Which iron sole should I choose?

Ceramic soles are used quite widely. This coating ranks second in popularity. In terms of the number of offers, models with ceramic soles are second only to irons with stainless steel soles.

Text: Olga KUZMINA.

Ceramics on a steel base. We evaluate all the pros and cons

Pros:

Excellent glide under high heat Does not leave shiny areas or scorch marks at the wrong temperature Delicate to synthetics Scratch resistant Easy to clean

Minuses:

Difficulty gliding at low temperatures Possible chipping

Compared to the total volume, ceramics account for approximately ¼ of the market. Moreover, this material is ignored by a number of large manufacturers, including Rowenta, Braun, Moulinex, Panasonic.

The most expensive iron with ceramics is Alengo A-1725, it costs more than 5.5 thousand rubles. The least amount of money will be required to purchase Vigor HX 4067 - 700 rubles. If we compare prices for irons in general, the models of the group we are describing do not stand out in any way.

Steel based ceramics

The sole of any modern iron is made of metal. Ceramic is no exception. The base is aluminum or stainless steel. Ceramics are applied to a metal plate and sintered at high temperatures (more than 1200 ºС), resulting in a durable, smooth surface, without pores, capable of working under conditions of heat and steam.

Close attention to ceramics is due to its remarkable properties: the material has good sliding characteristics, and it does not leave marks on the fabric - areas with a shiny surface, that is, there is no need to use wet gauze. Works great with synthetic fabrics that are now very popular. Due to the smooth transfer of heat, ceramic soles are not prone to burning through fabrics. Easy to clean with regular napkins or cloth. Lastly, they are scratch resistant.

A non-biased assessment of the ceramics was given in the French laboratory CTTN, where all existing sole materials were tested directly in work, that is, in ironing. Ceramics has become a “champion”, although not an absolute one, but in the most respected category - ironing at maximum temperature. The sliding characteristics of ceramics are recognized as the best. During the tests, it also became clear that ceramics iron less well at low heat. Hence the conclusion: the material is optimal for those who most often choose the second and third heating levels, heating with steam.

Companies that pay attention to ceramics offer their own coating options and technologies. Thus, the SteamGlide ceramic sole of Philips irons is considered the best development of the company’s engineers due to not only an effective and durable coating, but also a well-thought-out steam supply system.

Delonghi's Gemini sole consists of a stainless steel platform on which a layer of ceramic is applied.

The Palladium-Glissee Bosch sole is equipped with steam channels to direct steam to the spout and the perimeter of the sole.

Vitek's UniCera sole has a double ceramic layer.

The Tefal Autoclean Catalys sole made of durilium is coated with a layer of palladium, so that dirt does not stick to it. And the sole of the same company, UltraglissDiffusion, has a pointed shape at the back, which allows it to be more mobile when ironing back and forth.

Comparison of modern sole materials

In order for the ironing platform to operate effectively, it must meet the requirements listed above. Platforms made from several materials have the best performance. To create them, different technological processes are used: spraying, adhesion, treatment with chemical reagents and other methods. What is the best iron sole? Let's talk about this further and compare the most common options.

Iron feet made of various alloys

Aluminum

This metal is used in the production of budget models. It is light enough, which allows housewives to spend less effort on ironing. The cost of electric irons with aluminum bases is low, and this attracts buyers. The good thermal conductivity of aluminum alloys allows you to quickly start ironing.

Inexpensive iron without a steam generator with an aluminum base

This is where the advantages end. The disadvantages of aluminum include:

• softness, leading to the rapid appearance of damage and deterioration of gliding;
• tendency to form gloss on clothes and burn marks on metal surfaces.

To get rid of imperfections, protective coatings are created on the aluminum surface. Electrical appliances with platforms made of more durable anodized aluminum are quite common. A new technology called Eloxal was developed in the laboratories of the famous manufacturer Braun. It allows, by oxidizing aluminum with an electrolyte solution, to obtain a more durable coating that glides well over tissues.

Braun iron with Eloxal soleplate

Stainless steel

Stainless steel is an alloy almost as common as aluminum. And although steel is not much more expensive, its performance properties are much better. These include:

• high strength and durability;
• anti-corrosion resistance;
• good glide;
• satisfactory thermal conductivity;
• low price.

Electric iron with polished stainless steel platform

The disadvantages of this material include:

• high specific gravity;
• tendency to form burns at the wrong ironing temperature.

