It is difficult to imagine a modern apartment without a good iron, because with its help you can not only put your clothes in order, but also iron out linen and kitchen utensils. In order to choose a good option that will make the ironing process not only quick, but also comfortable, it is recommended to first look through the rating of irons and familiarize yourself with popular models. When choosing, it is advised to take into account not only the functionality, but also the quality of the appliance.
Content
- 1 What characteristics should the best iron have?
- 2 Iron rating: basic functions, sole selection
- 3 Rating of irons for quality and reliability: major manufacturers
- 4 Why do you need travel irons: the main advantages of devices
- 5 Review of popular models of Philips irons intended for home use
- 6 Review of the best models of irons and steam generators "Tefal"
- 7 Review of the best steam irons for home use
- 8 Review of the models of the best wireless irons
What characteristics should the best iron have?
To understand how to choose the best iron for the home, first of all, you should pay attention to the power of the device, because the heating rate depends on this parameter, but it is important to understand that this indicator does not affect the quality of the iron itself.
Helpful advice! For ironing modern fabrics, strong heating is not needed, because basically they need to be ironed at low temperatures. The high temperature is useful for ironing bedding, towels and cotton underwear.
In the rating of iron models, devices that provide high steam pressure are valued. It is they who will iron things faster, but at the same time the power consumption will not increase. Some firms produce models that are super powerful. In them, the steam generator quickly warms up to the desired operating temperature, a large amount of steam is generated, supplied under high pressure - up to 6-6.5 bar. Most often, such powerful irons are used in dry cleaners or in industries, because in ordinary household conditions such power is often not needed.
In the ranking of the best irons, the most popular are devices whose power ranges from 1300 to 1700 W, providing a steam pressure of up to 4 bar.
Companies offer a wide range of irons for every taste. Some devices are distinguished by the presence of a water tank built into the body.In order to get the required amount of steam, you need to press a button. As a result, water will begin to flow to the heating element preheated to a certain temperature, where it will turn into steam. Due to the presence of holes in the sole of the iron, steam comes out, under its influence, creases and other bruises are smoothed out. Usually, the size of the container does not exceed 250-300 ml, therefore, with prolonged ironing, you will have to constantly fill the tank.
Due to the presence of a small water tank, conventional irons are larger and somewhat cumbersome, but there is a significant plus - a lower cost compared to models with a separate steam generator. The steam generator itself is a small iron with a hose. After being connected to the network, the unit heats the water in the boiler tanks and begins to turn it into steam, which flows through the hose to the sole of the iron. The device itself is more compact and lighter, and the steam is released under higher pressure.
The main thing that distinguishes the steam generator from an ordinary iron is the presence of a rather large water tank, usually 2.5 liters. This volume makes it possible to iron a large number of clothes at a time. However, in some models, you can add water without interrupting the ironing process. To make the steam generator last longer, experts advise pouring only distilled water into it.
Iron rating: basic functions, sole selection
The main component of any iron is its sole, because it is this element that comes into contact with the fabric during operation, so it is responsible for the quality of smoothing. To understand which coating of the iron is best, you should study the features of the main options and figure out how they affect the efficiency and speed of the iron. The main materials used to make the outsole include the following:
- Cermet and ceramics. The cost of irons with this coating is the highest, because they easily slide over the surface of the fabric, do not spoil it and do not leave wrinkles. In addition, such a sole is practically scratch-resistant and easy to clean. Another plus is that ceramics retain heat for a longer period.
- Stainless steel. A durable sole that is not subject to mechanical stress, has an average rate of both warm-up and cooling, glides well on the fabric and is easy to clean. In order for the stainless sole to last longer, it is covered with additional dusting.
- Aluminum. The material itself is considered a good heat conductor, while the sole of the iron will warm up as quickly as possible and cool down quickly. The main disadvantage of the coating is that it scratches quickly and can ruin delicate clothing, forming puffs or cuts on it. Some irons can leave silvery marks on light colored fabrics.
- Teflon. Irons or steam generators with Teflon soles will not stick to the fabric or burn through the clothes, while they have a good sliding speed during the ironing process. The disadvantages include the fact that the surface is easily scratched by metal accessories, which can cause deformation of the base.
Helpful advice! To decide which iron soleplate is best, it is advised to read the reviews about the model before buying. You need to know that irons with removable attachments designed for delicate or thin fabrics are especially popular. Special attachments do not heat up to high temperatures and prevent deformation of clothes.
