To make life easier for a housewife, engineers are developing functional and technological devices. An iron with a steam generator allows you to iron a large amount of laundry at one time, and such bulky items as sheets or duvet covers can be ironed several times. All this significantly reduces the time for household chores. The main differences from a traditional iron are considered to be the lower weight of the device and a long operating time without adding water.
Content
- 1 Features of the design of the iron-steam generator
- 2 Advantages and disadvantages of irons: user reviews of appliances with a steam generator
- 3 Iron with a steam generator: the main types of devices
- 4 Is it possible to compare a steam iron with a steamer: how to make the right choice
- 5 Iron with a steam generator: which one is better to choose based on technical parameters
- 6 Overview of steam generators from popular manufacturers
- 6.1 The best models of irons with a steam generator from the firms "Karcher" and "Bork"
- 6.2 Popular models of steam irons "Brown": characteristics, prices
- 6.3 A selection of high-quality models of German Bosch irons
- 6.4 The main advantages of Philips irons with a steam generator
- 6.5 The most popular French Tefal irons with a steam generator
Features of the design of the iron-steam generator
Many people think about which is better - an iron or a steam generator. Here everything will depend on the features of using the device. If you need to iron shirts or trousers once a week, then an ordinary iron with a steaming function will be enough in this situation. If you need to iron a large amount of clothes every day or iron bed linen several times a week, then you cannot do without an iron and steam.
Helpful information! Before choosing an iron with a steam generator, you should pay attention to the size of the water tank. It is on this criterion that the duration of continuous ironing will depend.
The main disadvantage of an ordinary iron is considered to be a small capacity for water, which is usually not enough for ironing bed linen or heavily wrinkled clothes that have passed through an electric dryer. In this case, you will have to constantly stop the process and add water to the tank. With the purchase of an iron with a steam generator, such a problem can be avoided, because the boiler generating steam is taken out separately and connected to the device using a special hose. For this reason, the weight and size of the iron will be significantly less than those of a standard device.
Another difference between an iron with a steam generator is the absence of a large number of regulators and settings, because it is permissible to iron clothes from any kind of fabric with hot steam without changing the temperature of ironing. It is recommended only if necessary to reduce the strength of the action of steam in order to reduce energy consumption, especially if you iron not very wrinkled items or items made of delicate fabrics that practically do not wrinkle.
It does not matter which steam generator is purchased, all the same, regardless of the model, the device produces more steam than an ordinary iron. The powerful jet will help you to deal with even the most difficult folds on dense or stiff fabrics in a short time.
Advantages and disadvantages of irons: user reviews of appliances with a steam generator
To understand what is better to choose - an iron or a steam generator, you need to know all the advantages and disadvantages of the second, because ordinary irons have been used in everyday life for a long time and a large amount of information about them is already known to the consumer. The first thing you should pay attention to is the reduced weight of the iron with a steam generator, which allows you to use the device with ease and convenience.
A very important advantage is considered to be that the steam is released under high pressure, which significantly saves time when ironing. The fact that some things can be ironed with high quality, even by folding them several times, makes it possible to save a large amount of effort. Based on the reviews, other advantages can be identified that contribute to the choice of a steam generator:
- A separately removed boiler for heating water has a significant volume, while the size of the tank will not affect the weight of the iron itself. The more water is placed, the more it will turn out to iron clothes, and in some models the function of adding liquid without interrupting work is available.
- The high steam pressure during vertical steaming allows you to efficiently smooth things hanging on a trempel, or curtains that do not need to be removed from the cornice, which will also reduce the time spent on work.
- When using an iron with a free-standing steam generator, accidental drops of water on things are excluded, which is especially important for white clothes, on which splashes often leave stains.
- Safety of use is ensured by the low heating temperature of the sole itself, which guarantees the absence of the likelihood of a fire, even if you forget to turn off the iron before leaving. Most models are distinguished by an automatic shutdown function, which is activated after some time of inactivity.
