Best irons in Australia 2024

• Best overall steam iron: Philips Azur Steam Iron
• Best cheap iron: Philips 3000 Series Steam Iron
• Best iron with a retractable cord: Hamilton Beach Steam Iron with 3-Way Auto Shutoff & Durathon Soleplate
• Best cordless iron: Tefal FV6550 Freemove Cordless Steam Iron
• Best iron for vertical steaming: Russell Hobbs Powersteam Ultra Copper Iron
• Best for beginners: Tefal UltraGlide Anti-Calc Plus Steam Iron FV5873
• Best iron for business shirts: Braun TexStyle 5 Steam Iron SI5184BK
• Best iron for sewing: oliso TG1600 ProPlus Textile Steam Smart Iron
• Best travel iron: Sunbeam Pro Steam Compact Iron

How did we pick this list?

A steam iron is a handy household appliance that uses hot steam to remove wrinkles from clothes and fabrics. It works by heating water in a separate chamber and emitting it as steam through small holes in the iron's flat surface. This steam helps soften the fabric, making it easier to iron out creases and ensure smooth, fresh-looking clothes.

To choose the best steam iron, consider the steam output (measured in g/min) for effective wrinkle removal. Opt for a stainless steel or ceramic soleplate for smooth gliding and even heat distribution. Weight is a factor, too - lighter irons are easy to handle but may require more pressure for deep wrinkles, while heavier irons offer better results with less effort.

Don't forget the water tank size - larger tanks allow longer ironing without refilling. Additional features like anti-calcium systems and auto-shutoff add convenience and safety to your ironing experience.

The team at Finder has assessed steam irons from various brands to help you find the perfect fit. We analysed various factors, including performance, ease of use, durability, and cost.

Read more detail on our methodology below.

The Philips Azur Steam Iron stands tall as our best overall steam iron pick. This handy appliance is quick to heat and boasts an adjustable steam output and a vertical steam boost for those stubborn wrinkles. It packs a potent punch of constant and powerful steam, ensuring your clothes are always at their crispiest best.

The inclusion of a calc-clean function is a bonus; it effectively breaks down limescale particles, which are automatically collected in a removable container. This feature ensures the iron maintains top performance even after extended use – a quick wash every 15 seconds keeps it as good as new.

With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 9,000 Amazon reviews, it's clear that this iron does more than just impress us. However, it's worth mentioning that it's a bit pricier, and the cord could have been a tad longer. But overall, the Philips Azur Steam Iron is a superb choice for all your ironing needs.

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Considering the budget-friendly options in the market, the Philips 3000 Series Steam Iron is our pick, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Its superior steam power effortlessly takes on stubborn creases, making ironing a breeze.

The ceramic soleplate ensures a smooth glide on all types of fabrics, and the 300-water tank means you can iron more pieces between refills. Plus, the vertical steam function is a lifesaver for sprucing up hanging garments. Running on ordinary tap water, it's a practical solution for everyday ironing needs with the added benefit of a calc-clean function to prevent calcium buildup.

But, as with any product, there are a couple of cons to note. It doesn't come with a steam level setting, so you'll need to be careful when dealing with delicate fabrics that require lower settings. A few users also reported issues with leakages and difficulty with the cord.

Today's Philips 3000 Series Steam Iron (DEAL: 22% off) deals

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We recommend the Hamilton Beach Durathon Nonstick Soleplate Iron for those looking for an option with a retractable cord. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon. Its durability guarantees a long-lasting nonstick experience, 10 times longer than traditional nonstick options.

Plus, it boasts an 80% increased steam output for optimal wrinkle removal. The iron is user-friendly and equipped with straightforward fingertip controls for temperature and power. Additionally, an invaluable feature is the 3-way auto shutoff that ensures safety from potential accidents.

This iron stands out specifically for its retractable cord, which adds a level of convenience and tidiness that is often overlooked. The anti-drip feature is another plus, ensuring your clothes remain pristine during the ironing process.

However, some users have reported that the iron is on the heavier side, which might be a consideration for those who prefer a lightweight iron. Additionally, for those who like to keep track of water levels, the water compartment is not entirely transparent, which could lead to some guesswork.

