#Pur steam iron windows#

See-through tanks or water-level windows are useful visual aids. Some also prevent the buildup of calcium, which can eventually block your iron. The same is true of self-cleaning options. Other featuresĪ number of steam irons claim to have non-drip or anti-spitting functions, though effectiveness varies. How many of these features you get varies from model to model. Automatic shut-offĪutomatic shut-off can switch off the iron if it's left alone for a certain period, if it's tipped over, or if the tank runs dry. There are also cordless irons available, but they need to be regularly reheated on bases - an unnecessary step for many users. Some are retractable, though feedback tells us they're not always popular, with jamming a frequent problem. The overwhelming majority of steam irons have a cord. All but the very cheapest steam irons have them.Ī few models also work upright, allowing you to steam curtains and clothes on hangers. These irons have “outriggers” as stands.īestReviews Cleaning Expert Extra steam and a fine sprayĪ “pulse” of extra steam through the baseplate is a basic necessity, as is a fine spray. But some manufacturers make both ends pointed, claiming better maneuverability.

Traditionally, the heel (or rear end) of the soleplate is flat so you can stand the iron up when you're not using it. Many have grooves at the front to get in and around buttons. Not many of the items we iron are perfectly square, so soleplates are shaped to make it easier to get into pleats, collars, and cuffs. Some manufacturers use lots of small holes others use shaped holes.īecause ceramics are naturally more slippery than other soleplate materials, these models usually have fewer holes than their stainless steel and aluminum competitors. The size and shape of the holes on the soleplate affect how evenly steam is distributed. The coating is effective when in good condition, but it can chip or peel on more inexpensive steam irons.Ĭeramic: This is also a coating, but modern ceramics are hard, excellent at heat distribution, easy to clean, and very smooth, so they glide well.

#Pur steam iron portable#

It’s lightweight and often used for portable models. Non-stick: This type of soleplate is aluminum or plastic that has been coated with PTFE or a similar “non-stick” layer. Anodized aluminum can get sticky over time. Stainless steel is prone to scratching, but all soleplates are, and minor marking won't affect performance.Īnodized aluminum: Lighter than stainless steel, anodized aluminum is a cheaper option that distributes heat well but isn't as durable or easy to clean. Stainless steel: The most popular soleplate material, it’s bright, durable, and easy to clean.

Soleplates come in several different materials. You want a soleplate that distributes steam effectively and glides smoothly when dry.

The soleplate is the metal plate at the base of the iron. Once you've got heat and steam, you need to apply it to your fabric.