A longer heating time, compared to aluminum, can be considered a disadvantage, but it’s a stretch.

Teflon

This polymer has several other names: fluoroplastic and polytetrafluoroethylene. It is a transparent material and is widely used in the production of household appliances and kitchenware. Its advantages include:

• easy sliding on various materials due to anti-friction properties;
• excellent non-stick properties;
• gentle smoothing of delicate fabrics without damaging the fibers;
• relatively low cost.

Many models of Tefal brand irons are available with Teflon bases

At the same time, Teflon coatings have a significant disadvantage - low strength and rapid wear. Contact with buttons and other hard objects quickly damages the polymer, so electric irons with Teflon coatings should not be placed on metal stands.

Ceramics

This material for the working surface of irons is optimal in terms of price/quality ratio. Ceramic coating has a number of advantages over the above metals:

• during ironing, it does not melt the fibers of delicate fabrics and they do not stick to the surface;
• glides over textiles easier than other alloys;
• has good strength and lasts a long time if handled with care;
• used in electric irons in the mid-price range;
• heats up evenly;
• does not create difficulties in care.

To remove dirt from the ceramic surface, simply wipe it with a cloth.

The negative properties of the material include fragility, which, if handled carelessly, leads to the formation of chips and cracks.

Glass and metal ceramics

To impart plasticity to ceramic alloys while simultaneously increasing strength, glass and metal impurities are added to them. Ceramic-metal soles are becoming increasingly popular, despite the fact that their production is more expensive than pure ceramic products.

Steamglide soles, developed by Philips, consist of alloy steel covered with a layer of glass or metal ceramic on top

For example, the addition of nickel causes the base of irons to take on a yellowish tint. Chrome plating gives the work surfaces a bluish tint. Some metal-ceramic coatings can be distinguished by such characteristics. Under their surface there is aluminum or stainless steel, which is the basis and conductor of heat.

titanium coating , as well as those made Saphire technology , coated with corundum, are becoming increasingly popular These materials are quite expensive, but have very high strength and do not have the disadvantages inherent in cheaper coatings.

A wide variety of materials allows you to choose an iron sole that will meet any needs and financial capabilities. Knowing the pros and cons of various materials, you can easily choose the right model for yourself.

Who is stronger?

The power of modern irons has increased as the requirements for their heating speed have increased. Now the device must ensure that the required sole temperature is achieved as quickly as possible. For advanced models, the power indicator is in the range of 2.2–2.4 and even 2.6 kW. Among the irons with ceramic soles, more than half are like this.

For example, the Smile SI 1009 iron has a power of 2.6 kW, the Bomann DB 774 CB - 2.5 kW, the Redmond RI-C208 - 2.4 kW, the Bosch TDA 3637 - 2.3 kW, the Bimatek IR- 400 - 2.3 kW, Vitesse VS-650 - 2.2 kW.

However, lower powers do not necessarily make ironing less efficient, it just takes a little longer.

Pros of a ceramic iron

Irons with ceramic soles appeared on the household appliances market relatively recently. When creating a sole, ceramics are usually combined with other materials - aluminum or steel, which become the base. Only the top layer of the sole is covered with ceramics.

In addition to standard functions, ceramic irons have a number of significant advantages:

• Ceramics conduct heat well and glide easily over the surface of the fabric, smoothing out wrinkles. It acts much more delicately than irons with a stainless or aluminum surface: it does not crumple, catch or wrinkle the fabric, and does not stick to it. At the same time, ironing efficiency is at its best: a ceramic iron is equally suitable for thin curtains and thick towels.
• Another important advantage of ceramics is ease of cleaning. Carbon deposits on the surface of the sole can be easily removed using a regular sponge with water or detergent.
• Finally, the last advantage of ceramic-coated irons is their light weight, which makes ironing easier. The heaviest models weigh no more than one and a half kilograms.

Where would we be without steam!

Only a few units of irons without a steam function are now produced—customers are almost uninterested in them. In models with ceramic soles, pairs are also a must. When ironing, it not only straightens out wrinkles, but creates the effect of a steam cushion, which enhances the sliding of the sole. A well-designed steam function makes ironing easier, faster, and helps save energy and time.

The function has two quantitative indicators - constant steam and steam boost (short but most powerful burst of steam).

