15 Best Steam Irons (Review) In 2022
- The Best Steam Iron
- 1. Rowenta DW5080 Micro Steam Iron
- 2. PurSteam Professional Grade Steam Iron
- 3. Rowenta DW6080 Eco-Intelligence Steam Iron
- 4. Utopia Home Steam Iron
- 5. Steamfast SF-717 Mini Steam Iron
- 6. Sunbeam Steammaster Steam Iron
- 7. BEAUTURAL Steam Iron
- 8. CHI 13101 Steam Iron
- 9. BLACK+DECKER D3030 Allure Professional Steam Iron
- 10. Mueller Steam Iron
- 11. Shark Steam Iron
- 12. Sunbeam Steam Master Steam Iron
- 13. Vremi Steam Iron
- 14. Yabano Steam Iron
- 15. Dcenta LCD Screen Steam Iron
In case you let your clean laundry spend a lot of time in your laundry bag, then you are in a grave necessity of a steam iron. Choosing a steam iron is more difficult than ever but in a good sense. The technology has come on so well in recent years, that many things which used to be niche and cutting-edge now come as standard. You can now expect all irons to comfortably smooth out unwanted wrinkles, to have an auto shut-off function, to be able to iron vertically as well as horizontally, and in some cases have a digital display!
Selecting the best steam iron for you will depend on how often you use it, how many clothes you have, how fussy you are with things like drapery and upholstery (yes, they can be ironed, too!), and how safety conscious you are. You might have small children around, in which case safety will be very much higher on your agenda. You might need a business suit on a daily basis, in which case a quick warm-up time and powerful wattage output will be your priority.
The following products are all fantastic irons, which will allow your ironing board to be the best ironing board it can be. It is prudent to weigh up your priorities and compare what will work best for you, based on each iron's particular strengths.
The Best Steam Iron
1. Rowenta DW5080 Micro Steam Iron


Key Features
Stainless steels soleplate – precision tip
400+ Steam holes
User-friendly Thermostat knob
Easy fill hole, anti-drip lid
Automatic 3-way shut off system
Made in Germany
This German-produced steam iron comes with plenty of useful features. Rowenta DW5080 Micro Steam Iron has a sleek stainless steel soleplate with 400 steam holes to maximize steam dispersal and save you time. Its tip enables precision maneuvering, whether along seams, collars, or between buttons. Tap water is sufficient, rather than distilled, and the thermostat knob has clear settings for a range of different fabrics, eg. linen, silk, nylon, cotton, wool. The iron has an auto-adjust feature whereby the steam matches the soleplate temperature. It can be turned off for dry ironing. The iron completely shuts off after 8 minutes, if left unused in an upright position. It shuts off after 30 seconds if left unattended in its horizontal position. You will like the anti-calcium system which stops impurities from forming, while the self-steam system flushes out mineral deposits. It even boasts an integrated anti-scale function and an anti-scale setting, so it should remain clean and efficient throughout its lifetime.
2. PurSteam Professional Grade Steam Iron



Key Features
Ultra-Press Stainless Steel Soleplate
Easy Thermostat control with Axial Steam Holes
Ironing time twice as quick
Plenty of safety features
Water in tank – rigorous pre-purchase testing
This impressive model has a thick chromium finish soleplate which is scratch resistant and ultra in gliding across fabrics; ideal for quilters, crafters, sewers. With PurSteam Professional Grade Steam Iron you can quickly choose the best steam output for your needs, which regulates the temperature accordingly. The specific sizing and alignment of the holes generate a powerful amount of steam throughout the soleplate. The Rapid Even-Heat Technology with 1700w of power enables the iron to glide across virtually any fabric, while its automatic three-way shut-off system stops accidents and the burning of your precious clothes. The updated Anti-Drip system means you need no longer worry about water dripping from the soleplate at lower temperatures, or when the iron isn’t being actively used. It has an Anti-Calc system to prevent mineral build-up. You may even find water in the water tank when you receive your product; don’t worry, this is a sign that we’ve been putting it through rigorous testing, which allows you to have complete confidence in its performance.
3. Rowenta DW6080 Eco-Intelligence Steam Iron

