- Types of devices for ironing
- Selection criteria
- Most popular brands of irons
- Overview of popular ironing models
The choice of an iron today, among a huge variety of models, is not an easy thing to do. An iron for each family is an indispensable attribute responsible for the appearance of their owners. Practically all modern irons are equipped with a function of steam, which is simply irreplaceable, when it comes to badly crushed or overdried laundry. But between devices of different manufacturers, and between models of the same brand, there are many differences with respect to the coating of the sole, weight, power, temperature regimes. Many irons are equipped with additional built-in functions. Which iron to choose for the house, so that it meets all your requirements? Let's try to understand.
to the contents ↑Types of devices for ironing
All the equipment for ironing clothes can be divided into 4 types:
- "Conventional" irons without the function of steam, which is unlikely to meet in the storefront of a modern store.
- Models with built-in steam option. Here you can include almost all steam irons, designed for use at home.
- Road devices. Compact and comfortable models for periodic use, designed for a small number of things.
- Irons with built-in steam generators. The popularity of such devices is currently growing, despite the higher cost of steam generators in comparison with "simple" irons. This is due to the excellent quality of ironing things, thanks to the continuous supply of steam during the operation of the device.
Selection criteria
Let's dwell on the most important characteristics of irons, which should be paid attention when buying. We have compiled a complete list of criteria. Among them, you will certainly find your landmarks, which can help you buy a good inexpensive iron.
outsole The most important component of the iron, since the quality of the ironing of the clothes largely depends on the sole.
It is important that it has a delicate surface that gently contacts the fabric, without damaging or altering its appearance. The main materials from which the sole of devices for ironing clothes are made are as follows.
Ceramics
A very common cover, presented by almost all manufacturers of such household appliances. And this is not surprising:
- ceramic outsole easily slips;
- is evenly heated;
- leaves no traces on the fabric.
Important! It is easy to look after ceramics, but when using an iron with such a coating, one should not forget about its fragility. To ceramic soles cope with damage, many manufacturers came up with an interesting move in the form of adding steel to the base of the cross strips.
Aluminum
Lightweight and budgetary material with excellent thermal conductivity. If we review the irons, all the soles of irons are made of aluminum and steel. In the future, different materials are coated.
Pure aluminum outsole has its drawbacks. For example, aluminum can leave unnecessary shine on some delicate fabrics. When ironing with such an iron, it is better to use gauze or a rag to avoid this effect.
Important! Due to the susceptibility of the material to deformations, modern manufacturers have come up with the use of aluminum, which has undergone special heat treatment - "Anodilium", to make the soles of irons. Anodized aluminum has greater strength and better slips on the fabric, making the ironing process easy and enjoyable.
Stainless steel
The most durable and practical option for little money:
- Irons with a stainless steel sole practically do not require special care, as the metal is not subject to corrosion and deformation.
- The stainless steel has good thermal insulation properties, which is why irons with such a coating are always included in the TOP of the best irons.
Important! The main disadvantage of stainless steel surfaces is a low sliding index. To eliminate it, modern manufacturers of irons come up with different innovative solutions:
- air cushions from Rowenta, which form special grooves on the sole;
- sapphire coating from the brand Braun;
- chrome surface from the Samsung brand.
All these and other tricks allow to preserve the excellent properties of stainless steel, leveling its shortcomings. At the same time the price of the ironing device remains quite affordable.
Teflon
To answer the question, which iron is the best, is not easy. But one thing is for sure: Teflon is the leader in the delicate handling of things. An iron with a Teflon surface can not damage the fabric.
But along with this weighty advantage there is an important drawback: Teflon can easily be scratched even by a simple awkward movement, by touching the button or other accessories on clothes when ironing. This makes Teflon coating less popular among its competitors: stainless steel and ceramics.
Power of the ironing device
The power of the iron directly depends on its heating rate and power consumption. According to this indicator, irons can be divided into three categories:
- Low-power devices. The range in such models is from 1300 to 1600 W.The option is suitable for small families or bachelors who do not need to iron a large number of clothes. These irons are not characterized by high performance.
- Irons of medium power. The performance of these devices is 1600-2000 watts. Models with this power easily cope with the most difficult tasks: smoothing over-dried and heavily crumpled clothes, working with delicate fabrics.
- High-power devices. Have a capacity of 2000 watts and above. They heat up in a matter of seconds and perfectly cope with very large volumes of laundry. If you make an overview of the best quality irons, then the leaders in the quality of ironing and productivity will be devices with high power.
Important! When choosing an iron, you need to remember the close relationship between power and electricity consumption. The higher the power of the iron, the more costs you will have.
