The best irons can not only iron. Now they hold and remove scale, recognize types of fabric under the sole, and also choose the mode of ironing and steaming things.
Content:
What iron is better to buy
The first rule: the higher the power of the iron, the better. After all, it depends on her speed and heating force of the sole, and hence the result of ironing. 1500 W is enough for most - such devices cope with folds on almost any fabric. But if everything needs to be done quickly, it is better to look at models with a capacity of at least 1800-2000 watts.
Recently, a lot of innovative models have appeared on the market of irons, differing in the materials of the working sole coating. And they really need to understand:
1. Ceramics - such irons have the smoothest surface, which does not cling to the fabric and leaves no folds on it. Unfortunately, the ceramic coating is quite fragile and is afraid of blows. Metal ceramics will be more durable.
2. Teflon - perfectly keeps the temperature and does not damage the "capricious" fabric. But the non-stick coating can seriously suffer from metal buttons and zippers.
3. Titanium - provides increased strength and durability of the sole, it slides perfectly and could be considered ideal if it had not been heated for so long.
4. Tourmaline - an improved version of ceramics with antistatic effect. Perfect for ironing light synthetic fabrics.
Included with some irons can be removable nozzle for ironing especially delicate items. In this case, the material of the sole already fades into the background.
The best steam irons
Even the most ordinary iron can be stuffed with useful functions. Today, top manufacturers have begun to equip classic steam models with scale sensors, motion sensors and soles made of high-tech materials.
Tefal Ultimate Pure FV9867 - the most powerful steam iron
Although this model is a regular iron, it can compete with entry-level steam generators. Beat at 3-kilowatt Tefal Ultimate reaches 260 g / min - for the classic steam device is a real record. The reservoir of the device contains 350 ml of water. By the way, it can be poured here directly from the tap.
The internal container with the filter and the collection for lime, and also system of self-cleaning of the tank will relieve the iron from emergence of a scum, having prolonged the term of its service.
Included with this model is an additional nozzle for delicate fabrics, providing gentle smoothing even at high temperatures.
Advantages:
- Powerful steam blow 260 g;
- Premium non-scratch outsole;
- Dual anti-scale system with indication;
- Nozzle for gentle ironing;
- Concentrated steam blow in the nozzle.
Disadvantages:
- High price.
Ultimate Pure is suitable for those who need the most efficient steam in the process of ironing, but it is a pity to spend money on a full-fledged steam generator.
Rowenta Steamforce DW9240 - for “naughty” fabrics
In this model, the emphasis is on effective steam in the process of ironing. The compact but powerful device provides continuous steam at a “speed” of 65 g / min from 4 hundred holes located on the sole.
The flow can be evenly distributed over the entire working surface or be concentrated on the elongated beak spout. Thanks to this shape, the soles of the folds on clothes are easily smoothed out even in hard-to-reach places.
Advantages:
- Well smoothes over dried items with creases;
- High, even slightly excess 3100 W;
- Concentrated steam blow on the spout;
- Auto steam shut off sensor;
- Ergonomic design.
Disadvantages:
- Large water consumption.
Steamforce was created specifically for hard and unruly fabrics that are not amenable to standard ironing and require complete steam.
Vitek VT-8313 - a budget solution
At first glance, Vitek does not stand out from other premium irons. But compared to other devices, it has a more attractive price tag. Yes, there are no intellectual functions here, the power is lower (2.4 kW), but the manufacturer did not save on the quality of materials.
The UniCera double ceramic coating provides ultra-light slip of the sole over any fabric and has non-stick properties. The iron itself automatically shuts off after 30 seconds in a horizontal position, and after 8 minutes - in a vertical position.
Advantages:
- Two-layer ceramic coating;
- The system of self-cleaning of scale, albeit primitive;
- Cord hinge;
Auto power off; - Affordable price.
Disadvantages:
- Narrow water tank neck.
If you just need a good iron - inexpensive, without unnecessary bells and whistles, but convenient to use, Vitek VT-8313 will be an excellent choice.
