There is just no comparison— pressing clothes with a steam iron is easier and quicker for you, and better for your fabric. The magic is in the steam, which is why choosing the best steam iron is slightly more complicated than choosing a traditional iron.
There are 5 types of steam irons:
- Traditional: The most common type, it typically has a water tank and spray mist feature as well as the steam function. Traditional steam irons can be used on a variety of fabrics.
- Steam generator irons: Steam generator irons consist of a separate water tank and base unit. They produce a higher volume of continuous steam and are suitable for heavy-duty ironing.
- Cordless: Cordless steam irons offer freedom of movement. They come with a separate charging base and are useful when manoeuvrability is a priority.
- Travel: These compact and lightweight irons usually have fewer features compared to regular irons but are convenient for quick touch-ups while on the go.
- Vertical steamers: Vertical steamers are perfect for removing wrinkles from hanging garments. They are best for delicate fabrics that are difficult to iron on a traditional ironing board.
Each type has its own advantages and is suitable for different purposes. Consider your specific needs such as the frequency of use, the types of fabrics you’ll be ironing, and convenience features, to choose the most suitable type of steam iron for you.
If you are still unsure, here are the factors you should consider before buying one:
- Steam output – Higher steam output eliminates stubborn wrinkles quicker
- Wattage – Higher wattage means the iron heats up faster
- Soleplate – Non-stick or ceramic soleplates are less likely to damage fabric
- Water tank capacity – Consider the water tank capacity of the iron. A larger water tank means less frequent refilling, which can be convenient for longer ironing sessions.
- Adjustable settings – Different fabric types require different steam settings
Best steam irons in Singapore
Here are 10 of the best models in Singapore based on the factors we discussed above, but also considering price.
1. Philips GC1752/36 EasySpeed
- Type: Steam iron
- Steam output: 25 g/min
- Wattage: 2,000 W
- Soleplate: Ceramic
- Water tank capacity: 220 mL
- Features: 4 steam settings; wide tank opening; drip stop
Buy from S$64 at Lazada
2. Braun SI9188EBK TexStyle 9
- Type: Steam iron
- Steam output: 50 g/min
- Wattage: 2,800 W
- Soleplate: EloxalPlus Aluminium
- Water tank capacity: 330 mL
- Features: Vertical steam; self-clean; digital iCare
Buy from S$209 at Lazada
3. Panasonic NI-WL41VSH Cordless
- Type: Cordless
- Steam output: 11 g/min
- Wattage: 1,550 W
- Soleplate: Ceramic
- Water tank capacity: 135 mL
- Features: Curved multi-directional soleplate; symmetrical design; detachable tank
Buy from S$125 at Lazada
4. Braun IS-7156 CareStyle 7 Steam Generator
- Type: Steam generator
- Steam output: 125 g/min
- Wattage: 2,400 W
- Soleplate: EloxalPlus Aluminium
- Water tank capacity: 2 L
- Features: Eco mode, fast descaling, 2-min rapid heat-up
Buy from S$525 at Lazada
5. Panasonic NI-M300T
- Type: Steam iron
- Steam output: 20 g/min
- Wattage: 1,800 W
- Soleplate: Titanium coated
- Water tank capacity: 210 mL
- Features: Vertical steam; 360-degree swivel cord; spray function
Buy from S$35 at Lazada
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6. Philips Azur Elite GC5039/30
- Type: Steam iron
- Steam output: 75 g/min
- Wattage: 3,000 W
- Soleplate: Stainless steel with titanium coating
- Water tank capacity: 350 mL
- Features: Guaranteed no burns and no temperature settings with OptimalTEMP
Buy from S$227 at Lazada
7. PowerPac PPIN1107
- Type: Steam iron
- Wattage: 1,400 W
- Soleplate: Teflon
- Features: Swivel cord; spray function; transparent tank
Buy from S$24 at Lazada
8. Tefal DT3030 Handheld Steamer
- Type: Handheld
- Steam output: 16 g/min
- Wattage: 1,300 W
- Soleplate: None – non-contact steamer
- Water tank capacity: 120 mL
- Features: Vertical steamer; 15-sec heat-up; 7-min operation
Buy from S$82 at Lazada
9. Xiaomi Mijia Portable Garment Steamer
- Type: Handheld
- Steam output: 22 g/min
- Wattage: 1,200 W
- Soleplate: None – non-contact steamer
- Water tank capacity: 160 mL
- Features: Vertical steamer; 30-sec heat-up; 780 grams only
Buy from S$30 at Lazada
10. Rowenta Compact Travel Steam Iron DA1560
- Type: Travel steam iron with dual voltage
- Wattage: 1,000 W
- Soleplate: Stainless steel
- Water tank capacity: 60 mL
- Features: Dual voltage; dry or steam; vertical steam
Buy from S$54 at Lazada
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