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The 8 Best Travel Irons in 2023 [Portable, Dual Voltage]

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The 8 Best Travel Irons in 2023 [Portable, Dual Voltage]

Things To Consider When Buying a Travel Iron

1. mini steam iron with dual voltage, 2. compact and easy-to-use iron, 3. lots of features in a compact iron, 4. lightweight travel iron with 360-degree swivel cord, 5. mini project steam iron with ceramic soleplate, 6. easy to use and portable iron, 7. 800-watt handheld steam iron, 8. 3 temperature settings in a compact iron, final thoughts.

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We’d all rather look well-groomed while traveling. However, any traveler is familiar with the headache of opening your suitcase only to find all your clothes limp and wrinkled.

The most convenient tool for addressing this problem is the travel iron. This handy tool is specially designed to fit in your suitcase and is powerful enough to keep you looking tidy. Choosing the best travel iron can be intimidating, but we will guide you through the whole process.

It’s important to know what to look for when you are setting out to buy a travel iron. Perhaps your foremost consideration will be the size and weight of the iron in order to maximize your luggage storage space.

But there are several other factors to keep in mind, including the iron’s power and heat control. Let’s dig a little deeper into these aspects.

Weight and Size

Travel iron weight and size

One of the biggest advantages travel irons have over regular ones is their weight. Made to be easily portable in your luggage, they weigh significantly less than regular irons. Look for an iron that weighs approximately 1 pound .

As for size, a travel iron is built to fit perfectly into your suitcase or travel bag. This convenient tool’s dimensions typically vary from 6 to 8 inches in length.

Ease of Use

Travel iron ease of use

When it comes to a travel iron’s ease of use, there are a couple of things you should be aware of. First, take a good look at the handle and see if it looks comfortable . A functional handle will go a long way in making your iron usable. Second, the best travel irons include motion-sensitive technology, helping you iron faster and with greater precision.

On top of that, there are some really interesting additional features you can look out for, like anti-drip or water-spraying features, both of which contribute to overall ease of use when it comes to ironing.

Heat Control

Travel iron heat control

If you’re looking at an iron without the option to control the heat level, think again. Any travel iron on your shortlist should have this ability. You don’t want to iron synthetic clothes with the same level of heat as cotton clothes.

Hot Tip: Look for an iron that has printed indicators on the swivel that denote exactly what each level is for.

If you are traveling to a different country, look for an iron with dual voltage . You will likely be dealing with different voltages, which can render your travel iron useless.

If you plug your iron into a higher voltage source, you run the risk of frying it.

Similarly, power is an important consideration when choosing a travel iron. Simply speaking, more powerful irons are made for heavier clothes or fabrics that are hard to iron. So, choose wisely, and if you plan on straightening heavier clothes like hoodies or jeans, find a 1,000-watt iron that can handle the job .

On the other hand, lighter clothes like t-shirts and shorts will not require a powerful iron.

Portability

Travel iron portability

Weigh the portability of your travel iron against its power output. You don’t want to have to make room for a huge iron in your suitcase at the expense of something else.

Most travel irons are specially designed to ensure maximum portability, but it’s still something to consider.

The 8 Best Travel Irons

Now that we’ve discussed exactly what to look for in a travel iron let’s take a look at some of the best ones available. We’ve compiled a list of the best options that are versatile and will satisfy all of your expectations for a travel iron.

Steamfast Super Convenient Iron

Steamfast offers a compact travel iron that comes with a lot of features. With 420 watts of power, this iron is built to handle just about any kind of fabric.

In addition, the dual-voltage feature will come in handy if you travel overseas to a location with a different voltage. This iron is made to work flawlessly between 100 and 240 volts , which will allow you to use it on any continent.

Lastly, the overall design is quite interesting and compact. This iron is only 5.2 inches in length and weighs 1 pound, which will save you a lot of space when packing. On top of that, the comfortable anti-slip handle will ensure a good grip for ease of use.

What We Like

  • Comes with a traveling bag

What We Don’t Like

  • Using steam mode might cause drips

BLACK DECKER Easy Steam Iron

This specially designed iron will allow you to easily straighten every wrinkle out of your clothes. It works well on heavier clothes as well, so consider this one if you’re traveling somewhere cold.

This iron’s anti-drip technology is engineered to prevent dripping by maintaining the correct water temperature to generate steam . This feature also regulates the amount of steam produced in line with the temperature setting. On top of that, this iron features a pivoting cord and 3-way automatic shut-off for ultimate user convenience.

