How to Compare Steamer Irons

A steamer iron is essential for a professional, polished look.

Not ironing your clothes leaves them wrinkled and looking unprofessional. Starch can leave your clothes stiff, abrasive and shiny looking. For a comfortable, professional look, you need a steamer iron. Steamer irons use steam to moisten your clothes and remove wrinkles. With a steamer iron, you get a professional crease and pressed look without the messiness of starch. When selecting a steamer iron, you might get confused with all options available, but once you know what to look for, you can buy an iron that matches your specific needs.

Instructions

1. Match the iron to your clothes by making sure the heat settings provide ideal ironing temperatures for your clothes. Look for extra hot settings for linen or cotton. Look for cooler temperature settings for rayon or polyester.

2. Compare steaming features like automatic steam spray or manual trigger spray. Automatic steam features provide an automatic gust of steam. Manual spray options allow you to spray hard-to-remove wrinkles.

3. Compare safety features like auto shut-off, water-level window and non-stick coating on the iron face. Look for a cord that has a rubber base protector near the foot of the iron. A rubber base protector helps keep the cord from kinking and shorting.

4. Compare prices. Basic steam irons can cost $19 to $50. Steam irons with multiple features may cost $40 to $100.

References

• ConsumerReports.org: Steam Iron Guide
• Home Institute: Steam Iron Buying Guide
• Consumer Search: Steam Iron Features