FULL STEAM AHEAD!
When you use our guide to find the best steam iron, it really takes some of the pressure off.
You’re guaranteed power, reliability, and results so crisp you’ll swoon. Why not take advantage of our fantastic selection of steam irons?
We selected 25 of the leading steam irons on the UK market and put in a WHOPPING 35 hours (probably more, we lost count) of analysis to make sure that they really checked all the boxes.
Philips, Morphy Richards, all of the best steam irons are here for you to enjoy.
But why did we do this?
Ironing can be a real pain, and we understand that. You deserve a steam iron that gets the job done FAST and to an excellent standard. But you also need something that fits in with your budget, which is why we made this guide.
Who won our hearts and stole the show? It was Tefal with the impressive FV9845. Gliding over clothes effortlessly and leaving them looking fresh off the rack.
But we know that you might not agree with our favourite, and that’s why we have plenty of exceptional steam irons for you to choose from. Go on, don’t be shy.
How to Choose a Steam Iron
Choosing the best Steam iron, like any appliance, can be difficult. With so many different other types out there, it can be hard to pick one when all are “alike”.
But, some appliances have extra features which can be more helpful than you originally thought.
Throughout this section, we will show you things to look out for when purchasing your steam iron.
Starting with the price, this will be your first important choice to make. High budget for higher returns, longer life? Or a lower budget for a moderate appliance.
A limescale filter is actually more important than you might think. The vast majority of models have them, and it will often let you know when the filter is in need of descaling.
Some even have a self-cleaning setting. Those that have a filter tend to build-up less scale than those that don’t, so keep that in mind when you go to buy.
A soleplate with a slim nose point is often something to look for as well. These are less likely to snag on clothing and will provide a more precise clean when it comes to getting into those hard to reach gaps and crevices.
Other Things to Look for
There are a couple of additional features you might want to watch for before you buy. One of which is the automatic shutdown.
This can be very beneficial, as it will automatically turn itself off when left unattended for a certain amount of time (usually less than ten minutes). This can prevent your clothes being burned as well as people.
A comfortable handle is also something that you should keep an eye out for. If you know you will be spending a while ironing, then a handle with a soft and comfy grip can be essential.
Looking at corded and cordless steam iron models can also be beneficial. If your ironing board is located somewhere that is quite far from a power socket; then a cordless model can be very beneficial.
Similarly, looking at the length of the cord that comes with the steam iron is often quite important, as it will let you know how much space you need and if it will work for you and the layout of your home.
Best Steam Irons UK (In Order)
1. Tefal FV9830 Ultimate Pure Steam Iron
Our Pick For Editors Pick – Best Steam Iron
Key Features
- Power: 3000w
- Output: 55g/min-250g/min
- Capacity: 1.6L
- Auto Shutdown: Yes
- Weight: 1.45kg
Offering you a sleek design that gives the word streamlined a whole new meaning, this steam iron remains a surprisingly lightweight full-size addition to the home.
Easy to store away after use, its compact build really does make life easier.
- Streamlined design that makes it the F1 racecar of the ironing world
- Easy to use with a soleplate that glides over every garment
- Scale stains? Not with this steam iron watching your back
- Powerful steam boost that waves farewell to all those nasty creases
- Safety? It always comes first here with a great automatic shutdown feature
Created to give a POWERFUL boost to your ironing, you can rest easy knowing that the steam burst involves an impressive 250g/min of hot steam, while the standard cleaning mode releases an equally impressive 55g/min. Both of these power settings ensure crisp and clean clothes.
The controls on the steam irons handle ensure that you have the freedom to switch between the various steam settings with ease, making sure you always have the right flow and heat settings for the material in question – no more damaged garments with this steam iron.
Scale stains got you down? No need to worry about them anymore with this fantastic steam iron by your side.
Using unique patented technology, its filtration system ensures that there are no scale stains left on your clothes – just a smooth finish with no lines or creases.
The soleplate is made from Durilium, with air glide technology that ensures a smooth finish and crisp results, all without snagging on the buttons or the material.
Durable and reliable, this steam iron is resistant to scratches to ensure you’re always getting the best results.
With an excellent capacity, the tank will keep you going for ages and help you get through that ever-growing pile of laundry.
It’s fairly easy to empty and refill, keeping things as easy and effortless as possible for you for efficient cleaning.
