is carried out by pressing the Extra Steam button.

Specifications:

• power – 2800 W;
• sole material – aluminum;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• wear-resistant sole coating;
• scale protection;
• glass included in the set;
• anti-drip system;
• 3 active steam zones.

Flaws

• price;
• the need for cleansing;
• The device weighs quite a lot.

Models with steam generator

#1

Morphy Richards S-Pro 332100/332102

In first place is a powerful steam generator with an automatic descaling function from the British company Morphy Richards.

S-Pro is capable of ironing multiple layers of fabric at the same time. For materials of different densities and delicacies, three steam supply modes are provided, which are conveniently selected on the electronic control panel.

The device supports a steam boost with a power of 400 g/min, which will help you cope with the most difficult creases. High water consumption is compensated by a large tank capacity of 2 liters.

The device is descaled automatically based on a signal from the sensor. The steam generator also has an automatic shut-off function and a reliable mount for the iron on the base.

Specifications:

• Power – 3000 W;
• Steam – 160 g/min, blow – 400 g/min;
• Sole material – ceramics;
• Vertical steaming – yes;
• Functions: continuous steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• powerful steam supply;
• three modes for different types of fabrics;
• ready to work in 2 minutes;
• spacious water tank;
• automatic descaling system;
• safe to use.

Flaws

• not found.

#2

Bosch TDS 2120

A high-performance device that a modern housewife cannot do without.

Model Bosch TDS 2120 with an effective cleaning program to remove limescale and a large water tank designed for 1.5 liters of liquid.

If necessary, the owner can add water to the container at any time convenient for himself, without interrupting the ironing process.

A single temperature regime is provided for all types of fabrics.

Specifications:

• power – 2400 W;
• sole material – ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• convenient electronic control;
• boiler for 1500 ml of water;
• the ability to add water during operation;
• button groove;
• presence of eco mode.

Flaws

• inconvenient power cord;
• insufficient steam;
• insufficient power level.

#3

Tefal GV8932

A well-thought-out ironing system that is perfect for use in a large family.

Tefal GV8932 iron with an efficient steam generator, a spacious water tank, an automatic shut-off function and protection against scale formation.

The optimal combination of steam power and temperature for each type of fabric is guaranteed by 3 steam modes.

You can choose the ideal mode using an electronic adjustment system. Specifications:

• power – 2400 W;
• sole material – metal ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• filling the tank with water during ironing;
• removable water tank;
• large volume of water tank;
• eco mode;
• electronic control.

Flaws

• the power cord is not long enough;
• poor equipment;
• price.

#4

Philips GC8712 PerfectCare Performer

A functional yet easy-to-use device that combines an attractive appearance and high-quality assembly.

The Philips GC8712 PerfectCare Performer steam generator features OptimalTEMP technology, which eliminates the need for the user to waste time setting the temperature or waiting for it to heat up.

A well-thought-out system allows you to thoroughly iron any fabric without the risk of burning it, reaching the most inaccessible areas.

Specifications:

• power – 2600 W;
• sole material – ceramics;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions – constant steam supply, steam boost.

Advantages

• automatic steam control;
• sound and light indication;
• removable water tank;
• adding water during operation;
• ready for use 2 minutes.

Flaws

• impressive weight;
• short steam hose;
• dimensions.

#5

Braun IS 7143 WH

An elegant model with powerful steam for perfect crease removal.

An easy-to-use ironing system with unique iCare technology for gentle care of your clothes.

During operation, the user has the opportunity to add water to the tank without stopping ironing, which makes the process more convenient and comfortable.

Additionally, the Braun IS 7143 WH device is equipped with a display and a removable reservoir designed for 2 liters of liquid.

Specifications:

• power – 2400 W;
• sole material – aluminum;
• vertical steaming – yes;
• functions - steam boost.

Advantages

• presence of a display;
• eco mode;
• the ability to add fluid during operation;
• spray function.

Flaws

• the cost is higher than analogues;
• large weight and size;
• scratches appear on the device.