If it is difficult to decide for yourself which sole of the iron is the best, it is recommended to give preference to models with a double sole, which comes with the device and attaches to the base using reliable clips.With such a nozzle, you can safely iron thin silk or synthetic fabrics, because steam is supplied to the base at a low temperature, and the possibility of water droplets getting on the fabric is also excluded. When choosing a sole, one should not forget about choosing its shape. If you often have to iron clothes with a lot of details or children's clothes, it is better to choose a model with a pointed toe, which will simplify the ironing process and provide freedom of action.
Other important characteristics to consider when ranking the best irons
To cope with ironing faster, irons with a steam function are more suitable, because when hot moistening, the fabric is quickly and easily smoothed, even on overdried laundry. Holes in the sole provide good steam conductivity: the more holes, the faster the fabric is moistened and steamed. It is also necessary to pay attention to the fact that the speed of the ironing will be influenced not only by the number, but also by the location of the holes. Most often, in the ratings of home irons, leading positions are taken by models where a cluster of small holes is located on the nose and on the wide back of the sole, and larger holes are located along both sides.
Spray is one of the elementary functions that is present in most models of conventional irons, its main task is to spray water from the hole located on the spout of the device. Spray is useful when steam is undesirable for the fabric.
Depending on the type of model, steaming can be vertical or horizontal, and additionally, for a better ironing, the spray and steam function is used. The amount of steam generated by the iron per minute of operation is measured in grams or milliliters, as standard this indicator varies from 30 to 100 g / min.
The main difference between vertical steaming is the ability to iron clothes that are on a hanger, which is especially convenient if you need to tidy up your suit or dress before going out. This function is useful for aligning curtains hanging on the eaves.
Helpful advice! According to reviews, good irons are distinguished by the presence of a regulator of the intensity of the steam supply, controlled using a conveniently located handle. Thus, you can select the optimal power depending on the thickness and degree of wrinkling of the fabric.
In the rating of irons in terms of quality, models are highly valued, which have the functions "Steam emission" or "Turbo steam", which contribute to the intensive supply of steam to the fabric. It is with this option that it is much easier to flatten clothes made of thick fabrics such as linen or denim. In addition, this function provides self-cleaning of the iron, because the powerful steam jet cleans the holes and the sole of the accumulated dirt and scale.
In conventional irons, the maximum steam supply is at 90 g / min, and in steam generators it reaches 120 g / min. It should be borne in mind that the steam generator delivers powerful steam much faster and more often, since, unlike a conventional iron, it has a large reservoir of liquid.
In the ratings of the best irons of 2019, models equipped with an automatic shutdown function occupy high positions. It is this feature that provides the greatest safety, because if you forget the switched on iron on the board, then after a few seconds of inactivity it will automatically stop working, which will prevent possible surface fire and damage to the integrity of the fabric.
Rating of irons for quality and reliability: major manufacturers
Today, irons are produced by almost all firms that manufacture household appliances. Each manufacturer complements the models with certain functions and convenient "chips".It is almost impossible to determine exactly which firm the iron is better, because much here depends on the features of using the device, personal requirements and preferences. If you read the reviews of irons, it will become clear that the most popular are the devices of the following manufacturers.
Braun. The main distinguishing feature of Braun irons is a large number of uniquely shaped steam holes that facilitate the ironing process. Most of the manufacturer's models are equipped with the Textile Protector nozzle, which provides intensive steam for clothes made from delicate fabrics. The soles of some devices are characterized by the presence of a sapphire coating, which is used for the easiest movement of the device. In most cases, the models are characterized by a power indicator of 2000 W and a rather high price - from 3 to 8 thousand rubles for an iron and from 12 to 28 thousand rubles for a steam generator.
Tefal. The company that was the first to produce irons with the highest quality ceramic base, which contributes to the easiest sliding on fabric. As the reviews confirm, the ratings of the 2017 irons indicate that the devices with Ultragliss soles, equipped with a steam power regulator and a system for raising the cord over the laundry, deserve great praise. The main advantage of Tefal irons is a large selection of models and prices, which range from 1.5 to 12 thousand rubles.
Bosch. In the ratings of the best home irons, the products of the German manufacturer have occupied leading positions for many years. At the same time, the company's engineers focus not only on the appearance of devices and the quality of the devices, but also on ensuring maximum user safety and guaranteed protection against accidental fire. In retail outlets, a large selection of models is presented that will satisfy the needs of any user both in terms of functionality and at a price that ranges from 1.5 to 23 thousand rubles. According to customer reviews, Bosch irons are fully consistent with their declared value.
