Which is better, an iron or a steam generator?

In any family, especially a large one, things constantly accumulate that need to be ironed. This monotonous task often takes a long time. Therefore, to help housewives, improved models of irons and new equipment in the form of a steam generator are constantly being produced. And when the time comes to choose what exactly is worth buying, many find it difficult to decide.

What is the difference between a steam generator and an iron?

At first glance, both devices are similar. But they have key differences:

• The design of the iron includes a body and a heating element that is connected to the soleplate. In addition to the main part in the form of an iron, the steam generator has a steam station located separately. She has a large water tank. The steam generator is equipped with a special platform where the iron is placed. This makes the device more bulky;
• When you look at the iron, contact occurs between the sole of the unit and the fabric. As a result, the surface is smoothed. The steam generator can operate without contact. It doesn't have to touch the fabric to straighten out all the folds. This is of particular importance for delicate materials.

There are many differences between both devices, from cost to appearance. Their differences are reflected in the tasks they perform, their advantages and disadvantages.

Deciding on tasks

To choose one of the units, you need to take into account the tasks that you want it to perform. Despite some similarities between the devices, they can perform different functions. Please note the following:

• Ironing can only be done in a horizontal position. The steam generator can be positioned as convenient for you. If the surface is at an angle or vertical, then ironing it will still be convenient;
• In addition to smoothing, the steam generator can be used to clean the surface. For example, it is convenient to clean furniture upholstery. If such a function is important to you, take it into account when choosing;
• If your goal is to spend as little time as possible on the ironing process, you should choose a steam generator. Its speed is significantly higher due to the powerful blast of steam it releases. This way you can iron the fabric well, even if you fold it in several layers. This is especially important for bedding;
• The steam generator has a much larger water tank. Therefore, there is no need to constantly add water and interrupt the process.

What is better, an iron or a steam generator for a family?

It is difficult to clearly determine which device is better. It all depends on the task and the functions you expect to receive. It is important to compare the positive and negative qualities of each model to determine which one is best for you.

The steam generator allows you to iron delicate and thick fabrics with high quality.

Reference: If you use regular tap water, yellow spots may appear on the surface of the material.

The iron costs significantly less, and its compact dimensions allow it to be conveniently stored.

Let's consider the pros and cons

It is worth taking a closer look at all the positive and negative features of each device in order to make the right choice.

Iron

The advantages of the iron are as follows:

• price. There are models of different price categories, both budget options and quite expensive ones. Everyone can find a suitable model;
• mobility and compactness. The iron is much smaller and lighter.

The disadvantages include:

• it takes longer to smooth out the fabric;
• ironing quality. The iron is significantly inferior to the steam generator.

Steam generator

The benefits include:

• using dry steam instead of wet steam;
• the high temperature of the device allows you to iron even fabric that has been folded in several layers with high quality;
• ironing speed. The process is much faster than when using an iron;
• large volume of water tank. No need to constantly add water;
• Suitable for delicate items and thick materials;
• The control panel allows you to configure the steam generator. You can turn off the steam and use it like a regular iron;
• can be used in various positions, not only horizontally.

The disadvantages include:

• price. Significantly higher than that of an iron;
• dimensions. Due to its design, the steam generator is quite large.

Steam generator or iron with steam generator

When determining which is better, it is necessary to take into account the specific situation. If you are going to iron a small number of simple items, choose an iron. When you need to constantly iron a large number of fabrics, including delicate ones, then an iron model with a steamer or steam generator is suitable. If you want additional care for your furniture upholstery, also choose a steam generator.

Choosing an iron with a steam generator

When choosing an iron you need to consider:

• sole quality. It must last a long time, withstand temperature changes and be durable;
• additional functions. If you need wet steam, a model with a built-in steam generator is suitable; if you need dry steam, a model with a turning point is suitable;
• convenience of the handle. For ease of use of the iron, the handle should be comfortable.

Choosing a steam generator

To select a steam generator, it is recommended to pay attention to the following parameters:

• additional functions. The device can clean fabric, steam material in a vertical position, and remove dirt from tiles and plumbing fixtures. It all depends on the tasks you set for the equipment;
• power. The indicator varies from 800 to 3100 W. You should not choose the lowest-power model. For home use, a device with at least 2600 W is suitable;
• steam supply The steam supply pressure can be from 2 to 6 bar. It is recommended to choose a model with the maximum parameter value. This will allow you to use the steam generator for fabrics of any density and in different positions;
• water container. Its volume can be from 700 to 2200 ml. The indicator affects the dimensions of the device. If you do not plan to use the device often, a 700 ml container is suitable. If you use the steam generator frequently, select the maximum volume;
• sole. Aluminum can heat up and cool quickly, but is susceptible to scratches quickly. The steel sole is durable and glides well, but is quite heavy. Ceramic metal is fragile, but glides well and heats up quickly. The titanium sole is reliable, but it takes a long time to heat up;
• operating mode. The steam generator may not have a steam supply regulator, or it may be manually regulated.There are models with automatic pressure adjustment to suit the type of fabric. It is recommended to choose a device with steam control;
• safety. Automatic shutdown when the device overheats. Reliable fixation of the device on the stand. No sliding of the stand on the surface. All this helps to make the ironing process safer. Check the stability of the stand in the store before purchasing;
• weight. On average, this figure is 3–4 kg. The steam generator must be held in your hands. Therefore it should be convenient. It’s better to try different models in the store to decide which one is more comfortable.

It is impossible to clearly determine which device is better. What matters is the problems you want to solve with their help. It is important to determine the most important selection criteria in advance. If price is a priority for you, it is worth considering different models of irons. When the main thing is the quality of ironing and saving time, it is recommended to purchase a steam generator.