Keep these tips in mind, whether shopping for an iron in-store or online.
✔️ Size: It’s important to choose an iron that is right-sized for you, if possible, if possible making sure it is comfortable to lift and handle. Our picks range from two pounds to almost five pounds with most models weighing in between three to four pounds. To cover more surface area in a single pass, choose an iron with a larger soleplate. If you plan on long ironing sessions, scope out a larger water tank that can go the distance, especially one that’s transparent, so you can see how much water you have left.
✔️ Power: Generally, we’ve found that the best performing irons require 1700 to 1875 watts of power. Steam is your friend when tackling tough wrinkles and a more powerful iron with a stronger, longer stream of steam will press fabrics better (and faster).
✔️ Safety Features: Most irons today automatically shut off when tipped. We prefer those that turn off quickly when landing in any direction, not just onto the soleplate. The CHI iron automatically shuts off in 60 seconds if it lands on either its side or the soleplate but stays on for 30 minutes if positioned on its heel, which quilters and sewers appreciate when going back and forth to the ironing board.
✔️ Ironing Needs: Choose an iron with steam burst and spray features for zapping tough wrinkles if you iron lots of cotton and linen fabrics. Vertical steam works well for drapes, bed skirts and other home furnishings. Consider a steam station with a large water tank, vertical steam and a sturdy base to hold the iron when not in use if you’ll be quilting, sewing or handling big batches of rumpled garments.