If you regularly iron large piles of laundry, it’s worth considering a steam generator iron, especially if you often deal with linen or thick cotton. A steam iron is a more practical choice for shorter ironing sessions, or if space and simplicity matter more. According to UFC-Que Choisir’s guides, steam generator irons are suited to larger loads, but they take up more room and don’t necessarily deliver noticeably better results than a good steam iron on every fabric.
How often and how long you iron matter more when choosing than the number of features listed.
If you regularly have long ironing sessions, it’s worth comparing a steam generator iron with a steam iron. UFC-Que Choisir considers steam generator irons suitable for ironing large loads. However, make sure its base will fit on your ironing board and in the space where you plan to store it.
A steam generator iron’s powerful steam may be useful for tackling fabrics that are difficult to smooth out. Results also depend on the fabric and the setting you use. Follow the care label and, if possible, compare tests on materials similar to your own.
A steam iron means you don’t have to set up and store a separate base. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how easy steam irons are to use. When comparing models, also consider how heavy the iron feels in your hand and how well it smooths creases, rather than looking only at the advertised steam output.
Start with how long you usually iron for and the fabrics you tackle, then check the set-up and maintenance requirements of the specific model.
| What to consider | What to check | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Crease removal | Compare results on fabrics similar to your own. Distinguish continuous steam output from the steam boost function. According to UFC-Que Choisir’s testing method for irons, steam output alone isn’t enough to judge results. | If I iron lots of linen or thick cotton, I want to make fewer passes over stubborn creases. If I only iron these items occasionally, a steam iron may be enough. |
| Uninterrupted ironing | Check the heat-up time, how long the iron can be used for before it needs attention, and how it is refilled. Look at the tank capacity, how easy it is to see the water level and whether the tank is removable, but don’t rely on these details alone to estimate how long you can use the iron. | When I have a large pile to get through, I’d rather not stop to refill the appliance. For just a few items, getting started easily matters more. |
| Space and ease of handling | Measure the space needed for a steam generator iron’s base, both on your ironing board and in your cupboard. Compare the weight of the iron in your hand, which is different from the total weight of the appliance, and check where the cord is positioned. | I want to be able to set up and put away the appliance easily, while keeping a comfortable grip throughout the session. |
| Limescale maintenance | Read the descaling instructions for the exact model and check its guidance on water. See whether the limescale collector, rinsing process or maintenance indicator makes it easy to keep up with regular care. | If my water is hard, I want to be able to follow the recommended maintenance routine easily. Philips says hard water speeds up limescale build-up in its steam appliances. |
A high advertised steam output doesn’t, by itself, tell you how well an iron removes creases. UFC-Que Choisir considers other factors in its testing method for irons.
Look for tests carried out using a clearly explained method, and check the results on the fabrics you iron most often.
The separate tank makes the iron lighter to hold, but the base also takes up space while you’re using the appliance and when you put it away.
Measure your ironing board and storage space before choosing a steam generator iron. Also check how the iron attaches to its base if you need to move it.
UFC-Que Choisir lists limescale build-up among the main causes of faults in steam generator irons. Philips says hard water encourages deposits to build up in its appliances.
Check the manual for your chosen model to find out what type of water to use and how to descale it. Don’t use any maintenance product that the manual advises against.
Not having a cord makes it easier to move around, but a cordless iron may need to be returned to its base regularly. UFC-Que Choisir describes how this works on the Calor FV9960C0 Freemove, a discontinued model.
If you iron for long stretches, check how recharging works on the model you’re considering before opting for a cordless iron.
These examples relate to specific models or guidance; they don’t apply to every model from each brand.
UFC-Que Choisir’s tests of Calor models illustrate some points to check when choosing a steam generator iron or a cordless iron.
Braun offers steam generator irons in its CareStyle range. Compare the specifications of individual models rather than assuming they all have the same features.
Philips’ care guidance is worth checking if water hardness is an important consideration for you.
These two models give you an idea of what to consider if you’re looking at steam generator irons for regular ironing sessions. Their inclusion here doesn’t mean they’re necessarily a better choice than a steam iron. Consider the space you have, how easy the appliance is to set up and what maintenance it needs.
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This steam generator iron is worth considering if you regularly have long ironing sessions. Before choosing it, compare the heat-up time and space needed for the base, and look for crease-removal results on the fabrics you usually iron.
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Designed for regular ironing sessions, this steam generator iron has a 2 L tank and a power rating of 2400 W. These figures alone don’t tell you how long you can use it for or how well it removes creases. Also check its dimensions, heat-up time and descaling instructions.
No. UFC-Que Choisir considers steam generator irons suitable for ironing large loads, but they don’t necessarily remove creases noticeably better than a good steam iron on every fabric. For shorter sessions or if you’re short on space, also compare how easy a steam iron is to set up and put away.
Check the heat-up time, how long the iron can be used for before it needs attention, how to refill the tank, how much space the base takes up, the weight of the iron and the limescale maintenance instructions. To judge how well it removes creases, look for tests on fabrics similar to your own rather than comparing advertised steam figures alone.
Follow the water and descaling instructions in the manual for your model. Philips says hard water speeds up limescale build-up and recommends distilled or demineralised water for some of its irons, either on its own or mixed with tap water. Don’t use vinegar or additives if the manual advises against them.
It may be a good choice if avoiding a cord is your priority, but returning the iron to its base to recharge can interrupt your ironing. UFC-Que Choisir describes this trade-off with the Calor FV9960C0 Freemove, a discontinued model. If you plan to iron for a long time, check how the specific cordless iron you’re considering recharges.