While this is absolutely our favourite of the steam irons we have in this guide, we know that it doesn’t slot in with every budget.
That’s why we would like to introduce you to our budget model from the ever-impressive Russell Hobbs steam irons below.
2 . Russell Hobbs Powersteam Ultra 3100 W Vertical Steam Iron
Our Pick for Best Budget Steam Iron for the Money
Key Features
- Power: 3100w
- Output: 45g/min-210g/min
- Capacity: 0.35L
- Auto Shutdown: Yes
- Weight: 1.6kg
Bringing you a dazzlingly good looking steam iron, Russell Hobbs really upped their game with this model.
A vast improvement on older irons in the range, it perfectly blends an affordable price alongside an exquisite end result.
- Comes in a dashing black and silver that really adds some spice to ironing
- Powerful steam shot that will leave your jaw dropping
- Self-cleaning function to keep those irritating minerals and limescale at bay
- A smooth glide that’s a massive improvement on older models
- Steam control? Oh yeah, it’s all yours with this steam iron
Designed to be POWERFUL and reliable, this steam iron is perfect for removing even the most stubborn creases thanks to the steam burst of 210g/min. When used in its normal setting, the steam power remains at an equally excellent 45g/min for a crisp finish.
The steam control gives you full freedom to perfectly tailor your ironing experience, allowing you to change the settings according to the material you are ironing.
This allows for more versatile cleaning and ensures that every garment ends up with the same superb finish.
The soleplate offers a WHOPPING 50% improvement on previous models, giving you peace of mind when you are gliding over your clothing.
No need to worry about getting snagged on buttons or edges as you find your way across the material.
Vertical steaming is something that this model is proud to offer, meaning that areas of the home such as the curtains can be steamed effortlessly.
his also works if you have clothes that are hanging and just need a quick burst of steam to help remove faint creases.
Worried about limescale? Yeah, me too. The good news is that this model is self-cleaning, with an excellent filtration system that will remove minerals and limescale without issue.
This prevents the plate from getting clogged and also ensures better durability over time.
Honestly, we love this model and it certainly offers a lot considering how low the price is.
We also know how important it is to find the right steam iron for you, and if this steam iron hasn’t left you sweating in all the right ways, we have a nice selection below that might do the trick.
3. Morphy Richards Turbosteam Steam Iron
Our Pick for Best Steam Iron on a Budget Under £50
Key Features
- Power – 2600w
- Weight – 1.54kg
- Cord Length – 3m
- Water Tank Size – 400ml
- Auto Shut-Off – Yes
Morphy Richards are quite popular when it comes to the production of home goods.
This steam iron works to uphold the good reputation the brand has for their products – and it does a good job.
If you find yourself looking for a budget model, make sure you consider this Morphy Richards model.
The Good
A comfortable handle, provides you with a good grip while you are ironing your clothes.
I was so impressed with how lightweight this steam iron is, even when filled with water, so if you don’t want something heavy to work with, then this one is certainly one to look at.
It comes with several heat settings that range from ‘cool’ to ‘hot’, so you can adjust the temperature according to the garments you are ironing.
It also has settings for dry and steam ironing, as well as a vertical function so that it can be used on curtains and hanging clothes.
There is even a turbo setting so that you can benefit from an increase in power.
The Not So Good
The cord is very short on this steam iron, which can be inconvenient.
Our View
Despite its short power cord, this budget model is able to deliver an excellent level of power so that you can steam iron your clothes efficiently.
It has a range of fantastic settings and features, so you can adjust them according to the garments you are straightening out.
Plus, it is really lightweight and has a comfortable grip, making it perfect for those with sore or weak joints.
At a low price, this Morphy Richards steam iron really gives you value for money.
4. Tefal FV9830 Ultimate Pure Steam Iron
Great steam iron if you live in a hardware area thanks to the Micro calcium filter
Key Features
- Power – 2600w
- Weight – 2.3kg
- Cord Length – 3.04m
- Tank Size – 413ml
- Auto Shut-Off – Yes
Tefal is a superb brand, and this steam iron really shows off what they are capable of.
Powerful and fast, it’s the best model out there for those who have a lot of ironing to get through.
Take a look at the reviews below and see what you think of them.
The Good
It has a sleek design, as well as a padded handle to make ironing a more comfortable task.
It boasts an impressive continuous steam output for a faster clean, as well as a nice steam boost – ideal for getting rid of those stubborn creases and wrinkles.
