The whole world functions on steam – it is used to produce around 90% of all the electricity. And with the invention of irons, steam took that niche too, providing high-quality devices for our convenience. Yet if you purchase a faulty model, you might end up with more than just messy clothes – we are talking hand burns and even fire hazard. But our team is here to help you find the safest and the most reliable product on the market.
We’ve tested over 30 devices to show you 12 best steam irons with the top performing Rowenta DG8520 Perfect Steam. If you like to have plenty of settings for all types of fabrics and occasions, we’ve reviewed hi-tech options and professional models. If you are a fan of simple intuitive devices – we’ve got that covered for you too. And, of course, we’ll show budget-friendly options that won’t perform cheap. Read on for more!
Extra features: Eco Setting, anti-scale and anti-calc system, safety lock, 120 g/min steam output
One of the most powerful steam irons on the market, the Rowenta DG8520 boasts five bars of pressure of 1800 watts when dealing with a variety of different wrinkly material. You can easily use this steam iron to smooth out drapes or hanging garments, and you can even shape sewing projects with this tool.
The Rowenta DG8520 is extremely powerful and yet saves up a ton of energy – with an eco-setting that saves up to 20 percent of energy, this steam iron is extremely environmentally friendly. However, that doesn’t stop it from being powerful, with 1800 watts of power and a steam output of 80 grams per minute.
The iron itself features a micro-steam 400-hole stainless steel soleplate, which glides like a charm, and a 6-feet power cord, which makes it pretty flexible in being moved along the ironing board, no matter where the base is set up.
The Rowenta DG8520 lets out constant high-powered steam, which can be set off at the touch of a trigger. It makes ironing that much easier and earns its title of best all-around steamer. The iron comes with an extra-large removable tank of 47 oz that can let you iron for an hour and a half continuously without having to refill.
The 120 g of pressurized, wrinkle-removing steam backs up the professional practices of the iron. All it takes is three minutes to deliver the perfect ironing results. The soleplate also comes with a precision tip that can easily get to these hard-to-reach areas between collars and buttons.
Extra features: self-cleaning, anti-drip, 3-way auto shutoff
The Hamilton Beach 19900 is also quite powerful, with 1700 watts of power. However, power isn’t everything when it comes to a steam iron. There are also the extra features that the iron comes equipped with. Like with the Hamilton Beach 19900, its main features include durability, high performance, superior wrinkle removal, and a high amount of steam power.
The Hamilton Beach 19900 steam iron is measured out at 40 percent more continuous steam power than most leading brands out there. It is also 10 times more durable than the leading traditional brands that boast to be non-stick. The Hamilton Beach 19900 comes with features like self-cleaning, vertical steam power, and an anti-drip addition.
Its superior glide performance is really what sets it apart from all the rest. It makes it extremely easy and quick to complete your ironing tasks. The steam iron is also designed with scratch-resistant durability, which will help it last the test of time. It is a good thing, since it has a 10-year limited warranty on its soleplate, which is made with ceramic Durathon.
The steam iron also boasts a digital control panel, 3-way auto shutoff and a large amount of power to pack a punch when you’re ironing. It weighs 3.2 lbs, so you can lift up and carry this iron around with you without exerting yourself physically. It makes ironing clothes and material around the house extremely easy.
The iron itself is backed by a 1-year warranty, which will have you ironing out a lot of clothes in just one year!
Extra features: Microsteam400 Soleplate, self-clean with advanced calc collector
The Rowenta DW7180 Everlast is not only a steam iron, it is also a patented limescale collector, capturing up to 1 teaspoon of scale. The collector that is installed in the steam iron is removable and really easy to empty and clean.
However, back to the steam iron. The Rowenta DW7180 Everlast has a powerful distribution of a “steam shot”, which gets rid of all the wrinkles you could possibly have on your clothes or fabric – no matter how stubborn they are.
This steam iron works with a 400-hole soleplate that evenly distributes the steam so you are never going to have to worry about hotspots. You also have access to three different steam options, depending on the fabric you are ironing and 1750 watts of steam power.
The Rowenta DW7180 Everlast comes built with a 12 oz. water tank, which can hold up to 12 oz. of distilled water for optimal performance. There is also an auto off-switch for safety feature, and it comes attached with an 8-foot-long cord so you can be as flexible as you want and move around the room.
Since it addresses the problem of “hard water”, with mineral deposits being left all over appliances and fixtures, the steam iron protects it against limescale. The anti-calc iron captures all those limescale particles right into its patented calc collector and gives you a top-notch performance, every time.