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The Tefal FV6550 Freemove Cordless Steam Iron is the best cordless iron option on the market, earning a solid 4.1 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

With its sleek design and advanced features, this iron offers a seamless, stress-free ironing experience. Its cordless operation means never worrying about a cord getting in your way or creasing what you've already ironed. Plus, its ceramic soleplate is super smooth, making it glide effortlessly over your clothes.

The horizontal base matches your natural ironing motion, and the quick recharge time means your iron is always ready when you need it. The smart light on the base is a handy guide for when it's time to recharge, ensuring you'll never run out of power during your ironing session.

Despite its many pros, the Freemove Air does require frequent refilling due to a smaller water tank. Additionally, some users have reported that it takes a while to heat up to the maximum temperature.

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The Russell Hobbs Powersteam Ultra Copper Iron is our pick for vertical steaming. It is integrated with faster heat-up technology that expedites ironing time, allowing you to focus on other tasks.

The ceramic non-stick copper soleplate is a standout feature, distributing heat evenly for smooth, efficient results. Its easy maneuverability around button holes makes it perfect for detail-oriented ironers. The self-cleaning function is a huge plus, making maintenance a breeze. Furthermore, it emits 45g of continuous steam and a powerful 210g shot of steam, making wrinkle removal virtually effortless.

While this iron is highly rated at 4.2 out of 5 stars on Amazon, it does come with a couple of disadvantages. At $195, the price point is a bit steep, especially for those on a budget. Another minor con might be the weight, as this iron weighs in at 2.2kg.

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The Tefal UltraGlide Anti-Calc Plus Steam Iron FV5873 is an excellent choice for those just starting their ironing journey. It holds a commendable rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from users on Appliances Online.

The iron's user-friendly features, which include a 45g/min continuous steam output and the 185g/min steam boost for tougher creases, make it the ideal tool for beginners. The Durilium Airglide soleplate technology ensures smooth gliding across fabrics, and the scratch-resistant feature extends its life, ensuring a worthwhile investment. However, every product has room for improvement.

The Tefal UltraGlide Anti-Calc Plus Steam Iron could benefit from a more detailed user manual for absolute beginners. Due to its high-performance features and technology, it might also be heavier than other basic models. Nonetheless, it's a top pick for those ready to make their first foray into ironing.

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The Braun TexStyle 5 Steam Iron SI5184BK is our top recommendation when it comes to ironing business shirts. Its unique FreeGlide 3D Technology ensures the iron glides over buttons and pockets with absolute ease, making it perfect for maintaining the sharp, crisp look of your professional attire. The Eloxal soleplate offers superior glide-ability, making ironing faster and more efficient, which is a real time-saver for busy professionals.

The iron comes with a convenient refill function that makes the chore of ironing less cumbersome, thanks to its larger water tank opening and ergonomic lid. You'll also appreciate the Smart iCare mode that protects your fabrics by maintaining a safe temperature, ensuring your shirts stay in top-notch condition.

Despite its powerful 2400W output, the open handle ensures comfort and excellent grip, making the ironing process less fatiguing. That being said, no product is without its cons. The Braun TexStyle 5 is no different, with some users finding the water tank's refill frequency a bit high for their liking. Others have noted that the iron's weight is slightly heavier, which may be a factor for those who prefer a lighter iron.

The Braun TexStyle 5 Steam Iron SI5184BK holds a remarkable 4.65 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and Myer, which speaks volumes about its effectiveness and popularity among users.

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The Oliso TG1600 ProPlus Textile Steam Smart Iron is an excellent choice for all sewing enthusiasts. Its remarkable 4.7 out of 5-star rating on Amazon testifies to its excellence.

This iron is a perfect blend of modern technology and user-friendly features, making it the best choice for any sewing task. The enhanced iTouch® auto-lift technology ensures safety and makes ironing quicker and easier.

The Smart Sensor auto shut-off feature is a brilliant addition, providing an extra layer of safety by turning the iron off if tipped over. Its diamond ceramic-flow™ soleplate ensures optimal heat performance while the easy-clean feature amplifies its convenience. The iron's 2-in detailing tip is perfect for seams, bias tape, and other tricky corners like cuffs and pleats.

Plus, the Triple-Play professional steam system offers three steam settings to suit your needs, and the side-fill water tank with a flip funnel significantly reduces spillage. Add the 3.7m cord with 360° pivot offers a full range of motion, accommodating both left and right-handed users.