Before choosing a steam generator, you should also familiarize yourself with some of the shortcomings, so as not to be disappointed after the purchase. In reviews of devices, users point to the following points:
- The high humidity of the steam flow and the low heating temperature of the base do not allow drying the garment before use, as can be done with a standard iron.
- Many steam generator options have a large hose and wire that cannot always be folded compactly.
- If you use regular tap water, you will often have to descale it with special agents. The self-cleaning function of the boiler is absent in most models due to the complexity of the device itself.
Another significant drawback that irons with a steam generator differ in is the rather high price. When buying, you need to take into account that ordinary irons also have certain negative characteristics that steam generators do not have, these include:
- frequent topping up of water in the tank;
- weak steam boost and inability to smooth rough fabrics;
- the release of dirt from the holes of the sole;
- high risk of burning or deforming clothing;
- some types of soles, such as aluminum ones, leave marks on the fabric.
Iron with a steam generator: the main types of devices
There are many advantages to choosing a steam iron as your primary ironing device. For example, continuous high-pressure steam increases ironing efficiency several times compared to a conventional iron. To meet the needs of each user, manufacturers have developed several options for devices, which can be conditionally divided into 3 types.
Household. Such models are distinguished by their neat and compact appearance, which is able to attract the attention of any housewife. The devices are often lightweight - from 1 to 5 kilograms. The iron itself is connected to the liquid reservoir using a durable hose and is characterized by certain advantages, such as auto shut-off, protection against scale.
Industrial irons with a steam generator. In most cases, they are large and heavy - 6-14 kg. However, the large weight is easily compensated for by the long operating time without shutdown, which is especially important in production, atelier or dry cleaning conditions, when a large number of things need to be processed daily.
Semi-professional and professional steam irons. This type of device can be attributed to the golden mean between the above two options. Here you can highlight the use of high-quality materials, for example, a cork handle, which, unlike plastic, is more convenient to use, because even with prolonged use, the hand will not sweat. Semi-professional models are designed for long-term operation without refueling, and they also easily cope with dense fabrics folded several times.
Helpful information! Due to the design features, the iron with a steam generator can be used with or without an ironing board, placing things on any convenient surface.
Is it possible to compare a steam iron with a steamer: how to make the right choice
Despite the fact that both types of devices have a similar principle of operation, the result of their work will be significantly different. If among irons with a steam generator, not all models are distinguished by the presence of a vertical steaming function, then most steamers are created for this.
As for the appearance of the steamer, it is a vacuum cleaner with a brush at the end, through which a directed stream of steam comes out, leveling the fabric. You can work with the device without touching the fabric, however, to get the result, you still have to hold the clothes either from the bottom or from the wrong side. Therefore, it is recommended to use protective gloves when working with the steamer to prevent burns.
Interesting information! The main difference between one device and another lies in the features of its use. An iron with a steam generator was originally created for ironing. The main purpose of the steamer is to clean various surfaces, including fabric ones.
If an iron is not included with the steamer, then it will not work as a standard device. This is because there is only a plastic brush at the end of the device. It is especially effective for such purposes:
- cleaning carpets, upholstered furniture surfaces and disinfecting soft toys;
- removing traces of stickers and chewing gum;
- cleaning of floor coverings from various materials: tiles, linoleum, laminate, parquet, etc .;
- elimination of unpleasant or foreign odors from furniture and clothing;
- disinfection of bathrooms.
Of course, it will not work to perform the listed work with an iron with a steam generator, but it allows you to iron very crumpled fabrics and bed linen several times folded in a better quality. Only by comparing all the features of the devices will it be possible to make the right choice for yourself.
Iron with a steam generator: which one is better to choose based on technical parameters
In order not to have to think for a long time which iron with a steam generator to choose, experts recommend that you familiarize yourself in advance with the main characteristics that differ between different models of devices. The parameters should be selected based on the main purpose of using the device and, of course, with an eye to the price. How much does a steam generator cost? The cost is influenced by a large number of factors. It is not always necessary to purchase the most powerful device in order to use it in a standard household environment.
