Steam iron is a steam-generating appliance that does wonders when it comes to removing wrinkles, ironing out stubborn creases, and freshening any type of fabric. Most of these irons are highly versatile, allowing users to handle vast amounts of varying fabrics.
Some of the best steam irons are also designed with dynamic features that enable you to use the steam iron both vertically and horizontally. Today, the UK market features myriad models of steam irons, ranging from cheap to high-end steaming units.
This article gives a review of some of the best steam irons on the market, with a guide on how to choose the right iron with steamer.
The Best Steam Irons UK Review
Russell Hobbs Vertical Steam Iron
Best Overall
Rating: 4.4/5.0
• 3100W Power performance. This helps in providing a steady heat-up duration, making it a faster option to use for large laundry piles.
• Self-cleaning function that eliminates a build-up of impurities.
• 350ml water tank.
• Vertical Steaming Function that enables you to remove wrinkles from hanging fabrics, curtains, and garments.
• 210g Steaming Shots that help in managing creases in linen or denim.
What stands out?
This is one of the best steam iron models released by Russell. The fresh-pressed results of the Russell Powersteam iron are what makes this model an outstanding choice. Functions, such as vertical steam, spray, and triple action self-cleaning functions, allow users to get their operation done quickly and efficiently.
Russell Hobbs Supreme Steam Iron
Best Budget
Rating: 4.3/5.0
• 2400W Power Steam. This power speeds up the steaming process, making it ideal for use in large homes.
• 300ml water tank for large capacity steaming at a single refill.
• 2M cord that allows you to iron your clothes with ease.
• Self-cleaning function to eliminate impurities, making the iron more durable.
• 110g Steam Shot and 42g steam output.
What stands out?
This model is designed to provide you with ease of steaming through small and large piles of clothes and other fabrics. With its 300ml tank capacity, you can handle a sizeable pile of garments at a go without having to refill it. This Russell Supreme Iron is a high-quality iron that is built with every essential function for high performance. Selling for less than £15, there is no doubt that the Russell Supreme Iron is ideal for individuals living on a tight budget.
Philips Azur Steam Iron
Best Premium
Rating: 4.6/5.0
• 2600W Power Steam, enhancing high performance and fast ironing.
• 50g/min steam output and 250g/min power boost. The unit is also designed with a 300ml tank capacity, allowing you to use the iron for a large stack of clothes at a go.
• Auto Shut Off Function.
• SteamGlide Soleplate that help in enhancing smooth gliding for different types of fabrics.
• Drip-spot system that prevents your garments from getting spotted while ironing.
What stands out?
Philips is a world leader as far as the manufacturing of electronics, personal care products, and appliances is concerned, and the Philips Azur Steam Iron is one of the company’s best models. Selling at £84.99, this model is an ideal choice for individuals planning to invest in high-end steam irons. The unit comes with high-performance, automatic temperature controls, and extra steam modes for faster steaming.
Tower CeraGlide Cordless Iron
Best Cordless
Rating: 4.5/5.0
• 2400W Power Steam that heats up within 30 seconds of switching on.
• Cordless system. You can choose to operate with the iron when corded or completely cordless.
• Variable Steam Functions. The unit is built with a 150g/min steam shot and 120g/min continuous steam for precise steaming across different sizes and types of garments.
• Long Life Functions. The model is designed with self-cleaning, anti-calc, and anti-drip functions that enhance durability.
• CeraGlide Performance for easy and smooth glide when handling stubborn creases.
What stands out?
While most people do not enjoy ironing as a routine, having a cordless operation sounds more appealing to them, making the Tower T22008 Cordless Iron an ideal choice. The unit has a 2-in-1 system that allow you to handle the steaming operation in either corded or cordless means. Selling under £20, Tower T22008 provides high-quality performance offered by much expensive units. Amazon reviews on this model rate it as a great choice for ironing and garment steaming.
Russell Hobbs Steam Generator Iron
Best Budget Steam Generator
Rating: 4.5/5.0
• 4.5 Bar Pressure and 2400W Power Steam. that can penetrate multiple layers of fabric, cutting down the operation time by half.
