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: These consist of a separate water tank and base unit. They produce a higher volume of continuous steam and are suitable for heavy-duty use.
- 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 – A larger water tank means longer ironing sessions without refilling breaks
- 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 Azur 8000 Series Steam Iron (DST8050/26)
No burns guaranteed? That’s exactly what the Philips Azur 8000 Series Steam Iron (DST8050/26) offers. Add a massive 3kW of power to fuel 260g of steam at a time and you have a winner.
- Type: Steam iron
- Steam output: 85 g/min
- Wattage: 3,000 W
- Soleplate: Ceramic-stainless steel hybrid
- Water tank capacity: 350 mL
- Features: 260g turbo steam, intelligent auto steam, auto shut-off, guaranteed no burns on any material
Buy from S$216 at Amazon
2. Tefal Ultimate Pure Steam Iron (FV9845)
- Type: Steam iron
- Steam output: 60 g/min
- Wattage: 3,000 W
- Soleplate: Ceramic-stainless steel-enamel hybrid
- Water tank capacity: 350 mL
- Features: 260 g/min steam boost, Micro-Calc Filter for 100% filtered steam to prevent linen stains
Buy from S$165 at Amazon
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$119 at Amazon
4. Russell Hobbs Supreme Steam (23060)
- Type: Steam iron
- Steam output: 40 g/min
- Wattage: 2,400 W
- Soleplate: Stainless steel
- Water tank capacity: 300 mL
- Features: 110 g steam boost, soft touch handle and dial, Dry/Steam/Spray/Burst modes
Buy from S$77 at Amazon
5. Panasonic NI-M300T
The Panasonic NI-M300T is a super cheap steam iron that gets the basics right at a great price. With vertical steaming, spray and a tangle-free cord, it’s a steal!
- 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$34 at Amazon
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6. Russell Hobbs Supreme Steam (20630)
- Type: Steam iron
- Steam output: 70 g/min
- Wattage: 3,100 W
- Soleplate: Ceramic
- Water tank capacity: 350 mL
- Features: 210 g steam boost, vertical steam and spray
Buy from S$140 at Amazon
7. Braun TexStyle 3 SI3042VI
- Type: Steam iron
- Steam output: 45 g/min
- Wattage: 2,350 W
- Soleplate: Ceramic
- Water tank capacity: 270 mL
- Features: 160 g/min steam shot, free-moving upward curving soleplate, ready with Max setting in 35 Seconds
Buy from S$89 at Amazon
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; foldable,15-sec heat-up; 7-min operation
Buy from S$101 at Amazon
9. Xiaomi Mijia Portable Garment Steamer
The lightest steam iron on our list at just 77 grams, the Xiaomi Mijia Portable Garment Steamer is a compact device that still manages to deliver 22 g/min of steam.
- 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; 770 grams only
Buy from S$49 at Amazon
10. Rowenta Compact Travel Steam Iron DA1510
A lightweight 0.9kg with dual voltage and with a fold-down design, the Rowenta DA1510 Compact Travel Steam Iron is your best friend on the go, wherever you go.
- Type: Travel steam iron with dual voltage
- Steam output: 10 g/min
- Wattage: 1,000 W
- Soleplate: Ceramic
- Water tank capacity: 70 mL
- Features: Dual voltage; dry or steam; vertical steam
Buy from S$159 at Amazon
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