But despite its amazing features, there are two aspects to consider. Its price might be a bit steep for some budgets, and it can remain on standby use for only 30 minutes. However, with a 2-year limited warranty, the Oliso TG1600 ProPlus Textile Steam Smart Iron guarantees peace of mind and is an investment truly worth considering for your sewing projects.

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The Sunbeam Pro Steam Compact Iron is our pick for the best option for travel, receiving a high 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

Its lightweight design makes it ideal for travellers and those who need a high-performance iron on the go. The non-stick soleplate glides across all types of fabric, preventing any sticking and ensuring a smooth ironing experience. Its dual voltage selection with a 100-120v / 220-240v switch is another testament to its suitability for travel. Additionally, with a push of the fold button, the foldable handle can easily be tucked away, making it a breeze to pack or store.

However, despite its many advantages, the Sunbeam Pro Steam Compact Iron may be a bit too basic for some users who prefer more advanced features. Also, it might not be the most beginner-friendly option on the market as it does require some degree of knowledge and skill.

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Save on irons with these deals and discounts:

Amazon

34% off Braun Household TexStyle 5 Steam Iron

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Amazon

22% off Philips Perfect Care 3000 Series Steam Iron

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Amazon

47% off Tefal Ultraglide Plus Anti-Calc Steam Iron

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David Jones

Up to 40% off steam irons

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Amazon

22% off Philips 3000 Series Steam Iron: $39

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Appliances Online

Steam irons from $49

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Appliances Online

Up to 85% off steam irons

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Amazon

11% off Russell Hobbs Powersteam Ultra Copper Iron

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Show more

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Amazon prices last updated on 20 December, 2024 at 07:01 am

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What to consider when choosing a steam iron

While most steam irons will offer similar functions, not all models are up to the same standard. Here are some things to look for when you are comparing steam iron models:

• Weight. Though a lightweight model is easy to manoeuvre while ironing, it also requires more downward pressure when you're using it. A heavier one will need less pressure, but may feel like more of a chore to use, so consider what's best for you personally before you buy.
• Price. Steam irons typically range in price from $50-$150. While there are definitely models on the lower end of the price scale that are incredibly efficient, it's best to ensure that you're buying from a reputable brand. A cheap iron from a brand that you've never heard of is likely to be unreliable and the chances are higher that it will break or burn your clothes.
• Auto shut-off. As with all electrical appliances, having an auto-off safety feature is always something worth looking out for. Models with this function will detect when they have been inactive for a certain period of time and will shut down to ensure that they don't spark a fire.
• Self-cleaning. Steam irons see a build-up of calcium and limescale with use that can affect the overall efficiency. Anti-calc models or those with a self-cleaning system allow you to remove the deposits that would otherwise clog up the soleplate and steam valves.
• Drip protection. In order to create steam, steam irons require water. Sometimes this water can drip onto your clothing and may cause water stains on certain fabrics. Models with drip protection prevent this by stopping water from dripping through the soleplate.
• Vertical steam. While not an essential feature, you may want to consider models that have the ability to vertically steam. This option allows you to steam garments while they're on the hanger and also lets you steam your curtains to remove creasing.

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Main image: Getty

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What types of soleplates are available?

When comparing irons, one of the key features to consider is the soleplate – this is the metal plate at the bottom of the iron that you press onto the fabric. The soleplate material affects how smoothly the iron glides over your clothes, how well it resists scratching, and how easy it is to clean.

There are several different soleplate materials to choose from. Aluminium, non-stick, stainless steel and ceramic are the most commonly available options, but palladium, titanium and other materials can also be used for irons.

• Aluminium. Typically used on entry-level irons, aluminium is cheap and will do the job. However, it may become "sticky" over time, creating more wrinkles as you iron.
• Non-stick. Irons with a non-stick coating on the soleplate glide smoothly over clothes and avoid sticking. They're generally quite easy to clean, but you'll need to be careful not to scratch off any of the coating.
• Stainless steel. Stainless steel soleplates are a popular choice and available in both entry-level and top-end models. They provide an even spread of heat and smooth performance, but zippers and buttons will scratch them.
• Ceramic. Durable and reliable, ceramic soleplates conduct heat efficiently and should glide smoothly over clothes. However, they tend to be expensive.

In addition to the material, check the size and shape of the soleplate. A larger soleplate will help you cover a big area as quickly as possible, but a narrow tip helps you iron in tight spaces such as on collars and around buttons.