The most advanced irons are capable of ironing with a constant steam supply of 60–70 g/min. Models with ceramic soles remain aloof from these records: their maximum constant steam value is 50 g/min, and these are only Philips models (for example, GC 4850). Binatone SI 4060 and Zelmer 28Z030 have slightly weaker steam - 45 g/min.

Popular indicators are in the range of 20–30 g/min.

Considering this topic, you involuntarily notice that irons with ceramic soles do not always implement the best achievements of their brands. Let's compare two irons: Scarlett SC-334 STed and SC-1133 SDavid, both costing about 1000 rubles. The model with a stainless steel soleplate SC-334 STed has a constant steam of 60 g/min, and the maximum for Scarlett ceramics is 30 g/min, that is, half as much. Bosch has a similar trend. Their irons implement the idea of ​​a steam generator with steam up to 65 g/min, but in models with ceramics it is not used, and the speed is 40 g/min.

But this is not a general trend, as confirmed by models with ceramic soles from Philips and Tefal; all the most interesting developments of the companies are concentrated in them.

Hit me

The steam boost is ideal for working with over-dried items, especially thick fabrics, or items with a lot of folds. Now the average steam emission rate is 100–120 g/min. Peak - 200 g/min (reaching Rowenta). This is for irons in general. As for ceramics, it generally corresponds to generally accepted trends, but with some amendments - there are still fewer models with powerful steam in percentage terms, and the maximum possible steam is not found in irons with ceramic soles.

So, a steam boost of 100 g/min is quite common, and an iron with this function can be bought for 1000 rubles. Examples of models: Lamark LK-1108, De'Longhi FXN 22, Bosch TDA 3630. More “powerful” irons are capable of steaming with a blow of 110 g/min, these are De'Longhi FXG 23 T and Binatone SI 4060, 120 g/min - Tefal GV7460 and Maxima MI-C062, 150 g/min - Bimatek IR-401, 170 g/min - Tefal FV9550E2 and Philips GC 4850, and Bosch TDA 7680 - 180 g/min!

TOP 3 irons with ceramic soles

No. 3 – Kitfort KT-2601

Kitfort KT-2601
This is a convenient, quickly warming up iron that is inexpensive and very popular among those who value high-quality, but inexpensive things. In addition, this option is quite functional.

The cost of the device starts from 1500 rubles. The ceramic sole is smooth, glides well and heats up quickly. The power of the device is 2200 W. Among the functions are the ability to adjust steam, self-cleaning, steam boost, spraying, and anti-scale protection.

Buyers write that the device irons things well and comes with a measuring cup that allows you to comfortably fill the reservoir in the iron with water. This is a compact option that is lightweight. The disadvantages include a short cord and the lack of an auto-shut-off function.

pros

• heats up quickly
• glides well
• smooths things out perfectly
• inexpensive
• easy
• functional

Minuses

• short cord
• no auto shutdown

Prices for iron Kitfort KT-2601

Kitfort KT-2601

No. 2 - Braun SI 3041 GR

Braun SI 3041 GR
A fairly powerful iron with a ceramic sole that does an excellent job of smoothing out even heavily wrinkled items. Moreover, the device is relatively inexpensive, beautiful and easy to use.

The cost of the iron starts from 2300 rubles. Power - 2350 W. The sole of the device is made of high-quality ceramics using FreeGlide 3D SuperCeramic technology. The functionality is sufficient to use the device: anti-scale, steam boost, ability to control steam supply, spraying.

Users appreciate the fast heating time, functionality, light weight, and stylish appearance in this option. One of the disadvantages is that the liquid container is too small in volume (only 270 ml). Yes, and pouring water into it is not very convenient.

pros

• powerful
• inexpensive
• comfortable
• functional
• irons things well
• fast heating

Minuses

• water tank is small
• no auto shutdown

Prices for iron Braun SI 3041 GR

Braun SI 3041 GR

No. 1 - Redmond RI-C263

Redmond RI-C263
Not the most expensive, but one of the most powerful options in terms of steam supply, equipped with a ceramic sole. Moreover, it has a steaming function in a vertical position, as well as the ability to automatically turn off.

The device costs around 3,000 rubles and has a power of 2,400 watts. Features include traditional and adjustable steam, self-cleaning ability, high steam blast and vertical steaming, to name a few. The steam consumption during impact is high - 170 g/min. The volume of the water tank is 350 ml.