Extra features: 8ft cord, digital thermostat, self-cleaning with anti-calc and anti-scale
The Maytag M1200 steam iron can reach its maximum temperature in just about one minute, which is what really puts it apart from most steam irons out there. With its speedy increase in temperature, it is also quick and on the ball for steam regeneration – taking only 3 seconds. The steam produced by this iron removes wrinkles much faster than other steam irons on the market. It also has an anti-wrinkle spray, which removes wrinkles at a quick speed, along with the pearl ceramic sole plate, which smooths wrinkles effortlessly.
The Maytag M1200 also lets out vertically-inclined steam, which means that it doubles not only just as an iron but also as a steamer – steaming out those wrinkles on garments that are hanging up above.
The ergonomic soft-touch grip on the iron is a great balance between comfort for upright use and regular use. Some extra features that the Maytag M1200 has is a digital thermostat, self-cleaning function, and extra accessories.
The digital thermostat displays the precise temperature so that it can control while ironing – no matter with which fabric you’re working. To iron specialty fabrics, like linen, cotton, silk, wool, nylon and synthetic, doesn’t require any extra work.
This steam iron also has a removable water tank, which means that the iron can be filled over and over again – even while it’s still hot.
It is self-cleaning, with an anti-calc and anti-scale function. No matter how often you use your steam iron, it can remain clean after each use. Your purchase will include the power of 1500W, 8.1-oz tank capacity, a 360-degree swivel 8-ft cord, and a manufacturer’s 2-year warranty.
Extra features: 3-way auto shutoff, 9 preset temperature and steam settings, anti-calc system
The Beautural 1800-Watt Steam Iron is a steam iron with all the average features and then some. If you’re looking to go above and beyond the average steam iron, this one is for you!
With its LCD Display and none preset programs, you can make ironing any task or type of fabric on-hand a breeze. Each program is set with the ideal temperatures and amount of steam – there is no reason to be over-heating or dampening your clothes ever again! The programs are registered to be compatible with nylon, silk, wool, cotton, jeans, and linen.
The Beautural 1800-Watt Steam Iron is also designed with a double ceramic-coated soleplate, which is extremely smooth for an easy glide over any fabric and made to press out all kinds of stubborn wrinkles.
This steam iron also comes with multiple safety features like the automatic safety shutoff, which is installed with motion-sensitive sensors that automatically switch off to avoid burning the fabric if left unattended.
The iron was also made to last. It keeps itself in shape and usable with its anti-calcium and self-cleaning system. With these extra features, the iron takes care of itself – removing calcium deposits and increasing the longevity of its life.
The purchase of the iron also comes with a measuring cup, an instruction manual, a 90-day full refund, and a 12-month warranty.
The iron is designed with a comfort grip handle that has been ergonomically perfected to alleviate stress on the hand and wrist while ironing, promising a better-propped position so you can iron for longer.
Extra features: 3-way auto shutoff, Auto Clean System, anti-drip, variable steam and temperature
The BLACK+DECKER D2530 Digital Advantage is a steam iron that gives professional results in the comfort of your own home. The reputation of a high-quality brand is well-reserved by Black and Decker and this iron is one of the smartest devices they have created.
With its high steam rate, this steam iron can blast away wrinkles as efficiently as possible. You can even customize for the task at hand with digital settings that shoot out the perfect amount of steam depending on the type of fabric you’re working with.
The BLACK+DECKER D2530 Digital Advantage also has a digital temperature control feature, which is a clear-view LCD screen that can help you control the settings when switching them for fabric and steam customization. The screen also comes with a pre-heating feature that will flash “ready” when it has reached the desired, selected temperature.
This steam iron features a stainless steel soleplate, which is one of the most durable and heavy-duty soleplates on the market. This material glides smoothly over all fabric types to press out wrinkles when you need it most.
The independent steam and temperature control will help you choose, customize, and set each ironing task separately, depending on the fabric type. The BLACK+DECKER D2530 Digital Advantage also comes with an automatic shut-off feature, which can leave you with a peace of mind – especially if you have young children around. After 30 seconds of inattentiveness, the iron will shut off when lying on its side or soleplate and will shut off after 8 minutes on the heel rest.
The dense, powerful steam, can be sent vertically to the clothes up above or at drapes and upholstery.
Extra features: flat iron technology, 3-way auto shutoff, anti-drip system, 8ft retractable cord
The CHI 13102 is a great addition to your home stock of cleaning and grooming devices. It has a sleek look and hi-tech predisposition. Just like with what the brand is known for – haircare tools, this iron gives you professional performance in the comfort of your own home.
