How to Choose the Best Steam Iron
If you're a seasoned professional who still wants that professional touch, investing in an expensive flat iron is a good idea. They're great for sealing in a few details that don't matter when you're cutting, straightening or shaping. But if you like doing it on a whim, and aren't concerned about a few little details, you could end up with an iron that's not worth your time or money. These tips will help you avoid making that mistake, buying the wrong model of flat iron for your needs.
First: Do some research! An easy way to see all the different models available is to go online and look at consumer reviews. A tool like Consumer Reports can walk you through what models are popular for specific situations, what hot irons work best for them, and which models have the fewest problems. You'll also find consumer reports on major brands of professional steam generator irons.
Second: Don't buy an iron with a low steam boost capacity. While it may seem like a good choice on the surface, a low steam generator iron will only cut through stubborn creases. And it's likely that even the best-trained professional won't be able to take long enough to get those creases down for good. Instead, you may want to invest in an iron that's designed for heavy duty steam sessions. Look for irons with a higher steam boost capacity, and you'll have better results for longer periods of straightening and shaping.
Third: It's probably best to avoid any "professional-looking" steam irons, at least if you're just doing some basic, general ironing. Most professional irons have very thick, heavy-duty steel handles and designs. These elements make it difficult to hold on to, making it nearly impossible to effectively use with one hand. And while the extra ironing weight may make it more comfortable to carry around, it makes it harder to make precise, even light-handed, passes with your steamer.
Fourth: Do stick to using a corded electric steamer instead of a corded steam iron. Although the latter can provide greater steam pressure, the former has quicker heat up time. The former is also typically more versatile because it can fit into tight spaces, where steam generators can't. Finally, although cordless irons do have their uses, they aren't quite as portable and lightweight as corded steam generators.
Fifth: If you do decide to use a steam iron, make sure you have the proper ironing tools. First, a good clothing steamer will come with several irons that work in different ways. You may not be able to use your steamer's iron on certain kinds of fabrics, for example, but this doesn't mean you can't purchase additional irons that are capable of targeting specific fabrics. Check out the iron's features and reviews to see which irons work best for your particular ironing needs.
And finally: Your clothes will look best when they're ironed, so make sure you buy the best steam iron you can afford. Philips irons, for example, have won multiple awards from top consumer magazines and websites for their features, ease of use and durability. While it costs more, you'll pay for quality when you buy a Philips iron. Other high-quality irons are available at more affordable prices, and you can even find them at stores that sell household appliances.
There you go. That's five tips on how you can improve your buying decision. If you need help finding the perfect steam cleaner, check out our review of the Philips Electric Radiant. If you're ready to shop for a new electric steam bath, check out our review of the Casa Brasole electric steam bath. Finally, if you need help cleaning up your home, check out our review of the Sage Smartmatic Pro steam cleaner.