Updated: 17 Dec 2010

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Introduction

One iron steamed ahead in our latest test.

The irons we tested ranged in price from less than $20 to over $150. One model glided through challenging fabric creases and also rated tops for being easy to use.

Our report also explains what to look for when you're choosing a new iron, provides some safety tips, and we've included additional test results and recommendations for models from an earlier test.

Models we tested

This report contains test results and recommendations for the following irons:

Latest tested models

Models tested in 2008

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.)

Iron safety

It's easy to leave the iron switched on while you answer the phone or the door. But a child could pull the cord or knock over the ironing board and be severely burned by the falling iron. That's why we prefer irons with auto cut-off.

What if a child does get burned? Here's what Safekids New Zealand recommends.

• Run cold water gently over the burn for at least 20 minutes. Don’t touch the burn or burst any blisters as this could cause infection.
• Remove clothing from the affected area once it has cooled. If the clothing sticks don’t pull it away – cut around the fabric.
• Cover the burn with clean non-fluffy material – such as a sheet – or loosely cover it with plastic wrap to prevent infection. DON’T use ice, butter or oil on the burn.
• Get medical advice immediately from your doctor or Plunketline 0800 933 922 … or call 111.

 

Report by Bev Frederikson.