Users appreciate this iron for its fast heating speed, powerful steam energy supply, and also for its high level of safety due to the auto-shut-off function. Vertical steaming significantly expands the possibilities of using the device. By the way, another plus is the light weight of the device. Many people consider the thermostat to rotate too easily as a disadvantage.

pros

• safe
• powerful steam supply
• powerful option
• ability to steam things vertically
• fast heating
• easy

Minuses

• generally not found

Prices for iron Redmond RI-C263

Redmond RI-C263

Reviews of the iron Redmond RI-C263

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Ceramic soles have also found application in steam stations - devices that combine a modern iron and a steam generator. They are represented on sale by only two brands, but these are some of the brightest players in the market - Philips and Tefal. Philips offers the most powerful systems available at the moment, delivering steam at 6 bar pressure. Their constant steam, as expected, corresponds to the average value of the steam boost (for irons in general) - 120 g/min. But the impact of the new models has increased significantly - 260 g/min.

Tefal has two devices with ceramic soles - GV7460 and GV 7096. Constant steam - 120 g/min. The steam boost is very powerful - 200 g/min. Steam pressure - 5 bar. When compared with other stations from the manufacturer, these irons look quite convincing; in terms of characteristics, they are one of the best.

The water won't pass

The “drop-stop” system is relevant for those iron users who iron at a low temperature without pouring water from the iron reservoir. It keeps the liquid inside and prevents drops from flowing out through the steam holes. All this should contribute to more comfortable ironing of viscose, silk, acrylic, etc. At the beginning of our story, we already mentioned that ceramics do not behave ideally at low temperatures.

And drops on the fabric make sliding even more difficult. Hence the simple conclusion: when choosing ceramics, you should not neglect the “drop-stop” function. Moreover, there is a choice - approximately two-thirds of all models with ceramics presented in stores are equipped with it (if we compare all irons, less than half have a “drop-stop”). The function is not tied to price and is used in both the most affordable (from 800 rubles) and the most expensive models.

For inner harmony

The biggest enemy of appliances that work with boiling water is scale: it clogs the steam channels and settles on the elements, thereby increasing energy consumption. You can combat it in the simplest way - pour water into the device that is already devoid of hardness salts. This is boiled or filtered water or a ready-made liquid purchased in a store.

The presence of an anti-scale protection system in the iron relieves the user of these hassles. The system comes in two types: permanent, which does not require replacement of cartridges, and replaceable - cartridges must be periodically removed and new ones installed. So, in regions where the water is hard, like here in Moscow, the anti-scale function will not be superfluous. Every second iron is equipped with it, starting with the most inexpensive ones, costing from 700–800 rubles. (Supra IS-0800, Rolsen RN5260, Lamark LK-1100, etc.).

An alternative or addition to this function is self-cleaning. It serves to put the insides of the iron (more precisely, the steam chamber) in order. The function turns on maximum steam, which throws dust and scale particles out. Self-cleaning is a very common phenomenon and is not used in only a limited number of irons (Vitesse VS-661, Rolsen RN6737 Mary, Polaris PIR 2058).

Philips irons feature double anti-scale protection. It includes a slider for easy scale removal and a capsule that breaks off plaque from surfaces.

Did you remember to turn off the iron?

It is very important to have safety features. This is protection against overheating (mandatory) and automatic shutdown of the device. The automation is triggered if the device is not moving: on the “heel” - after 8 minutes, on the side (in case of a fall) or on the sole - after 30 seconds. It may seem that the system should be the lot of expensive units, but this is not so; it is installed on devices even in the lowest price category.

Still, it cannot be called too widespread; no more than a quarter of irons with ceramic soles are equipped with the system, which again corresponds to the distribution of positions among irons with any type of sole.

Examples of models: low price (up to 1000 rubles) - Supra IS-0800 (2011) and Lamark LK-1105; medium (up to 2500 rubles) - Bosch TDA 2329 and Vitek VT-1202; high - Bimatek IR-401 and Philips GC 4420.

The Alengo company presented quite interesting new products to the public. The models are equipped with an AutoLift mechanism; it is activated as soon as the user’s hand releases the iron - the sole literally soars above the surface of the board.

Lifting is carried out due to the presence of retractable parts in the sole and under the “heel”; as a result, the iron stands on two legs. Take it in your hands and the legs “float” inside. Thanks to the mechanism, the iron does not need to be placed on its “heel” during idle moments, but, being the sole down, it does not come into contact with the fabric.