How to choose an iron

Types of irons

When choosing an iron, it is important to pay attention to the type of device:

• Household. Household models are designed for daily ironing at home. They can have a wide variety of designs and colors. On the body of the vast majority of irons there is an ironing type regulator with certain indicators: “delicate”, “cotton”, “silk”, “linen” and others. But the principle of their operation boils down to one thing: the temperature of the sole changes depending on the fabric material. The power of the irons is enough for everyday ironing of a small amount of items. They have a small water reservoir, so you will need to top up after each ironing.

• Wireless. These devices consist of two parts: the iron itself and a stand for it, somewhat similar to a docking station, only it does not charge the iron, but heats it up. When the desired temperature is reached, a sound signal will sound, after which you can remove the iron from the stand and iron. Periodically you need to place the iron on the stand to “refill” with heat. Thanks to this design, you can iron even where there is no outlet nearby. But most importantly, the user does not get confused in the wire and it (the wire) does not break (a common problem with wired models).

Popular models of cordless irons Polaris PIR 2444K Cordless from 1,239 UAH. First FA-5633-2 from 678 UAH. Grunhelm EI9507CC from 573 UAH. RZTK V7 Storm from 999 UAH. Vitek VT-8312 from 878 UAH. Silver Crest SDBK 2400 F5 from 707 UAH. Camry CR 5026 from 810 UAH. Polaris PIR 2699K from 1,159 UAH. Princess 328000 from 1,943 UAH. RZTK V5 Pro from 799 UAH. Russell Hobbs Cordless One Temperature 26020-56 from 2,202 UAH. Haeger HG-1210 from 725 UAH. Scarlett SC-SI30K53 from 741 UAH. Polaris PIR 2489K Cordless from 1,034 UAH. Xiaomi Lofans YPZ-7878 from 7,999 UAH.

• Travel portable. These are fully functional household irons, but of significantly lower power (up to 1000 W) and size, designed for ironing small amounts of clothing while traveling. Due to its low power and, accordingly, heating temperature, it cannot be used as a full-fledged replacement for a household iron - it is exclusively for one-time work. However, its weight is no more than a kilogram, so it won’t be particularly noticeable in your bag. And you can buy it for as little as $20.

• With a steam generator. Such models consist of two parts: an iron and a steam generator, in which the heated water is completely converted into steam. Then the steam is supplied through a special hose to the sole of the iron. The main advantage of this type of iron is the ability to constantly supply steam under high pressure over 100 g/min. The steam boost can reach 500 g/min or higher. Thanks to this, even very wrinkled items can be easily ironed, for example, items made of 100% cotton, which, when ironing with a regular iron, must first be moistened with water. Also, during operation, the weight of the iron is light, since all the water is in the steam generator. These installations are good for ironing a large volume of items, since you do not need to constantly add water (large tank volume). Exclusively all steam generator units have a vertical steaming mode. However, this type of iron also has disadvantages: large dimensions, which create difficulties during storage, and the need to frequently descale the reservoir (about once a month). Among other things, the price for models with a steam generator is much higher than conventional “single” irons.

• Ironing systems. The design of such devices includes an iron with a steam generator and an ironing board. Some boards are made with a non-stick coating and automatic heating. An air flow is created between the board and the item. Thanks to this, ironing becomes even better and faster. Also, thanks to this design, you can completely dispense with the ironing board cover. The design of some models is equipped with a storage box for the iron and steam generator. Ironing systems are useful for private laundries and dry cleaners, where the quality and speed of ironing are a priority. But the price for them is certainly rather high - it starts from five hundred dollars.