The best models without thermostat
The irons, which do not need to set the ironing mode, themselves recognize the fabric and select the optimum temperature for it. Smart appliances can be safely left on the surface of the ironing board without fear of burning a hole. Most models without a thermostat automatically shut off without movement, or if they “do not feel” the pressure of the palm on the handle.
Philips Azur Elite GC5039 - will do everything for you
This is one of the few irons that intuitively regulates not only the heating temperature, but also the flow of steam. A special motion sensor reads the sliding speed of the sole, increasing or decreasing the evaporation of water. And if you need to iron several layers of fabric at once, you can simply set the steam to a maximum (75 g / min).
Another sensor monitors the degree of contamination of the iron with scale and reminds you of the need for cleaning. It's easy to do - lime flakes and debris accumulate in a separate QuickCalc Release container.
Advantages:
- 3000 watts increased power;
- Steam capacity at impact 260 g / min;
- Tissue ionization mode;
- Touch motion sensor;
- Self-cleaning scale.
Disadvantages:
- In the horizontal position it turns off only after 2 minutes.
Philips Azur is versatile. But most of all he will enjoy the hostesses who do not like to mess around with ironing and iron settings for a long time.
Bosch TDA753122V - smart iron
The new Bosch already knows how to adapt to different types of fabric, but he will need hints. You need to choose one of 6 modes, approximately corresponding to the type of fabric, and the iron will use the i-Temp program to adjust the steam flow and determine the optimal ironing temperature. Sort things and change the settings every time now do not have to.
Do not forget the Germans and security. A sensitive sensor is built into the iron handle that automatically turns off the unit if you don’t take it in hand for a long time. And given the extreme power TDA of 3.1 kW, it will also help reduce power consumption.
Advantages:
- Automatic thermostat;
- 3-stage anti-scale protection;
- There is a program for dark fabrics;
- The system "drop-stop", not leaving wet spots;
- Very long cord 2.5 m;
- Indicator fill the sump for scale.
Disadvantages:
- The water level in the tank is poorly visible;
- Big weight (2 kg).
The basic configuration of Bosch is traditionally poor, but interchangeable soles can be purchased separately from the manufacturer: super-slip or for ironing delicate fabrics.
Panasonic Optimal Care NI-WT980 - for delicate fabrics
Symmetrical outsole Optimal Care allows you to iron in different directions without complicated maneuvers on the board. And the internal circulation of hot air reduces the heating time of the working surface and evenly heats it over the entire area.
The new Panasonic does not require thermal settings, but this feature is implemented very simply. The iron simply maintains a low temperature so as not to spoil things, and its disadvantage is compensated by intensive stripping, yielding 50 g / min continuously and 200 g / min during steam blow.
Advantages:
- Reversible sole with ceramic pavement;
- Powerful vertical steaming;
- 2.5 m long cord;
- Automatic drainage of water from the tank;
- Self-cleaning scale.
Disadvantages:
- When steaming it lets water through.
At the novelty from Panasonic space design thanks to the beautiful interior lighting. But such an iron is more suitable for ironing delicate fabrics and vertical steaming of things.
The best steam generators
A good steam generator is capable of ironing even folded laundry several times, overdried items with creases and the toughest fabrics.
Braun CareStyle 7 IS7156 BK - for a great ironing
The new ironing system from Braun received a recognizable rectangular body - bulky in appearance, but not occupying too much space on the board. The sole of the iron has also undergone changes: now it slides perfectly in both directions, without crushing the fabric. This is facilitated by a slightly hemmed “heel”, and a special patented alloy Eloxal Plus.
In addition to the standard programs that can be easily changed through the LED display menu, the steam generator provides a sparing mode for delicate fabrics, and a turbo for the most unyielding materials.
Advantages:
- High steam pressure 7.5 bar;
- Automatic temperature adjustment;
- Convenient switching programs;
- ECO mode to save electricity;
- The capacious tank for water on 2 l;
- Self-cleaning system from scale.