Other More Affordable Brands Ranking Best Home Irons
Philips. Almost all of the brand's appliances are coated with a combination of Careeza composite and specially coated aluminum. Other models are more economical due to the fact that the outsole heats up faster, and the protective coating is less susceptible to mechanical damage. According to reviews, Philips irons have a high level of protection against scale and convenient steam settings. The price range is from 1.2 to 13 thousand rubles.
Vitek. A budget company, the quality of irons of which is not inferior to the more famous and popular brands. The manufacturer offers a choice of irons with different types of soles and a wide power range, while many models are equipped with additional functions. If you look at the ratings of the best budget irons, you will notice that Vitek's products occupy one of the leading positions.
Scarlett. Is one of the manufacturers that produce household appliances for the home. The main slogan of the company is to create the most easy-to-use product with an optimal set of functions. The company's lineup includes irons with ceramic and steel soles, which are equipped with a special coating that protects clothes from deformation. The cheapest Scarlett irons cost from 1 to 7 thousand rubles.
Irons from other companies such as Maxwell, Rowenta, Redmond, Zelmer or Moulinex also have decent models from which to choose a useful appliance for your home. Separately, one can single out the most budgetary options from Saturn, which will become a good assistant in everyday life, especially if the purchase budget is significantly limited.
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Why do you need travel irons: the main advantages of devices
Those who are often on business trips far from home and who need to always monitor their appearance should have a small iron on hand, because even clothes neatly folded in a suitcase will inevitably have creases or bruises. Thanks to its compact size, the travel iron can be easily placed even in a small suitcase, and in terms of characteristics, many models will not be inferior to stationary appliances. Other advantages of compact devices:
- Simple functionality. Most of the models are not burdened with a large number of functions, because many of them will not be useful at all on the road.
- Saving. A person who is constantly on the move does not always have enough time to take care of clothes, and having a small iron will help avoid some expenses, because ironing services in most hotels are paid.
- No need to take a lot of things with you. In case of contamination, clothes can be washed in any sink; using a travel model, it is easy to give it its original appearance after washing.
- Accelerated drying. Using a small iron on the road can help you dry damp clothes faster.
- Low price. Unlike home appliances, small irons have a lower cost, which saves on purchase.
What are the best models of travel irons highlighted by users?
Most companies produce models of travel irons, below will be considered the rating of irons in 2019, based on real customer reviews. It is these devices that have proven themselves well in operation.
SUPRA IS-2700. The model, which costs only 990 rubles, is distinguished by a power of 1000 W, and also has a sole made of stainless steel. For a better ironing experience, a built-in 100 ml water tank is available. The manufacturer offers a choice of two color options - white and blue. The main benefits include:
- good power;
- the presence of a steam supply system;
- folding handle, although according to some opinions the handle is loosely fixed.
Scarlett SC-1135S. The sole of the device is made of stainless steel, the maximum power is 800 W. The presence of a system of constant steam supply and vertical steaming allows you to put things in order even from dense and rigid materials. There are three color options available to choose: white, cyan and blue. The device comes with a measuring cup for filling the container with water. The main disadvantages of Scarlett irons are low power and lack of an automatic shutdown function. The average price of a model in stores is 970 rubles.
Rowenta DA 1510. Despite its modest dimensions, the base of the appliance is equipped with 200 steam holes, which turns the appliance into a portable steamer. The power of the model is 1000 W, and the power of the steam blow reaches 45 g / min. Other advantages include a long cord and a storage case included in the kit. A groove for convenient ironing of the places between the buttons increases the maneuverability of the device. The presence of a large number of advantages also determines how much an iron costs: the average price in a store is 2.1 thousand rubles.
Philips GC 651. It features an attractive design and the presence of a vertical steaming system that allows you to iron clothes that are hanging on a hanger. The sole is characterized by the presence of a non-stick coating, and the handle is made of soft material for a comfortable grip. The main disadvantage is the lack of a folding handle. Price - 1.7 thousand rubles.
VITEK VT-1227. Powerful device (1000 W), which is designed for both dry and wet ironing using steam. There is a special groove on the sole for convenient bypassing the buttons. Main advantages:
- foldable handle;
- case for transportation;
- low price - 1150 rubles.
According to reviews, the rating of irons for the road is headed by the VITEK model - VT-1228 with a stainless steel base and a 40 ml water tank. The power of the device is 1000 W. The iron has a number of useful features such as steam control, descaling and self-cleaning that make it easier to use. The price for this iron is in the affordable segment and reaches 1560 rubles.
