Iron with automatic shut-off: what is it and why is it needed. How to choose the right inexpensive iron with auto shut-off?

The iron has an automatic shut-off and stops heating when not in use. If you place it vertically, it will turn off after 2-3 minutes. If you leave it motionless in a horizontal position, the shutdown will work in a matter of seconds. How such tools work, as well as how to choose a suitable model, is described in detail in the article.

Operating principle, pros and cons

Unlike conventional devices, the auto-shut-off iron is equipped with a special sensor. It reacts to the lack of movement. If the tool is stationary for 10-15 seconds, it automatically turns off. Moreover, it does not matter exactly how the device stands - horizontally or vertically.

An iron with an auto-shut-off feature usually produces an audible or light signal. After the required inactivity time has passed, the heating element will turn off, even if the tool is connected to the mains through an outlet.

Moreover, if you put it in a vertical position, the self-switching iron will give a signal later - after about 2-3 minutes. Therefore, during ironing and breaks, it is better to place it vertically, as is done in normal cases.

Some models are more convenient because they give a short signal at first and only turn off after 30 seconds. If you need to continue ironing, simply set the device in a horizontal position.

This device has a lot of advantages:

• an iron with a shut-off function is safer compared to the classic model;
• it allows you to protect the fabric from burning;
• convenient to use because it first gives a signal and then turns off.

Such devices have no disadvantages. But if you need to leave the house, even for a few minutes, you should turn off the device and remove the plug from the network. Even an iron with automatic shut-off may sometimes not work, so such cases should be excluded.

How powerful should the iron be?

An automatic iron has several important technical and consumer characteristics. Moreover, the main parameter is power. It is this that determines how well and quickly the sole heats up. The type of fabric you can work with depends on this:

1. Within 1500 W – travel-type irons are suitable for working only with underwear, bedding, as well as clothes made from loose fabrics, for example, T-shirts.
2. From 1600 to 2000 W – household devices. These are universal models that process almost any fabric, even slightly overdried ones.
3. From 2000 W – professional devices and steam stations. Typically used in tailor shops and dry cleaners.

In connection with power, it must be said about the eco mode in the iron that this is an important function that allows you to consume electricity. If the tool can operate in this mode, it will consume the minimum possible amount of energy at maximum power.

Outsole type

Philips iron with auto shut-off and other models must meet other requirements for comfortable and safe ironing. First of all, you need to consider the material of the sole:

1. Aluminum is cheaper, but sticks to the fabric, so it’s better not to consider this option.
2. Stainless steel is much higher quality than aluminum and does not stick to materials. At the same time, the weight of the device increases significantly.
3. Ceramic coating is the best option for the sole; it is perfectly smooth and does not stick to any fabrics even at high temperatures.
4. There is also an iron with automatic shut-off and a non-stick coating. It is also of fairly high quality, but is scratched and therefore more susceptible to wear and tear.

Other criteria

There are other criteria that are not noticeable at first glance, but are also important:

1. Weight – it is better to choose devices that are not too heavy, but not too light. A weight of 1.5-1.7 kg is enough to press clothes well onto the ironing board. An iron weighing 2 kg or more will quickly start to tire your hand.
2. The length of the cord is preferably at least 1.5 m. Although if the cord gets in the way a lot, you can also purchase a contactless iron. It is placed on a stand, on which it warms up and is then ready for continuous ironing.
3. An iron with a self-shut-off function should have a very comfortable handle with an anti-slip rubberized coating. You can check this directly in the store.
4. The water reservoir should be translucent so that you can monitor the level while ironing. The optimal volume for normal home use is 200-300 ml.
5. Finally, you should pay attention to the price. An inexpensive iron with auto shut-off can be purchased at a reasonable cost even from a well-known brand.At the same time, it is worth considering the reviews so as not to buy an obviously low-quality device.

An iron with automatic shut-off is very convenient and also safe. It turns off after a few seconds or minutes of inactivity (depending on position), which saves fabric and eliminates the risk of fire.