Possibly the best thing about it is the TrueGlide nonstick soleplate, which is designed to glide smoothly over any fabric. There’s also a push-button spray-mist feature that further moistens fabrics to eliminate deep wrinkles.

  • Lots of features and easy to use
  • Not as small as other travel irons

Hot Tip: Consider our guide to the best portable travel steamers , as well!

Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot 800 Watt Iron

If you’re looking for compatibility and ease of use, this travel iron is a good choice. The well-known Sunbeam brand once again nailed it with this feature-rich iron. For starters, this iron has a dual-voltage system that will allow you to use it just about anywhere in the world.

On top of that, the soft-touch handle with an ergonomically-designed shape will allow you to glide the iron smoothly over fabric, applying pressure as needed . A convenient swivel in the front will allow you to choose the most suitable heat setting.

All in all, if you’re looking for a compact, easy-to-use, and convenient travel iron, you can’t go wrong with this one.

  • Slick and compact design
  • Steam function can leak

Utopia HomeSteam Iron

Even though this iron is made for in-home use, it’s also a great travel companion. With 1,200 watts and a 360-degree swivel cord, the Utopia Home Steam Iron will ensure your clothes are pressed with minimal effort.

A lightweight and compact design makes this iron a great choice for travel as well. In addition, it features adjustable thermostat control, protection from overheating, and a nonstick soleplate that ensures a smooth glide over any fabric.

Also, this iron is quite easy to use both vertically and horizontally. The steam-ironing feature allows you to steam your clothes while they’re on a hanger or remove wrinkles from curtains and drapes if the need arises.

  • Multifunctionality and ease of use
  • It’s hard to fill the water tank without spilling

Oliso Ceramic Iron

This Oliso ceramic iron is specially designed to ensure maximum heat control and ease of use. On top of that, it is compact and lightweight, making it a great option for travel. This iron’s soleplate is made of high-quality ceramic with a precision tip that will allow you to easily press cuffs and collars.

Furthermore, it comes with a fabric-selector option that’s very useful for those who like to pack a variety of fabrics. Additionally, you can use it anywhere in the world as this iron features a dual-voltage design.

  • Fabric-selector feature
  • Handle heats up when used extensively

Rowenta DA1560 Travel-Ready Iron

With a compact design and an ergonomic handle, this Rowenta travel iron is a standout in its field. It’s made with ease of use and portability in mind, but it remains powerful enough to remove every wrinkle on your clothes, no matter the fabric.

You can use this iron both vertically and horizontally for a long period of time, thanks to the 2-ounce transparent water tank and dual-voltage switch . All in all, if you’re looking for a compact and easy-to-use iron that removes all wrinkles, this is a top pick.

  • Easy to maneuver and has a stainless-steel soleplate
  • The cord is not that long

Conair EZ Press Iron

This Conair handheld iron was designed with comfort and portability in mind. It features 800 watts of power, which is enough to iron almost anything. On top of that, its compact size and lightweight construction will allow you to easily carry it in your suitcase or backpack.

The stainless-steel soleplate ensures a smooth glide over fabric, especially cotton and synthetic clothes. There is also an anti-slip heel on the bottom of the iron for maximum protection from unwanted contact .

  • Steam burst feature that eliminates hard wrinkles
  • Takes a bit more time to heat up

Sharper Image Convenient Iron

The first thing you’ll notice about the Sharper Image travel iron is its sleek and minimalist design. With a simple color scheme and an in-handle water tank, this iron is designed with functionality and comfort in mind. In addition, it features a quick heat-up time and 3 temperature settings , allowing you to easily remove all wrinkles from any type of clothing.

Additionally, thanks to the dual-voltage feature, this travel iron is equipped for use all over the world. Its 350 watts of power and nonstick rust-resistant soleplate will no doubt serve you well on your journey.

  • Quick heating
  • Lacks the power of some other irons

Now that you are well-acquainted with the benefits of travel irons, you won’t want to travel without one. Their useful features and compact design will come in handy on every trip.

All in all, we strongly recommend traveling with an iron. Tidy up your appearance and project confidence with a freshly pressed wardrobe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a travel iron.

If you tend to travel a lot, especially in a professional capacity, it’s hard to get around the necessity for a travel iron. Travel irons are made to travel with you and keep you looking polished.

Are hotels equipped with irons?

Not all hotels have travel irons. Of course, you can always check with reception before you arrive at a hotel. But, with a travel iron in your suitcase, you will be prepared either way.

How much does a travel iron weigh?

There are different models on the market with different weights. However, a standard travel iron weighs around 1 or 2 pounds.

Is ironing easy with a travel iron?

