Best Steam Irons

Updated October 2011

You can spend anywhere from 15 bucks all the way up to $200 for a new steam iron. But here's the kicker: In the hundreds of user reviews we read, there are as many complaints about leaks, drips and total breakdowns for cheap irons as there are for fancy models that cost $100 more. Furthermore, users seem just as happy with some inexpensive irons as pricier ones. The irons below are chosen not only for their performance in expert reviews, but for their better durability ratings over the long run.

Black & Decker Digital Advantage D2030

Best steam iron

*Est. $50

Estimated Price

While expert reviewers such as ConsumerReports.org, and Good Housekeeping and Real Simple magazines favor more expensive steam irons in their latest ratings, user reviews tell a completely different story. In fact, some $100-and-up steam irons get dismal scores from owners -- namely due to leaks, drips and total breakdowns. User ratings are much higher for the Black & Decker Digital Advantage D2030, which costs far less than a Rowenta iron and has similar features such as variable steam settings, burst-of-steam and a three-way auto shutoff to prevent accidents. Owners especially like the beeping indicator lights that let you know when the desired temperature has been reached when lowering settings. Many users say this iron does the job as well as those costing three or four times more, and we found far fewer complaints for the Digital Advantage than for other irons.

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Black & Decker SteamAdvantage F1060

No-frills iron

*Est. $25

Estimated Price

The Black & Decker SteamAdvantage is a rare find among inexpensive steam irons. Experts say this 1,500-watt iron rivals more expensive models in steam output and performance on a variety of fabrics. User-friendly features include a 360-degree pivoting cord and a stainless-steel soleplate, which make the iron easier to maneuver, as well as a three-way automatic shutoff. Shortcomings include no variable steam controls and a water tank that holds only 4 ounces. We did find some reports of breakdowns or leaks, but complaints for this iron were fewer overall than for others in its price range.

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Panasonic Cordless NI-L70SR

Cordless iron

*Est. $60

Estimated Price

Experts typically don't recommend cordless irons because they must be recharged regularly to reheat, but owners do like the Panasonic NI-L70SR. This iron must be set in its base to stay hot, but users agree that the lighter weight and absence of a cord make it more maneuverable. Reviewers also like its transparent, removable water tank. The downside to all cordless irons is that they start losing heat the moment you remove them from their base units, but users recommend keeping the iron in its charging base between passes so it stays hot longer.

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Rowenta Pro Iron Steam Station DG5030

Steam generator

*Est. $170

Estimated Price

If you need to iron for long periods, you might check out a steam generator. Since this type of iron has a separate base unit that contains the water reservoir, it holds much more water and doesn't need to be refilled nearly as often as a standard iron. The Rowenta DG5030 scores in a professional roundup review for its ability to power out wrinkles, but user reviews are more mixed. While many say it's far better than a regular iron, others would prefer a see-through water tank and some complain about leaks. Because this iron takes about 10 minutes to fully heat up, it's not a good choice if you need to iron only occasionally.

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Rowenta First Class Travel Compact Steam Iron

Travel iron

*Est. $40

Estimated Price

Travel irons aren't just for business trips; many owners say they're handy for craft projects and quilting since their small size can get into tight spots better than a full-size iron. The Rowenta First Class has comparable features to a regular iron -- including a burst-of-steam button that puts out a lot of steam for such a small unit. It also features variable steam/temperature functions and vertical steam capabilities. Users like the fast heat-up time, featherlight weight and ergonomic design so much, a number of them say they replaced their regular home irons with it. For those on the go, the First Class also features dual voltage for overseas outlets and comes with a travel pouch.

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