Steam Iron Reviews, News & Best Buys
Sunday 20th May 2012
Browse The Latest:
Looking for a new iron or steam generator iron? With so many different models and features on offer it can be quite a task - and that's before you start price comparing to bag the best deal!
Well, help is at hand - we've got news and reviews on the best steam irons and best steam generator irons on the market for 2012, and tracked down the best deals from the UK's top retailers, including any of those all-important voucher codes! ”
Best Steam Irons
Best Steam Generator Irons
Latest Reviews
» Philips GC4870
One of our steam iron best buys, sleek, stylish and loads of features
» Tefal GV8460
Another steam generator iron best buy - highly rated by users
Featured Iron
» Morphy Richards Comfigrip 40853
An ergonomically designed steam iron with a ceramic soleplate, an extra large filling hole and an eco mode.
Most Popular
More Entry Level Generator News
Philips GC7420 is Good Value
Another bargain steam generator worth considering if you are on a budget or don't have a lot of ironing to get through but still want the time saving that a generator can offer.
This popular Philips model uses their famous SteamGlide soleplate which is smooth and hardwearing.
Steam wise there's up to 120 grams on tap which is fed by a large 1.4 litre water tank. The ergonomically designed iron weighs just 1.2 kilos which is great for extended use.
Like most generators it's quite bulky and a little noisy, and the tank cannot be removed but at around £100 it is a good value performer from a well known name.
Cutting Edge Technology
Digital Irons from Breville
There are no old-fashioned dials on these two digital offerings from those clever chaps down under! Home appliance experts Breville have brought steam irons right up to date with digital push button technology - maybe this may encourage the man in your life to do some ironing?
Sporting 2400 watts and a useful 45g of continuous steam, there is also a 100g shot for those tricky creases. An unusually large 0.4 litre water tank means plenty of steam output before a refill is needed. The ceramic soleplate gives smooth gliding and is very scratch resistant.
Like it's brother, the VIN214 has some funky styling which extends to a cool blue backlight on the LCD display! There are 2700 watts and 50g of continuous steam with a 110g steam shot. Also like the other model, there is a range of fabric presets which takes care of all the steam and heat settings for you.
Entry Level Generator
Great Value from Morphy and The Co-Op
If you are looking for a budget steam generator but still want to stick with a well known brand then consider this Morphy Richards Elite 42241.
It has a stainless steel soleplate and a generous 1.1 litre water tank that uses replaceable anti-calc cartridges to keep limescale at bay.
There's 2200 watts of power and it can produce 90 grams of continous steam output which should be plenty for most needs.
The best thing is the price - generally under £100 the Co-Op Electrical store has it for just £75 right now making it a great model for those who can't justify paying twice that for a steam generator.
Ready For Take Off!
The Intellidome Steam Generator Iron
It may look more like the Starship Enterprise or something from Thunderbirds, but this is the latest steam generator iron from Morphy Richards. With it's attractive pink and white casing, it is certainly distinctive and a good specification make it one to consider if you are on a budget.
There's a huge 1.5 litre water tank which supplies plenty of steam at a constant 90g per minute at 4 bar pressure. The iron itself weighs just 0.86 kilos which is around half the weight of a traditional steam iron. Great if you've a lot of ironing to do.
There is a helpful LCD information panel on the base unit and a double anti-scale system features a flushable boiler and a replaceable cartridge that helps limit limescale build-up in the first place - good for hard water areas.
The unit is quite bulky but more stylish than some other steam generator irons, and the soleplate is stainless steel rather than ceramic. Other than that, the large water tank makes it a good buy for the price.
The Ultimate Steam Generator?
New Top of Range from Bosch
With Tefal and Philips both recently launching new top of the range super powerful steam generators, Bosch may have been feeling a bit left out.
Well, now they've rectified that with their new TDS4570GB model, also rather grandly dubbed the Ultimate Steam Generator and so the battle of the top-end steam generators of 2012 begins!
It has an impressive 6 bar of steam pressure which makes it the most powerful currently available. It can output a continuous 130g of steam and has a massive 250g steam shot, all fed from a 1.3 litre water tank. Naturally there is auto-off, eco mode and an advanced anti-scale system.