Key Features
Stainless-steel Soleplate with Microsteam holes
Three manual steam settings
Anti-Calc system
Safety first features
User-friendly design
This energy-saving product delivers 1700w of power but saves 25% more energy than regular irons. Its unique Eco Steam system has 3 settings: Dry – achieves. great finish without steam, Eco – produces more steam yet still saves energy, and Boost – extra steam when handling clothing which has thicker fabric or stubborn creases. Rowenta DW6080 Eco-Intelligence Steam Iron is designed for both right-handed and left-handed users will find the nicely-shaped, adjustable rotary trigger, which activates the Eco Steam settings, easy to use. Its scratch-resistant, stainless steel soleplate has more than 400 micro holes for efficient team dispersal, while its 3D design produces powerful steam that stays on the fabric rather than escaping, also saving energy. The rounded base of the soleplate helps the iron glide without making creases; the point tip aids getting into narrower spots, eg. in between buttons or pleats. It can also be used in its vertical position, so it can steam drapes or hanging garments, in this way, taking the role of regular clothes steamer. There is an anti-drip system that stops leakage or spitting at lower heat settings, a self-clean function that expels mineral deposits, and a 3-way automatic shut off for safety. It automatically turns off if left for more than 8 minutes (upright position), and after 30 second (horizontal position) or even tipped over.
4. Utopia Home Steam Iron




Key Features
Lightweight and ideal for travel
Use as a dry iron for delicate fabrics
360 degree swivel cord
Adjustable thermostat control
Overheat safety protection
Variable steam control
With a 2 meter cord and 1200 Watts of pressing power, not forgetting variable steam controls, Utopia Home Steam Iron will help you get those difficult wrinkles out in next to no time. The Shot of Steam buttons help deliver extra steam when needed, and the Dual Spray Mist function can be used to hose the fabric with twice the effectiveness of water fog. Its Vertical Shot of Steam can be used to revitalize articles of clothing, drapery or upholstery that are hanging up. The stainless steel soleplate is non-stick and has large-scale steam gaps to deliver the steam more powerfully than regular irons. The light indicator shows when the iron is ‘ON’, which makes it extremely safe. The 360° swivel cord helps you do your ironing from different angles, which can be very useful depending on the particular items of clothing you might be trying to iron.
5. Steamfast SF-717 Mini Steam Iron



Key Features
Rapid heat up time
420 watts of power
Dual Voltage convenience
Travel accessories included
Two-year hassle-free warranty
A small but powerful steam iron, the SF-717 is lightweight and perfect for taking with you on holiday or business trips. It has a small non-stick soleplate which is good at getting in and around pleats and pockets, which makes it more effective than many bigger irons. Steamfast SF-717 Mini Steam Iron has a useful travel bag and a dual voltage for overseas trips (choose either 100V or 240V, as well as a plastic measuring cup for extra convenience. It boasts an anti-slip handle which helps your grip, and the 7.5-foot power cord allows you to reach comfortably from any plug-socket. Its two-year warranty is backed by a customer service team, based in Andover, KS.
6. Sunbeam Steammaster Steam Iron



Key Features
1400 watts of power,
Shot of Steam feature
3-Way Motion Smart auto-off
Self-clean system
3-year limited warranty
This model comes with an impressive amount of pressing power (1400 watts), and extra steam can be engaged with its special Shot of Steam function. There is a Dual Spray Mist capacity which is twice as effective as regular water mist, and a Vertical Shot of Steam capability that makes Sunbeam Steammaster Steam Iron ideal for sprucing up hanging garments, drapery, and even upholstery. This works when the iron is in an upright position and means you won’t need to get the ironing-board out for every little job. There is a three-way Motion Smart technology that automatically shuts down the iron if left unattended or set in a wrong position; kicking in 30 seconds after inactivity is sensed (when horizontal), or 15 minutes (when vertical).
7. BEAUTURAL Steam Iron