The power of an electric iron, like a steam generator, plays an important role. On the one hand, the more powerful the device, the more energy it consumes. On the other hand, the higher this indicator, the less time it will take to iron, the better the result you can get in the end. Thus, we can say that the cost of electricity will be approximately the same when buying a low-power and a powerful device, but the amount of time spent on work will differ.
Helpful information! Power is considered to be one of the defining criteria for cost. If saving time is not decisive, you can purchase an average-power 1600-2000 W device. If you want to get the job done faster, a steam generator with a capacity of 2400-3200 W is more suitable.
The factor that determines how much the iron holds water directly affects the duration of operation, because not all models are distinguished by the ability to add water without preliminary cooling, which significantly extends the ironing process over time. In addition to waiting for the appliance to cool down, it also takes time for it to warm up again. If you do not need to iron a large amount of bed linen and clothes day after day, a small steam generator with a volume of up to 1 liter will do.
Related article:
Steam generator for home: a versatile unit that ensures order
The main characteristics of the device: power, steam flow rate, additional functions. Most popular models.
The best steam generators are characterized by the presence of conveniently located controls that allow you to change the heating temperature of the sole, as well as the power of the steam jet, depending on the type of fabric. In the most expensive devices, the optimal ironing temperature is determined automatically. On average, the power of steam supply at a constant flow varies from 90 to 140 g / min, the force of the maximum steam shock is 150-360 g / min.
As for the base material, in this regard, the choice of a steam generator and a standard device is no different. The cheapest, lightest, but short-lived iron is considered to be with an aluminum base. However, today it is almost impossible to find a pure aluminum sole without an additional reinforcing layer. To improve the quality of the base, it is coated with a layer of Teflon, ceramic, palladium and other durable materials.
It used to be thought: the more the weight of the iron, the better it smoothes. In modern models, the mass of the device can only affect the convenience of use, because the main work is performed by a powerful stream of steam, smoothing out irregularities. Therefore, when choosing a weight, you should focus only on personal preferences.
Other important characteristics of irons: price, material, weight, design, options
Even the most expensive iron may not meet the stated requirements, and in general, cost is not considered a determining factor in the good quality of a particular model. The pricing will be influenced by a large number of nuances, including the manufacturer's trademark. You can find mid-priced devices that will not be inferior in performance to more expensive models, but you should still refrain from cheap goods of dubious quality in order not to quickly become disappointed in the purchase.
The steel sole remains optimal in quality, speed of heating and cooling, which is also distinguished by its durability. In any case, the surface should not be allowed to come into contact with metal accessories on clothing that could cause damage.
All modern models are equipped with the highest quality soles made of teflon, cermets and ceramics, easily sliding over the surface. Another advantage is the fact that the sole made of such materials cannot be damaged, smeared or deformed the fabric. However, they are also recommended to be handled with care and not subject to pinpoints or falls.
When choosing a design, you should not pay attention only to appearance. Here, ergonomics is considered the determining factor, because the comfort of work will depend on the ease of use. Ironing is already considered a rather laborious process, so a high-quality iron should make the work as easy as possible. To choose the most convenient and best iron with a steam generator, it is recommended to first hold the model in your hand and make sure it is convenient to use.
Helpful information! The ergonomic handle plays an important role in the selection, because the steam iron is quite often used for vertical steaming when you have to hold it on weight. If the model is too heavy and uncomfortable, your hands will quickly get tired and numb.
To save yourself from unnecessary worries and stressful situations, it is strongly recommended to give preference to models with an automatic shutdown function that is triggered after a few seconds of inactivity or inactivity. Thus, you will not be tormented by the thought of whether the included iron is forgotten on a horizontal surface. In addition, in the rating of irons with a steam generator, models with the following additional parameters are most appreciated:
- Built-in filters that allow you to use running or boiled water to fill the tank. In the absence of filters, only distilled water has to be poured, otherwise a quick failure of the device is possible.
- A system of protection against accidental drops. This is an important feature in preventing water stains on clothes, as it prevents steam from condensing into water coming out of the holes in the sole.
- Length of mains cable and steam hose. Here you should choose the middle ground, since too short options will not give freedom of action, and too long wires and hoses will interfere with normal operation.