How to compare irons

While irons might seem like basic appliances on the surface, there are several factors you should take into account when comparing your options:

• Controls

  Check if the iron has dials, slides or digital controls. Are the controls easy to understand and use, and are they positioned in such a way that they're unlikely to be accidentally bumped? Also check if the fabric settings are clearly marked.

• Ease of use

  Check how easy it is to fill the water tank, move the iron around, use its steam and spray functions and adjust the temperature.

• Power

  Check the power output (expressed in watts) of any iron you're considering, so you can get a better idea of how quickly and efficiently it heats up and maintains heat. Higher wattage means a shorter heat-up time and better performance. Entry-level models have around 1,400-1,500w, while more expensive models could have up to 3,000w.

• Water capacity

  The more water your iron holds, the more clothing you can get through before needing to refill. This is an important feature for anyone who regularly irons large amounts of clothing.

  Also, check whether the water tank is see-through, so you can easily see when you need to top it up.

• Heat and fabric settings

  A good iron will heat up to your desired temperature quickly and allow you to adjust the heat to suit whatever fabric you're ironing. Most basic units allow you to adjust the temperature as you see fit, but more advanced models feature specific settings designed for different fabrics.

• Steam

  Many irons offer one or more of the following steam features:

  • Vertical steam allows you to use the iron to steam hanging clothes or large items such as curtains.
  • Variable steam automatically adjusts the iron's steam output to suit different fabrics.
  • Steam burst provides an additional burst of steam when you need a little extra heat to smooth out a stubborn wrinkle.
  • Continuous steam provides a constant output of steam to help you quickly remove wrinkles.

• Weight

  Heavy irons can provide better pressing ability but be tiring to use. Check how much the iron weighs and how comfortable it is to hold for long periods.

• Cord

  The longer the cable, the more flexibility you have to move around the ironing board and attack creases from different angles. Some irons even have a retractable cord for easier storage. Also consider where the cord attaches to the iron, as some models can be difficult to use if you're left-handed.

Additional features

When comparing irons, you should also consider these features:

• Steam holes. Check the number of steam holes in the soleplate and how they are located to provide even steam distribution. While some models have 15 steam homes, others have up to 400.
• Drip protection. Anti-drip features stop water from dripping from the soleplate and potentially staining clothing. It also prevents water spitting when you use the steam boost function.
• Automatic shut-off. Almost all irons feature an automatic shut-off feature that switches off their power if they're left unattended or they tip over. Other safety features may include lights to warn you when the iron is turned on and has reached ironing temperature.
• Water cleaning. Some irons feature a system that pre-treats the water to prevent limescale buildup. Keep in mind, entry-level products typically don't have this feature.
• Warranty. Check the length of the manufacturer's warranty – most provide one to two years of protection – and what the warranty covers.

Irons vs garment steamers and steam stations

If you spend a lot of time ironing, a garment steamer or steam station could help make your chores quicker.

Garment steamers

Garment steamers quickly remove wrinkles from clothes and delicate fabrics. However, they cost more than a standard iron and can't provide the crisp, pressed look that an iron can.

For more information, check out our guide to buying a garment steamer.

Steam stations

Also known as steam generator irons, steam stations feature a large water tank with a boiler designed to heat the liquid up quickly. They generate more steam pressure than a regular iron, allowing you to iron more clothes in a shorter period of time.

If you need to work through a large pile of clothes as quickly as possible, for example, if you're doing laundry for a family of four or five, a steam station could be a wise purchase. However, compared to irons, they're quite expensive with prices generally starting at $200. Steam stations also require much more storage space than irons.

Frequently asked questions

• What is the best iron for clothes to buy?

  Our team has chosen the Philips Azur Steam Iron as the best iron to buy online.

• Do expensive clothing irons make a difference?

  Yes, they certainly do. Expensive clothing irons come with more features and better build quality. They often have a higher wattage, so you can iron clothes faster and enjoy the convenience of adjustable steam settings. If you're looking for an efficient way to keep your wardrobe neat and wrinkle-free, then it's worth investing in a premium iron.

• Are heavier clothes irons better?

  Heavier irons are generally more powerful and can be used to iron thicker materials. They're also sturdier than their lighter counterparts, which can be beneficial if you plan on using your iron frequently. That being said, a lightweight iron is much easier to maneuver around the clothes so that it may be a better option for some people.

