Hands up who like ironing…
Ok. Let’s be honest. Ironing clothes can be a chore, but a lot of that is down to the type of iron you’re using and what you’re using it for. The truth is that irons come in lots of shapes and sizes and are specialists at different things.
So, if you know what to look for, it can really help smooth out what we don’t always like about ironing. But with the right steam iron, ironing can become quicker, easier and something you’ll no longer dread doing.
Best steam iron for clothes
When it comes to an iron for everyday use, reliability and efficiency are key. Steam is a game-changer when it comes to ironing, so look for a powerful steam output and a durable soleplate. An ergonomic design means that it’s comfortable during extended ironing sessions, and an iron on the lighter side is always a blessing for those mammoth ironing sessions.
Temperature control is a must too. Delicate fabrics require special care, so lower heat settings, a gentle steam burst and and a non-stick soleplate will prevent damage to your finery. Keeping your silk, lace, and chiffon in top condition has never been easier.
Best affordable iron
A great value iron doesn’t mean settling for lots less. Maybe you only need to iron the occasional shirt for an interview or wedding. If you're on a budget but still want a great iron, prioritise those essential features that are must-have.
So, you’ll want adjustable temperature settings so you can adjust heat to match fabric type. A non-stick soleplate will mean you can glide across your clothes for a nice, even finish.
Why not try
The Essentials Steam Iron proves that you don't have to break the bank for wrinkle-free clothes. Its steam shot function is great for smoothing out problem creases. And the 1.9-metre cord gives you plenty to work with.
Best iron for hard water
We’ve all seen those old, stained irons that you’re nervous to use on a clean white shirt. A lot of the blame can be put on the mineral deposits left on the soleplate by hard water. That’s why you should always look for anti-scale features and a self-cleaning system to tackle mineral build up. It also means a longer lifespan for your iron.
Why not try
As far as filtration goes, the Tefal Ultimate Pure steam iron is hard to beat. Its advanced scale filter stops scale stains and filters steam of calcium. You can also remove the filter and give it a clean to keep it working at its best. And because it’s got a huge 350ml tank, that means you’ll need to fill it less often.
Tip: To keep your iron working at its best, it’s important to keep your iron clean.
Best iron for dress shirts
Dress shirts demand crisp, wrinkle-free perfection. But how to get this? You need a combination of high steam pressure and precise temperature control, making it a breeze to achieve that polished, professional look for your shirts. (We’ve also put together some ironing tips for beginners.)
Why not try
There are lots of irons that could vie for best dress shirt iron, but the Breville PressXpress Steam Generator Iron is a great candidate. Its 6 bars of pressure and 245g steam shot will help you remove creases quickly. And the precision tip on its ceramic soleplate is a specialist at buttons, zips, collars and all the other awkward challenges of a dress shirt! Plus, it has a descaler to keep your crisp white shirts blemish free.
And with its precision tip and continuous steam function, it’s the perfect iron for sewing and crafting projects too.
Best cordless iron
Ironing with a short cord can be an incredibly awkward experience. So, for maximum freedom (and minimum frustration) a cordless iron is the way to go. The best cordless iron offers freedom from cords without sacrificing power or performance. With a detachable base, it's easy to charge and ready to tackle wrinkles in no time.
Why not try
You can charge your Beldray Cordless steam iron on its stand and then take it off to iron. And because it’s cordless, there’s no need to have to hover around a plug socket to get your ironing done. But what if you’ve forgotten to charge it between ironing piles? No problem. You can just reattach the power cord and use it as normal. Brilliant!
Best vertical steam iron
When you need to quickly refresh hanging garments or drapes, the irons that can do vertical steaming are your go-to choice. Vertical steam irons and clothes steamers not only remove wrinkles from hanging items, but they’re also good for people who aren’t confident trying to iron on a regular board.
Why not try
The Tefal Express Essential Steam Generator Iron sits on a 1.4-litre tank and has 5.3 bar pressure with an output of 270g/min of steam. It means that it can output enough steam at once to shoot onto your hanging clothes - so they’ll quickly lose their wrinkles without having to be pressed. Try the same thing with a smaller, less powerful iron, and you’ll find it far less effective.
Best lightweight steam iron
Ironing can be a strenuous task, especially if your iron is heavy. So the best lightweight irons keep their weight down by generally having smaller tanks and using lighter materials – like Teflon soleplates over heavier metal.
Why not try
Light by name, light by nature. The Igenix PowerSteam Lite fits a lot of ironing power into an efficient 0.8kg package. Its 220ml tank may not last a giant pile of ironing, but if you want to take the strain off your wrist, it’s a great option that’s light on the wallet too.
Best travel iron
While lightweight or cordless irons can be useful on the road, we’d suggest another option may be not taking an iron at all! If you’re saying at a hotel and can’t lay your hands on an iron or ironing board, a travel clothes steamer may be the way to go instead.
Why not try
The Steamery Cirrus 2 Travel Clothes Steamer is obviously no iron, but it’s compact, packs away easily and is ready to use in less than 30 seconds. The great thing about a steamer is you won’t need to find a makeshift ironing board either.
Want more options? We’ve also rounded up a great selection of clothes steamers with steaming advice.
FAQs
How often should I clean my iron?
Cleaning your iron regularly is essential to maintain its performance. It's a good practice to clean it every 1-2 months, but if you live in an area with hard water, more frequent cleaning might be necessary. Refer to your iron's user manual for specific cleaning instructions.
How to choose the right iron for my needs?
To choose the right iron, consider your ironing frequency, fabric types you regularly handle, and desired features like steam control and cord type. Budget is also a significant factor. Read reviews and compare features to find the perfect match.
What's the difference between a steam iron and a dry iron?
A steam iron uses water to produce steam, which helps remove wrinkles more efficiently. A dry iron, on the other hand, does not have a steam function and relies solely on the heat from the soleplate. Steam irons are generally more versatile and suitable for a wider range of fabrics.
For more irons advice and jargon busting, check out our Irons buying guide.