It does not yet appear to be available from any retailers, but we expect it will start to filter through over the few weeks and will retail for about £300.
Tefal GV8460 Steam Generator Iron
Tefal Ticks All The Boxes
Launched last year as a replacement for the ever popular GV8360, we think the GV8460 is the best value model in their current steam generator range. Some recent price drops have improved its appeal further.
Its main claim to fame is that it outputs steam at a class leading 5.5 bar pressure (most other use only 5 bar) - great for crushing those creases.
It also features Tefal's unique anti-calc system which collects all the limescale as a solid lump for easy removal - no more rinsing out!
If that wasn't enough, there's a massive 220g steam shot when needed. With all that steam, a 1.8 litre water tank is provided to minimise fill-ups. It really ticks all the boxes so it's not surprising that it's so popular.
Popular Now
Tefal FV4488 Steam Iron
More news from Tefal, and we are seeing a lot of good feedback about the FV4488, a mid range iron.
It features their UltraGlide ceramic soleplate, highly regarded as a smooth glider which is what you'd probably expect from the company that innovated non-stick coatings!
The water tank is a little on the small side and the steam shot only goes up to 100g but this model does have an auto off safety feature - not common at this price. A 3 metre power cord is also very useful.
Easy to Fill - No more Spills!
Russell Hobbs Easy Fill Steam Iron
Called 'Heather' owing to it's bright purple colour scheme, the 17877 features Russell Hobb's unique EasyFill system which has a wide funnel located in the base. So much easier than the usual small filling hole!
Not only is the illuminated water tank easy to fill, but at 0.4 litres it is also one of the largest capacity tanks in a standard steam iron meaning plenty of steam before a fill-up is required.
The cord, generous at 3 metres, wraps fully around the base which is handy, and the soleplate is made from ceramic so it glides smoothly over any fabric. Good value and ideal for fuss-free ironing!
New Steam Iron Range
AEG Scores On Safety Features
AEG - part of the Electrolux group, recently launched a range of 3 steam irons. They all feature modern styling and a good technical specification but where they really score is their safety features.
All models have an auto-off function that activates when the iron is knocked over, left soleplate down for 30 seconds or left standing for more than 8 minutes. A rubber base also means that the iron is quite sturdy when left standing.
Available now through Comet or their mail-order division Kitchen Science, we notice that the middle of the range model, the DB8050 is cheaper than the entry level DB8040 - so that's our steam iron best buy for now!
We Like: Entry level model but still has great safety features
Power: 2400 watts
Steam: 45 g/min
Shot: 130 g/min
Cord: 3 metres
We Like: Soleplate has 605 steam holes for great coverage
Power: 2500 watts
Steam: 45 g/min
Shot: 140 g/min
Cord: 3 metres
We Like: 2600 watts of power and a 150g steam shot
Power: 2600 watts
Steam: 45 g/min
Shot: 150 g/min
Cord: 3 metres
Hate Ironing Shirts?
Shirtmaster Makes It Easy!
The clever people at Morphy Richards have come up with this unique shaped ironing board that makes ironing shirts so much easier!
Its extra width allows you to iron shirts in 5 easy steps, and is also great for large sheets and pillowcases etc.
Under the jolly red fabric cover, there is a steel mesh which is great for ironing as it allows the steam to pass through. It's also height adjustable to 4 settings.
Introducing DeLonghi
Italian Style With Stirella
Italian home appliance experts DeLonghi are known for their ultra stylish coffee makers, kettles and toasters but did you know they also make steam generators too?
There are currently two models in the Stirella range, the VVX1840 (shown) and the higher spec VVX1860.
Both feature their patented 'Gemini' soleplate which combine ceramic and stainless steel to give excellent gliding and perfect heat distribution.
Powerful Yet Compact
Three Big Shot Steam Irons to Consider!
So you're looking for a steam iron that can produce loads of steam but don't have space for a steam generator iron? This trio outputs at least 40g per minute of steam and can deliver a large burst shot when required!
Morphy Richards
40853 Comfigrip
Irons in the Comfigrip range are shaped for maximum comfort when ironing for long periods. Great steam shot capability and a well designed, large water inlet makes refilling easy.
