I am so confused and in need of advice. I had a great iron which gave me a good range of temperatures, verticle steam and self cleaning, loved it. Now after a year it’s leaking out the side–not from the sole plate. Of course the warranty is up.
I’ve read so many conflicting reviews of irons I don’t know what to get. It’s use will soley be for sewing (mostly garment construction) and I’d like to stay under $200.
Is it worth investing in a “professional” iron or plan on repeat buying of “good” irons?? What does everyone else like/use? Any input would be great!
Replies
I have a feeling I may be in the minority here but I actually prefer the cheaper irons. I rarely spend over $30 or 40 . What I look for is a decent heavy feel, burst of steam and an automatic shutoff. I have watched too many irons hit the floor over the years and an expensive one holds up no better than a cheaper one. What I do use on everyone, however, is a teflon shoe that allows me to press virtually everything without fear of killing it. I wouldn't be without one.
I love my rowenta irons - yes, I have two, I wanted one for sewing and one for ironing clothes in the laundry.
Hi Aim
I have 2 Rowentas that I like but don't really love as they will constantly break down and I have to have them repaired. I also have a White steam generator that is actually my second one but it too has been in the shop twice and replaced once for a nominal $50.00 each time and the darn thing cost $99 new. The second one has just bit the dust as well so I don't know what I am going to do. I think that I may have to invest in a professional steam generator so that they might last more than 6 months. But on the plus side when they work I really love them.
I'd suggest taking a look at the number and placement of steam vents on the bottom if you are considering a standard home-use iron. Are there any vents at or near the tip of the soleplate? Is there an even distribution along the sides? How about the relative size of the steam vents -- are there several large vents vs. many small ones? Teflon or non-stick sole plate is also useful but I am coping without on my latest iron. And of course, auto-off was mandatory for me.
Linda
I agree w Suesew and in my 40 yrs of sewing have had 2 irons, both under $60, both worked fine. As a matter of fact, I would still have the first one, but I tried to iron a poly blouse on "cotton" which ruined both the blouse and the iron! Just as well since they now come w auto shut off which is a godsend.
Nancy
Thanks so much everyone! I appreciate the feedback. I love hearing from people who sew--there aren't many people in my area that enjoy sewing. I'm trying to convert my friends!
I bought a mid range Rowenta and really like it so far. It's nice and heavy which I like too. The only bummar is that it's too long for my teflon shoe. :( Ah well.
Thanks again!
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