Overview of steam generators from popular manufacturers
The Endever SkySteam-732 steam generator is characterized by high ironing quality, equal to the work of professional models, at the same time it has a budget price - about 4500-5000 rubles. Steam from the system is supplied at a pressure of 5 bar, and a constant flow is at 110 g / min, which makes it possible to iron bed linen folded in six layers with high quality, and at the same time get rid of strong folds. Designed to work even on tricky fabrics such as denim and linen.
When the steam boost function is activated, steam is dispensed at a speed of 180 g / min. Moreover, it is possible to independently change the power using the handle located on the boiler.
The volume of the water tank is designed for 1.2 liters, which is quite enough for an hour of continuous operation. The sole of the iron is made of stainless steel, and there is also a special groove for buttons. Compact storage provides a compartment where you can hide the power cord. Technical parameters of the device:
- water tank volume - 600 ml;
- power - 230 kW;
- cord length - 1.9 m;
- steam hose length - 2.05 m.
The main advantages of a vertical steaming iron include the presence of a convenient stand equipped with a heat-resistant coating.
The model 6437 Duetto Top by the Italian manufacturer Ariete is also popular. The price of an iron with a steam generator is 7,500 rubles, which makes it available to a large number of users. The main advantage can be considered a high-quality metal-ceramic sole, which is gentle even for delicate silk fabrics or sensitive synthetic materials.
The power of 2.4 kW is enough for the device to cope with even the most difficult folds, and this is also facilitated by a powerful steam boost - 300 g / min. In addition to the main tank, the body has an additional 300 ml water tank, which, if necessary, can be used for additional humidification.
High build quality also stands out among the advantages. All parts of the case fit tightly to each other, without forming gaps, and during operation there are no unnecessary creaks and backlashes. Among the main disadvantages, poor fastening on the surface of the boiler is noted, which is why the iron may tip over or slip.
The best models of irons with a steam generator from the firms "Karcher" and "Bork"
An iron with a steam generator "Karcher" - model SC 4 Easyfix Premium Iron is considered a complete home assistant. With the help of the device, you can not only smooth clothes with high quality, but also put the whole house in order. The set of the device, in addition to the iron, includes a large set of attachments that allow you to clean and disinfect surfaces made of any type of materials without using chemicals.
The ergonomic handle and the low weight of the entire device - 4 kg - contribute to ease of use. Thanks to the 2000 W power, the heating time of the boiler is only 4 minutes. The presence of two tanks with a volume of 0.5 and 0.8 liters is sufficient for continuous operation. The flow rate can be adjusted independently using a regulator conveniently located on the handle. Main advantages:
- the material from which the inside of the boiler is made is aluminum;
- maximum pressure - 3.5 bar;
- steam hose length - 2.3 m;
- length of the network hose - 5 meters;
- the presence of a child protection function and a safety valve;
- convenient funnel for filling water, built into the body;
- splash-proof housing;
- neat and attractive design.
The only drawback of the device can be considered a high cost - about 27 thousand rubles. If we consider that with the help of only one such device it is possible to put things in order in the whole house, as well as iron the linen, then the price is quite adequate.
The ultra-modern model of the iron with a built-in steam generator can be considered the Bork I780 device, characterized by a power of 2600 W. An iron with a Bork steam generator, even with a constant supply of steam at a low temperature, is able to iron woolen, silk and acrylic fabrics without leaving any streaks or unnecessary marks on them.
Helpful information! For safer ironing of delicate fabrics, manufacturers recommend using a special attachment, which is attached to the base with a magnet.
The device has an innovative system that helps prevent the formation of limescale, which is a polymer filter that accumulates lime and prevents it from penetrating into the steam chamber of the iron soleplate. The automatic cleaning function helps to keep the device in working condition longer. Safety of work is ensured by an automatic shutdown, which is activated after 30 seconds if the device is on the fabric, and after 8 minutes if it is standing upright.