We Like: Energy saving mode and a nice long power cable. Very good value for money
Power: 2200 watts
Steam: 40 g/min
Shot: 170 g/min
Cord: 3 metres
With Philips unique Ionic technology, this new iron produces 50% smaller steam particles to really get deep into those creases. High wattage means quick heat up and less time waiting around!
We Like: High continuous steam output and a massive shot of steam
Power: 2600 watts
Steam: 50 g/min
Shot: 170 g/min
Cord: 2.5 metres
It's palladium coated ceramic soleplate means ultra smooth gliding and great non stick properties, and the PowerZone mode allows for deep steaming of thick fabrics like Jeans or heavy curtains.
We Like: 8 fabric presets are helpful as is the auto shut off safety facility
Power: 2600 watts
Steam: 50 g/min
Shot: 160 g/min
Cord: 3 metres
New Steam Generator Irons
Philips Starts A Revolution!
Imagine a top of the range steam iron that doesn't require any fiddling with temperature settings or fabric types, and yet can allow you to be ironing cotton one minute, and cashmere the next!
Wait no longer, as Philips have brought out their new Perfect Care range which features their revolutionary new Optimal Temp technology. Current models are the GC9220 and the GC9230.
Philips have been working with fabric specialists for the last 3 years to create a steam iron that can perfectly iron any fabric type without burning and without having to change anything! The resultant time savings can therefore be quite dramatic. With a 1.5 litre water tank, Philips claim almost 2 hours of steam generation.
This range of steam generator irons will be of particular interest to to people that often have to iron many mixed fabric types and who simply have a lot of ironing to get through - up to 240grams of steam will power through those creases!
> Philips GC9220 PerfectCare Steam Generator Iron
> Philips GC9230 PerfectCare Steam Generator Iron
Updated Range Launched
New Steam Generator Irons From Tefal
Tefal has just released updates to three of it's top steam generator iron models. As well as some upgraded steam outputs, they all now deliver pressure at an amazing 5.5 bar - up from 5 bar, making them among the few irons that can do this. Also present is a new eco mode which uses 20% less energy. Currently available at a bit of a premium to their replacements, which you might still find available.
A replacement for the old GV8330, this new model retains the clever anti-calc system of it's predecessor and has the same maximum output of 120g although it is now delivered at the upgraded rate of 5.5 bar.
Tefal Pro Express Turbo GV8460
This is the replacement for the GV8360 and has an upgraded 220g turbo shot (that's up from 200g on the old one). Otherwise it shares the same high spec as the GV8430 non turbo version. Great spec for the price so our best buy of the trio!
The new flagship of the Tefal range, this replaces the GV9360 - an iron that was recommended by the Good Housekeeping Instutute. This one should please them too - 220g turbo steam shot and 120g continuous steam, anti-calc system, cord storage in the base and auto-shut off.
Busy Summer for Philips
Two New Steam Irons From Philips
Philips has just launched two more steam irons in it's Azur 4800 series range. The GC4890 is the new entry level model and the GC4860 sits just below the top of the range GC4870. Rather confusingly, the GC4890 is an entry level model while the lower numbered GC4870 is the top of the range!
The GC4800 series is currently replacing the older GC4700 series which you might still find available. All GC4800 series now have 2600 watts, 50g of continuous steam, a 170g steam shot and a two year warranty. Extra features and case colourings differ though.
This may be the new entry level model in the Azur range but it still manages a high specification including ceramic soleplate, 50g of continuous steam and a 170g steam shot. There's a soft grip handle for comfort. Like all the Azur range it weighs in at around 1.6 kilos. Good value at around £40.
The GC4860 is positioned just below the top of the range GC4870 and has most of it's high specification features including the 170g steam shot and auto-off safety features, but lacks the deep steam Ionic function.
New From Philips
Power On A Budget
If you are looking for a powerful steam iron that doesn't break the bank, then this recent offering from Philips could be it. The blue and grey pastel casing of the GC4850 hide what could be described as a bit of a beast!
There's 2600 watts of power allowing the iron to heat up quickly, an impressive 50 grams per minute of continuous steam and a massive 170g steam shot. With all that steam there's a good sized 0.350 litre water tank too.