It is advisable for the family to choose an average and high power iron. Modern models have different energy-saving functions, so the operation of such an iron will not particularly affect your wallet.
Temperature modes
Modern ironing devices, as a rule, have several temperature regimes designed for different fabrics. This is important, since the temperature necessary for ironing cotton and linen fabric is absolutely not suitable for delicate things. The average temperature range is from 100 ° C to 240 ° C.
Steam supply and water spray function
Today it is difficult to meet an iron without these options: the rating of budget irons is the confirmation. Steaming and moisturizing during the ironing process makes it possible to smooth out the most "finicky" folds on clothes. The presence of a pair guarantees a quality result that you will be satisfied with.
Auto power-off function
Very useful function, responsible for the safe use of the iron. Especially its presence in the device should be taken care of by forgetful natures. Modern models manufacturers are increasingly equipped with this option, because this is a very convenient find for users.
The iron, even when connected to the mains, switches itself off after one minute in the horizontal position and five minutes - in the vertical position.
Anti-drip system
This option prevents water from escaping from the holes in the soleplate during ironing at low temperatures. Anti-drip system allows you to avoid the appearance of stains on clothes during the work process. This option has already almost any good inexpensive iron.
option for protecting the iron from descaling. Protection against scale in modern irons is provided by replaceable cassettes that are easily removed from the device for rinsing purposes. Also, the iron can be equipped with a self-cleaning function, when activated, particles of debris and scale are removed from the openings under the steam pressure.
Important! If there are no such functions, only cleaned water should be poured into the iron, since later it can leave stains on the tissues and completely fail.
Weight of the
As you know, the smaller the weight of the iron, the more mobile it is, maneuverable and, importantly, in the performance of monotonous actions, the hand will be less tired. Along with this, it is necessary that, with all the ease of the iron, it copes well with the smoothing of the folds.
The weight of the iron is directly affected by the material from which the sole is made:
- The lightest irons - with an aluminum sole.
- Larger - with ceramic and metal-ceramic coating.
- Stainless steel will weight the iron most of all.
However, it is important to remember that the preferences for the weight of the iron are very subjective. There are mistresses who specifically choose irons more heavily. Well, what iron is the best and what weight should be at your ironing device - it's up to you.
Cord length
The length of the cord is something that also requires a lot of attention during the purchase phase, if you do not want to use different extensions later, which is not always convenient.
Also on the market today are wireless models of irons, which also require your attention.
Important! To avoid twists and twists, manufacturers of many modern models provide the cord with a rotation function. Its presence can significantly extend the life of the device.
Ergonomicity
The convenience indicator can also not be discounted, since it is to some extent responsible for the safety and health of users. When deciding which iron to choose for the house, pay attention to the handle of the model. For convenience, it is best to hold the iron in your hand when buying.
Important! Many manufacturers make pens of special shape or with a special coating with different holes that allow the hand to feel comfortable and less tired. A comfortable iron is a guarantee of comfortable ironing and good mood, even if it is prolonged for a long time.
to the table of contents ↑Most popular irons brands
Based on numerous reviews on such popular venues as Yandex Market, Otzovik.com, GidTorg.ru and IRecommend.ru, we have compiled a rating, which included the best producers of irons.
The list of brands looks like this:
- Philips;
- Tefal;
- Braun;
- Zelmer;
- Vitek;
- Rowenta;
- Scarlett;
- Polaris;
- REDMOND.
Overview of the popular
irons We bring to your attention the rating of irons for quality and reliability. It includes devices for ironing in different price categories of three main types:
- Irons with steam function for home use;
- Road devices;
- Apparatuses with built-in steam generator.
Top steam models of irons
They become the first in terms of popularity, as it is from these models that we have to choose an iron for the house.
Bosch TDA 2325
Budget iron of the famous reliable German brand, whose power is 1800 watts. It is made in a laconic simple translucent casing.
Has all the necessary functions and capabilities:
- Water tank;
- Thermostat;
- Steam intensity controller;
- Buttons for water spray and steam;
- Cord rotation system for preventing torsion and twisting.
Thanks to the metal-ceramic Palladium-glissee sole, the iron glides well and performs its tasks perfectly. Equipped with the option of vertical steaming and the possibility of self-cleaning from scale.
Important! As a minus, consumers indicate the lack of an anti-drip system. However, for such a price, the Bosch TDA 2325 iron performs all its functions for the highest rating.
Redmond RI-S220
It is an inexpensive model, which can also be headed by the rating of budget irons:
- Like the previous version, with all the necessary functions and high power - 2200 watts.
- The iron is equipped with a temperature regulator for different types of fabric, a steam function and the ability to adjust it.