Key Features
9 Preset modes
Double Ceramic Soleplate – scratch resistant
Auto shut-off
Completely pre-tested by QA team
Customer care office based in California
If wanting to buy an iron that has all the extras, then search no further; this model boasts a clear-view LCD screen which lets you choose your fabric type and always iron at the correct heat. BEAUTURAL Steam Iron has also motion-sensitive technology that shuts down the iron after 8 minutes if vertical, and after 30 seconds if horizontal. Its self-cleaning capability is impressive; releasing loose bits of minerals after it has got the main job done. Another benefit is its automatic filtering of water in the tank, which stops calcium from building up, and the fact that water cannot leak from the iron when at a low temperature, thus stopping droplets from potentially staining fabrics and clothes.
8. CHI 13101 Steam Iron

Key Features
Chi Flat IRON Technology
Powerful Steam
Fabric Guide.
Precise Control
Premium Materials
This is a high-end model, which enables you to achieve professional results with a domestic iron. It glides smoothly over a variety of fabrics, and has a titanium-infused ceramic soleplate, strong enough to fend off scratches, heat up quickly, and provide a very smooth ironing experience. CHI 13101 Steam Iron has a temperature dial that contains a fabric guide, thus enabling you to adjust the amount of steam being deployed, avoiding too much steam, and too little from being dispersed. The handle is very comfortable, and the more than 300 steam holes help you to iron out any wrinkles easily and effectively.
9. BLACK+DECKER D3030 Allure Professional Steam Iron


Key Features
Made With Chi Flat IRON Technology
Powerful Steam for Effortless Ironing
Fabric Guide
Precise Control
Ultra-Strong and Scratch-Resistant Soleplate
Steaming irons generate steam, obviously! But this one generates 30% more steam than the norm, to achieve crisp, smooth results, every time. BLACK+DECKER D3030 Allure Professional Steam Iron allows you to alter settings in order to cater to the particular fabric type you wish to iron. Dual moisture control buttons help to regulate the moisture going on to the fabric in a more controlled way. The useful vertical steaming feature is perfect for hangers or quick jobs (for upholstery or drapes, for example), in which you don’t want to assemble your ironing board.
10. Mueller Steam Iron



Key Features
Faster heating
Stainless steel soleplate
Retractable cord
Precise Control
Professional customer support
One of the best steam irons due to its premium features, such as a sharper precision tip and pleasingly comfortable, sleek controls. Its retractable cord, which winds up at the press of a button, makes for convenient storage; its steam only takes 3 seconds to regenerate, and 60 seconds to get to a maximum temperature. Mueller Steam Iron is sensitive to a full range of different fabric, from coarse to fine, and if you leave your iron face down it will not damage or burn the fabric or board cover. The vertical steam function is highly effective, allowing you to do little touch-up jobs to clothes that are hanging up.
11. Shark Steam Iron

Key Features
Premium stainless steel soleplate
1500 watts – powerful steam
Water tank with easy-fill door
Button fit tip with smooth glide maneuverability
Multi-position auto steam shut off
The weight of this lightweight model is useful, as are its cutting-edge vertical steam function, which allows you to steam hanging garments, drapes, upholstery, without having to get your ironing-board out. Shark Steam Iron comes with plenty of features, packs 1500 watts of power, uses Smooth Glide™ technology, has a multi-position shut-off, and includes anti-drip capability so that irritating drops won’t spatter onto your clothes or fabrics.
12. Sunbeam Steam Master Steam Iron