TOP 10 best iron

The list of the best models includes:

• Morphy Richards 303131.
• Philips GC4555/80 Azur.
• Morphy Richards 305003.
• Philips GC4909/60 Azur.
• Tefal FV1849 Maestro 2.
• Philips GC4902/20 Azur.
• Philips GC4556/20 Azur.
• Rowenta DW4130D1.
• Tefal FV1712.
• Braun TexStyle 7 TS765A.

Let's move on to studying the presented devices.

Morphy Richards 303131

The iron effectively smoothes any type of fabric. The sole is resistant to mechanical damage and stress, as it is made of durable and high-quality metal ceramics. For safety in everyday use, the device automatically turns off after prolonged inactivity.

For long-term work without interruption there is a water tank with a significant volume. The iron is connected to a standard electrical network with a voltage of 220 V. The model retains its performance properties for many years. The outsole with three special zones effectively eliminates wrinkles in clothes.

Price: from 5,125 to 6,350 rubles.

Morphy Richards 303131

Advantages

• iron sole made of metal ceramics;
• water container 400 ml;
• automatic shutdown after prolonged inactivity.

Flaws

• not detected.

Easy to use iron with good reviews and many additional features. The price of the model is now very affordable; last year I saw it cost a thousand more. I personally am very pleased that the iron is quite lightweight, but at the same time has a very powerful steam boost and vertical steam function. In general, it has everything I needed, I am very pleased with the purchase.

Philips GC4555/80 Azur

The power of the iron is 2,400 W. Thanks to this, it heats up quickly and provides excellent ironing results, including when working with items hanging on hangers. The rubberized handle is comfortable to hold in the palm of your hand, confidently controlling every movement.

The base of the SteamGlide Plus is made of durable material that is difficult to scratch. It glides well on various fabrics. This model features a Quick Calc Release system. It allows you to remove limescale with minimal time and, accordingly, increase productivity and extend the service life of the device.

Price category: from 3,850 to 4,700 rubles.

Philips GC4555/80 Azur

Advantages

• Availability of Quick Calc Release system;
• comfortable rubberized handle;
• light weight (1.6 kg).

Flaws

• not found.

Everything suits you! A good iron for home use. Ironing quality, power, weight, ease of use. This model left only good emotions! I really like Philips devices. The previous comrade worked for 8 years and is still alive. But we decided to buy a new Philips GC4555 iron to replace the old man. Just a plane, not a device. Gorgeous color scheme. It sank into my soul so much that I couldn’t imagine that any iron would be better than this model.

Morphy Richards 305003

The iron has a blue casing and is a powerful and easy-to-use device that will make you love the ironing process. Its power corresponds to 2400 W, and the steam boost reaches 230 g/min, which will allow you to smooth out wrinkles on several layers of clothing.

Continuous steam supply occurs at a pressure of 1.5 bar at a speed of 50 g/min thanks to the built-in pump. This allows the steam to penetrate deeper into the fabric, effectively removing wrinkles. The ceramic soleplate supports Aeroglide technology, which distributes steam evenly over the entire surface, which helps create a steam cushion.

The peculiarity of the model lies in its design, which involves the presence of a display and control buttons on the front side of the case. Using the buttons, you can turn on continuous steam mode, use a burst of steam, and also turn on the backlight in the spout area so you can see small wrinkles. To connect the device, a 3 m long cord is used.

Cost: from 5,990 to 7,150 rubles.

Morphy Richards 305003

Advantages

• steam boost 230 g/min;
• The iron sole supports Aeroglide technology;
• presence of a display.

Flaws

• not detected.

I decided to buy an iron to replace my old one. I purchased this model. Overall I'm pleased. I like the device. Works well, heats up quickly. The sole does not stick, as the temperature is automatically regulated and it is impossible to burn things. Even thin fabrics are ironed well, you are not afraid that you will burn through the material and have to throw the item away. I advise you to buy this device. It is really worth the money, high quality and reliable.

Philips GC4909/60 Azur

This iron will make ironing quick and efficient. High power allows it to heat up to operating temperature in a matter of seconds. In addition, it maintains stable steaming performance in all operating modes. Deep tissue hydration helps to cope with the most stubborn folds and creases.

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A special collector collects scale, preventing damage to the heater and clogging of the capillaries. It can be cleaned in 15 seconds by rinsing under the tap. An iron left on the stand will turn off on its own. The automation will work after 2 minutes if it is in a horizontal position or after 8 minutes if it is in a vertical position.