• Retractable 1.3 L Water Tank. The tank is built with an anti-calc cartridge for durability.
• Self-cleaning function that filters and purifies the water as you pour it into the large capacity tank.
• 1.9M Power Cord for ease of use.
• 1-Minute heat up time.
What stands out?
This model is designed with powerful steam puffs that help you to glide on all types of garments, including denim jeans. This iron has a sleek design and dynamic features that allow you to effortlessly and quickly manage even the largest of laundry piles. If you are interested in a budget-friendly steam generator unit, then this model will suit your needs. The Russell Steam Generator sells at £51.71.
Philips Steam Iron
Best Premium Steam Generator
Rating: 4.6/5.0
• 7.5 Bar Pressure and 2400W Power Steam for ultra-fast steaming. The unit is also enhanced with 500g steam boost. With this output, the steam penetrates thicker fabrics and multiple layers of a garment.
• Ultra-light. The unit weighs at 0.8kg, making it easy to iron your garments without worrying about weight.
• Retractable 1.8L water tank. This allows you to handle larger piles of your laundry without having to refill your steam generators.
• 2-Minute Heat Up Time.
• OptimalTemp technology. You do not need to regulate the temperature to avoid burns.
What stands out?
This model is designed to provide users with the ultimate steaming experience. One of the features that stands out with this unit is the OptimalTEMP technology that alleviates all chances of burning any ironable garment. If you are planning to invest in a premium steam generator, then the Phillips GC9650/80 model is an ideal choice. Although expensive (selling at £386.72), the unit comes with advanced features for ultra-fast iron.
Tefal Fasteo Steam Generator
Best Steam Generator
Rating: 4.1/5.0
• 2200W Steam Power and 5.2 Bar Pressure.
• 180g/min steam boost and 100g/min steam output.
• Auto-off Function that turns off the iron when left unattended.
• 120-seconds heat up time.
• Anti-scale cartridge that maintains the iron for long life.
What stands out?
The Tefal SV6040 unit comes with advanced technologies and features, making it a reliable choice for faster steaming and pressing sessions. As per some Amazon reviews, the model is designed with a comfortable and ergonomic handle and controls. If you are interested in a high-quality and lightweight steam generator, then this is the model to consider. With a weight of 3kg, there is no doubt that the Tefal SV6040 model will make your operation easy to handle.
Morphy Richards Turbosteam
Best Value
Rating: 4.6/5.0
• 3100W Power Steam. This wattage is coupled with a 200g steam boost and 55g/min constant steam, enhancing a fast heat up and powerful performance.
• Tri-Zone technology for crease removal.
• 400ml tank capacity.
• IntelliTemp Setting for dual temperature control.
• Pearl Ceramic soleplate.
What stands out?
For only £39.00, the Morphy Turbosteam iron is designed with unique functions to provide you with an ultimate ironing experience. With features like Tri-zone soleplate technology, vertical steaming, limescale management, and auto-shutoff functions, you can bet on getting value for your money with this model.
Bosch Steam Iron
Best Extra Feature
Rating: 4.5/5.0
• High Power Performance. The unit is built with 2400W power steam and 200g steam shot.
• Ergonomic design comprising of large buttons and thumb rest to enhance comfort during operation.
• Ultimate lightweight. The model weighs 1.9kg.
• Auto-shutoff function.
• I-Temp technology that allows you to iron your fabrics fast under the same temperature setting.
What stands out?
If you are the kind that would want the best steam iron with extra features for a more ergonomic experience, then this is the ideal model for you. Buying this steam iron, you will come across dynamic features, such as TempOk display, triple anti-calc, i-Temp, sensor, and other advanced steam functions.
Morphy Richards Steam Generator
Best Performance
Rating: 4.3/5.0
• 2400W Power Steam and 5 Bar Pressure.
• 2.2L-capacity water tank.
• 170g/min constant steam
• Iron to Base Lock.
• Auto Shut Off Function.
What stands out?
