How to Compare Sewing Irons

An iron can be used for a few different purposes.

If you need to iron your clothes simply to get the wrinkles out, then you can basically use any type of iron. However, if you need to press your clothes, you need to be more carefully about your selection. After sewing clothes to create seams, pleats or hems, you will then need to press the area with an iron. In this case, you are looking for a sewing iron. While a standard iron is used as a sewing iron, you should be looking for certain characteristics to be sure the iron you choose will be able to function as a sewing iron.

Instructions

1. Check out the shape of the iron. When you need a sewing iron, you may be needing to press areas of clothing and fabric that have very small spaces. This means that the tip of the iron should be smaller, as well, and come to a point, rather than a rounded area.

2. Look at the heat settings carefully. There should be a range of heat settings that you can use on different fabrics. Otherwise, you could damage the seam, pleat or hem you're pressing. The heat settings on sewing irons should include suggested fabric types for the various temperature settings.

3. Pay attention to the surface of the iron. When using it as a sewing iron, the surface should be nonstick, which is generally stainless steel. The nonstick surface ensures that your sewing projects are not ruined by the iron itself.

4. Find an iron that includes a burst of steam setting. When flattening a hem, for example, you might have a stubborn piece of fabric that refuses to stay flat. The steam will then be a useful feature to have on the sewing iron.

5. Factor in the conveniences offered with the water reservoir. For example, a transparent reservoir will help you easily see when the water needs refilled. Refilling is made easier with a removable reservoir. These features allow you to get back to your sewing project as quickly as possible.

References

• Consumer Reports.org: Steam iron guide