Disadvantages:
- It is inconvenient to fill in the water, even though the tank is made removable;
Braun CareStyle 7 is suitable for those who accumulate ironing during the week, and then they dream to quickly deal with a mountain of assorted underwear.
Rowenta Silence Steam DG8963 - "silent" steam generator
This year, Rowenta presented an original novelty - a steam generator with noise reduction technology, and without sacrificing power and performance. The boiler develops a pressure of 7.3 bar, but operates at 15 dB quieter than similar models from other manufacturers.
Four hundred holes on a steel stainless steel sole produce 120 grams of steam per minute in normal mode, increasing the flow rate to 470 g / min with a steam boost. Intensive steaming can only be switched to the spout, if you need to iron pockets, collars or complex pleating on clothes.
Advantages:
- Relatively quiet operation;
- Removable water tank;
- Anti-scale system with collector;
- Reliable fixation of the iron on the base;
- Super smooth nano glass coated sole.
Disadvantages:
- Manual adjustment;
- A relatively small water tank - 1.4 liters.
Rowenta Silence is a good otparivatel option for residents of small apartments and families with small children. This steam generator will allow ironing at any time of the day or night, without fear of waking up all the household.
Bosch TDS8080RU - universal iron
German wagon is designed for caring parents and people who carefully monitor the hygienic cleanliness of their belongings. With the help of the Hygienic Steam system, the steam generator destroys bacteria even in the depths of thick and multi-layered fabrics. By the way, among the listed models, TDS has the most powerful steam blow - 550 g / min.
The main advantage of this generator is the ability to iron non-stop, adding water in the process. In the case of the base there is a small reserve compartment - the iron will take water from it when the main tank of 1.8 l is empty.
Advantages:
- Energy consumption reduced by 25% in ECO mode;
- Temperature selection program for each type of fabric;
- Automatic cord winder;
- Continuous descaling of water;
- Wide opening of the tank for water;
- Resistant to abrasion and scratches the sole of the iron;
- Shutdown after 30 seconds of inactivity.
Disadvantages:
- Bulky.
One of the most successful irons in the Bosch lineup has virtually no flaws and fully justifies its rather big price. Versatile it makes the possibility of manual and automatic mode settings.
Best wireless irons
Cordless irons are more convenient and maneuverable, and most importantly, they don’t pick up the fabric with the cord dragged behind in the process of ironing.
Philips Azur FreeMotions GC4595 - simple and reliable
Here the main focus is on the innovative T-ionicGlide smoothing surface. The creators claim that it slides easily on any surface, equally smoothing delicate and coarse fabrics. This contributes to the power of 2600 W, thanks to which the sole heats up in a matter of seconds.
On the docking station for recharging, Philips Azur is installed in a familiar movement - vertically. Although at first long contacts will be difficult to "put" in the nest. But in the design of the base there is a deep chute for winding the power cord.
Advantages:
- Durable and slippery titanium sole;
- Two-color charging indicator light;
- Convenient cord storage;
- Iron lock-lock on the stand;
- Fast heating;
- Vertical steam mode.
Disadvantages:
- We need to get the hang of it on the base.
Philips FreeMotions is an iron that is convenient for storing and transporting, which is not inferior to wired models in anything. You just need to get used to it.
Tefal Freemove FV9976 - with horizontal parking
This is Tefal's first attempt to launch a wireless model, and judging by the reviews, the debut turned out to be triumphant. In the Freemove iron, everything is subordinated to comfortable use, therefore the charging platform is made horizontal here, and the self-cleaning sole has a super-smooth surface.
The latter is distinguished by the location of the steam channels: they are dispersed over almost the entire area (especially many holes in the narrow spout).
Despite the power of 2.6 kW, the risk of discharging the iron during ironing is almost absent. The docking station recovers its charge in literally seconds.