Most travel irons prioritize ease of use, with everything from non-stick soleplates to comfortable handles.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The 6 Best Steam Irons of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 30 steam irons—here are our top contenders

professional travel iron

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants.

professional travel iron

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Whether you're ironing a blouse for a day of work, quickly  de-wrinkling everyday clothes , or prepping fabrics for your next crafty DIY project, you'll want to reach for a dependable steam iron. The good news is that there are plenty of great brands out there that heat quickly and glide smoothly. But it can be quite a challenge to iron out which ones are the best on the market.

As part of our extensive research, we reached out to Jerry Pozniak , CEO of Jeeves New York, a professional dry cleaning service. "All irons do the same thing. They have a smooth metal iron surface, get hot, and most have the ability to produce steam." But, he adds, "The most important factors are reliability and weight. I prefer an iron that is heavier as it will aid in producing crisp creases and flat seams."

Taking Pozniak's advice, we asked ironing newbies and experienced professionals alike to test 30 steam irons in The Lab and narrowed down our list to the top six. To make sure we found the best of the best, we got to work ironing satin, linen, and cotton fabrics and rated each iron based on effectiveness, thoughtful design, portability, heat up time, and overall value . We also tested heating times and evaluated how each one removed wrinkles. We even extended our testing to six months, so that you would know exactly what you're getting over time.

Editor's Note: This review was revised on February 2024 with updated long-term testing results.

  • How We Tested
  • What to Look For

Standout Features

  • Why Trust The Spruce

Best Overall

Beautural 1800-watt steam iron.

  • Effectiveness 3.8 /5
  • Design 5 /5
  • Portability 5 /5
  • Heat Time 5 /5

Heats up in 10 seconds

Splash guard

Has an auto shut-off feature

Steam setting didn't perform as well on cotton

Limited availability through select online vendors

Hands down, our best overall pick is the Beautural 1800-Watt Steam Iron with Digital LCD Screen. We think it's ideal for beginners and professional ironers alike.

We gave this steam iron a perfect rating for its heat-up time because it was ready to use in just 10 seconds—the fastest of the 30 we tested. We especially appreciated that the display screen noted whether the specific fabric should be wet or dry. (You seriously don't have to do any internet research when using this device because all of the details are right at your fingertips.)

Plus, the display does an excellent job of telling you which setting to choose, so you won't waste any time. The iron also earned a perfect score for both design and portability. We think its ceramic soleplate is large enough to iron everyday fabrics with ease, and the grip handle is perfectly designed for hours of ironing. (This is ideal if you're a quilter working on a lengthy project or tackling a week's worth of dress shirts.)

During testing, when ironing satin materials , the Beautural iron only took one to two passes to remove all wrinkles and was able to remove a crease in one pass. On linen (both dry and steam settings), it removed all wrinkles and a crease in one pass. With cotton, this steam iron worked to remove all creases in one pass on the dry setting. We docked a few points on effectiveness because the steam setting took several passes to remove wrinkles and used a good amount of water to remove them all. We also noted that this cord is a little bit shorter than the majority of our picks; it's 6 feet whereas many of our options are 8 feet long.

Notably, this user-friendly iron is decked out with several safety features, including an automatic shut-off feature that'll kick in if it's idle for 30 seconds when lying flat. The water fill area has a splash guard to help prevent leaks or accidental spills onto your clothing, too. Even after six months, we found that the iron continued to perform as expected, and we were still amazed at its efficiency.

Dimensions: 5.75 x 4.88 x 11.3 inches | Weight: 3.18 pounds | Color: Gray and white | Cord Length: 6 feet | Wattage: 1,800 watts | Water Tank Capacity: 11.5 ounces

When ironing, a soleplate is the part of the iron that comes into contact with your clothes and other fabrics. The type of soleplate material, such as stainless steel, ceramic, or aluminum, affects how well the iron glides over fabrics and how effectively it removes creases. A good soleplate should be non-stick and should not cause fabrics to snag when pressed.

BLACK + DECKER Advanced Steam Iron

  • Effectiveness 4.2 /5
  • Design 4 /5
  • Portability 4 /5
  • Heat Time 4 /5

Space-saving

Large water reservoir

Vertical steaming feature

No ready light

Cotton and linen fabrics are on the same setting

If you're looking to save space in your laundry room, opt for an iron with a retractable cord. The Black+Decker ICR2020 Steam Iron is our favorite because it's incredibly effective at removing wrinkles and is easy to store when you're done with your chore. It also has the best of both worlds: Like a clothes steamer , this iron has a vertical steaming feature, which is optimal for quick touch ups on hanging garments.

