Useful functions of a modern iron

The iron is the primary appliance used for pressing clothes in households. Although there are other tools that work on the steam and press principle, they are not as popular as the iron. The effectiveness and efficiency of the device are directly influenced by its features and range of useful additional options. Manufacturers provide various iron functions that facilitate a simple and enjoyable ironing process.

Types of irons

• basic;
• with a steam generator unit;
• steam-producing.

The first type of machines is rare in the market because of the lack of demand, despite their highly reliable design. The steam generator unit is installed in industrial laundries and enables the processing of a large volume of clothing.

Steam appliances – nearly all contemporary household models come with useful additional features.

Working with steam

For quite some time now, having the capability to generate steam has been a common feature found in household models. Steam provides several benefits:

• It significantly accelerates the ironing process;
• It helps to safeguard delicate fabrics from overheating and potential damage.

Steam supply

A modern iron has a series of holes on the bottom of the heating element that are used to direct steam onto the fabric. The number of holes determines the amount of steam that reaches the fabric, which can have an impact on the speed of ironing, especially when dealing with thick fabrics.

In addition to the number of holes, the placement of these holes on the surface of the element is also important. That’s why each company strives to patent their unique hole design.

The main factor that determines the steam output is the feed rate. This rate can range from 10 to 150 grams per minute and is directly influenced by the power of the heating element. For everyday ironing, a steam output of up to 30 grams per minute is typically sufficient.

However, using too much steam can have negative consequences, such as higher water consumption and over-humidification of the fabric.

Consequently, a larger water intake will necessitate a roomy container, which results in the device becoming larger and heavier. For household purposes, this type of iron would prove to be impractical.

Steam impact

This is a rapid steam delivery system that operates under high pressure. It is particularly useful for fixing wrinkles on delicate fabrics. It can be used for:

• smoothing out curtains;
• removing stubborn creases from outerwear.

By pressing a designated button, a significant amount of steam is released through the high-pressure outlets. The steam forcefully hits the fabric, causing the fibers to immediately relax, and the heat from the iron’s soleplate sets this new state.

The main technical feature of this iron function is the speed at which steam is delivered. A good benchmark is a rate of at least 90 g/min. In industrial steam generators, the minimum rate is 120 g/min.

To generate the necessary steam pressure, it takes a specific duration for domestic appliances. As a result, the effect can occur approximately every ten seconds. Industrial steam generators, on the other hand, are capable of performing continuous steam release. This is made possible by the presence of a distinct water tank equipped with a heating element.

Self-cleaning steam system

There is always a certain amount of dissolved substances in water. When water is heated and turns into steam, these dissolved substances, such as lime, can settle on the steam supply ducts and heating elements. Not everyone has access to distilled water, and many people tend to overlook this issue. That’s why manufacturers have equipped their irons with a function that allows you to remove lime deposits from the device’s elements.

• as a separate function;
• integrated with the steam function.

The initial situation involves a distinct button located on the iron’s body, which dispenses a significant quantity of unheated water into the ducts. This enables the accumulated residue to be flushed out of the ducts. Alternatively, self-cleaning takes place during steam application, but this carries the risk of getting dirt on the fabric. Certain manufacturers incorporate a feature that is activated by pressing and holding the steam impact button.

Anti-drip system

Because of the unique technical aspects inherent in the steam system, it is feasible that water might drip out. This typically occurs as a result of the iron not immediately reaching its optimum operating temperature upon being turned on. It is crucial to utilize an anti-drip system when storing the iron with a full water tank. When engaging in the act of ironing, this particular feature serves to safeguard the fabric by preventing the occurrence of unnecessary water droplets that could potentially leave unsightly stains.

Vertical steaming

This method is commonly employed for effectively ironing outerwear that is hung on a hanger. It is crucial to note that vertical steaming does not involve any physical contact between the heating component and the material being steamed. As a result, it is particularly suitable for ironing fabrics that are highly sensitive to heat.

Other optional systems

Aside from the steam system found in different variations, contemporary irons come with additional features aimed at enhancing the ease and comfort of ironing for users.

Dry ironing

Required for fabrics that are sensitive and cannot be steamed. Take silk for instance, it will become curly and melt under the influence of steam. In actuality, this feature solely regulates the temperature of the heating unit to a value approaching its minimum.

Automatic shut-off

Serves for preventing fires. Due to the presence of a heating element, an iron can potentially start a fire if proper safety measures are not taken. To mitigate this risk, a special fuse is incorporated into the device that can automatically shut it off under the following circumstances:

• Remaining motionless in a horizontal position for 30 seconds;
• Being in a vertical position for approximately 10 minutes.

These specific criteria have been established by iron manufacturers as a safety benchmark.

Wireless power supply

While the majority of models are powered by an electric current sourced from the mains, there is a growing trend for wire-free alternatives. These wire-free models come equipped with a battery and require charging at a specialized charging station. The benefits of this solution are subjective and hinge upon the specific usage conditions and preferences of the customer.

Removable water tank

With this function, you have the possibility to significantly reduce the weight of the iron itself. Simply hang the tank on the appliance when you need to use the steam function.