Cordless Irons

Cordless irons are good in theory

The first couple of generations of cordless irons didn't fare well in reviews, but experts say they have improved. Older models couldn't maintain heat for enough time to press a shirt, and testers had to repeatedly return the iron to its base and wait for the unit to reheat.

Experts say that Panasonic cordless irons are a good choice if you don't like a cord getting in the way, and Panasonic cordless irons generally receive very positive reviews from owners. The Panasonic Cordless NI-L70SR (*Est. $70) is included in Good Housekeeping magazine's recent test of steam irons. Editors say that while the iron removes wrinkles acceptably, it produces little steam. Testers liked its extra features, which include easy-access controls on the handle, a removable water tank (so you don't have to lug the iron to the sink to refill it), and a retractable cord. The cordless Panasonic iron comes with a heat-resistant carrying case and a base unit with retractable cord reel, which stays plugged in and reheats the iron between passes. The soleplate has a non-stick coating, and the iron offers both burst of steam and a self-cleaning feature.

User reviews for the Panasonic NI-L70SR are largely positive, though a few complain that it needs to return to the base so often that it gets annoying. Owners do say, however, that the iron takes less effort to use because it's lightweight and there's no drag from the cord. Some feel it is safer than a corded iron, since the base can be placed next to a wall where it is unlikely to be knocked over by children or pets. We saw very few complaints of leaking and breakdowns for Panasonic steam irons, including this model. ConsumerReports.org advises against purchasing a cordless iron, however, because they need to be reheated in their base every few minutes.