Winner
The Tefal ProExpress Protect Steam Generator Iron is designed to offer a powerful and efficient ironing experience. Its standout feature is the high-pressure boiler that provides a steam output of 135g/min and a steam boost of 560g/min, which can significantly reduce ironing time. A large 1.8-liter water tank ensures uninterrupted use, making this iron suitable for extended ironing sessions.
The preset steam and temperature settings are convenient, allowing you to iron different fabrics without adjusting the settings manually. Additionally, the Protect System prevents water stains by converting leaks into steam, helping to keep your clothes in good condition. The iron is also designed to glide easily over fabrics with its Durilium Airglide Autoclean soleplate, which enhances the ironing experience.
Descaling is made simple with the patented removable Scale Collector, ensuring long-lasting performance. However, it's worth noting that at 6.3 kg, this iron is relatively heavy, which might be a consideration for those looking for a lighter, more portable option. Despite this, the iron's high efficiency and ease of use make it a strong contender for those in need of a reliable steam generator iron.
The Tower T22008BLU CeraGlide is a versatile cordless steam iron that makes ironing easier with its 2-in-1 design—letting you switch between corded and cordless use. Its powerful 2400W heating element heats up quickly in just 30 seconds, producing a solid 40g steam output that can handle tough fabrics like wool and denim effectively. The ceramic soleplate is scratch-resistant and glides smoothly over clothes, reportedly speeding up ironing by about 30%.
For cordless ironing, the iron offers about 35 seconds of use before needing a quick 15-second recharge on its base. While this battery life might feel a bit short for large loads, the fast recharge helps keep things moving without long waits. The 0.36-liter water tank is moderately sized—enough for several minutes of steam but likely requiring refills during longer sessions. At 1.2 kg, the iron strikes a reasonable balance between weight and comfort, making it manageable for most users.
Additional helpful features include variable steam settings to adjust for different fabrics, an anti-drip system to prevent leaks, self-cleaning and anti-calc functions that help maintain performance and prolong the iron’s life. The iron comes with a 3-year guarantee (1 year standard plus 2 years with online registration), which adds peace of mind. This iron suits people who want the freedom of cordless ironing for quick touch-ups or smaller loads but also the option to plug in for longer sessions. It’s good for everyday use on a variety of fabrics, though those with very large ironing jobs might find the cordless time limiting. If you value fast heat-up, smooth gliding, and the convenience of cordless, this model covers those needs well.
The Philips PerfectCare Elite Steam Generator Iron is designed for those who frequently deal with stubborn creases and require an iron that delivers powerful steam output. It boasts a continuous steam rate of up to 135 g/min, with an impressive boost of 470 g to tackle tougher creases with ease. This makes it suitable for heavy-duty ironing sessions. The iron's OptimalTEMP technology is a standout feature, ensuring no fabric burns, which means you can iron a variety of materials without adjusting heat settings, saving time and effort.
Despite its capabilities, this steam iron isn't cordless, which can be a drawback for those looking for the freedom and flexibility that cordless models provide. The detachable 1.8-litre water tank is another practical feature, reducing the need for frequent refills during extended ironing sessions. However, at 5.1 kg, it might feel a bit heavy for some users despite its lightweight claim when compared to traditional steam irons.
The iron is also equipped with a vertical steaming function, allowing you to freshen up hanging garments and curtains without needing an ironing board, adding versatility to its use. Compact design is achieved through ProVelocity technology, making storage easier and ensuring it fits well on most ironing boards. Safety features such as an auto-off function and carry lock provide peace of mind, making it a suitable option for households with children. One should consider the higher price point typically associated with steam generator irons, which might be overkill for users with simpler ironing needs. This iron is best suited for users who need robust steam power and advanced features for frequent and varied ironing tasks.