Steam iron or dry iron, which one to choose?

2024-01-23 07:00:14

What are the differences between a steam iron and a dry iron? Discover the qualities of use of each…

Last update : January 23, 2024

To wear wrinkle-free clothes we must have a tool that adapts to our requirements, such as the variety of fabrics we want to smooth. Not all irons work the same or provide the same results. Among the varieties available on the market, there is the steam iron or the dry iron.

Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Varying depending on the use you want to give them and the type of clothing you want to straighten. Do you know the differences between them and which one would suit you best?

Dry or steam iron?

The steam iron is a device that uses water to reduce the ironing processonce the steam penetrates the fibers of the fabric, softening them and allowing the elimination of wrinkles.

It is equipped with a water tank which must be filled before use. Some have an anti-drip system that prevents water from falling on clothes when the iron is cold.

It also has a temperature regulator and a selector that allows you to change the amount of steam depending on the type of fabric. Others have features like steam blast. Which releases a jet of steam to fight wrinklesor the mist function, which moistens clothes with mist.

On the other hand, the dry iron irons clothes using heat, without using steam. It has a metal sole that heats thanks to an internal resistance and a temperature regulator to adjust the heat depending on the fabric.

Unlike steam irons, dry irons are useful for basic ironing tasks due to their simplicity and cost. Although they may not be effective in removing wrinkles from certain types of fabrics.

Also read: How to steam clothes without an iron?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of each type of iron?

Now that you know the usability of each, here are their advantages and disadvantages. Depending on the use you want to give them and the type of clothes you want to iron.

Steam iron

Benefits
Eliminate wrinkles. It thus facilitates more agile ironing with less effort. Since steam simplifies straightening and reduces the number of passes required.
It allows ironing in a vertical position. Which is ideal for delicate or difficult-to-lay garments on the board, such as curtains, dresses or suits.
It allows you to iron robust or resistant fabrics. Like cotton or linen, since the steam is effectively introduced into the fibers and dissolves the most marked wrinkles.
Helps disinfect and renew clothes. The steam eradicates bad odors and bacteria. Disadvantages
Requires maintenance. Because you have to fill the water tank, empty it following each use and clean it to avoid limescale.
Requires special attention. To prevent burns from steam or hot water escaping through the holes.
It consumes a lot of electrical energy. It uses more energy to produce steam.
Requires space. Because it tends to be larger and heavier than a dry iron.

Dry iron

Benefits
Little care. Due to the absence of a water tank, it does not require cleaning or descaling.
Requires fewer precautions. The risk of burns from steam or hot water is eliminated.
Electricity consumption is lower. Due to its low power to heat the surface.
It takes up less space. It is more compact and lighter than a steam iron. Disadvantages
Dry ironing requires more dedication and effort. Since dry heat does not speed up the smoothing of clothes as much.
It requires ironing in a horizontal position. This limits the treatment alternatives for delicate or complicated clothing to spread on the board.
Clothes must be damp. Which is tedious and leaves water marks or stains on the fabric.
Dry ironing does not facilitate disinfection or renewal of clothes. Since dry heat is not effective in eliminating bad odors or bacteria.

Also discover: How much energy does an iron consume and how to reduce its cost?

How to choose the iron that suits you best?

Each type of iron has its advantages and disadvantages. so there is no one-size-fits-all solution to determining which one is best for you.

The choice will be made according to your personal tastes, the variety of fabrics you usually iron and the budget you have. Here we offer some basic recommendations to guide you in your decision.

Type of clothing. For thick fabrics or clothes with many wrinkles, a steam iron may be more suitable.
Frequency of use. If you iron often, consider which one can get the job done faster.
Available space. Consider the space you have to store and use the iron.
Energy consumption. Check power consumption to save and use less electricity.
Additional features. Evaluate aspects such as the steam jet, the anti-drip system and the adjustable thermostat, which can make ironing easier and more efficient.
Sole material. Choose a quality sole that slides and distributes heat evenly. Ceramic or stainless steel soleplates are good options.
Water capacity. Check the capacity of its water tank to make sure you don’t have to refill it while ironing.
Opinions and reviews. Read reviews from other buyers to get an idea of ​​the quality you are considering.

The art of good ironing

Finally, whatever iron you choose, remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and clothing labels to avoid damaging them. This way you can enjoy clean, wrinkle-free clothes. While contributing to energy savings and taking care of your wallet.

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All sources cited have been thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, timeliness and validity. The bibliography for this article has been considered academically or scientifically reliable and accurate.

Mas Muñoz, MC (2016). Washing, ironing and clothing repair processes in accommodations. Paraninfo Editions, SA.
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