But the real reason we love it: It was able to smooth out all fabrics in just one to two passes in our tests, and we were impressed with how immediately it removed wrinkles from linen fabric. For cotton and linen, the iron heated in two minutes. For satin, it was ready in 30 seconds!

While we weren't too happy there was no "ready" or "not ready" light, we appreciated the detailed setting information, even though cotton and linen fabrics ended up being on the same setting. We also noted that the water reservoir is large, which is great when you have mounds of ironing to get through—you won’t run out of steam. After testing for six months, we loved how this iron packs a punch despite its diminutive size and continues to perform well. We think it's lightweight, yet still has all of the features and capabilities of a larger, heavier iron.

Dimensions: 4.84 x 11.73 x 5.79 inches | Weight: 2 pounds | Color: Green | Cord Length: Not listed | Wattage: 1,200 watts | Water Tank Capacity: Not listed

Best Splurge

Rowenta perfect pro station iron.

  • Effectiveness 4.6 /5
  • Portability 4.8 /5

Docking station

Large water tank

Professional-grade performance

Heavy, bulky design

Our splurge-worthy pick is the Rowenta DG8624U1 Perfect Pro Station Iron because it delivers professional-grade results and comes with its own docking station. If you're someone who irons often or values the feel and design of a top-notch product, this is an excellent choice. The removable large water tank and smartly designed pointed tip made this pick a definite stand out in our testing. Plus, it has the longest cord of all of our picks at 12 feet.

During testing, this iron breezed through satin, linen, and cotton fabrics, and the steam was particularly spectacular at removing creases and wrinkles. This iron is heavier and bulkier than others we tested, which can be an asset if you need to apply pressure to a garment or seam, but it might seem more like a workout for everyday use. Katie Berry, The Spruce's Cleaning Review Board member and cleaning expert, stresses that "it's 12 pounds without water." Also, while the design is eye-catching, this iron does take up a good amount of space, so you'll want to make sure you have somewhere to store it.

We affectionately refer to this steam iron as a "workhorse" after using it regularly for six months to support our sewing and quilting. We especially love that it gets nice and hot, and you can iron for a whole session without running out of steam. Just know this model had to have a permanent residence in our laundry room since with the docking station it's about twice as large as any other machine on our list.

Dimensions: 18.11 x 11.81 x 14.7 inches | Weight: 14 pounds | Color: Blue | Cord Length: 12 feet | Wattage: 1,800 watts | Water Tank Capacity: 37 ounces

Sunbeam Classic 1200-Watt Iron

  • Effectiveness 3.4 /5
  • Portability 4.5 /5
  • Value 2.5 /5

Easy to distinguish between settings

Heats up quickly

Easy to grip

Did not work well on linen

Awkward spray nozzle placement

If you're looking for a no-fuss steam iron, we suggest opting for the Sunbeam Classic 1200-Watt Mid-Size Anti-Drip Non-Stick Soleplate Iron. As the name suggests, it packs a ton of good features for an affordable iron, and it was so quick to heat up and easy to use.

In our testing, this Sunbeam iron heated to 450 degrees in less than a minute. We loved that it was light and easy to maneuver, and we only docked half a point for portability because the 8-foot cord is not retractable. When it came to ironing multiple fabric types, this iron performed well on both satin and cotton, getting all of the ripples out in just a few passes. It took a little more effort to  remove wrinkles from the linen , and overall didn’t do too well there, hence our rating.

We also like that the iron is straightforward to use, and it's easy to distinguish between the settings. When testing, we also noted that the iron is easy to grip, but the spray feature is a little awkward to use because of its placement—it’s perched up high, so the water sprays out inconsistently. Even with this minor inconvenience, this option is for you if you're looking for a reliable basic iron to add to your routine. Even after six months of use, we love the iron for its long, 360-degree swivel cord, which allows for plenty of movement while ironing.

Dimensions: 6.3 x 11.6 x 5.6 inches | Weight: 2.7 pounds | Color: White | Cord Length: 8 feet | Wattage: 1,200 watts | Water Tank Capacity: Not listed

Best for Travel

Sunbeam hot-2-trot travel iron.

  • Effectiveness 3.3 /5
  • Heat Time 4.5 /5

Lightweight

Large water opening to prevent spills

Irons armholes easily

Plastic smell

Difficult to sit upright

If you're looking for a travel steam iron to take on your business trips and vacations, try the Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Iron that we deemed small but mighty. It effectively de-wrinkled all three fabrics we tested, and we specifically noted that it's the perfect size to iron armholes and more delicate, hard-to-reach places, like collars and cuffs.

