The Best Mini Irons
You can't always rely on shirts and other wrinkle-prone garments to stay fresh when they're packed away in a suitcase or the like. Mini irons are a great choice for pressing garments on the go, but their uses don't stop there. These powerful downscaled devices can also offer a compact solution for anyone living in cramped quarters, or they can be used for heat pressing in arts and crafts projects. We've gathered a few of our favorites in the list below, and we promise there are a few hot picks to discover.
What to Look For
Mini irons aren’t just defined by their compact form. As you weigh the options below, pay attention to each iron’s steaming capabilities, temperature settings, and heat-up time, and you might find it easier to find a device to suit your needs. With all that in mind, our favorite pick is the Steamfast SF-717. This rapid mini iron truly lives up to its name with a lightening fast 15-second heating time. If you’re looking for a slightly larger design with ergonomics similar to a regular iron, check out the mid-size option from Black+Decker. Read on below to discover the rest of our best-loved mini irons.
Steamfast SF-717 Mini Steam Iron
Quick heat
Portable ironing doesn’t get much quicker than with the Steamfast SF-717. This lightweight and multifunctional design is packed with features to tackle a range of fabrics. Those features include three temperature settings and a range of steam functions. Despite its compact dimensions, it also houses a high-capacity water tank, which will result in less frequent refills as you work.
Pros:
- Ultra-fast 15-second heat-up time
- Monitoring system and indicator light for tank level
- Long 7.5-foot power cord
Cons:
- This handle isn’t as ergonomic as some
Sharper Image SI-755 Mini Steam Iron
Steaming worldwide
Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, if you demand a crisp and clean style wherever you roam, you might not want to rely on borrowing an iron from a hotel or host. Instead, we suggest opting for Sharper Image’s SI-755, which is the ideal traveling companion thanks to its portable and lightweight form that can be easily tucked inside your luggage. It’s also equipped with a dual-voltage switch, meaning you’ll be able to get those creases out of your shirts wherever you end up in the world.
Pros:
- Three heat settings for safe use on a range of fabric types
- Auto shutoff feature for improved safety
- One-touch steam control for ease of operation
Cons:
- Dial placement can make it awkward to adjust the temperature when the iron is hot
Oliso M2 Pro Mini Project Iron
Top of the range
This powerful mini iron from Oliso doesn’t cut any corners. With its 1000 watts of power, you won’t notice much difference in temperature and consistency compared to a regular iron. And with dual voltage control and a practical cord hanging loop onboard, you’ll be all set to carry this device with you on travels far and wide.
Pros:
- 180-degree pivot cord facilitates right- and left-handed use
- The Solemate high-temperature silicone stand allows safe, face-down storage
- Heats up to full temperature in a speedy 45 seconds
Cons:
- This fully-featured option is a little pricier than most mini irons
Generic Mini Iron For Crafting
Arts and crafts
Mini irons aren’t just great for adding the finishing touches to your laundry when traveling, they can also be a handy tool for arts and crafts projects when a full-sized iron would be too powerful or cumbersome. This affordable model from Generic is made with artful use in mind, which is evident by the variable temperature control and a precision-grip handle for delicate applications. Plus, since it heats up in just one minute, you’ll be ready to get creative in no time.
Pros:
- Fabric types are labeled on the temperature dial for quick reference
- Vertical stand on the rear for safe placement when hot
- Comes in a range of color styles
Cons:
- No water reservoir or steam outlets
Black+Decker Easy Steam Compact Iron
Ergonomic comfort
If you’re looking for a downscaled iron that retains most of the features and design characteristics of a full-sized model, this option from Black+Decker is a great choice. At just over 10 inches long, it’s not quite as portable as some of the smaller irons on this list. But as a result of its size, it features a large and ergonomic comfort grip handle that makes operation a breeze.
Pros:
- 1200-watt heating element outperforms most mini irons
- TrueGlide non-stick sole plate
- Equipped with numerous steam outlets for even coverage
Cons:
- The water reservoir doesn’t have a cap, so it can spill during use if you’re not careful
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of fabric are safe to use with my mini iron?
As long as you pay attention to the recommended temperature settings, it’s safe to use your mini iron on virtually all the fabrics you’d approach with a regular iron. Most synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, will be safe to iron at higher temperatures. For delicates like silk or wool, make sure to set the heat accordingly, or you might consider using a portable steamer instead.
What safety tips should I bear in mind while using a mini iron?
When working devices at high temperatures, it pays to be mindful of a few basic safety precautions. Though most mini irons feature an auto-shutoff feature, be sure to turn the device off when unattended. Keep cords away from your working area and out of reach from children and pets. To highlight any device-specific precautions, be sure to read through the manual before using the unit for the first time.
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