
As children, we have always been curious about the burning-hot soleplate of an iron. But back then, our parents ensured and kept a guard that we maintain a safe distance from it. However, now that you are purchasing appliances for yourself, with a steam iron on the list, it can be difficult to choose the right one. And, with so many different types, technologies, and brands available, it can be really overwhelming to buy one, especially if you are struggling with zero knowledge about it. But don’t worry because, we will take you through a list of must-have features to look for while making a purchase.
How Steam Irons Work: Quick Understanding
Let’s be honest. Ironing is one of the most tedious tasks we all try our best to avoid, even when there is a pile of clothes getting bigger every day staring at us to be ironed. Well, the job isn’t as scary, but so much easier than you would have thought when you have the right appliance – steam irons. This appliance is a must-have if you wish to make your lives simpler, as it perfectly removes wrinkles due to its steaming properties. Wondering how it works? Well, it removes the fabric crease with moisture content and produces heat that works immediately to smooth out the clothes. Steam irons have a built-in water reservoir system, which generates steam, giving you well-ironed clothes with minimal effort. With the right steam iron, you can easily iron out a range of fabrics, from silk to cotton and linen, in a shorter amount of time and achieve good results.
5 Features of Modern Steam Iron You Should Know About
While you will find a range of steam irons available to the point of getting confused, look for these key features to make your lives easier:
1. Swivel Cord
Most modern steam irons come with a long swivel cord. This makes ironing convenient, without you having to get frustrated every now and then about the cord getting either getting in your way or getting plugged out. Look for a 360-degree swivel cord that enables easy hand movement so you just take care of ironing out the creases instead of constantly keeping an eye on the cord.
2. Soleplates
Look for a steam iron that comes with a soleplate. There was a time when irons came with soleplates that put your clothes at risk of sticking with them in no time. But modern steam irons come with non-stick coatings that allow the iron to glide more smoothly.
3. Variable Heat Settings
It is important for a steam iron to have a wide range of heat settings since different fabrics need different heat settings. For instance, fabrics like linen and cotton need higher temperatures, while delicate fabrics such as silk need lower temperatures. It is always better to invest in a steam iron that has this feature even if it costs a little more. You will thank yourself for this wide range of heat settings that will just take two seconds to set the correct temperature for a particular fabric.
4. Steam Burst
When ironing out stubborn wrinkles, many times you will need a burst of steam coming right at the crease. Irons with a steam burst button really come in extremely handy when ironing fabrics like cotton, linen, and tough fabrics such as denim.
5. Self-Cleaning
Some modern steam irons are embedded with a self-cleaning feature which significantly makes life easier. Forget about putting in extra effort in cleaning the iron, instead, just let it clean itself! Note that this feature can be extremely useful to people living in regions where hard water is supplied. This is because the mineral deposits from hard water clog the steam vents, making cleaning difficult. So, yay to the self-cleaning feature!
How to Maintain Your Steam Iron?
To ensure your steam iron remains in good condition and lasts for years, it’s important to look after it properly.
● Clean the Soleplate Regularly
After each use, wipe the soleplate with a damp cloth. This will help prevent any build-up of residue. For tougher stains, use a gentle cleaning solution to scrub the surface.
● Use Distilled Water
Use distilled water in your steam iron if your area has hard water . Using distilled water will help prevent mineral deposits and keep your iron running smoothly.
● Descale the Iron
Many steam irons feature an automatic descaling function. If you don’t have that, you can descale it manually. Run a solution of equal parts water and vinegar through the iron to remove any limescale build-up.
Conclusion
A steam iron is an essential appliance for keeping your clothes and fabrics wrinkle-free and looking fresh. Its combination of heat and steam allows you to press your garments with minimal effort while achieving professional results. Whether you’re ironing delicate silks for a fancy event or heavy-duty linens for a winter wedding, a steam iron is versatile enough to handle it all.