It also benefits from being relatively lightweight, which makes manoeuvring much easier.
Although, the Phillips GC4526/87 below is even lighter. The water tank capacity is excellent, allowing you to get through more clothes before you need to fill it back up.
Refilling it is fairly easy, and the controls are right within reach at all times for quick changes and selections.
The AirGlide soleplate means that it soars over clothes with ease at high temperatures, no matter the fabric.
It is also resistant to limescale thanks to the micro calc filter, ensuring longevity and reliability.
This is something I have always found really useful because I live in a hard water area and limescale is a constant battle with every appliance I own.
The Not So Good
Cleaning this steam iron is not the easiest task. The calc container can be fiddly to remove for its monthly de-scale, and both this and the filter need to soak for several hours.
Our View
This is an excellent model from a trusted brand, and the price is very reasonable when you consider everything it’s capable of.
It might not be the easiest to clean and will take a good few hours to get through, but it’s worth it for the incredible ironing job and the power you get out of it.
No matter the fabric or the thickness, this steam iron can get through any crease you throw at it. Comfortable and easy to use, you can’t go wrong here.
5. Tefal FV4040 Steam Iron
Our Pick For Best Steam Iron Lightweight Model
Key Features
- Power – 2400w
- Weight – 1.5kg
- Cord Length – 3m
- Water Tank Size – 270ml
- Auto Shut-Off – No
Tefal is one of the most reliable and trusted brands when it comes to home appliances, electronics, and even cookware.
They are known for their fantastic quality, and this is not one to disappoint.
Take a look at the reviews and see if it is the right one for you.
The Good
This steam iron has a great design and a comfortable grip for your hand while you are doing the ironing.
It allows you to power through even the toughest creases thanks to the powerful 200W and 150g/min steam boost.
If you’re searching for a stronger steam iron, you may also want to try the Phillips GC4526/87 as has some seriously powerful steam settings.
The soleplate has been specially designed to be tough and reliable, so it glides across clothing.
It doesn’t snag on buttons, something I have found frustrating in other models, so it was nice to relax while I ironed instead of stressing over torn buttons.
It has a self-cleaning feature as well as an anti-scale function to try and prevent the build-up of limescale.
This is ideal if you live in a hard water area as I do because it means the limescale won’t clog up the pores and stop the steam iron from working.
There is automatic steam regulation, which has been coupled with a steam trigger to make things easier while you are ironing.
The simple cord system also keeps things tidy and out of the way.
The Not So Good
The water fill cover can be very stiff, and not all of the holes are actually used.
Our View
Affordable tough and reliable, thanks to its great design.
While it does have a couple of flaws, they do not necessarily impact the way it functions as a whole.
With a great range of additional features, as well as a durable soleplate, it’s a steam iron that will glide effortlessly across your clothes and provide you with a fantastic result.
FAQ’s
Q: How long is the power cord to the Tefal FV4040?
A: It just under 3m so more than long enough to iron with ease.
Q: Amazon have said this is the new model to the Tefal FV4488, do you know the difference is?
A: Yes the FV4040 is designed to hold a lot more water so you can continue to iron for longer, much more useful product on a whole.
6. Breville PowerSteam Areo Ceramic Steam Iron
Our Pick for Best Ceramic Steam Irons
Key Features
- Power – 2400w
- Weight – 1.4kg
- Cord Length – 2m
- Water Tank Size – 224mL
- Auto Shut Off – No
Breville is a hardy and reliable brand. They produce so many of the appliances in our homes, each of which is reliable and very durable.
Steam iron is no different, promising you smooth handling and excellent results. Check it out and see what you think.
The Good
This steam iron is lightweight and easy to use, making ironing clothes an absolute breeze.
The handle is comfortable to hold during use, allowing you to get through your whole load without needing to take a break.
It’s also very quick to heat up, taking less than 30 seconds before it is ready for use.
Plus, the long power cord means you have plenty of flexibility around the table.
The anti-calc feature prevents limescale build-up, and this can be accessed through the self-cleaning button.
The anti-drip feature prevents water from dripping onto your clothes when it is cooing, and the soleplate has a smooth finish that allows it to glide over clothes without the risk of sticking to them.
This is a feature that I found exceptionally useful, as sticky soleplates are absolutely awful to work with.
The water tank is also easy to fill, and you can keep an eye on the water levels while you clean.