This tiny steam iron heated in under a minute, although our temperature gauge said it wasn't quite as hot as the manufacturer claimed. While it's lightweight, it's likely only good for someone with smaller hands as the features are quite tiny. The heat dial is miniature and the puff steam button is hard to click on. If you have long nails or larger hands, you might have difficulty using this iron. It was also troublesome to sit the iron upright because of where the cord meets the iron.

However, we love the large water opening and how you can quickly fill up the reservoir without spills—it will fit easily under awkward bathroom sinks in hotels. It also holds enough water for small craft projects, if you want an iron dedicated specifically for that use. Ultimately, this would be a great iron for traveling or crafting. We think you should opt for a more heavy-duty steam iron if you tend to iron frequently, or if you iron tough seams or larger quilts.

Dimensions: 3.46 x 3.13 x 6.57 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Color: Blue and white | Cord Length: 8 feet | Wattage: 800 watts | Water Tank Capacity: 3 ounces

Best Portable

Conair ez press steam iron.

  • Effectiveness 4.3 /5

Our testers liked that the Conair EZ Press 800-Watt Handheld Steam Iron was lightweight and had an indicator light showing when it was ready to get to work. For the most part, this iron effectively got all of the wrinkled creases out fairly adequately in our testing.

There were a few drawbacks, though. The stopper covering the water area felt cheap and dripped during the ironing process. And the soleplate was also pretty small, so this wouldn't be a great choice for someone ironing larger items. Still, we love how portable this model is and think it'll work great for college students or travelers. Even after six months of testing, this iron still held up, and we continue to be impressed with its effectiveness.

Dimensions: 6.8 x 4.29 x 5.12 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Color: Blue and white | Cord Length: 8 feet | Wattage: 800 watts | Water Tank Capacity: Not listed

Real Simple / Dera Burreson

Our best overall pick is the Beautral 1800-Watt Steam Iron with Digital LCD Screen , because it's easy to use, effective at quickly removing wrinkles, and features a helpful display screen. Or consider the Black+Decker ICR2020 Steam Iron Vitessa Advanced Steam Iron with Retractable Cord as a best value option. This steam iron is incredibly effective at removing wrinkles and easily stores in small spaces.

How We Tested the Steam Irons

We spent one day thoroughly testing 30 irons to find the best ones. In The Lab , we tested and evaluated effectiveness , portability , heat time , the design , and overall value .  

  • Effectiveness: We set wrinkles on three types of fabric ahead of the test. First, we wet the satin, cotton, and linen cloth napkins, and then balled up each napkin and secured it with a rubber band. We then let the napkins sit for a couple of days until dry. We ironed to see how effectively they removed wrinkles. The irons were tested on each fabric on both their non-steam and steam setting (if equipped), except for the satin—that fabric type should never be steamed. On the day of the test, we timed how long it took each iron to remove the wrinkles from each type of material. We also purposely added ironed creases to each fabric and then tried to remove them.
  • Portability: While ironing, we made detailed observations on the device’s portability, noting how heavy the irons were when their water reservoir was full and how comfortable the iron was to maneuver across the ironing board. We also looked at the model’s cord length to evaluate how much flexibility users would have in the distance of their iron from the outlet where it’s plugged in.
  • Heat Time: We measured the heating time of each iron, using a stopwatch to see how long it took to heat to the appropriate temperatures for ironing satin and delicates, linen, and cotton, noting if the time seemed quick, average, or unreasonably long. We also used a thermometer to make sure the soleplate’s temperature remained consistent and reached the advertised and desired temperature.
  • Design: Throughout testing, we also paid attention to the design of each iron. We observed the device’s overall temperature, noting if the handle or body of the iron seemed uncomfortably hot. We looked at whether or not the water reservoir leaked water droplets, the ease of filling the reservoir, built-in safety features, the comfortability of the handle, how easy the controls were to operate, and the overall aesthetic of each device.
  • Overall Value: After testing all 30 irons, we used our experience and the price tag to rate come up with an overall value of each iron.

All of the testing data was analyzed by our editors to make this list of the best steam irons. We also sent 10 irons home with long-term testers who used them over the course of six months to determine their longevity and real-world effectiveness. These testers evaluated the irons based on the attributes listed above, and shared whether the iron became a part of their everyday routine and a go-to product compared to previous models they had owned.

What to Look for in a Steam Iron

As we tested irons in the lab, we discovered a few key features that kept making our lists, such as temperature settings , steam output , portability , and safety features .