Appliances by Morphy Richards are known to be efficient, reliable, and powerful when it comes to performance. Considering the versatility, performance, and features offered by this model, there is no doubt that its value is worth your money.
Best Steam Iron Buying Guide
Choosing the best steam irons does not have to be overwhelming. With the various models outlined in this guide, it is easy for you to go for the right irons for your laundry. However, before buying a steam iron, there are some essential factors that you might want to consider. Read on for a highlight of these factors.
Quality Soleplate
A soleplate is one of the most fundamental features of a steam iron. The soleplate determines the quality of ironing results you get after an operation. Different soleplates are made of varying materials, including ceramics, aluminium, metal ceramics, and stainless steel. Aluminium soleplate is known to offer the fastest heat up due to its exceptional attribute of thermal conductivity. Aluminium is also lightweight and thin in design. Metal ceramics and ceramic soleplates are also ideal when it comes to high-quality steaming.
Steam Power
One of the essential components to consider when buying a steam iron is its steam power as it influences the performance of the iron. The higher the power of the iron, the faster it heats up along the pre-set temperatures.
Tank Capacity and Features
While the tank capacity of a steam iron is not considered to be a critical factor, it is essential to evaluate it. The smaller the water tank, the more times you will have to refill it to complete your ironing operation. Most of the irons have their tank capacities range between 200ml and 1.8 litres. You might want to go with the iron with the highest tank capacity depending on your budget needs. Also, it would be best if you bought an iron with transparent water housing. This enables you to monitor the water levels as you undertake your operation.
Power Cord
The power cord of your iron determines the convenience and ease of use of the iron during an operation. A short cord restrains your operation around the ironing board. This might force you to use the iron within close range with the source of power. Consider going for a steam iron with a long power cord. Most cords range from 2 ft to 12ft. You can also opt for the cordless irons instead. Some irons come as 2-in-1 systems, allowing you to use the iron in either way, that is corded or cordless.
Ergonomic Controls and Handle
When looking for the best irons, consider evaluating the controls and handles of the iron. A comfortable handle translates to a pleasant experience when carrying out your operation. This is regardless of the performance of the unit. A good iron should come with a comfortable grip handle. Non-slip handles might also be an ideal choice to prevent you from having a sweaty experience when making strokes on your fabrics.
Auto Shutoff Function
The auto shut off function is an essential feature as far as your security is concerned. If an iron is not built with the OptimalTemp technology like some of the Phillips models, then it is fundamental to check out for the auto-shutoff function. This protects your garments, ironing board covers, and other furniture from fire hazards when the iron is not in use.
FAQ
Q: Should I spend the extra penny on a steam generator iron instead?
A: Typically, steam generator irons come at a higher cost than the ordinary steam iron. However, investing some extra coins on the steam generator is worth it. This is particularly so if you have a high load of garments. With a steam generator, you do not need to keep on refilling it with water during an operation as is the case with steam irons. So, the answer is yes. You can spend an extra penny on it.
Q: What is better, stainless steel or ceramic iron?
A: The type of iron you choose depends on the type of fabrics you handle and your frequency of ironing. For example, if you are involved in ironing throughout the week, then ceramic irons would be your ideal choice as they are lightweight. However, a ceramic iron might not be suitable for natural fibres, such as wool, rayon, silk, cotton, and linen. In such cases, you will need a stainless-steel iron. A ceramic iron would also be suitable for synthetic fibres as it does not stick to such fabrics.
Q: How long should an iron last?
A: Depending on the model and design, an iron can last for 10 to 20 years.
Q: Can I use tap water in my steam iron?
A: No. Tap water is not suitable for use in a steam iron. This is because tap water consists of minerals, such as calcium, which can clog and damage the iron.
Conclusion
The best steam iron from this guide is the Russell Vertical PowerSteam model. The model comes with high wattage, great steam power performance, versatile steam ironing, and other advanced functions. The steam iron is also affordable. Other brands to watch out include Morphy Richards, Bosch, and the Phillips. While buying an iron for your home, consider the buying guide highlighted in this article.
