About Steam Irons
A brief history of ironing and a brief comparison of the pros and cons of steam iron products on the market is a good starting point for somebody who wants to purchase a steam iron, but does not know what to look for and does not want to have to learn the hard way. There are products, such as personal steamers and travel irons, that are often lumped into the "steam iron" category, but they are not really steam irons, and consumers should be informed and aware before they make a purchase. Does this Spark an idea?
-
History
-
Back in the eighteenth century, women used sadirons to get wrinkles out of clothes. Sadirons were delta-shaped cast-iron slabs that were heated up in the fireplace. Sadirons were sold in sets of two, because one sat near the fire while the other was used to iron. The slab was pressed onto clothes to "iron" out wrinkles. Sadirons can be quite heavy, many were about 10 lbs."Sad" is actually an old word that means "heavy." It was this combination of heat and pressing force that neatened the clothes.
Benefits
-
The invention of the steam iron took some of the work out of ironing. The steam literally opens the weave of the fabric which makes it easier to iron out creases. The more steam available, the easier it is to iron. The best modern-day steam irons have larger reservoirs for water, the ability to shoot a spray of water, and even a self-cleaning feature that helps reduce the build-up of mineral deposits inside of the iron. While heavier irons are much more likely to cause wrist and back strain with regular use, they are also traditionally better at getting rid of wrinkles. Manufacturers continue to try to create powerful steam irons that are lighter weight and easier to use.
-
Features
-
Steam irons on the market today vary greatly. Among the many factors to consider when choosing a steam iron is its weight. While heavier irons are often more powerful, regularly using a heavy iron can cause strain and pain. Many consumers prefer non-stick sole plates because these plates slide easily over fabric. The size of the water reservoir is an important consideration because it reduces the need to keep refilling during big ironing jobs. A full iron, however, will be heavy with water. According to Consumer Reports, the most important factors in choosing a steam iron are: a feature that allows you to shoot an extra shot of steam; a feature that allows you to shoot a spray of water onto the material you are ironing; and a cordless model which seems to lose heat quickly. In addition to all that, make sure you like and are comfortable with the model. Do you prefer a digital display or an analog dial? Does the steam iron feel comfortable in your hand? These are personal preferences which you should remember to consider.
Types
-
Lightweight and small, hand-held steam irons are often billed as good for travelers. When used as a personal steamer, they produce none of the back strain associated with ironing. They are quite small, and can only relax a small portion of the garment at a time. Because they are so lightweight, they also will not cause wrist or back strain associated with heavy irons when used with an ironing board. They will require more back and forth motion due to their small size, and are seldom as powerful as heavy steam irons.
Types
-
Personal steamers are often used in garment shops, and also available for personal use. Steamers allow the user to stand straight up and hold the nozzle up to clothing, while letting the steam flow through the fabric. While personal steamers are technically not irons, they are noteworthy because they can achieve the same results. Steamers hold more water than small, hand-held steam irons, and also push the steam through the cloth with more force. Therefore, they are able to relax wrinkles with none of the back strain associated with ironing. Consumer Reports, however, came to the conclusion that steamers are not as powerful as steam irons for removing deep-set creases. Steamers seem to work better for neatening linens and cottons.
-
