The Online Magazine From www.uksteamirons.co.uk
Winter 2012
Welcome
to our new online glossy magazine, Steam Scene! We will be producing this every quarter to let you know about the latest steam iron & steam generator iron news and innovations as well as ironing tips and advice.
Philips Steams Ahead With Azur
Philips revamped its top-selling Azur range of steam irons last year and there are now 4 models in the range. Behind the stylish casing and snazzy colour schemes are a range of advanced features - but which iron is right for you? Here's our guide to the range.
The entry level GC4890 has a great steam output and a scratch resistant anodilium coated ceramic soleplate. The rest of the range uses Philips top performing SteamGlide+ soleplate.The GC4860 adds an auto-off safety feature while the GC4870 also adds the ionic deepsteam feature. All models have 2600 watts and a 2.5 metre power cord.
IONIC EXPLAINED
The range-topping gold and black GC4870 uses Philips ionic technology to deliver steam particles 50% smaller than usual. These ultra-small droplets really penetrate deeper into the fabric, smoothing away those creases quicker and easier.
GC4890
GC4850
GC4860
GC4870
Key to Picture
1
2
3
4
Soleplate
Anodilium
SteamGlide Plus
Steam Output
50g
50g
50g
50g
Steam Boost
170g
170g
170g
170g
Water Tank
350ml
350ml
350ml
335ml
Ionic Steam
-
-
-
Yes
Auto Off
-
-
Yes
Yes
Soft Grip
Yes
-
-
Yes
Price Around
£40
£50
£72
£87
Did You Know? Philips won best small appliance brand in the prestigious Which? awards for 2011
A Guide To Water And Your Iron
Many people are unsure exactly what water to use in their steam iron; often asked questions are "Can I use tap water in my iron?" and "What type of water is suitable for steam irons?" so here is our quick guide that will hopefully dispel any doubts:
Tap Water
All modern steam irons and steam generators can use tap water. In the UK, tap water can vary in its 'hardness'.
Hard Water
Hard water contains higher concentrations of minerals such as calcium which causes limescale build up in steam irons reducing their efficiency.
• About 60% of the UK is classed as having hard water. If you live in such an area then mix 50% tap water with 50% distilled water.
Tefal Banishes Rinsing Out!
With most steam generator irons, you need to go through a regular process of rinsing out the water tank or boiler to rid it of those pesky limescale deposits.
Not so with the Tefal range - their patented anti-calc technology cleverly collects the deposits as a solid lump which you can simply pull out and dispose of. This is particularly useful if you live in a hard water area. This anti-calc system is now available across their range of steam generators.
Water Softeners
If you have a water softener in your house then it's not advisable to use this water alone - although limescale is reduced, other materials are added which could eventually clog your iron.
Bottled and Other Water
The mineral content can build up over time and reduce the efficiency of your iron. You should also not use vinegar, perfumed water or any other water containing additives or chemicals as they can cause damage resulting in clogged steam nozzles, brown water spits and reduced performance.
It's A Wrap
With
Russell
Hobbs
Untidy power leads are a thing of the past with the Easyfill range from Russell Hobbs as the generous 3 metre cord neatly wraps around the base.
Plus, as the name suggests it's really easy to fill the large 400ml water tank due to its handy funnel like opening in the base.
cus On: Breville
Breville was started down-under in 1932 when Bill
O'Brien and Harry Norville put their names together
to form a company making radios. They later set up
their own research and development centre which led to the creation of the food processor and of course the famous sandwich toaster!
They are still a big name in food preparation
products but also design and manufacture
kettles, toasters and irons. Many of their
irons feature push button digital
technology and easy to read display
screens such as the VIN 214 here.
Ironing Tips
Here are a few handy tips to get the most out of your steam iron and keep your clothes in pristine condition.
Never iron stained clothing without washing the garment thoroughly first. If you don't, the heat of the iron could seal the stain in forever.
Iron dark garments inside out - this prevents the fabric from becoming 'shiny'
All garments iron better when they are slightly damp, so if yours are already dry, use the water spray to dampen them.
Try a few 'test runs' on a pillow case or tea towel. This way, you'll become familiar with what your steam settings do and how it feels when you're holding the iron.
Alway keep up-to-date with the latest news and offers at: www.uksteamirons.co.uk