Convenience is also added by the built-in LED screen, which allows you to quickly set up the iron to work with a specific fabric. Perfect and easy glide on the surface is possible thanks to the anodized sole, which is resistant to damage, even after contact with metal parts on clothing. Other parameters:
- steam boost - 235 g / min;
- constant steam flow rate - 60 g / min;
- the presence of a water level indicator and anti-drip system;
- several operating modes - minimum, average and maximum steam supply;
- weight - 1.76 kg;
- cable length - 2.5 m;
- price - 17 thousand rubles.
Popular models of steam irons "Brown": characteristics, prices
In the ranking of the best steam generator irons, Brown models are highly ranked, which are distinguished by their reliability, practicality, traditional design and simple operation. The CareStyle 5 IS 5022WH model is characterized by the presence of a thermostat that allows you to qualitatively fight creases on the fabric by using the right combination of heat and steam power.
In this case, the parameters can be adjusted based on the type of fabric. Another advantage is the presence of a dry ironing regime. A good work result is obtained thanks to the high-quality Eloxal 3D BackGlide base, made of anodized aluminum. Technical specifications:
- power - 2400 W;
- maximum pressure - 6 bar;
- continuous steam supply - 120 g / min. with a steam blow power - 340 g / min;
- volume of the water tank - 2 liters;
- integrated cleaning system with Calc-Clean indicator;
- the presence of an economical mode of operation;
- convenient LED screen;
- cost - 17,100 rubles.
Helpful advice! In order not to have to frequently repair the iron with a steam generator, the manufacturer recommends automatic cleaning every 4-5 times of use. At the same time, the automatic cleaning process does not take much time.
An interesting novelty of the company is the IS 204З CareStule model of a more budgetary segment, which has a price of 10,500 rubles. The vertical steam iron is equipped with a smooth Eloxal FreeGlide sole with a special Double Steam system that allows you to get twice the amount of steam, which significantly reduces ironing time. Facilitates work with the device and automatic control of the steam supply. The vertical position of the iron on the steam generator makes it possible to save space on its storage. Main parameters:
- power - 2200 W;
- pressure - 5 bar;
- tank volume - 1.3 l;
- hose length - 1.5 meters;
- weight - 2.6 kg;
- constant / maximum steam supply - 110/300 g / min.
A selection of high-quality models of German Bosch irons
Bosch steam generators have always been renowned for quality and reliability. The Serie 6 EasyComfort model, with a large number of advantages, has an acceptable cost - 17,600 rubles. The power of the device reaches 2400 W, due to which the period of readiness for operation takes only 2 minutes. It is convenient to control the level thanks to the transparent 1.5 liter water tank.
There is no need to worry about the reliability of fastening the device to the station, because the special fixation of the Secure Lock System, located at the end of the control panel, is responsible for this.The system independently selects the temperature regime for each type of fabric using the i-Temp program. To save energy, there is an energy saving mode. The sole is made of high quality glass ceramics, resistant to mechanical damage and scratches. The main advantages of an iron with a Bosch steam generator:
- pressure - 5.8 bar;
- constant steam supply - 120 g / min .;
- steam blow power - 380 g / min;
- vertical steaming function;
- water level and power indicator;
- automatic shutdown mechanism;
- Calc'n'clean cleaning system with automatic notification.
According to reviews, irons with a steam generator (this model) have only one drawback - a relatively loud operation.
The TDS 38311, equipped with a ceramic sole, also ranks well in the ranking. The device, despite its low cost (18 thousand rubles), is considered premium, because its power reaches 3.1 kW, which makes it possible to quickly cope even with strong folds and creases on dense or rough fabric. For more delicate materials, the Bosch steam generator iron has an economical mode, which, among other things, will also save energy.
Convenience is facilitated by uniform steam supply, powerful steam boost - 400 g / min. and the ability to adjust the temperature. Saving the device is provided by the overheating protection function. The advantages also include light weight and the presence of filters, which allows ordinary water to be poured into the boiler.