- The soleplate of the iron is made of stainless steel, which can perfectly smooth the folds.
- The powerful advantages of the model are the built-in anti-scale option, anti-drip system and auto shut-off function.
- In the complete set - a measuring cup for water filling.
Tefal FV 3925
This iron of French quality is more expensive than previous models is considered one of the best in its price segment:
- The power of the device is equal to 2300 Watts.
- Durillium metal-ceramic sole from Tefal allows the iron to play with the most crumpled things.
As additional advantages we call:
- Autotuning of steam, which is adjusted to the mode of ironing used.
- Self-cleaning system;
- Anti-limestone rod;
- Anti-drip system;
- Ergonomic design.
Important! Of the minuses, perhaps, can be called only the lack of a complete measuring cup, which is not particularly significant and does not affect the operation of the device.
Philips GC 4425
Convenient device with a high power - 2400 watts. Just like the above models, it is included in the rating of irons for quality and reliability.
Has all the necessary features for comfortable ironing:
- Water tank;
- Spray function;
- Temperature and steam controllers.
Important! This model is favored by the special coating of the sole SteamGlide. It prevents the spoilage of fabrics, slips easily and cope with the most difficult tasks in the field of buttons and fittings. This helps to do the steam nozzle SteamGlide with the recesses for steam.
In the package there is a special nozzle for delicate fabrics, preventing the formation of unnecessary shine on clothes.
The advantages of this iron include:
- Self-cleaning function, anti-limestone rod;
- Automatic shut-off option;
- Fastening the cord with a hinge.
The best road irons
If you often travel during active holidays or are forced to go on a regular basis on business trips, the road iron will definitely come in handy.
Maxwell MW-3012:
- Convenient and good inexpensive iron of small size with a foldable handle of decent quality, 1000 W power.
- Heats up in a short time.
- The model has a steam stroke and a steaming function in an upright position. Water is sprayed from the nozzle of the iron.
- The outsole of the model has non-stick coating, which allows you not to worry about the appearance of your clothes during the trip.
Important! Among the minuses users note:
- The lack of a cover in the package;Failure to work with steam in a constant mode.
Rowenta DA1510
Budget compact road model with a folding handle, which has the characteristics of a full iron for home use.
The iron heats up quickly and, thanks to the sole of the Microsteam 200, perfectly smoothes the creases.
As advantages we will note:
- Mode of constant submission of steam;
- The ability to iron in an upright position;
- Steam shock 45g / min
- Long cord - 2 m
- Travel bag in the package.
Important! A disadvantage is the insufficiently large water tank and the absence of an anti-drip system. The model is rightfully included in the top of the best irons intended for travel.
VITEK VT-1228
The model is inexpensive, but reliable brand: small, compact, with a folding handle, the power of 1000 watts. Meets all requirements of a road iron. The soleplate of the iron is made of stainless steel.
Advantages of this iron at a low price are:
- Function of protection against scale;
- Self-cleaning option;
- Ability to use in an upright position;
- Ball attachment of the cord.
The best models with built-in steam generator
For those who will regularly iron more volumes of laundry, this model will come in handy just right.
Tefal GV 8962
Reliable French device with high performance, having, according to the owners, only one drawback - high cost.
Otherwise - solid advantages:
- Electronic adjustment system;
- Large tank - 1.6 liters;
- Autotuning for different types of fabric;
- Self-cleaning surface of the sole;
- Instantaneous heating system;
- Ability to add water during ironing;
- Automatic cord rewinding;
- Powerful steam impact - 430 g / min;
- Continuous steam supply;
- Eco mode;
- High quality ironing.
Philips GC 9642
Expensive quality device, made with the latest technology, capacity of 2400 watts. By right is included in the review of the highest quality irons.
Among the advantages of the model:
- Quiet stripping, which provides a special technology SilentSteam;
- Continuous steam supply: MultiChamber Cyclonic function;
- Presence of option Smart Control, which regulates the temperature of the sole.
- Possibility of adding water during operation;
- Large capacity of the tank - 1,8 l;
- Self-cleaning system from scale.
Braun IS 5043H
A simple compact ironing device from the German brand:
- The simplified design is perhaps the only drawback indicated by users.
- The model has an exclusive version of the Eloxal outsole from Braun, which allows easy sliding and high resistance to damage.
- The steam generator has a strong steam impact - 340 g / min, which provides an excellent ironing result.
Additional advantages of this model include:
- Simple operation;
- Auto power off function.
We hope that our article with a list of the most important criteria for choosing a device for ironing and reviewing the best manufacturers of irons will help you acquire the most worthy apparatus that will perform its tasks impeccably for many years.