Advantages:
- Safe horizontal parking;
- Automatic steam adjustment;
- Two-stage anti-scale protection;
- Readiness indicator;
- Fast charge;
- Does not leave wet stains on clothes.
Disadvantages:
- Not standing on the heel.
If you decide to switch to wireless irons, it’s better to start your acquaintance with them with Tefal Freemove.
Polaris PIR 2457K Cordless - inexpensive stand-alone iron
Polaris Cordless is as simple as an electric kettle, it is inexpensive, but in terms of reliability and ease of use is not inferior to more advanced wireless models. The ceramic coating of the sole provides the iron with excellent gliding, and the fabric protects against burning and the appearance of shiny traces.
The steam supply rate in this model is slightly above average (45 g / min), but the steam blow is clearly weak and does not exceed 145 g / min - this is not enough to smooth heavy things on the hanger, although the manufacturer indicates vertical steaming as one of the functions.
Comes with a small charging base for vertical installation of the iron. It heats the sole to the desired temperature in 5 seconds, after which it is possible to use the stand-alone device for another 30-40 seconds.
Advantages:
- Compact docking station;
- Protection against the appearance of lime deposits;
- Non-stick ceramic coating;
- Large 380 ml large water tank;
- Drop-stop system.
Disadvantages:
- The temperature in fact is slightly lower than expected.
If your wardrobe is not crammed with linen shirts and denim suits, and there is no extra money, Polaris Cordless will be the best wireless iron for you.
Top road models
The very definition of road irons speaks of their compactness and low weight. Unfortunately, manufacturers have to sacrifice many useful features for this.
Scarlett SC-SI30T01 - for overseas travel
In the compact kilowatt model fit all the maximum useful functions that are available for road irons: a compartment for water (it is located in the handle of the device), steam adjustment and sprinkler to facilitate ironing. By the way, the handle is foldable here, so finding a place in the suitcase for baby Scarlett will be easy.
It's great that such an inexpensive iron can work in networks with different voltages - an important function for fans of foreign travel. To all the nice features of the new product, you should add the GlissAir sole with improved slip.
Advantages:
- Two voltage levels;
- Foldable handle;
- There is a water tank;
- Slip coating sole.
Disadvantages:
- No anti-scale protection.
Scarlett SC was specially created for avid travelers, but when you return home you will use it, especially when you have to quickly iron out small things with tucks and folds.
Polaris PIR 1005T - the lightest iron
The device from Polaris was the easiest in the family of road irons. At the same time, its creators managed to install a 1 kW heater inside and keep the steam function at an acceptable level, and even with a steam boost.
The iron can be used not only when traveling, but also at home: a narrow sole with an elongated spout easily “pulls” into folds, armholes of sleeves and other hard-to-reach places.
Advantages:
- Small weight - 620 g;
- Narrow nose;
- Many small steam holes;
- Foldable handle for compact storage;
- Measuring cup in the set.
Disadvantages:
- The hem of the sole can pull the fabric.
If you go on a short trip with a minimum of things, the Polaris PIR 1005T is quite suitable as a light companion. And the steaming function allows you to quickly put in order even clothes made of thick fabric.
Maxwell MW-3057 VT - with non-stick coating
One of the few road irons, on the sole of which a non-stick coating is provided, will cope with the ironing of almost any fabric without damaging it. And those folds that hot ceramics can't handle can be easily stripped off.
There is also a water sprayer, as well as a steam boost function. Well, like all modern road models, Maxwell has a folding handle that makes the device even more compact.
Advantages:
- Fast heating, despite the power of 800 W;
- Sole with non-stick coating;
- Possibility of vertical steaming;
- Adjustable steam;
- Work from networks 115-230;
- The opening of the water compartment tightly closed cap-lid.
Disadvantages:
- The cord takes up a lot of space.
To call a model from Maxwell purely a road iron is quite difficult: the weight of the device is 1.4 kg, and the wire prevents compactly packing it in the luggage. But as a compact home assistant, he is good, especially if you have a lot of capricious things from thin fabric.
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