Review of popular models of Philips irons intended for home use
The most budget model of the brand is the GC2990 / 20 Power Life, which, despite its domestic use, has a power of 2300 watts. Thanks to this, the steam blow speed of the iron reaches 140 g / min, which will be enough to smooth out difficult folds on thick clothes. The fabric is reliably protected, because there is a system of protection against drops. Smooth and easy movement of the device is ensured by the high quality SteamGlide sole, covered with a special layer that prevents corrosion. Thanks to the high-quality sole, it will be possible to smooth even the most wrinkled wardrobe items. Other advantages of the iron:
- comfortable and ergonomic handle that makes it easy to operate the device;
- support for vertical steam function;
- attractive cost - about 4 thousand rubles;
- high rate of base heating.
Useful advice! As evidenced by the reviews of the GC2990 / 20 model, most users practically did not notice the drawbacks when using it.
Steam iron "Philips" GC7703 / 20 Fast Care belongs to rather expensive models, the price of the device starts at 10 thousand rubles. The main advantage is the fact that it can be used to iron any type of fabric. In addition, the steam generator is equipped with a high pressure pump and an impressive 2.2 l water tank. This device has a SteamGlide sole, which not only glides easily on the surface, but also allows for a large number of maneuvers. A significant disadvantage of the iron is the lack of automatic shutdown. The main advantages of the iron:
- fast heating;
- steam shock speed - up to 200 ml / min;
- the presence of a built-in indicator that notifies you of the need to clean the device;
- pleasant ergonomics.
In the ranking of Philips irons, the GC5036 / 20 Azur Elite model occupies a good position, which is characterized by a very high power - up to 3000 W, which allows you to steam clothes at a speed of up to 260 ml / min. This will be sufficient for tough and dense fabrics. The base is made of stainless steel with SteamGlide Advanced coating, which helps to make ironing as easy as possible. The model is distinguished by competent functioning, when both the steam supply rate and the base heating temperature are regulated.
An important plus is the support of the automatic shutdown function, which prevents accidents. The price of the model is about 9.5 thousand rubles. Main advantages:
- innovative sensor DynamiQ;
- large reservoir for liquid;
- attractive appearance;
- OptimalTEMP technology;
- a large selection of operating modes;
- quick automatic descaling, which lasts no more than 15 seconds.
Separately, we can highlight the wireless model GC 2088, for which a special remote base is used for heating. It is on it that the iron will be located in between ironing. The device is convenient to use due to its compact size and no cable.
Review of the best models of irons and steam generators "Tefal"
Tefal is a well-known French company that has been producing household appliances for many years. One of the advantages of the manufacturer is the constant striving for development and the release of improved models that appear every year.To help you understand which irons are best, the most popular models of 2018-2019 will be discussed below.
Ultimate Anti-Calc FV9747 is considered one of the most powerful irons, this figure reaches 2.8 kW, which allows it to be used on almost any fabric. The main difference between the device is the presence of a container for collecting limescale, which does not take much time to clean. Despite the large weight of the model (about 2.5 kg), the presence of a sintered sole ensures easy gliding during operation. The price is about 10 thousand rubles. The device is in the top of the irons thanks to the following advantages:
- constant steam supply - 55 ml / min., the maximum steam boost reaches 230 ml / min;
- gives good results with vertical steaming;
- has an elongated teardrop-shaped nose that allows you to easily smooth clothes in hard-to-reach places;
- additionally, the kit includes a nozzle for delicate and thin fabrics that do not leave marks on clothes;
- automatic intensity of steam supply depends on the set temperature regime;
- special coating on the palladium sole provides good self-cleaning and minimal maintenance of the base;
- there is a convenient 2 m cord.
FV9747 is an auto-shut off iron that will be a great helper for any user, as it has all the advantages of a steam generator, but at the same time is compact in size.
In the rating of high-quality irons of the inexpensive segment, the FV2548 E0 model takes a good position, because it has a power of 2.2 kW, and the price of the device is only 3.3 thousand rubles. The constant steam supply is at 35 ml / min., The maximum steam output is 100 ml / min. The main advantage is the presence of a ceramic base, which is not capable of damaging the fabric and easily slides during work. Also noteworthy are such useful functions as an anti-drip system, automatic protection against scale and easy self-cleaning. Among the advantages are also distinguished:
- the ability to adjust the steam supply;
- capacious water tank - 270 ml;
- optional front spray for the most wrinkled areas;
- competent distribution of holes along the sole and their high concentration in the area of the nose;
- function of vertical steaming.