Ironing systems

Laurastar GO from 1,200 UAH. Miele B 3312 from 38,175 UAH. Cecotec Total Iron 10100 Pro from 24,999 UAH. MIE Completto Standard from 29,000 UAH. Miele B 3847 from 45,900 UAH. Becker A8 from 17,104 UAH. Becker A6 from 10,774 UAH. MIE Maxima from 60,000 UAH. MIE Classico Plus from 28,000 UAH. MAC5 ACM 720 from 15,176 UAH. Laurastar S Xtra from 58,172 UAH. MAC5 ARE 715 from 24,156 UAH. MIE Classico Non-Stop Plus from 40,000 UAH. MAC5 ARE 720 from 14,919 UAH. Laurastar Smart M from 51,456 UAH.

• Ironing presses. These are large installations consisting of two horizontal boards, but one of which is heated, and the second one presses the fabric. The press is able to straighten the item in literally five seconds, and at the same time completely eliminates the possibility of stretching or ties that can be caused by a regular iron. Ironing presses are suitable for serial ironing of bed linen and other “delicate” items. Such presses will be an ideal solution to the ironing problem for hotel laundries, dry cleaners, pioneer camps, hospitals and nursing homes. However, it is worth noting that the devices are not capable of vertical steaming and other useful functions, so they are not suitable for household use.

Outsole material

When choosing a suitable model, it is very important to pay attention to the material of the iron sole:

• Aluminum. This metal is most often present in inexpensive iron models. It is very lightweight and heats up fairly quickly (about 30 seconds). However, when strongly heated in the “Max” mode (useful when ironing linen items), the sole begins to stick and can damage the item. Aluminum also gets dirty quite quickly (water burns on things), so you will have to clean it regularly. We wrote how to clean the iron here. Purchasing irons with aluminum soles is justified if you need to save money, as well as if you purchase a compact model for travel.

• Non-stick and Teflon soles. The most popular type of soles, as they provide easy sliding on the fabric and do not stick or burn. Although manufacturers claim that the non-stick coating is very easy to clean with ordinary water and a sponge, in practice it will have to be “scrubbed” just like aluminum. In addition, buttons and snakes leave scratches very easily. It is installed in both budget models and mid-priced devices.

• Ceramics and metal ceramics. Ceramic soles are superior to all others in terms of glide and do not wrinkle the fabric even when moving backwards. Although they can burn, they are quite easy to clean even without the use of special cleaning products. Their only drawback is the fragility of the material - if dropped, it can simply crack. Therefore, it is recommended to use it on an ironing board with a non-slip stand with edges.

Irons with metal-ceramic soles

Philips Azur GC 4909 from 2,399 UAH. Tefal Ultimate Pure FV 9845 from 2,996 UAH. Philips PowerLife GC 2998 from 1,299 UAH. Philips PerfectCare Compact GC 7833 from 3,999 UAH. Philips 5000 Series DST 5030 from 1,398 UAH. Tefal Easygliss FV 3951 from 1,283 UAH. Philips 5000 Series DST 5040 from 1,598 UAH. Philips PerfectCare Compact Plus GC 7920 from 4,799 UAH. Tefal Easygliss Plus FV 5735 from 1,489 UAH. Philips Azur GC 4901 from 2,207 UAH. Tefal Easygliss FV 3970 from 1,398 UAH. Tefal Express Steam FV 2868 from 1,199 UAH. Braun TexStyle 9 SI 9187 from 2,350 UAH. Tefal Pro Express Protect GV 9221 from 6,967 UAH. Tefal Express Anti-Calc SV 8011 from 4,013 UAH.

• Stainless steel. Unlike aluminum, stainless steel is not as susceptible to scratches and damage from buttons and snakes. Some manufacturers, such as Braun, additionally apply sapphire coating to the surface, which gives the material strength. This sole glides well and heats up quickly. The only drawback is the considerable weight of the base.

• Titanium and titanium ceramics. Titanium soles are very durable and scratch-resistant; they are not afraid of falling from a height of one and a half meters. But compared to other materials, their thermal conductivity is reduced, which is why they take longer to heat up. In “Max” mode, the iron can heat up for up to five minutes or more, depending on the model. Also, irons with titanium coating are quite expensive.

