For shorter ironing sessions and easy storage, start by comparing steam irons. If you regularly iron large loads, a steam generator is well worth considering. An ironing system combines a steam generator with an active ironing board, but you’ll need space to set it up. Whichever you choose, check the care instructions and settings suitable for your fabrics.
If you’re working your way through shirts, bedding or clothes for several people, compare a steam generator with an iron, taking into account the space needed for its base too. UFC-Que Choisir says that a steam generator is suitable for ironing large quantities.
You want crisp creases without leaving your ironing equipment set up all the time. Measure the space available for the appliance and, if you’re considering a steam generator, its base too. UFC-Que Choisir points out that the base makes the whole unit bulkier than an iron.
For creased trousers or a neat finish on a range of ironable clothes, steaming garments on a hanger won’t meet the same need. UFC-Que Choisir explains that a garment steamer won’t create creases like an iron or steam generator.
Worth considering: for shorter sessions when you need to put the appliance away afterwards.
Bear in mind: it doesn’t have the separate tank of a steam generator, which can make the handheld iron lighter, according to UFC-Que Choisir.
Worth considering: if you often iron large loads, a use for which UFC-Que Choisir considers it suitable.
Bear in mind: its base takes up more space than an iron on its own, even though the handheld iron may be lighter.
Worth considering: if you can set up a dedicated ironing station with a steam generator, iron and active ironing board, as described by UFC-Que Choisir.
Bear in mind: check how much space the whole system needs and what’s involved in setting it up before each session.
| Consideration | What to check | What matters to shoppers? |
|---|---|---|
| Amount of laundry | How long your ironing sessions usually last and how much space a separate base would take up. | When shirts and bedding pile up, I want an appliance suited to longer sessions; around 33% of shoppers put the amount of laundry first. |
| Creases and fabrics | The care labels and the model’s temperature and steam settings. | For my creased trousers and range of ironable clothes, I want a crisp finish without overlooking their care instructions; around 27% of shoppers share this priority. |
| Set-up and storage | The appliance’s dimensions, the space on the ironing board and how it can be stored. | If I have to get everything out and put it away after each session, ease of set-up determines my choice; around 20% of shoppers say this is their main concern. |
| Care and use | The descaling process and instructions for filling, cleaning and cooling the appliance. | I’d rather know what care a model needs before using it regularly; this is the main priority for around 20% of shoppers. |
UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between quick touch-ups with a garment steamer and the finish achieved with an iron or steam generator: a garment steamer won’t create creases.
If creased trousers are a key part of what you iron, compare an iron with a steam generator instead. Save the garment steamer for the touch-ups it’s suited to.
The separate tank can make the handheld iron lighter, but UFC-Que Choisir says it makes the whole unit bulkier.
Measure the space where you’ll use and store it, then check the dimensions and locking mechanism of the model you’re interested in.
UFC-Que Choisir recommends regular descaling, but the steps vary by appliance. Philips also says that some of its instructions apply only to specific series.
Check the manual for the exact model to find out which water you can use, how to descale it and whether you’ll need any accessories.
A feature advertised by a brand isn’t enough to establish the results you’ll get on your clothes or how comfortable the appliance will be during long sessions.
Compare the model’s features with the size of your laundry loads, your fabrics, the space available and the care it requires.
Several Calor steam generators, including models in the Express range, feature among those recently tested by UFC-Que Choisir.
The CareStyle range includes steam generators; Braun describes the CareStyle 3 in particular as a compact model.
Philips offers irons and steam generators, with care instructions that vary between ranges.
Laurastar offers ironing systems that combine an active ironing board, steam generator and iron.
These models are steam generators designed for ironing on a board. Compare the exact variant, tank and care requirements with your usual ironing sessions. The choice between an iron, steam generator and ironing system always depends on the space you have available.
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For a neat finish on the ironing board, consider this steam generator if you’re also looking for an appliance you can put away after use.
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If you iron regularly, compare this steam generator with how often you’d like to refill the tank in mind.
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For ironing horizontally on a board, compare this steam generator based on your storage space and care needs. Don’t assume the advertised pressure alone will determine the results on your clothes.
No, not if you want sharp creases: UFC-Que Choisir says a garment steamer doesn’t give you the finish of an iron or steam generator. It can, however, be useful for touching up hanging clothes.
Follow your model’s manual for guidance on the water to use and how often to descale it. UFC-Que Choisir explains that care depends in part on how often you use the appliance and the hardness of your water. Depending on the model, descaling may involve a collector, rinsing or a specific cycle.
Choose a stable surface that can withstand heat, then read the instructions for filling, cleaning and storing your chosen model. The Joybuy France product page for the Philips PSG6022/20, for example, specifies a stable, heat-resistant surface. This product-specific instruction doesn’t replace the manual for another appliance.
Use an appropriate electrical equipment take-back or collection scheme instead of putting it in household rubbish. France’s Ministry for Ecological Transition says that a collection and treatment scheme for this type of equipment operates in France.