Temperature Settings

Temperature control is important when picking out a steam iron. Different  fabrics need to be ironed at different temperatures  so they aren't scorched or damaged. "Certain fabrics are sensitive to higher heat, says Stefan Bucur, a cleaning and organizing expert. "Ideally, a good quality iron should have a precise temperature gauge where you can easily switch to a lower heat when required."

It's also important that the iron heats up to its promised temperature in a reasonable amount of time. Some irons can heat up in a quick 30 seconds, while others can take minutes to reach the desired temperature. The Beautural 1800-Watt Steam Iron with Digital LCD Screen , our best overall pick, for instance, heats up in seconds.

Steam Output

"Steam penetrates the fibers to get rid of wrinkles, then the hot, dry iron will remove the moisture and give you a flat, crisp finish," explains Pozniak. It's handy to know that steam output is measured in grams per minute, and typically, the higher the grams per minute, the more effective the iron. Some models offer more than 200 grams of steam per minute, while others produce a less generous 35 grams per minute.

In addition to a powerful steam output, some irons (such as our best value pick, the Black+Decker ICR2020 Vitessa Advanced Steam Iron ) have a vertical steam feature that allows them to steam and de-wrinkle hanging clothes, much like a traditional steamer . You want to make sure an iron with a vertical steam feature also has anti-drip safety features, so extremely hot water doesn't leak out and cause harm. Whether vertical or horizontal, it's important that the steam output is powerful, because that's what distinguishes a steam iron from a dry iron.

Portability

You should take into account the weight of the steam iron. A lightweight iron may be easier to use and put away than a heavier iron. So, if you're only using your steam iron to complete crafty projects every now and then, or if you have trouble lifting objects and would benefit from using a lighter iron, take that into consideration. Bonus points if the handle has a comfortable grip, too.

Plus, it's pretty nice to have an iron with a retractable cord so you can iron traditionally and then retract the cord for easy storage. We love the Black+Decker ICR2020 , our best value pick, for this very reason!

Safety Features

You should always look for the safety features on an iron. Common safety features include an automatic shut-off feature or anything that prevents water from dripping. Each model's automatic shut-off feature is a bit different. Some models, including our best overall pick, the Beautural 1800-Watt Steam Iron , will automatically shut off if not used after a certain period of time. Some will also begin cooling down if left in an upright position for too long. Remember, you should always unplug your iron when it's not in use, but a safety shut-off feature is still a huge sigh of relief in our book.

You should also look for an anti-drip feature. This keeps the iron from dripping water out of the soleplate. Dripping water obviously isn't safe around electrical cords, and it also can create frustrating water stains on garments . Look to our best basic pick, the Sunbeam Classic 1200-Watt Mid-Size Anti-Drip Non-Stick Soleplate Iron , for an anti-drip feature.

Retractable Cord

A retractable cord is a useful feature when ironing. You get the power that comes from a corded steam iron, but you're able to store the iron away until your next laundry day with no bulky cord. For a model with a retractable cord, consider our best value pick, the Black+Decker ICR2020 Steam Iron .

Digital Screen

Many new steam iron models—such as our best overall option, the Beautural 1800-Watt Steam Iron —feature a digital screen that displays heat settings, temperature, and other useful information. If you're investing in an iron with a digital screen, make sure it enhances your ironing experience by showing essential details, such as exact temperature and which fabric setting you are on.

Self-Clean Option

One essential rule to ironing: Clean your iron on a regular basis to prevent mineral deposits from building up and blocking steam vents. Some irons, such as the Beautural ( best overall ), come with a self-clean option that takes care of this chore for you. Each model is different, but in order to use the self-cleaning function, place your iron over a sink and hold down the self-cleaning button until all of the water has drained from the soleplate. Once the water reservoir has emptied, release the self-cleaning button.

Yes! You can use your steam iron without steam. This is known as a dry iron. Dry irons work well on satin, silk, and wool. Using your steam iron as a dry iron is a cinch. Just empty the water reservoir, or dial it to its "dry iron" setting and iron as usual.

The life of a steam iron varies based on the quality of the iron, as well as how often you use it. For the most part, a top-notch steam iron can last 10 years, while lower quality ones might decrease in effectiveness after a couple of years. That's why we recommend our best overall option, the Beautural 1800-Watt Steam Iron . It has everything you need in a quality iron: it removes wrinkles without much effort, it heats in seconds, and it has an automatic shut-off feature for safety.

For optimal performance, empty the water from your iron's reservoir when you're done ironing. This will help prevent mineral buildup inside the iron. It will also prevent any accidental spills or leakage when storing your steam iron. Pozniak recommends using distilled water instead of tap . "Mineral buildup will kill an iron faster than anything else," he cautions.