The steam iron is designed with a titanium-infused ceramic soleplate, just like those which are infused in the CHI flat irons. It is so durable and can take a hit from scratches. The soleplate has over 400 steam holes, working hard for you so that ironing can be effortless in your hands. The matte chrome accents and a sleek design are what truly sets this design of the iron apart from other irons out there on the market.
The CHI 13102 heats up quickly and comes with an electronic display to help ease the process. With its illuminated digital temperature control, you can easily change up the settings according to which fabric you have. The fabric guide can help you choose your fabric type to set the perfect temperature and eliminate any guesswork.
The steam iron also has adjustable steam output and an easy to grasp, comfortable handle. You can also swivel the door to the water tank open and fill it up when it is empty.
The iron comes with an 8-feet-long cord, which is retractable for neat storage and can easily be stowed away.
Extra features: 3-way auto shutoff; anti-calcium system; self-clean system
The Rowenta Focus is quite a powerful steam iron, as well. With 1700 watts of power, this tool offers a smooth-gliding stainless steel soleplate with 400 holes in its design. This means that it maintains thorough steam distribution with an output of 35 g per minute!
The soleplate also comes with a precision tip to get into those corners, hard-to-reach areas like around buttons and collars, which is a tricky task only the best irons for quilting can complete. You can also use this steam iron to use the various features to target those wrinkly clothes. Whether you are steaming out hanging clothes and curtains with a vertical stream option or using the burst of steam for stubborn wrinkles, the Rowenta Focus comes with a clearly marked thermostat knob that can help differentiate between various stages and modes.
The steam iron holds 10 oz of water in its crystalized tank which has a level indicator that displays when it is full and shows how much water is currently in the tank. What sets the Rowenta Focus apart is that it can take tap water and doesn’t have to be used with distilled water.
Other features of the steam iron also include a 3-way automatic safety shut-off, an anti-calcium system, and a self-clean system for optimal performance. The auto shut-off turns off after 8 minutes if the iron is left vertically standing, while it only takes 30 seconds to turn off it if it is horizontal or tipped over. The anti-calc system takes out impurities, which cleans itself so you don‘t have to.
Extra features: 3-way auto shutoff; anti-calcium and self-clean systems, integrated electronic steam pump, SteamForce technology, smart steam motion sensor
The Rowenta Advancer is the steam iron of the future. With one of the fastest and most effective removal of wrinkles, this steam iron can help get the wrinkles out of all types of fabrics – in no time at all!
With 1800 watts of power, the integrated electronic steam pump of this iron can shoot out powerful bursts of steam for those stubborn wrinkles. When compared to the other steam irons on the market, the Rowenta Advancer lets off up to 30 percent more steam than the other leading steam irons.
The soleplate is designed as a smooth-gliding stainless steel that is covered in the final layer with nonstick coating. The soleplate has 400 holes so you can rest assured that the steam will be distributed evenly, every time you iron. The soleplate is also designed with an ultra-thin silicate coating that is scratch-resistant and nonstick gliding. You never have to worry about ironing your delicate fabrics ever again.
The iron is designed with an LED ready indicator, a smart steam motion sensor, a 3-way auto safety shutoff, an anti-calcium and a self-clean system. The auto shutoff system uses a smart steam motion sensor to turn off the variable steam when you’ve stopped moving the iron around. This not only conserves the water in the tank, it also conserves electricity.
Working directly with linen, cotton, wool, silk, or nylon is never a problem anymore. You can easily adjust to the appropriate temperature regarding the selected fabric.
You can also use the benefits of the iron’s precision tip, which makes maneuvering over collars, along seams, and in between buttons extremely easy.
Extra features: 3-way auto shutoff; anti-calcium and self-clean systems, 400 HD soleplate
The Rowenta Focus Xcel is another great choice if you are looking to iron in a hurry. Coming with multiple features that most steam irons originally have, the Rowenta Focus Xcel has a 400-hole soleplate that boasts optimal steam distribution – one of the best on the market.
Even though this steam iron has 1715 watts of power, it still delivers high-performance ironing, no matter what kind of fabric. The 11-oz water tank has a water-level viewing window so that you can check levels at a glance. However, unlike some other steam irons on the market that strictly require distilled water, this iron works with tap water. It also has an anti-drip system for no drips – even if you are operating the iron at low heat.
The Rowenta Focus Xcel has a 40g-per-minute steam output of continuous steam. It also has a burst of steam power setting for extra-stubborn wrinkles. If you are hanging items and need them also to be steamed, you can use the vertical steam feature.
The high precision metal tip also emphasizes ultimate convenience because it can help you get to those hard-to-reach areas, narrow edges, seams, collars, and around buttons.
