How to Test a Steam Iron
Steam irons continue to improve, making the dreaded task of ironing easier for anyone who has to do it. With new safety features, they are easier than ever to use without fear of injury. Newer models release more steam, working harder to press out stubborn wrinkles with less elbow grease. If you have purchased one but are not sure how it will work, taking the time to perform a small test can set your mind at ease on using the steam iron, as well as ensure it is in good working order. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Iron
- Tap water
- Ironing board or towel-covered surface
- Electrical outlet
- Old, wrinkled fabric
Instructions
-
-
1
Purchase a steam iron that is made for the types of fabric you will be ironing most frequently. Some fabrics, such as denim, require more steam to achieve saturation; synthetic fabrics, such as polyester or rayon, need a less powerful iron. Features that allow spraying water or releasing small bursts of steam work better on these types of fabrics.
-
2
Read over the manufacturer's directions for the steam iron you have chosen, making sure to note any special conditions—such as lower temperature settings for fragile fabrics—that are required for proper use.
-
-
3
Hold the steam iron in one hand to test its weight and comfort. If you have large hands, is the iron too small? If you have smaller hands or are not used to picking up heavier weights, does it feel unwieldy in your grip? Either could cause a safety issue; make sure that the iron feels comfortable in your grip and is not too heavy for frequent use.
-
4
Fill the steam iron's water tank with regular tap water; distilled water can be used if your tap water is "hard," or high in mineral content. Minerals can clog the steam iron over time. Return the water cap to a closed position so that fluid does not leak out onto the material while you are using the steam iron.
-
5
Plug in the steam iron and turn it on the lowest setting first, allowing it to warm up. Set the steam iron in an upright position on the ironing board or ironing surface (such as a towel-covered counter) to avoid unintentional burning of the surrounding area.
-
6
Run the steam iron on a wrinkled piece of fabric that will not be ruined if damage occurs—a rag or an old towel, for example. Start ironing on the lowest steam heat setting, moving the temperature up and trying all levels of heat. If the steam iron has a burst-of-steam feature, test this on a section of the fabric to make sure it is functioning properly; the steam should move down toward the fabric, rather than moving upward where it can unexpectedly burn skin.
-
7
Turn the steam iron off and unplug it, draining any remaining water from the holding tank. Check the iron every 5 to 10 minutes to see how long it takes to cool down. Some steam irons may cool almost instantly; others may take as long a 30 minutes before the iron can be stored away or placed flat-side down.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Steam irons can range in price from $25 to over $100, depending on the size and features you desire.
Make sure the steam iron is completely cool before storing away, to avoid burning the cord or starting a fire.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit iron image by Eray Haciosmanoglu from Fotolia.com
