Which is better: an iron or a steam generator?

Each hostess knows firsthand what ironing is. For such an occupation sometimes takes a lot of time. But the iron is not the only means for ironing, you can also use a steam generator. To find out what is better, we describe both the advantages and disadvantages of these devices, and also describe the differences between them.

Visually, the steam generator resembles an iron, however, technically it is a different device. The fact is that the steam generator is based on the method of emitting dry steam to the surface, and the iron works due to the heating element in the housing. If we consider these devices in detail, then there are a lot of differences between them, here are the main ones:

• when ironing, the iron must touch the fabric when the steam generator can iron over the surface of the clothes without problems;
• high vapor pressure makes the steam generator more efficient when ironing than the iron, and a powerful steam jet will allow you to quickly eliminate all irregularities on the fabric;
• ironing clothes steam generator can in any direction and location, while the iron is only for a horizontal surface;
• different capacity in the water tank; the iron will have to be filled more often with water due to the smaller tank;
• A special platform in the form of a steam station makes the steam generator more massive apparatus.

Choosing a device for ironing you need to know for what purposes it will be used, namely what type of fabric and volume of linen will be ironed. If you iron a small amount of linen a couple of times a month, then the iron will be an excellent solution for the house, but if you have to iron often and a lot, for example, changing the tablecloth or curtains weekly, then it is better to buy a steam generator and preferably a quality one, since this will affect the quality of the ironing itself .

In order to maximally combine everything with the needs of each, it is necessary to take into account the pros and cons. Some will be enough to buy a simple iron, and other powerful devices they absolutely no need. And there are people who need an already powerful steam generator for ironing. The most important parameter to consider is the power of the device. You should not buy an iron, and especially a low-capacity steam generator. This will have a bad effect on the quality of ironing. The best option, we can assume models from 1500 watts.

Also consider the steam pressure. It is believed that with a 4-5 bar steam iron will iron optimally and evenly. The volume of the filled water tank is also important. It depends on him how long the iron will iron without refilling. There are small tanks up to 1 liter and also over 2 liters.

In order not to regret the acquired purchase, it is necessary to consider all the advantages and disadvantages that each of these devices has. The main advantages that iron has are:

• there are both budget options and multifunctional devices, however, the iron will be cheaper, the steam generator loses here;
• compactness of the device and low weight make the iron convenient to use;
• A wide range of models available and easy to use.

The main disadvantages of iron:

• ironing takes more time, while the steam generator copes with it much faster;
• ironing hot sole can burn through thin fabrics such as dresses, tulle, shawls;
• the water tank has a smaller capacity, while the steam generator has a large capacity of about 2 liters;
• for ironing the iron requires a horizontal surface, it is necessary to work all the time on the ironing board;
• heats up longer than the steam generator, and requires constant temperature control for different types of fabric;
• distilled water must be used for ironing, otherwise the filter will quickly become clogged with scale, and the quality of ironing will deteriorate significantly;
• after ironing, the iron slowly cools and remains hot, thereby creating a danger to others.

The main advantages that the steam generator has when ironing:

• faster ironing process due to the supply of high-pressure dry steam;
• the volume tank for water which is intended for longer work;
• due to the high temperature of the steam (150 degrees Celsius on average), you can iron the fabric folded in half, while all layers of clothing will be better ironed and more qualitative;
• there is no need to fill the steam generator with distilled water; ordinary tap water is also quite suitable;
• the device has cleaning filters that clean water from impurities to prevent scale;
• the device can be ironed in any direction, including vertically, after hanging the clothes on the hanger;
• the device itself is distinguished by its low weight and comfortable handle for releasing steam;
• the cover of the sole of the device is easily cleaned with dirt
• does not require additional cooling after ironing, like a regular iron, which cools for a long time due to the heating element.

The main disadvantages of the steam generator:

• costs more than a regular iron, however, the price justifies the quality;
• the steam station takes up quite a lot of space both during storage and during operation - it happens that the apparatus does not fit on the ironing board;
• during operation, the steam generator produces noise associated with boiling water in the turbine;
• device design contains more parts that are subject to repair;
• when purchasing a steam generator, you need to know that it has consumables that require regular replacement (cartridges against scale), when using such filters, the difference will be obvious (no contamination will appear on the fabric, and steam will continuously flow at the outlet).

If it is difficult to make a choice, then the real reviews are a little bit, but they will help you find a good iron and steam generator of the best quality. Below will be considered some reviews of people who have already bought this product.

This model has a separate steam generator and a compact iron. Popular due to its affordable price and other benefits:

• a rather rather large capacity of 1300 ml, which provides a 30-minute continuous ironing;
• steam station is equipped with a wide range of functions, including temperature control, shutdown protection;
• a long cord of almost 2 meters will allow you to freely control the device over a large area;
• There is a place to hide the cord.

The disadvantages include a non-removable water tank and the lack of automatic steam supply during steam blow. By and large, the feedback on this model is positive. Buyers recognize significant time savings, long but effective ironing, safety of steam when in contact with clothing.

This model differs in that it is an iron in which a steam generator is embedded. This option is suitable for those who do not like bulky steam stations, and wants more compactness. The main advantages of this model:

• 5 functions to adjust the temperature and steam;
• the ability to steam upright;
• there is a motion sensor that reacts to steam disconnection, thereby saving water consumption.

If you compare customer reviews, the pros and cons will be approximately equal. Buyers note that the iron easily smoothes natural fabric such as cotton and linen. It also has a powerful steam supply, it is easy to switch the temperature, the disadvantages are basically a small water tank and a large consumption of electricity.

Thus, when choosing an iron or a steam generator, everything depends on preferences. If a person is limited in budget, and ironing is needed very little, then it makes no sense to take a steam generator;

Tips for choosing from professionals - in the video below.