Steam irons: Buyers' Guide
Ironing. It’s one of those laborious tasks that everyone loves to hate (unless you’re in the minority of 
odd people that finds it ‘relaxing’).
Though it’s never going to be an enjoyable household chore, getting a brand spanking new steam iron with all the latest features and mod cons will make smoothing those trousers and jumpers marginally more bearable.
We’ve brought you the 411 on all things irons so you can gen up on all the features you need to be looking for
Which steam iron should I go for?
Ensuring you get the best steam iron for your household’s needs depends on how often you iron. If you live in a small household an iron one load of washing once a week a cheap, basic steam iron will probably do the trick perfectly. If however you have a large family, or perhaps just a rather mucky spouse, you’re likely to be producing much more washing that needs ironing – lucky you! In this case it may be worth investing in a pricier iron with plenty of features that’ll see you easily through that mountain of clothes.
Steam features
- Vertical: This feature allows for steam to be released even when the iron is vertical, meaning you can smooth out curtains or clothes whilst they are still on a hanger.
- Variable: Allows you to adjust steam to the appropriate level for different fabrics.
- Spray: Lets you spray water onto clothing before ironing.
- Shot: As the name would suggest, this setting allows you to use an extra powerful jet of steam on stubborn creases.
Other steam iron features
Anti-drip valve: This feature makes sure the iron doesn’t stain clothes by dripping water.
Button rim: An edge around the iron that allows you to iron easily around buttons
Auto shut off: Safely cuts out your steam iron if it gets too hot or is left on without being used.
Continuous fill: This feature allows you to keep the iron on whilst you top up the water tank.
Anti-limescale: Prevents limescale build-up on your new steam iron.
Steam iron programmes
Look for an iron with different settings depending on which fabric you’re ironing – gone are the days of having to input in a temperature!
Travel steam irons
Travel-sized steam irons are compact versions of regular irons and are brilliant if you regularly travel or work away from home. They can be packed away neatly or folded to fit into your weekend bag.
Steam generator irons
Steam generator irons produce a high volume of steam thanks to the separate water tank they’re 
attached to.
They’re speedier and more efficient, as well as being lighter to use thanks to the external water tank. On the downside, a steam generator iron is larger and more cumbersome than a regular steam iron, making it more difficult to store and less mobile.
Steam generator irons also tend to be on the costly side.
As well as the features on a regular iron look for the following on your steam generator iron:
Cable length Most come with a three metre cord but they vary in length. Check your iron’s vital stats before committing to buy – shorter cables will limit maneuverability.
The time it takes to heat Some steam generator irons can take a little while to heat up, which can be frustrating if you’re in a hurry. Check our reviews to see how others got on with waiting times.
What now?
Well, now you know everything you need to know about steam irons and steam generator irons you 
can be confident that you’ll make an informed buying decision over on our shopping and comparison pages.
We’ve scoured the web to bring you a selection of the best steam irons at the most amazing prices, with lots of deals and offers to take your fancy. You’re guaranteed to find one that’ll perfectly suit your needs and budget.
Once you’ve found an offer that takes your fancy simply click on the deal and you’ll be transferred to the site of your selected independent retailer. From here you can click and buy or continue to scour our huge online emporium to find the best iron for you.