The Not So Good
The soleplate is just a little bit too thick to get under some buttons and slightly too wide for getting around the embroidery.
Our View
These brilliant steam irons come at a mid-range price, making them affordable to most.
It is of excellent quality, despite the soleplate being a little too thick and wide for some of the finer tasks.
However, it is perfectly suited to things like jeans, shirts, and pleated skirts.
A breeze to use and with comfortable handling, it is a steam iron that you won’t soon regret.
7. Bosch TDA3022GB Power Iii Steam Iron
Our Pick For Best Steam Iron for Self-Cleaning
Key Features
- Power – 2850w
- Weight – 1.6kg
- Cord Length – 3.1m
- Water Tank Size – 265ml
- Auto Shut Off – Yes
Bosch isn’t just great at making tools, they are also masters of home appliances.
It offers great value for money, with some serious steam power that will leave clothes looking their best in no time at all.
It’s worth taking a look and seeing if this could be the next steam iron for you.
The Good
This handy steam iron moves quickly and effortlessly across clothes, removing wrinkles and leaving them looking absolutely pristine.
The steam shot is a great way to work quickly and remove those stubborn creases, something which I found very useful when I had a large pile of clothes to get through.
The handle is also comfortable, allowing you to clean pretty much non-stop so that you can get back to other tasks faster.
The anti-calc feature is fantastic, providing you with a smooth clean and no blocked pores.
If you have trouble with the steam pressure, just use the self-clean option to activate the descaling.
It takes around 30 seconds to heat up, which is very fast, and the soleplate is scratch-resistant – so even zippers can’t take it down.
It has a vertical steam shot for curtains or hanging clothes, as well as an automatic shutdown feature for your safety.
The Not So Good
It’s a little thick for buttons and wide for embroidery, and it can be difficult to see the water level clearly when you are using it.
Our View
This steam iron comes at a budget price, which is pretty nice when you consider just how much this model has to offer.
It might be a little tricky to use on the finer details, and the water tank can be hard to read, but these are minor issues when compared to some pretty major pros.
Quick cleaning, powerful steam bursts, and great self-cleaning features make this the kind of steam irons you don’t say no to.
8. Tefal FV9966 Steam Iron
Our Pick for Best Cordless Steam Irons
Key Features
- Weight – 1.6kg
- Cord Length – Cordless
- Water Tank Size – 300ml
- Auto Shut-Off – Yes
Another model from top brand Tefal; this steam iron is great for those that want something that doesn’t have a cord to get in the way.
Take a look at the reviews for this nifty model and see if it’s what you are looking for.
The Good
Fitted with an ergonomic open handle, making things more comfortable for you when you are operating it.
It charges quickly, so even when you go to adjust your clothes, a four-second charging period can provide you with a 30-second power boost.
It’s really good at removing wrinkles and creases, which I am always appreciative of as I do not look after my shirts very well.
Even the ones that were scrunched up in the back of my drawer came out looking brand new again.
It has a premium ceramic soleplate with an excellent glide, making ironing your clothes an effortless experience.
The water tank has a good capacity, although the Tefal FV9830 is much larger, and is easy to refill as well as see the level line clearly.
I was so excited to use it because of the fact that there’s no power cord it’s convenient to work all around the board, so you don’t have to worry about getting tangled up as there’s no annoying cable to obstruct your hands as you iron.
It has an anti-drip system to leave clothes spotless and has been designed to be resistant to scratches as well as offer even heat distribution.
It is energy efficient and has trigger controlled variable steam.
The Not So Good
It is very heavy due to the iron soleplate, and it needs to be warmed up again regularly.
Our View
This cordless steam iron may have the disadvantage of being heavy, but this does not stop it from doing an amazing job.
Once you get past the way it feels, it will glide over your clothes easily and get even the toughest creases out.
Plus, it comes with a good range of additional features to help keep your shirts and trousers free from creases and look good for work or special events. A good price for an excellent model.
Final Thoughts
In this guide, we have looked at some of the best steam irons on the market. They all have a range of different functions and features that make them such a good choice.
Whether you want something cordless, wired, or on a budget price, there is one here that is sure to meet your personal requirements.
What did you think of our best steam irons selection? Are there any you would have added? We love hearing from you, so feel free to leave a message in the comments below.
Last Updated on February 11, 2022 by Gemma Tyler
