Progress does not stand still, and devices and improvements are constantly appearing, which are designed to facilitate and extremely simplify our life. So, to replace the usual irons, more and more advanced devices come - steamers, presses and steam generators. And already many housewives are faced with the question - which one is better to choose an iron with a steam generator, so that it is reliable, and simple, and functional?
Without panic, we are just about to talk about how to choose an iron with a steam generator, what characteristics to pay attention to and what the effectiveness of this device depends on. In addition, we conducted a small study and prepared for you a traditional rating review of the best models of irons with a steam generator of the year.
Iron-steam generator for the home: what kind of appliance is this?
Many people consider an iron with a steam generator a kind of “upgrade” of a conventional ironing device. This is not entirely fair. A steam iron is still an ordinary and familiar device with additional features. Such devices have a small water tank, limited capabilities and not always high power.
A steam generator for the home will be a much more efficient device for ironing large volumes of clothes. The iron in this device is lighter, but powerful, has additional features - for example, steam boost and vertical steam. In addition, it connects to a huge boiler, with a capacity of 1 liter or more, which makes it possible to iron about 1-1.5 hours without a break! Most of the things can be ironed in half a minute, without spreading them on the ironing board, but directly on the hanger, and this is a serious saving of time and effort. Also, if you regularly iron bedding sets, then it will be easier for you with a steam generator, because the duvet cover can be folded in half or even fourfold and, using a continuous supply of steam, iron the entire thickness of the product, without even turning the thing over to the other side.
The iron is connected to the boiler using a special tube cord. This is not always convenient, especially if the cord is short. But the power and productivity of the device are more than replaced by such inconveniences as weight and large dimensions.
And now it's time to talk about how to make the right choice and buy a reliable and efficient iron with a steam generator.
See also - Which sole of the iron is better - types of materials, their pros and cons
Steam iron: making the right choice
So, you decided to pamper yourself with the purchase of a steam iron, took the time and came to the store. Or went to a selling site.But there are so many models presented here - how do you know the best? What to look for if you are already dazzled by the number of models, design, shapes, equipment?
There are several basic and a couple of additional parameters that will help you choose the right device and help you decide which one is better.
- Power. Choosing an iron with a steam generator should start with this indicator. The more powerful the device, the more steam it will produce, which means it will cope with the amount of ironing faster. The heating temperature of the device also depends on the power, and hence the steam pressure. Select models that provide a pressure of at least 4.2 bar. But such a steam generator will "eat" electricity many times more. If time is a critical indicator, take a powerful device - from 2500 W, if you want to save electricity - then for domestic conditions, a power of 1500 - 2000 W will be enough.
- Also, you should consider the quality of wiring in your home. Some older lines will not be able to withstand excessive loads.
- Water tank volume. Everything is simple here - the larger the capacity - you can work longer. After all, not all steam generators can be refueled during ironing. The main part of the models must be disconnected from the network and wait for them to cool down - only then add water and reheat your iron with a steam generator.
- But the larger the water tank, the heavier and more voluminous the device. Therefore, if you do not iron and steam things regularly and not in large quantities, then the need for a spacious boiler is not so important.
- The material of the working surface of the device. It is good when the iron slides easily and quickly over the fabric, does not cling, scratch or scorch the product. It’s good when light and high-quality materials were used in the manufacture of the steam iron, it’s good when they took care of the strength and durability of the sole.
The soles of steam irons are most often made from:
- aluminum;
- of stainless steel;
- ceramics.
Aluminum is the lightest and most thermally conductive material. But in its pure form, it is practically not used, because it is a soft metal, if it is damaged, then the sliding quality of the sole will noticeably deteriorate. Often, developers of household appliances of well-known brands cover aluminum surfaces with other metals or coatings - titanium, ceramics, oxide film, steel, Teflon, etc.
Stainless steel. If a soles popularity rating were made, then probably stainless steel would be the leader in it. The material heats up just as easily and evenly and glides on any canvas without problems. In addition, it is a durable and reliable version of the work surface - it is not afraid of scratches, chips or corrosion, it is easily cleaned. The only caveat is that steel is heavier than aluminum or ceramics, so when buying such a steam generator with an iron, be sure to weigh it in your hand.
Ceramics and cermets - are also popular. Found in more budget models. They warm up quickly, smooth the fabric well, but are very capricious to external influences.
These are the main indicators of choosing a good and reliable iron with a steam generator. But there are additional ones.
See also - 10 best overlocks and sewing machines - 2018 ranking
Additional options
- Ergonomics of the device. This includes the weight and dimensions of the steam generator and iron. With vertical steaming, you will keep it suspended, which means you will feel the full weight of the device. The handle should fit snugly in the palm of your hand; left-handers should pay special attention to the handle.
- The length of the cord should be sufficient for comfortable work and relative mobility.
- The temperature range - the larger it is - the wider your possibilities. Of course, the steam generator gently affects any type of fabric, even those things that are “afraid” of ironing. But sometimes you need to "add a couple" in order to put in order a dry or hard and rough thing. It is better to have more operating modes in stock and choose the appropriate mode for each individual case.
- Protective mechanisms.The presence of water filters will give you the opportunity to pour tap water into the boiler, rather than stocking up with distilled water. The self-cleaning function will make the process of caring for the device easier and invisible, and also - will help extend the life of your steam iron. Auto power off helps you avoid tanning things. The stop-drop function prevents liquid from leaking onto the fabric and leaving traces there, even with low heat.
- Price. Low cost does not always indicate poor assembly of the device. An iron with a steam generator may have features that you may not need - what is the point of overpaying then? In any price segment you can find a decent model that is perfect for your requirements and financial capabilities.
Well, now we are ready to choose the most suitable iron model with a steam generator - consider the rating of devices from the most advertised manufacturers.
The best models of irons with a steam generator of the year
- Scarlett SC-SS36B01
- Bosch TDS 2255
- Rowenta DG 7506F0
- Tefal GV9071 Pro Express Care
- Philips GC9682 / 80 PerfectCare Elite Plus
Read more about each model in our ranking of the best steam generators of the year.
What is more important for you - power or profitability, duration of work or durability of the device? Choose, buy and start comfortable and quick ironing and steaming. Now you know which one is better to choose an iron with a steam generator and do not get confused at the store when buying. Also, you can give valuable advice to friends or relatives who also want to update their equipment. Choose wisely and iron with pleasure!
See also:
- 6 best Rowenta irons of the year
- 7 best Scarlett irons of the year
- 7 best REDMOND irons of the year
- 7 best Panasonic irons of the year
- 7 best Philips irons according to customers