The main advantages of Philips irons with a steam generator
Irons with a Philips steam generator have been popular for a long time, because the company provides a large assortment and a choice of the desired characteristics and prices. In the budget segment, the GC7051 / 30 PerfectCare Viva model occupies a high position, featuring an attractive design that will appeal to most housewives. The price of the model is 11320 rubles.
Ease and convenience of work is ensured by the Optimal Temp technology, which automatically adjusts the operating mode depending on the material from which the clothes are made, which makes it possible not to sort the laundry before ironing. Long-term operation is possible thanks to the spacious boiler volume - 2 liters. Other benefits:
- high-quality and durable outsole with easy slip - SteamGlide Plus;
- automatic shutdown function;
- quick readiness for work and the presence of an economical mode;
- ergonomic handle, pleasant to the touch;
- good power - 2400 W;
- scale protection system.
The maximum steam pressure reaches 5.5 bar and the continuous steam supply is 120 g / min. Among the relative disadvantages can be distinguished not too powerful maximum steam supply - 230 g / min., As well as significant noise during operation.
Steam station "Philips" GC9670 / 50 PerfectCare Elite Plus belongs to the ultramodern models of "smart" irons with a steam generator. The surface of the garment is reliably protected from deformation thanks to the Optimal Temp function, which independently adjusts the parameters based on the type of fabric.
The T-ionicGlide sole is made of high-quality steel coated with titanium oxide, characterized by increased resistance to mechanical damage. The special arrangement of the steam holes ensures uniform heating and easy sliding. Main characteristics and advantages of the installation:
- power - 2.7 kW;
- quick readiness for work - 2 minutes;
- pressure - 7.7 bar;
- constant steam feed rate - 160 g / min;
- maximum force - 550 g / min;
- small weight - 0.8 kg;
- large tank volume - 1.8 liters;
- auto-off function and built-in Dynamiq motion sensor;
- self-cleaning system Easy De-Calc Plus, which removes scale and other dirt.
The only drawback of the steam system can be considered the high cost, which reaches 34-36 thousand rubles.
Useful advice! To make it easier to work with the steam station, it is recommended to get a special ironing board. In the ranking of the best ironing boards for a steam generator, the moisture-permeable Philips model GC260 / 05 occupies a worthy place. It has protruding folding wings, similar to the shoulders. The large size of the table top makes it easy to work even with large items.
The most popular French Tefal irons with a steam generator
Among inexpensive irons with a Tefal steam generator, the GV4630 model can be distinguished, which is considered optimal for domestic use, especially when used in tandem with an ironing board. The device is equipped with a convenient manual temperature control, which will please people who prefer conservative inventions. The Easy Gliding sole is made of ceramic, glides well on the surface, but is sensitive to scratches.
According to reviews, Tefal steam generators have a significant drawback - a small 700 ml water tank, and there is also no strong steam blow. Technical specifications:
- constant steam supply - 110 g / min;
- power - 2200 W;
- full warm-up speed - 4 minutes;
- pressure - 4.2 bar;
- the average price is 9 thousand rubles.
The GV9581 Pro Express Ultimate is considered a popular model of the brand, equipped with a high pressure boiler - up to 8 bar. It has not only a stylish and solid appearance, but also a large number of useful functions. On the handle of the device is the innovative Direct Control control panel, which allows you to choose one of four modes, including economical. Additional comfort is provided by the presence of a protection function against accidental drops and an auto-off system. Other parameters:
- tank volume - 1.9 l;
- power - 2600 W;
- maximum impact force - 600 g / min;
- continuous steam supply - 180 g / min.
The price of the Tefal steam generator reaches 29 thousand rubles. Reliable operation and long service life are ensured by a removable scale collector. The device is easy to care for, because cleaning the iron at home without the use of special tools is not difficult. To make it easier to iron clothes vertically, a special hook is included with the device.
An iron with a steam generator is considered an indispensable thing in a situation when you need to deal with ironing a large amount of clothes or linen every day. It will become an excellent helper for people who are fond of sewing clothes from various fabrics. Unlike a regular iron, which may not handle tough creases or just tough fabrics, most steam generators are suitable for any material. Before buying, it is important to correctly assess the features and frequency of use of the device.