The SteamGlide Elite sole stays smooth and distributes heat evenly. It glides easily over delicate materials, maintaining their shape and texture. A special valve limits the water supply at low temperatures, preventing the iron from leaking and damaging the fabric.

The extra-long spout with steam holes helps you gently remove creases between buttons, collars and other hard-to-reach areas. The iron is equipped with a non-slip handle, a swivel cord and a wide stand. Its capacious tank is designed for long continuous operation.

Price: from 5,990 to 7,400 rubles.

Philips GC4909/60 Azur

Advantages

• automatic shutdown when inactive;
• a special manifold prevents damage to the heater;
• non-slip handle.

Flaws

• not found.

I got this iron. For me it is good because the weight is felt in the hand. Since childhood, I have become accustomed to heavy appliances, and modern lightweight versions make me mistrust on a subconscious level. The same iron feels “weighty”, but not heaviness. In addition, the vertical steaming function is important to me, which this model copes with excellently. In general, I am very pleased with the iron, how I feel about it and, of course, the quality of ironing.

Tefal FV1849 Maestro 2

The iron has a steam supply function of up to 35 g/min. If this is not enough for you, then turn on the “Steam boost” for a short time. In this mode, steam is supplied intensively - up to 120 g/min. The ergonomic steam button is located next to the index finger - under the handle, which is very convenient.

The ceramic soleplate of the iron glides easily over the fabric and does not stick due to its non-stick properties. And its size will allow you to iron large items without spending a lot of time on it. The model is equipped with an auto shut-off system. In a vertical position, the device will turn off after 8 minutes of inactivity, and in a horizontal position - after 30 seconds.

Price category: from 1,550 to 2,780 rubles.

Tefal FV1849 Maestro 2

Advantages

• auto shutdown system;
• light weight (1.22 kg);
• ergonomic steam button.

Flaws

• short cord (1.95 m.)

My husband gave me a gift. I gave a Tefal Maestro 2 iron. I will say this, if you want the iron to perform all the basic functions, then this is a good option. The sole is ceramic – it irons well. The steam function steams perfectly. The water bay is conveniently located and large. The length of the cord may seem a bit short to some, but it’s just right for me. Doesn't cool down quickly. Personally, water in my iron did not flow out anywhere, but I did not fill it so much that it flowed from all the cracks. Small in size, not too heavy, easy to hold while ironing. The main thing is to carefully check for external damage when purchasing. When I bought it, I immediately changed it because there was a scratch on the sole.

Philips GC4902/20 Azur

A powerful model that heats up to operating temperature in a few seconds. High steaming performance allows it to quickly deal with the most stubborn folds and creases on thick fabrics. SteamGlide Elite coating reliably protects metal from scratches and other damage. Thanks to this, the iron glides easily over the surface of the fabric, maintaining its shape and pleasant texture.

An iron forgotten on a stand is just a minor nuisance. It will automatically turn off if left for 2 minutes in a horizontal position or 8 minutes in a vertical position. A special collector collects mineral deposits, preventing them from getting onto the heater and into the steam holes. It can be cleaned in a few seconds by rinsing it under the tap. The non-slip handle, wide, stable stand and rotating cord mount make the iron very convenient to use.

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Cost: 7,800 to 10,300 rubles.

Philips GC4902/20 Azur

Advantages

• heating to operating temperature in a few seconds;
• scale protection;
• High-strength SteamGlide Elite outsole.

Flaws

• The kit does not include a glass for filling the device with water.

This is my first experience using the Philips brand, before that I had a Tefal iron. I was thinking about which iron was better to buy. The main criteria when choosing a device were: anti-drip system, easy ironing, scale protection, slip resistance, long cord. All of the above can be attributed to this model. I have never experienced such delicate ironing in my life. Thanks to the consultants for help in choosing. Now I am the happy owner of this model. I have never held an iron in my hand so comfortably or steamed things so quickly. The glide is incomparable to ceramics, the nose is incredibly comfortable. Thanks to the creators of Philips!

Philips GC4556/20 Azur

The iron is very comfortable to use thanks to the rubberized handle, which fits well in the palm of your hand, and the swivel fastening of the power cord. 2,500 W power ensures fast heating. The Steel Glide sole glides well over fabric, and you can use a burst of steam to smooth out tough creases. This model features the Quick Calc Release anti-scale system.