There's a ceramic soleplate, a 2.5 metre power cord and a two year warranty. Priced around £40 we think it's price vs performance ratio makes it one of the best steam irons on the market at the moment.
Best Selling UK Iron Last Year
Bosch Tops The Charts
According to market research experts GfK, the Bosch TDA5620 was the most popular selling steam iron in the UK last year.
With a quick glance at its specification it is not difficult to see why. With 2750 watts on tap it's one of the most powerful and really cuts down heat up times. There's a decent 40g continuous steam output and a 120g steam shot for more stubborn creases.
Theres a long 3 metre powercord and a 2 year guarantee for peace of mind (second year by registering free on their website).
Latest Steam Iron News
New Heavyweight from Philips
Recently released by Philips into their Azur Ionic range is the GC4870. This new steam iron snubs the sleek styling of the rest of the Azur range and instead features a rather chunky design in gold and black.
This bold styling is backed up by an equally bold specification: Its 50g of continuous steam makes it one of the most powerful steam irons out there, no doubt hepled by it's high 2600 watts of power. A 170g steam shot is also very impressive and with their Ionic technology gets really deep into the fabric to banish those creases.
As you would expect, this iron has an auto-shut off safety feature and an anti-calc system to beat hard water. It tips the scales at 1.6kilos making one of the heaviest irons, but weight coupled with the high spec makes it a real contender for those with a never-ending ironing pile!
Check the Attachments
Hoover Cleans Up With New Steam Generator
Last year Hoover launched their first Steam Generator, and since then it has developed quite a following with some great user feedback. One of it's big talking points is the patented steam brush attachment.
This makes it so easy to steam hanging items like dresses, jackets and curtains. We wonder why nobody thought of it before! Very much a premium product for regular ironers, this is aimed at competing with the best steam generator irons from Bosch and Philips and is sure to have them worried.
Answering the Question:
What are the Best Steam Generator Irons?
This is a question we are often asked, and the answer really does depend on your budget of course, and also the amount of ironing that you do on a regular basis.
The key things to look for when purchasing a steam generator iron are:
- Ceramic soleplate for the smoothest possible gliding
- Sufficient wattage for quick heat-up times - ideally 2400 watts or higher
- Anti scale system to prevent damaging limescale build-up
- Large water capacity - the bigger the better for power users
Learn the Lingo!
Demystifying the Jargon
Steam Irons
Emit low rate continuous steam, but often have higher "burst shots" for stubborn creases
Steam Generators
A hand held iron is coupled to a separate unit with a large water tank producing higher rates of continuous steam for longer. Can halve time spent at the iron
Steam Output
Measured in grams per minute, continuous steam is a constant output; a steam shot is a higher, short burst
Soleplates
Ceramic or stainless steel are best and give smoother gliding and are more scratch resistant
Heat Settings
In additon to the basic temperature presets, some irons can regulate temperature and steam for different fabric types
Wattage
The higher the wattage the quicker the iron heats up
Cord Length
Longer cords (up to 3 metres) will give more flexibility when ironing larger items
Vertical Steam
Iron curtains and clothes as they hang
Auto Off
A safety feature that switches the iron off after a period of inactivity
I'm Sorry I
Haven't a Clue
Choosing the Right Iron
There are many irons on the market, but when it comes to deciding whether you need a steam iron or a steam generator, and how much steam output to go for, there are three main things to review: the size of your average ironing load, the types of fabrics and how often you use the iron. Other factors include the length of the cable and anti-scale systems if you live in a hard water area. We recommend to try and get one with a ceramic sole plate if possible - they give the smoothest gliding.
Occasional Ironers
If you don't iron on a regular basis then normal steam irons with around 30g of constant steam and a shot of around 80g should suffice.
Average Family?
For an average family's weekly ironing needs, consider a more heavy duty steam iron with greater constant steam. Look for one with 2400 watts or more - they heat up and stay hot, quicker. If you have a lot of thicker or crease prone fabrics then you may want to consider a steam generator.
Power Users!
Does your ironing pile never seem to go down, iron working overtime? You would certainly benefit from the extra muscle of a steam generator. Their large water tanks can produce huge amounts of high pressure steam for a couple of hours before a top-up is needed. You won't want to go back to using a regular steam iron ever again!
Steam Irons