Rather not worry about remembering to empty out your iron? "If you don’t want to add water to your iron, you can use a spray mister and lightly mist your garment to dampen it slightly before using a dry iron," Pozniak says. "This is helpful when ironing cotton or linen, and you want a nice finish."

The Checkout Counter

Before you check out, consider these products you may also need.

  • Sally's Organics Spray Bottle : This stylish water mister, which we named as our best overall spray bottle , would be a great ironing companion, especially if you're worried about leaving water sitting in your iron's water tank.
  • Brabantia Ironing Board C : If you're looking for a quality ironing board, we recommend this reliable choice , which comes with a removable cover and an extra-large iron rest.
  • AmazonBasics Slim Velvet Hangers : Once you finish ironing, you'll want to keep your clothes wrinkle-free with these non-slip hangers, which we named as our best overall clothes hangers .

Why Trust The Spruce?

This story was written by Erin Johnson , who has previously tested and reviewed multiple vacuums, mops, and other household appliances for Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, and Southern Living. For this article, Johnson took insights and feedback from in-lab testers to curate the list of our top picks.

Our Experts:

  • Jerry Pozniak , CEO of Jeeves New York, a professional dry cleaning service
  • Katie Berry , The Spruce's Cleaning Review Board member and cleaning expert
  • Stefan Bucur , a cleaning, organizing, and design expert
  • Emma Phelps , associate editor at The Spruce
  • Michelle Lau , editor at The Spruce

More from The Spruce

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  • Steamer vs. Iron: What's the Difference?
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  • Is Your Shark Steam Mop Not Steaming? 5 Fixes You Should Try
  • 9 Smart Ways to Get Wrinkles Out of Clothes Without an Iron
  • How to Iron Linen Shirts and Pants

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

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The 7 Very Best Clothing Irons

“most people who create irons understand that they really need to have a couple functions.”.

Portrait of Erin Schwartz

In this article

  • Best overall
  • Best less expensive
  • Best upgrade
  • Best with ceramic plates
  • Best cordless
  • Best with water tank
  • Best splurge

A good iron can make the difference between a procrastination-inducing, monotonous task and entering a flow state while you sweep a well-calibrated machine over your clothing or sheets. As a textile nerd and amateur sewer, I’ve used a lot of irons in my day, from a gravity-fed model built like a tank to a dinky hand-me-down that permanently scorched a silk dress. These days, I use a standing garment steamer instead of an iron for an everyday, leaving-the-house-in-five-minutes de-wrinkling job. But there’s a time and place for irons: Unlike steamers, they apply heat directly to a textile, which lifts deep-set wrinkles more quickly, makes sharper creases, and creates a uniformly crisp surface.

“Fortunately at this point in our civilization, most people who create irons understand that they really need to have a couple functions,” says Zach Pozniak , a third-generation dry cleaner and the vice-president of operations at Jeeves New York . One of those is the ability to produce steam, which relaxes textile fibers, more quickly smoothing wrinkles with less risk of damaging clothing. All of the irons on this list have a steam function, and we’re noting which our experts have described as having especially fine, reliable, or powerful steam.

Another necessary function is a well-calibrated thermostat that consistently delivers the heat you specify. High heat is more of a problem than low heat — a cooler iron won’t be as effective, but a too-hot iron can scorch clothing on a setting that should be safe for the material. (If you’re not sure about the right setting or you don’t trust your iron, it’s best to start low and work your way up.) To find the best iron for everyone, I caucused Pozniak and nine other garment experts, from stylists to historical costumers, about their favorites and what to avoid. Then I tested the top picks at home.

What we’re looking for

The power of an iron — measured in watts — determines how hot it can get and how much oomph is behind each puff of steam. Most options on this list are around 1,600 to 1,800 watts, with the exception of a 420-watt travel iron.

Mineralization management

Another necessary function for an iron, according to Pozniak, is a self-cleaning function, which removes the buildup of minerals that naturally occur in tap water. Mineralization can clog steam holes and “eject this gross white grainy sand, and if you iron it into your clothes, it’s stained,” says Pozniak. One way to avoid mineralization is to use distilled water, the practice of “true ironing fanatics,” per Pozniak. After a year of testing nearly a dozen irons and garment steamers , I switched over to distilled water — it is, in my experience, the most reliable way to eliminate grainy buildup and spitting, but it’s more of a hassle to refill than using the tap. So I’m favoring irons that have self-cleaning capabilities, assuming not everyone wants to buy and store a jug of special laundry water.