• How long should an iron last?

  On average, a good iron should last 5-7 years if properly maintained and used with care. Regular cleaning of the soleplate and descaling will help to extend its lifespan significantly.

• Should you empty a steam iron?

  Yes, you should always empty a steam iron after each use. Not only will this help to prevent possible water damage, but it also ensures that the steam pressure is maintained at optimal levels.

Best rated iron brand award breakdown

Philips	8.21	4.43	4.33	4.53	4.63	4.47
Sunbeam	8.10	4.36	4.42	4.44	4.36	4.42
Tefal	8.08	4.35	4.15	4.62	4.38	4.46
Russell Hobbs	8.03	4.35	4.26	4.39	4.52	4.39
Braun	7.91	4.22	4.22	4.48	4.43	4.26
Kambrook	7.81	4.27	4.32	4.34	4.29	4.17
Electrolux	7.72	4.14	4.07	4.36	4.14	3.93
Panasonic	7.46	4.00	4.00	3.92	3.92	3.92
Kogan*	7.26	4.00	4.29	4.14	4.00	4.29
Kmart	7.18	3.80	4.24	4.16	3.78	3.82
Target Essentials	7.11	3.92	4.00	4.00	3.58	3.83
Easy Home (Aldi)*	7.04	3.56	4.11	4.11	3.78	3.89
Other	6.88	3.70	4.00	3.70	3.70	3.70
Stirling (Aldi)*	6.83	3.50	3.50	4.00	4.00	3.50

*Brand did not meet the sample threshold to qualify for the award

Previous Retail Awards

• 2019 Best Rated Iron Brand

  

  

  Best Rated Iron Brand 2019: Russel Hobbs

  96% of surveyed users recommend Russel Hobbs irons. The British brand received the highest overall score as well as high scores for ease of use and build quality, making it the top iron brand in Australia.

  	Overall rating	Recommended	Performance	Value for Money	Build Quality	Ease of use	Safety & features	Cleaning & maintenance
  Russell Hobbs	4.09	96%	4	4.03	4.2	4.21	3.91	3.91
  Tefal	4.15	90%	4.17	3.85	4.09	4.25	4.07	3.91
  Braun	4.07	93%	4.12	3.95	4.25	4.22	4.37	4.03
  Philips	4.01	95%	4.1	3.9	4.06	4.09	3.98	3.93
  Panasonic	4	90%	3.91	3.82	4.25	3.68	3.86	3.95
  Kambrook	3.99	91%	3.93	4.08	3.81	4.08	4.01	3.84
  Sunbeam	3.98	91%	4.08	3.98	4.01	4.08	4.06	3.96
  Electrolux	3.95	95%	4.08	3.89	3.87	3.82	3.95	3.89
  Easy Home (ALDI)	3.94	100%	3.85	4.1	3.9	4.15	4.25	3.95
  Homemaker (Kmart)	3.93	89%	4.1	4.33	3.86	4.1	3.86	3.83
  Home & Co (Kmart)	3.83	83%	3.79	4.23	3.63	4.02	3.67	3.8
  Stirling (ALDI)	3.82	88%	3.64	3.68	3.41	3.59	3.82	3.59
  Kogan	3.8	71%	3.55	3.8	3.6	4.05	3.35	3.75
  Kmart	3.75	84%	3.77	4.25	3.56	3.9	3.64	3.7
  Target Essentials	3.72	82%	3.92	4.22	3.83	4.14	3.68	3.61
  Elna*	3.36	83%	3.36	3.43	3.21	3.5	3.57	3.21
  Laurastar*	4.33	67%	4	4	4.33	5	4.33	4.83
  Morphy Richards*	4.5	100%	3.5	3.5	3.5	4	4	3.5
  Rowenta*	3.88	100%	3.13	3.75	4	3.38	3.5	3.25
  Smart Value*	3.9	100%	3.6	4.13	4.1	3.5	3.3	3.63
  Swan*	4.25	100%	3.67	3.5	3.25	3.5	3.75	3.75
  Westinghouse*	4.33	100%	4	3.67	3.67	3.83	3.5	3.67

  *Brand did not meet the sample threshold to qualify for the award

  Data: Finder Retail Brand Survey, 2019, Roy Morgan. Metric out of 5 stars unless otherwise indicated. Methodology and more info.