How to Compare Electric Irons
A well-built electric iron can help you get your clothes wrinkle-free, and if it is designed well, it can make the job easier. There are many models to choose from when you are searching for the best. The basic construction of the electric iron is just the beginning. Modern irons have a variety of features, each of which may be helpful for one person but not for another. Compare irons based on how much and what kind of use the iron will have, its price and its value. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
-
1
Determine your ironing needs. Try to remember how you have used your iron in the last month. Write down the crafts you have made, the time you have spent ironing clothing and how often you iron hanging items like drapes. Take note of whether you have hard water.
-
2
Decide if you want to get a steam iron or a dry iron. Most of the clothing irons sold today are steam irons. However, if you do crafts with fusible fabrics, you might want an electric iron without any vent holes. Crafting is also a reason for getting an iron without an automatic shutoff, so that it will be ready as you complete each part of the project.
-
-
3
Compare irons' vent holes. Look for steam irons with hundreds of vent holes if you want an iron with a large amount of steam power. A Consumer Search review explains that average steam irons have about 20 vent holes, but certain home models have up to 400 vent holes for better steam distribution.
-
4
Think about durability. Compare irons based on sole plates. Look for a nonstick sole plate if you are concerned about sticking spray starch. Consider a stainless steel sole plate if durability is your goal. Look at steam irons that are self-cleaning. However, if you have hard water, the self-cleaning feature may not work for you, according to Consumer Search.
-
5
Check the specifications when selecting irons. Look for a lighter weight iron if you will be holding it upright to do vertical ironing. Weight is always a factor, though. In tests conducted through the "Wall Street Journal," people who tested them found heavy irons too difficult to use. Compare water capacities in the different irons. An iron that holds too much water will be too heavy; one that holds too little water will have to be refilled often while ironing. Compare the wattage. The higher the watts, the hotter it can get.
-
6
Look for steam spray, misting, and blast of steam features. Choose whether you want the variable steam feature. Variable steam irons adjust the steam level for you; if you want to adjust it yourself, you can get an electric iron that does not have variable steam.
-
7
Read as many reviews as you can find on clothing irons to help you compare irons you are considering purchasing. Look for problems with durability. Notice how well reviewers like the extra features on the different irons. Check the warranty included with the iron, and inquire at the store or online merchant where you buy it as to what you can do if you are not happy with your purchase. Compare the prices to stay within the range you prefer.
-
1
