The Best Steam Iron

  • Hannah Warne

In case you haven't realized, an iron is a mighty handy appliance to have on hand. Even if you only use it once in a while, the right iron can transform your clothing and any other fabric to give it a higher-end, upscale look. But instead of just a standard iron, consider opting for a more powerful alternative: the steam iron. When you're shopping for a new steam iron, we suggest keeping three key factors in mind: the range and adjustability of the heat, built-in safety features, and the overall size and weight of the iron. We love Rowenta's Focus Excel iron thanks to its powerful steam settings and anti-drip feature that will protect even your most delicate fabrics. But for the easiest to use, we recommend Oliso's TG1600 Pro Plus SmartIron thanks to the auto-lift feature that makes ironing anything a breeze. Keep reading to discover the rest of our favorites.

Rowenta Focus Excel Standard Iron

Iron excellence

This all-in-one iron can do it all.
Best Overall

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With this iron, you can smooth almost any fabric, from cotton to viscose and everything in between. With 400 active holes, this iron perfectly distributes the steam to get out even the toughest set-in wrinkles. It’s equipped with a precise tip for added accuracy, and the transparent water tank ensures you always know exactly how much is left. An anti-drip feature also helps you avoid watermarks and stains on delicate fabrics for an all-around top-performing iron.

Pros:

  • We love that the water compartment holds a large supply so that you don’t have to constantly worry about refilling it. It will last you through several garments, no problem.
  • It’s super simple to regulate the supply of steam, from no steam to a full and steady stream. That way, you can customize the level depending on the fabric and the number of wrinkles to better protect your clothes.

Cons:

  • The iron has a stainless steel, non-coated plate, so it can get scratched easily.

PurSteam Professional Grade 1700W Steam Iron

Full steam ahead

This iron gives you precise control over your steam levels, making it a great option for any fabric.
Best Runner Up

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This iron has been strategically designed to provide the perfect amount of steam and distribute heat evenly to get rid of stubborn wrinkles faster. The rapid-heat technology ensures the iron is up to the right temperature in no time, and the stainless steel soleplate delivers an unparalleled glide over any fabric. Thanks to its anti-off feature, you can also rest easy knowing that you, your clothing, and your home are safe from potential accidents.

Pros:

  • We like that the water tank utilizes an anti-calcium system to prevent mineral build-up and help keep the water tank fresh without constant cleaning.
  • This iron strikes the perfect balance between lightweight and heavy-duty. It’s not so heavy that it tires you out, but is just heavy enough to help remove unwanted wrinkles.

Cons:

  • When the water tank is full, the iron is much heavier.

Beautural Steam Iron

Get the blues

This versatile iron can smooth everything from synthetic to natural fabrics.
Best For Clothes

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Designed to glide smoothly over everything from silk to polyester, this steam iron is the ideal option to easily get all of your clothes wrinkle-free. The fast-heating design reaches the right temperature in less than a minute so that your garments are ready to wear in no time. It even has an automatic shut-off that varies depending on if the iron is vertical or horizontal. This ensures you don’t have to deal with unwanted burns on your clothes or risk accidentally leaving the iron on for hours.

Pros:

  • The iron has an easy-to-use dial that allows you to adjust the temperature setting. We love that you can easily switch from more delicate fabrics to more durable synthetics, and the temperature will adjust quickly.
  • It has a precision tip that allows you to get close to seams, ensuring that your clothes are perfectly wrinkle-free.

Cons:

  • Unless you unplug the iron, it will continue to beep every so often.

Oliso TG1600 Pro Plus SmartIron

Sew far, sew good

For quilters and crafters, this iron is a practical option for pressing seams and steaming stubborn wrinkles.
Best For Sewing

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With an auto-lift feature, this iron offers a sophisticated solution to get any fabric wrinkle-free. When you touch the handle, the iron lowers automatically and it lifts when you release, preventing burns and saving you time. The non-stick plate glides effortlessly over your fabric, and multiple steam settings ensure you can blast away even the most stubborn wrinkles. A two-inch detailing tip is the finishing touch that makes this iron the best option for avid sewers, allowing you to press seams, collars, pockets, pleats, and any other detail with ease for a professional look, every time.

Pros:

  • It’s especially effective for quilters, who need to use their iron frequently. You can leave it plugged in and in the horizontal position thanks to the auto-lift feature, so it saves a lot of time and hassle with small fabric pieces or appliques.
  • We like that it has a 30-minute auto-off feature, so you don’t have to worry about remembering to unplug your iron when you’re done.

Cons:

  • It’s more expensive than many other steam irons.

Black+Decker Easy Compact Iron

Don't break the bank

This practical iron gives you all the functionality you need without a jaw-dropping price tag.
Best On A Budget

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This iron is small but mighty. The stainless steel soleplate distributes heat evenly to help get out wrinkles, and the SmartSteam control gives you an easy way to regulate the temperature for any fabric. Thanks to the iron’s dual-position cord, you can more easily maneuver it for added mobility. It even has steam burst and gentle spray options to give you more versatility when ironing.

Pros:

  • This iron blends the best of cost and quality. It’s an affordable design that still gives you top-notch functionality for the best of both worlds.
  • It’s super small, lightweight, and easy to handle, making it an amazing option that’s easy to transport and store. It won’t take up too much space in your cabinet, and it’s easy to stash away when not in use.

Cons:

  • It may start to leak a little bit after extended use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do irons need water?

Steam irons require water to create the steam. Most manufacturers recommend using distilled water in the iron’s water reservoir to avoid mineral build-up that can clog the iron or lead to water stains.

Are steam irons better?

Steam irons often remove wrinkles faster than other irons. They are also often smaller, making them easier to store and more practical to transport than traditional irons.

How long does a steam iron last?

Steam irons are designed to stand the test of time. Most irons will last anywhere between 10-20 years depending on the style and manufacturer.

About the Author

Hannah has always had an eye for fashion and beauty and is often inspired by the styles she sees on the streets of her beloved New York City. She closely follows the top fashion blogs and icons, and her goal is to help everyone look and feel their best through their clothing choices. Hannah’s work can be found in Boston Magazine, Hamptons Magazine, and more.

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