Irons and steam stations

We’ve also tested garment steamers. They’re good for touch-ups, refreshing clothes between washes and “ironing” delicate fabrics, but an iron will do a better job on items that require a “crisp” look.

Auto cut-off

• Strongly recommended. If the iron is left lying down, it turns off at around 30 seconds. If it's standing up, it turns off after 2 to 15 minutes.

Soleplates

• A polished aluminium soleplate is used on budget irons, and 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" is marketed under many names including Teflon, Dynaglide, and Durilium.
• Stainless steel soleplates glide smoothly, but may scratch.
• Ceramic soleplates claim to be durable and scratch-resistant.

Steam

• Drip protection stops the iron steaming if the heat is too low. Without drip protection, using steam at low heat can result in streaks or stains because there’s not enough heat to evaporate the water.
• Variable steam allows for extra oomph on heavy fabrics and less puff on light or sensitive fabrics.
• A shot of steam provides an extra surge that's useful for stubborn creases.
• Vertical steam can restore respectability to a rumpled suit, getting creases out of fabrics too delicate to iron, and avoiding that shiny look from ironing wool and some other fabrics. The steam isn’t continuous, so it can be tedious to do large areas.

Other considerations

• A button groove is a gap between the iron and soleplate that makes it easier to iron around buttons.
• Self-cleaning 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.)
  
• The spray function may end up with water where you don't want it. Use a plant mister or spray bottle instead – its aim is more accurate than the iron's and it produces a better result.
• A thermostat light turns off when the preset temperature is reached, while the power-on light warns you that the iron is hot.
• 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.
• 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.