The 10 Best Steam Irons of 2026, Ranked

For most households a standard steam iron is enough. Generators use a separate boiler and a hose. They give higher pressure and more steam, but they cost more, weigh more and take longer to heat and store. They suit people with large baskets, thick fabrics or frequent ironing. This guide covers standard irons only, and we compared 16 models to pick these ten.

Around 2400W to 3100W is typical in the UK, and all run from a standard 13A plug and socket. Higher wattage heats faster and holds temperature under steam. Check continuous steam in g/min and the steam shot in grams: 40 to 55g/min and a shot of 200g or more are good figures. The cheapest irons here sit at 1800W to 2200W and work, but creases take more passes.

Look for a scale filter or an anti-calc cycle. The Russell Hobbs Powersteam Ultra uses an anti-scale cartridge you replace, the Philips Azur 7000 Series has a Quick Calc Release function for flushing out scale, and the Braun TexStyle 7 Pro has a self-clean routine. Run the self-clean routine regularly, and use filtered or distilled water if your area is very hard.

They are handy for short jobs and awkward spots, but not for a full basket. Both the Tefal Freemove Power and the Tower CeraGlide give about 35 seconds of ironing per charge before needing the base. The Tower can also be used corded, so it covers both cases. Cordless irons are usually lighter in the hand, but their tanks are smaller.

Ceramic coatings, found on most irons here, glide smoothly and resist sticking, but they can chip if you iron over zips or rivets. Stainless steel is tougher and scratch resistant but glides less easily and takes longer to heat. Braun's anodised EloxalPlus and Philips' SteamGlide Elite are alternatives to a plain ceramic coating. Whichever you choose, avoid dragging the soleplate over metal fastenings.

In soft-water areas most manufacturers say yes. In hard water areas, tap water leaves limescale that clogs the steam vents and stains clothes. Use the anti-scale or self-clean feature, or mix tap with distilled water, or use distilled alone. Morphy Richards' manual advises deionised, distilled or demineralised water, and failing to maintain the iron can invalidate the guarantee.