This steam iron also comes with an auto shut off for safety. So, if you have kids or pets around in the house and have no idea what they‘re getting up to, you don’t have to worry about forgetting to turn the iron off – although we do recommend you pay close attention to it.
The Rowenta Focus Xcel offers easy-to-read ergonomic controls, a thick central core of aluminum that ensures quick and even heat distribution across the entire soleplate made of high-quality stainless steel and minimal leakage insurance.
Extra features: 3-way auto shutoff, self-cleaning
For the one who wants a high-performance iron but without all the hi-tech features, the Panasonic NI-W810CS is a great buy. Designed with plastic and metal, this steam iron is a practical tool to use in any household.
With a multi-directional 360-degree iron capability, you can easily go over any type of fabric in any direction. The soleplate is double tipped, which sets this iron apart from all the others on the market. This handy little feature can help save you 25 percent of the normal time it would take ironing.
The 1500-watt-powered steam iron is not the most powerful out there, but is powerful enough to get the job done. With a dial temperature control and an adjustable steam feature, you can change up the amount of steam emitted depending on the type of fabric you’re working with.
The Panasonic NI-W810CS also comes with a jet of steam feature that allows for a powerful burst of steam. This feature targets and tries to remove all those stubborn wrinkles and clean iron steam vents.
This steam iron is designed with a ceramic-coated soleplate that is specifically designed to stay free from scratches and work on non-sticking ironing surfaces. Although you may think it doesn’t have many features, the Panasonic NI-W810CS works with innovative mercury-free sensors that make way for the 3-way auto shutoff.
You can also release steam vertically from all steam holes to take care of hanging clothes or curtains. The power cord attached to the steam iron is 360-degree rotatable, making it extremely versatile while in motion.
Extra features: Anti-Calcium and Self-Clean systems, 3-Way motion smart auto-off, retractable cord
The Sunbeam Steam Master GCSBSP-201-FFP is powered with 1400 watts of energy and built in a sleek, surmountable design. Topped with a large non-stick stainless steel soleplate, this steam iron shows that the iron is as good as its soleplate. The Sunbeam Steam Master GCSBSP-201-FFP is equipped with a large water tank and also an anti-drip system that can put you at ease when worrying about water leakage – even at the highest temperatures.
This steam iron shoots steam at various speeds – even with an extra burst of steam on flat surfaces or regular flows of steam vertically, towards steaming hanging clothes or draperies. Various features make the Sunbeam Steam Master GCSBSP-201-FFP a great choice. Its 3-way motion, smart auto-off feature is a great addition for those households with small children or wandering pets.
The iron also comes equipped with an 8-foot long retractable cord, which makes it easy to store. It also has an Anti-Calcium and Self-Clean systems that help keep the appliance clean in between every use. These systems keep the steam iron free of calcium and mineral deposits so that it can also perform optimally.
Even if you have clothes that have a history of hosting those extra-stubborn wrinkles, the dual spray mist can dampen the fabric with two times the output of the water mist feature to spray out those wrinkles. The Vertical Shot of Steam can head up and straighten out hanging garments, upholstery, and drapery.
This professionally working steam iron boasts a stylish chrome finish, modern teal accents, and is made with very durable materials.
Now that you know all the top steam irons available, you probably are going to be having a hard time considering which steam iron is best for you. To help you make that decision, here is our buying guide that will go through the various features – that you should then go through before making your deciding purchase.
Advantages of having a top-notch steam iron
Since you can’t avoid ironing when you really do have to iron clothes or fabric, it’s much better to invest in a tool that is well worth your money. Investing in the best of the best can definitely help you out in the long run when you need to steam quickly or often. The last thing you could possibly want is an iron that doesn’t have a steam feature or one that doesn’t work that effectively to meet your needs. For an even set, you also need to choose the best ironing board on the market today.
Features to consider while choosing a steam iron
Steam irons have evolved from where they were a few years ago. It doesn’t cost a fortune now to own a steam iron that has amazing features. However, when comparing one steam iron to another, you’ll probably notice that certain products don’t carry the same features as others do.
To help you differentiate which steam irons are the best and to know which features to look out for, here are the features to consider while choosing a steam iron:
Burst-of-steam –Steam irons like the Rowenta Focus Xcel can shoot out an extra blast of steam so that you can combat those stubborn wrinkles. If you are tackling thick fabrics like press linen or denim, this feature can come in handy.
Steam gauge or adjustable steam –When you need to change up the amount or power of the steam, you can tweak the settings on the iron. Depending on the iron you get, you can even adjust from 9 different settings.