The main disadvantages, according to consumer reviews, include the lack of automatic shutdown and an impressive weight even with an empty boiler, which is 1.6 kg.
Review of the best steam irons for home use
Steam irons are considered the most effective ironing devices. Thanks to the powerful supply of steam, it will be possible to correct the appearance of any clothing in the shortest possible period of time. Below is a review based rating of quality steam irons.
Philips GS 4529/07. A steamer iron used to iron even delicate fabrics. It has an attractive appearance and a fairly high power - 2600 W. In this case, the steam shock occurs at a rate of 210 ml / min. It is important that the model automatically adjusts the intensity of the constant steam supply. To do this, you only need to correctly set the temperature for a specific type of material from which the clothes are made. Main functions:
- automatic shutdown;
- double water purification system;
- container for accumulation of scale;
- protection against accidental drops.
The ergonomic handle and the correct arrangement of the control buttons contribute to the ease of use of the device. The sole has a titanium coating, which is resistant to scratches and damage. The MAX function provides powerful steam for vertical steaming of delicate garments.To simplify this task, a special attachment is included in the kit. Despite the fact that the device is characterized by high energy consumption, thanks to the energy-saving ECO mode, it is possible to reduce electricity consumption by 20%. The price of a steam iron is 9-10 thousand rubles.
Braun SI7042GR. The model is considered universal for those who, in addition to steaming, often use a standard dry iron. The temperature and heat conditions are controlled manually, which is especially suitable for conservative users who do not trust smart technology. The model features an improved stainless steel sole, reliably protected from leaks. Main advantages:
- large water tank - 300 ml;
- convenient location of the adjustment on the handle;
- the longest network cable - 2.5 m;
- the presence of four blocks of steam holes, ensuring uniform distribution of steam over the base;
- auto-off, self-cleaning, anti-scale functions;
- low cost with wide functionality - 7 thousand rubles;
- weight - 1.3 kg.
Overview of models of the best wireless irons
The main advantage of the device with a separate base is the absence of a cord, which often interferes with ironing (especially multilayer clothes with a large number of small elements). Another advantage is the versatility of the device, which is equally convenient to use for both left-handers and right-handers.
Useful advice! When working with a stationary iron, the cord is often twisted, which leads to its breakage. The absence of a network cable provides greater mobility and increases the working range.
Tefal FV9976. It is considered the best iron for the home (2019 rating) in the category of the most powerful wireless appliances. Due to its autonomy, the model is convenient to use for vertical steaming of things, and the absence of a cord makes it easy to work with small children's clothing or one that has a complex shape. All previously released wireless models were characterized by low power, but Tefal engineers were able to correct the situation and create a 2600 W iron with a maximum steam boost of 200 g / min. In this case, the charging speed when installed on the base does not exceed 4 seconds. Features of operation:
- battery life - 25 sec .;
- the presence of a charging indicator;
- shock absorber ball, which helps to accurately place the device on charging;
- the presence of a frontal spray and vertical steaming.
The automatic shut-off iron features an anti-lime bar to prevent limescale build-up. The use of the device is facilitated by the functions of protection against leakage and self-cleaning of the base. The main disadvantage of the wireless model is the inability to install the device on the "heel", as all housewives do when using stationary models.
It is interesting! Many users compare irons from different manufacturers. For example, if you ask yourself which iron is better - Tefal or Philips, then the habits of a person to purchase household appliances from one or another manufacturer are more influencing here. In terms of reliability, cost and quality, these devices are approximately in the same category.
In the rating of the reliability of wireless irons, the Philips model EasySpeed Plus Cordless GC2088 is high, which has a slightly lower power than the previous version, here it reaches 2400 W. The device also lags a little behind in terms of the power of steam shock, which is 150 g / min., Constant steam supply - 35 g / min. Main advantages:
- high-quality ceramic base, gliding well over the surface and protected from mechanical damage;
- quick readiness to work;
- automatic shutdown;
- automatic cord reeling on the charging base;
- the ability to add water during operation;
- easy descaling.
During operation, it is required to put the device on charge from time to time until the indicator glows blue. The maximum recharging time does not exceed 6 seconds. The indicator light allows you to easily monitor the operation of the device and recharge it on time.
It is recommended to choose an iron based not only on ratings, but also on reviews of real buyers. First of all, before buying, you need to understand for yourself what basic functions the device should perform and how often it will be used, because the choice of model will depend on these criteria. It is important to focus on reliability indicators and value for money, since many popular companies like to increase value only at the expense of a well-known name, although you can find more budget models from less well-known manufacturers.