Checklist

If you're thinking about buying an iron, here's what to consider.

Soleplate (1)

• Polished aluminium is used on budget irons but may become sticky over time.
• A "non-stick" soleplate is easier to keep clean but be careful not to scratch it on zips or buttons. "Non-stick" covers a variety of names including Teflon, Dynaglide, and Durilium.
• Stainless steel glides smoothly but may scratch.
• Ceramic soleplates claim to be durable and scratch-resistant.
   

Steam (2)

• Drip protection stops the iron steaming if the heat is too low.
• Variable steam gives extra oomph on heavy fabrics and less puff on light or sensitive fabrics.
  
  Tip: Using steam at low heat can mean you get streaks - that's because the temperature's too low to vaporise the water. (An iron with drip protection stops this from happening.)
• Shot of steam provides an extra surge of steam that's useful for stubborn creases.
• Vertical steam is handy for restoring respectability to a rumpled pair of trousers or suit, getting creases out of fabrics too delicate to iron, and avoiding that shiny look when ironing wool and some other fabrics. You simply hold the iron close to hanging fabric and press the "Shot of steam" button. The steam is not continuous (you have to keep pressing), so it can be tedious to do large areas. Not all irons have this feature.
• The spray function may end up with water where you don't want it.
  
  Tip: Use a plant mister or spray bottle - its aim is more accurate than the iron's and it produces a better result.
   

Indicators (3)

• A thermostat light turns off when the preset temperature is reached.
  
  Tip: When the iron heats up from cold, it may overshoot the temperature setting before settling down - so test on an inside seam first.
• The power-on light warns you that the iron's on.

Button groove (4)

• A gap between iron and soleplate makes it easier to iron around buttons.

Cord (5)

• Cord length is important for safety. Plugging directly into the power outlet is safer than using an extension cord.
• Storage is easier if the iron has a "heel" that lets you wrap the cord around it. Some also have a clip to secure the cord.

Auto cut-off

Strongly recommended. If the iron is left lying down, it cuts off at around 30 seconds. If it's standing up, it cuts off - usually in 8 to 15 minutes.

Weight

A light iron is easy to move but needs more downward pressure. A heavier iron needs less pressure but more effort to move and lift.

Tip: Pick up a display model in the store (or take one out of its box) and check that its weight and balance are right for you.

Self-cleaning

This removes hard-water scale deposits that can clog the steam valve and soleplate holes. (If the inside of your kettle "furs up", you live in a hard-water area.)