• Enamel. The existing stainless steel coating is covered with enamel. It is similar to sapphire coating and performs essentially the same function - it increases strength in contact with sharp objects. Enamel also improves glide over the surface of the item. Enameled soles are slightly more expensive than stainless steel.

Additional features worth noting

Irons can be equipped with the following functions:

• Vertical steaming. This function is designed for ironing without the iron touching the item, for example, a curtain hanging on the wall, or a suit on a hanger. Particularly delicate items that are sensitive to temperature should also be ironed this way. Although most irons have vertical steam, cheap models may not have this feature.
• Self-cleaning iron. This function allows you to clean the iron from scale inside without additional cleaning products and devices. It is enough to fill a full reservoir of water and press a button - the iron will heat up and release steam with pieces of lime with pressure. The cleaning function significantly extends the life of the iron. It is also useful when using hard water (although it is recommended to use distilled water in the iron).
• Attachment for delicate fabrics. Some models come with removable attachments for ironing delicate fabrics such as silk. The surface of the nozzle can be fabric (heat-resistant) or ceramic. Fabric nozzles additionally protect the item from accidental drops of water. They have a thermal barrier, after which they stop heating. If you have to iron a large number of delicate items, then an iron with an attachment is your choice.
• Anti-drip system. Accidental drops can leave white marks (from scale) on clothing, especially on silk and satin fabrics. This function blocks the formation of drops on the soleplate of the iron. However, if you regularly use a fabric nozzle for delicate items, then you can do without the anti-drip system.
• Automatic iron shut-off. One of the most useful features to avoid fire. A model with this function turns off after 30 seconds of inactivity while standing on the sole, and after 4 to 5 minutes of standing in an upright position. If you suddenly left home and forgot to turn off the iron, it will turn itself off after a while. It is worth noting that, although in a horizontal position the iron turns off after half a minute and prevents a fire, the sole still remains hot, so it can easily damage the item lying underneath it.
• Sound signal. Such models beep when the desired temperature is reached or when the iron stands for a long time without moving in a vertical position. A convenient function when the housewife is simultaneously doing something else - a signal will tell you when the iron is heating up.

Irons with a powerful burst of steam

Braun CareStyle Compact IS 2058 from 2,995 UAH. Philips PerfectCare Compact GC 7833 from 3,999 UAH. Tefal Express Easy SV 6131 from 2,825 UAH. Prime Technics PTSI 2450 FS from 2,375 UAH. Philips PerfectCare Elite GC 9642 from 7,110 UAH. Philips PerfectCare Compact Plus GC 7920 from 4,799 UAH. Philips PerfectCare Elite Plus GC 9682 from 9,707 UAH. Braun CareStyle 7 Pro IS 7156 from 8,589 UAH. Braun CareStyle 3 Pro IS 3157 from 4,255 UAH. Vitek VT-1263 from 579 UAH. Bosch Serie I8 TDS8080 from 8,207 UAH. Tefal Pro Express Protect GV 9221 from 6,967 UAH. Tefal Express Anti-Calc SV 8011 from 4,013 UAH. Braun CareStyle 7 Pro IS 7155 from 8,137 UAH. Philips PerfectCare 7000 PSG 7028 from 6,427 UAH.

conclusions

If the budget is limited, then the user will benefit from irons with aluminum soles and a minimum of additional functions. If you want to forget about constant cleaning of the iron, but at the same time get a high-quality device that perfectly irons delicate items, then take models with a self-cleaning function and a ceramic or stainless sole. The titanium model will provide you with resistance to scratches from buttons and other objects, as well as when dropped on the floor. For laundries or dry cleaners, models with a steam generator or entire ironing systems with a board and a box for storing the iron are suitable.

conclusions

When planning to purchase an iron, there are a few key points to remember:

• special attention should be paid to the power of the device, the material of the sole and the availability of useful options;
• also necessary to take into account of an automatic shutdown function when not in use for safe operation;
• The self-cleaning descaling function will eliminate the need for the user to clean the device manually.