The limescale particles are broken down and collected in a special container, which is then removed, cleaned and replaced. This allows you to significantly increase the service life of the household appliance. If the device is not used for some time, it will turn off automatically to reduce energy consumption and reduce the likelihood of an accident to zero.

Price: from 6,170 to 10,300 rubles.

Philips GC4556/20 Azur

Advantages

• SteamGlide Plus sole;
• Quick Calc Release anti-scale system;
• steam boost 220 g/min.

Flaws

• short cord (2 m).

My old Philips GC4914 iron began to act up. The temperature sensor constantly turned off during operation. I had to shake it or unplug it. Ironing became a pain. It's time to buy a new iron for your home. I settled on this model. After reading the specifications and reviews I decided to buy it. I really liked the iron. For me, normal is not heavy. Good glide. Eco mode has low water consumption. There is something to compare with. In my old Philips, two sets of bedding required two 350 ml glasses. In this one, half a glass in eco mode, a little more in normal mode. Convenient dial-switch. After 8 minutes of inactivity, the auto shut-off mode is activated and the red light on the iron handle flashes. I advise you to buy.

Rowenta DW4130D1

The iron will carefully and effectively handle the most stubborn creases. Simply set the fabric type using the rotary control, and the automatic steam supply system will select the optimal “pressure force”. In particularly difficult situations, a steam boost (150 g/min) will help. The water reservoir holds 250 ml, so you won't have to worry about refilling it too often, even when ironing bulky bedding and bath towels.

The Microsteam 300 Lase outsole is easy to glide. Three hundred holes are specially located on its surface so that the fabric is moistened evenly. The tapered nose allows you to smooth out hard-to-reach areas around buttons and along seams. Thanks to the anti-drip protection, your laundry will be stain-free. There is a self-cleaning system.

Price category: from 1,450 to 2,180 rubles.

Rowenta DW4130D1

Advantages

• light weight (1.19 kg)
• self-cleaning system;
• drop protection.

Flaws

• The kit does not include a container for refilling the device with water.

Gifted by my husband. There were doubts regarding the quality of the sole and its material. I started using it - everything is fine. Works great with all types of fabric, including delicates and baby items. Good steam supply. Heats up quickly. Easy to clean. I'm happy with the gift. I recommend purchasing.

Tefal FV1712

An iron with a non-stick sole and a steam boost of 85 g will become an indispensable appliance in everyday life. It can easily cope with any creases and smooth out even the most complex folds. The water spray will evenly moisten the fabric, and the anti-drip system will ensure that excess liquid does not leak out of the steam holes.

The vertical steaming mode treats any clothing as gently as possible and allows you to tidy up textiles without removing them. When there is a lot of scale, the device will clean itself of it. The 1.9 m long cord makes it possible not to be tied to an outlet, and the light indication will indicate when the device is ready for use.

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Cost: from 999 to 1,570 rubles.

Tefal FV1712

Advantages

• light weight (1 kg);
• anti-drip system;
• self-cleaning function.

Flaws

• short power cord (1.9 m).

The most important thing in irons is a good sole that does not burn and a thin spout for ironing thin fabrics. This model from Tefal is all right with these factors. It not only irons well, but also steams in a vertical position, so it replaces two devices at once. Excellent inexpensive iron.

Braun TexStyle 7 TS765A

With a relatively low power consumption, the iron provides a sufficiently high steam supply, which allows you to iron out products with a complex sewing structure and multiple folds. The soleplate is designed for efficient use of a combination of ironing and steaming. The device is made with a comfortable rubberized handle, which prevents your hand from slipping and increases convenience when ironing items with complex sewing.

The length of the power cord allows you to make any movements with the iron on the ironing board without restrictions, and the hinged fastening of the cord prevents it from being damaged during long-term use. The model is equipped with a light indication of readiness for work and is equipped with a self-cleaning system for descaling. In addition, its light weight allows you to make the necessary movements effortlessly, even with a fully filled water spray container.

Price: from 2,490 to 3,700 rubles.

Braun TexStyle 7 TS765A

Advantages

• light indication of readiness for operation;
• water container volume 400 ml;
• Saphir sole.

Flaws

• not found.

The iron is good, the reviews are only positive. The previous iron was also Braun and lasted 12 years. And if it weren’t for its next flight to the floor (my daughter touched the ironing board), I would have used it for a very long time. But now it will serve me at the dacha, where I can use it like that - it leaks a little. Therefore, there was no doubt about choosing a model, only Braun! And I advise you!!!