Key Features
Anti-drip technology
3-Way Motion Smart technology
Variable Steam
Fabric Dial setting
Vertical steam option
This iron helps you get going in the morning, with its anti-drip capability, and its Three-way Motion Smart technology which automatically shuts the iron off while you’re getting your coffee or taking a shower. Sunbeam Steam Master Steam Iron has power of 1400 watts that helps you free your clothes of wrinkles; made easier by the Shot of Steam function which emits a burst of steam for added effectiveness. The Vertical Shot of Steam option allows you to breathe new life into clothes that are hanging up, and also work on drapery and upholstery. Its self-cleaning system helps destroy a build-up of mineral on the non-stick soleplate so that you can just concentrate on ironing with ease.
13. Vremi Steam Iron



Key Features
Powerful Steamer
Premium Soleplate
Advanced Steam Technology
Optimum Safety Features
Buying this 1800-watts professional steam iron will allow you to eliminate creases effectively and rapidly. The water tank must be filled to maximum capacity before plugging in the power cord. Then, there is a red light that starts flashing to indicate the temperature is increasing, and you may adjust the steam by using the Adjustable Steam Control Level. Vremi Steam Iron has 53 steam holes and scratch-resistant, its durable soleplate is perfect for reaching collars and steams, thanks to its tapered tip. This iron’s Dual moisture control buttons allow you to gently mist fabrics or more strongly blast more stubborn wrinkles, via the steam burst trigger. Its safety feature will shut down the iron if left unattended for 15 minutes vertically, or for 30 seconds horizontally. The Anti-Drip and Anti-Calc features stop mineral build-up, which in turn enables you just to get on with the job at hand.
14. Yabano Steam Iron



Key Features
Advanced Steam Technology
1800W High-Power & Effective
Optimum Safety Features
Variable Temp & Steam Control
Double Durability
This popular iron has a High-intensity steam burst with double the power of a regular iron (550g/min steam capacity). Yabano Steam Iron boasts a Yabano ceramic coated non-stick soleplate, with 3-second rapid even heat technology. A powerful DC motor delivers 1800 watts of power (peak) and 1200 watts with continuous use. Its safety feature automatically switches the iron off when left for 15 minutes on its heel, or 30 seconds on its soleplate. It has an Anti-Drip and Anti-Calc feature to obliterate mineral build-up, and 7 gear adjustment so that its Variable steam control can cater for all kinds of different fabrics. Its 8.5ft swivel cord guard is able to rotate 360 degrees, which stops the cord from getting tangled. It has a thick protective layer around the cord to counter electrical leakage if damaged. There is also a 24-month customer service team to help you if any issue should arise.
15. Dcenta LCD Screen Steam Iron