Vertical steaming –Irons like the Rowenta DG8520 come with vertical steaming as an extra feature to be able to place them in an upright position so that the steam will travel upward and remove wrinkles from hanging garments and drapes or curtains.
Convenient controls – The CHI 13102, among many others, has this feature, which makes it easy to control the temperature with clearly marked controls that are simple to use and extremely visible. When a steam iron has multiple settings it’s also extremely helpful to have this feature – for all the different fabric types.
Retractable cord – Something that makes it much easier to store, the retractable cord definitely helps lessen the space it’s taking up and get it all out of the way so you can easily put it away. For the even more portable version you might want to take a look at the best cordless irons review.
Self-cleaning system –Steam irons like the Rowenta DW7180 Everlast that come with a limescale collector also have a self-cleaning system that flushes out mineral deposits from vents between uses. This can help prolong the longevity of a steam iron’s life. For the devices that have not got that feature, you should learn helpful tips on cleaning irons.
Transparent water reservoir –The water tanks have to be filled for the steam iron to work. When the water reservoir is transparent, it is much easier to gauge how much water there is in the iron.
Auto shutoff – It’ll be hard not to find a steam iron without this feature. Especially when you are a multitasker or have young children or pets in the house, it pays off to pick a steam iron with the feature. The auto shutoff turns off the power of the iron once it has remained motionless for a certain amount of time. Most of the steam irons here, like the Rowenta Focus, turn off after eight minutes in a vertical standing position or after 30 seconds in a horizontal standing position.
This feature can even save lives – preventing a fire and also preventing scorched fabric.
Power: Are more watts better?
Normally, if the wattage is higher, the quicker the iron can heat up. The faster it can heat up can have an effect on your ironing time. You’ll want a steam iron that can get the job done quickly and conveniently, which means the higher the wattage, the better.
Water tank capacity
The water tank capacity is also better when it’s bigger. The larger the water tank capacity, the more water it can hold at any given time. If it holds more water, you can get away with not having to fill it up quite as often.
Look for irons with a bigger hole, as well, because that makes it easier to fill and you are less likely to have water running down the sides of the iron. You can also focus your search on looking for an iron with a detachable water tank to make filling up much easier.
Usually, the range is from 6 ounces of water up to 12 ounces.
Steam
The steam and heat that the steam iron emits are essential for banishing wrinkles. Irons that produce little steam take longer to get the job done. You should also look out for vertical steam emitters that shoot out steam upward, the burst/shot of steam feature that can take on stubborn wrinkles, and variable steam features that you can adjust according to the fabric. If you need a more powerful steam performance that we have chosen in this buying guide, you should read a steam generator irons review where we have gathered devices with the top-notch performance.
Soleplate
The soleplate is also important. Make sure you have 400 holes, which allow for even distribution of steam. You can choose from stainless steel, anodized aluminum, ceramic, and nonstick. Normally, stainless steel and ceramic work best and last longer.
Controls
The steam irons have dials, slides, or digital controls that change up the settings based on the fabric. All you really have to make sure here is that you can see and adjust them – that they are clearly marked. You can either have a manual dial, which is more interactive and relies on your knowledge, or a digital LED display that can be switched at the touch of a button.
Weight
A steam iron may have incredible features and extremely hi-tech, however, if it is really heavy, it won’t be worth it. Try and find that sweet spot when it comes to weight. Too light of an iron and you’ll have to apply more pressure. However, too heavy and your hands and wrist will feel it.
Warranty
A steam iron with a two-year warranty, like the CHI 13102, is definitely worth it, however, it definitely is better if you can find a steam iron that has a multiple year warranty, so you can get the most out of your investment. Normally, most steam irons will have warranties of just one year.
If you still need help in deciding which is the best steam iron for you, here are our top three choices, that have made their way onto our top three list.
The Rowenta DG8520 is the best all-around steam iron. With 1800 watts of power and all of its features, like the eco Setting, anti-scale and anti-calc system, safety lock, and 120 g/min steam output, you can’t really argue that it isn’t one of the best steam irons on the market.
The Hamilton Beach 19900 is the best value for money with its 1700 watts of power, its digital display, making it easy to use, and its many other features, like the self-cleaning, anti-drip, and the 3-way auto shutoff, have put it up there on our list.
The Rowenta DW7180 Everlast is the best for hard water. If you are worried about the water in your area and don’t have access to distilled water all the time, this steam iron is a perfect choice for you. With its limescale collector, you can rest assured that all those harmful minerals are being cleaned out of the steam iron before your next use.
We hope that our guide on the best steam iron has helped you make an invaluable decision on which product is best for you, your home, and your laundry.