Key Features
High Definition LCD Screen
11 Preset Mode Precision Ironing
Shot-team and Dry ironing
Horizontal and Vertical ironing
3-Way Automatic Shut Off
Dcenta LCD Screen Steam Iron has a digital display; an LCD screen that contains 11 Preset Temperature and Steam Settings that provide precision ironing for a whole range of different fabrics, eg. linen, denim, nylon, wool, silk, cotton. With 1800 watts of power and a warm-up time of only 30 seconds, the wrinkle removal is efficient and fast. The ceramic and stainless steel soleplate guarantee that steam is delivered consistently, while the large 350ml tank capacity increases the working time. Steam ironing and dry ironing are both offered, as well as vertical ironing, which is very useful for hung garments and curtains. Motion sensors are in place so that the iron shuts off when the iron is inactive, either in the horizontal (30 seconds) or vertical (8 minutes).
Features To Consider With Steam Irons
Quality
Steam irons these days are so high-tech that most of their strengths are often fringe benefits which may or may not alter the effectiveness and experience of actual ironing in your daily life. The material and quality of the soleplate a high priority, because this is the actual thing which is making contact with your precious clothes and fabrics; everything else in the iron supports that. Other than that, having a warranty of up to 3 years, with a support center based in the US is obviously important; anything which disappoints you about the quality can be quickly addressed and hopefully fixed.
Steam Pressure
The way in which the iron lets out steam is crucial to its effectiveness, and will affect the various tasks you want it to do, ie. on various fabric, settings, and positions. Measured in grams per minute, the amount of steam emitted per minute will vary from model to model. It can go from 30 grams per minute to 200 grams per minute. Strength and consistency are the keys, as well as types of steam input. There are various options here:
- Variable steam output – this is where the steam output is automatically adjusted by the iron, depending on the fabric being ironed
- Continuous steam - in which steam comes out at a slower rate, but non-stop rather than varying
- Vertical steam output - great for gowns, garments, drapes, upholstery
Steam Shot
This is exactly as it sounds; a burst of steam that is emitted directly onto the fabric being ironed. The best steam irons will tend to have some sort of dial which allows you to monitor and control this.
Tank Capacity
The larger the tank's size and the wider its opening the better. A larger size will mean less re-filling, and a wider opening means easier filling. It also helps ensure the consistent output of steam. A translucent water tank is useful because you can see when you'll need to refill it, without being surprised.
Wattage
The wattage is important because from it your iron generates heat, steam, and it does so more quickly and effectively with a higher wattage, as a general rule. Something in the region of 1500 watts is ideal.
Self Cleaning
The self-clean function is really useful. With it, you can just press it over the sink, and steam and hot water will emit from the soleplate's holes, together with any impurities which might have ended up causing blockages and other problems over time.
Soleplates
The most important feature, without doubt; best to go for an easy to clean one which is also scratch-resistant. Non-stick coated plates are less likely to burn your clothes. Ceramic soleplates have the added advantage of providing a superior glide. Stainless steel is a close second and is resistant to rust. Anodized aluminum is also durable and scratch-resistant. The number of holes is also important; the more holes, the more steam is being transferred to your clothing, so the quicker it is to complete the job.
Controls
Controls on a steam iron tend to be there to adjust the temperature and the output of steam. A temperature sensor exists in order to align the temperature of choice with the temperature of the soleplate. Steam occurs by taking water from the tank to the chamber, and then thermally coupling this to the soleplate.
Safety Features
Having an auto shut-off feature is highly desirable. Not only clothing, but little hands could suffer first degree burns without one! Older models without this have also been responsible for house fires, so it's worth updating to a newer model, for sure.
Steam Iron FAQ
Q: What is a steam iron?
Steam iron is a device that uses extremely hot water to smooth out wrinkles, which may not be able to be eliminated through dry ironing. Water (preferably distilled) is poured into a holding tank. It is then converted into steam, which is emitted through holes in the metal base, called the sole-plate. The steam then frees up individual fibers in the clothing, and the iron's heavy pressing action reduces the wrinkles to a satisfying smoothness.
Q: What fabrics should not be steamed?
Not all fabrics should be steamed. Most of them can, but some such as suede, plastic, and fabrics which may contain elements of wax (eg. waxed jackets) should definitely not.
Q: Is steaming quicker than ironing?
Steam iron is faster, more convenient, more lightweight, and generally smaller than regular irons.
Q: How long should a steam iron last?
The days of lifelong domestic appliances are long gone. Most steam irons will offer a warranty; anything between 1 and 3 years.
Q: How do you clean a steam iron?
After ensuring it is empty, pour distilled water into the reservoir, up to one-third full. You can also add white vinegar to water in a 3:1 ratio, for added effectiveness. Then, turn the iron on to its maximum setting and steam iron a clean cloth for a couple of minutes, allowing the clean water to flush out any deposits lurking in the vents.
Q: Can I use steam iron without water?
Yes. Ensuring you first empty the water, you can set the iron to its dry heat setting. You might want to do this in order to preserve the shape of the fabric if it is a particularly delicate item.
Q: Can I use tap water in my steam iron?
Tap water can be used with modern steam irons. Look out for one that as a decent 'calc-clean' or 'anti-calc' function; this means that it effectively de-scales itself.
Sources
How to Properly Use a Steam Iron - SF Gate
How to Use the Steam Function on Your Iron - Martha Stewart