If you’re the most fanatical of ironing fanatics, laundry expert and host of the Laundry Guy Patric Richardson recommends using not distilled water but spring water. There’s some variation in the temperature at which water boils, depending on what minerals it contains — think of salted pasta water boiling hotter than unsalted water, for example. Richardson uses spring water because it contains some minerals, but less than tap water; that allows it to heat up slightly beyond the boiling point of distilled water for extra-hot steam.

Best iron overall

Rowenta Focus Iron

Power: 1,725 watts | Mineralization management: Designed to work with tap water

Among the experts I spoke to, German brand Rowenta came up most frequently. Its irons are beloved for durability; well-calibrated controls, including its temperature settings and steam trigger; and safety features. Illustrator Maira Kalman uses their Pro Master iron to press sheets, and Freer favors their irons for “very fine, very concentrated” steam.

professional travel iron

Although there are more expensive Rowenta irons (some of which are on this list), the Focus, its second-cheapest model, is powerful and reliable enough to make it our best-in-class pick. I’ve been using it for about six months for everything from ironing collared shirts to pressing four layers of denim into a tight, sewable stack while hemming a pair of jeans. The Focus could unwrinkle creases in one sweep that would take two or three passes with the ancient hand-me-down I’d used before. (Its pointed tip is also very useful on detail work, like collars and the space between buttons.) Graphic designer and home sewer Tracy Ma, a Focus owner, likes that it “exhales big ol’ puffs of steam exactly upon trigger and never before or after,” something I also noted and appreciated as an indicator of good engineering.

It also comes equipped with safety features to prevent scorching fabric or work surfaces: The iron turns off after 30 seconds if left facing down or tipped over, and after eight minutes if left standing up. I haven’t put it through a heavy-duty durability test yet, but take it from Strategist senior editor Crystal Martin, who has used her Focus for over ten years: “I tend to iron and dash out and leave the iron on the board,” she says, and although she’s knocked it onto the floor “more times than I can count,” her Focus is still going strong.

Best less-expensive iron

BLACK+DECKER Vitessa Advanced Steam Iron

Power: 1,200 watts | Mineralization management: Auto-clean function

If you’re looking for a less-expensive iron with a little less power than the Rowenta Focus, Black and Decker’s Vitessa line is a good bet. I tested out the Vitessa on a cotton jacket that had gotten very wrinkled in the wash and a day of sewing and alteration projects — lifting wrinkles wasn’t as smooth or quick with the Vitessa as it was with the Rowenta Focus, but it performed consistently and expelled steam without any spitting or leaking. Pozniak calls it a “really solid” option that he’s used since college; it’s also a favorite of Marilee Nelson, a nontoxic consultant and co-founder of Branch Basics .

Best upgrade iron

Rowenta SteamForce Iron

Power: 1,800 watts | Mineralization management: Self-cleaning system

For a professional-quality iron with a more powerful steam setting than the Focus, I recommend Rowenta’s SteamForce model. Christine Millar, an anesthesiologist, historical costumer , and parent of a young child, uses the the iron, which she chose especially for its safety features. Although she says that many of her peers in the costuming community use a gravity-feed iron , “I can’t do that because this child will bump into this iron and hurt himself horribly.” She uses the Rowenta SteamForce iron instead, which “has every safety feature on the planet” — like the Focus, it turns off after 30 seconds if left facing down, and after eight minutes if left standing up.

(Editor’s note: The model Millar originally recommended, the SteamForce DW9280, is currently out of stock, but this model, the SteamForce DW9540U1, has most of the same specs, plus a slightly higher wattage.)

Best titanium-ceramic iron

CHI Steam Iron for Clothes with Titanium Infused Ceramic Soleplate

Power: 1,700 watts | Mineralization management: Self-cleaning

All of the irons on this list have a steel soleplate — with the exception of this model by CHI, the maker of a cult-favorite hair straightener . Its steam iron’s soleplate is made of the same titanium-infused ceramic used in its hairstyling tools, which “makes it super-smooth and it glides really well,” says Pozniak.

Best cordless iron

Panasonic Cordless, Portable 1500W Contoured Multi-Directional Steam/Dry Iron

Power: 1,500 watts | Mineralization management: Anti-calcium system

Most irons are powered by a cord that plugs into the wall, but in some cases, a cordless iron might be preferable. They’re useful for sewing or quilting projects, when you might want some extra mobility to spread out pattern pieces, prep larger pieces of fabric, or move between different workstations. This cordless Panasonic model is a favorite among sewers, including pattern designer Angela Wolf and  Tracy DeChurch , who runs  the Sewing Channel  on YouTube. “Let’s face it, a cord gets in the way no matter what the project is,” DeChurch says. Even if you’re not a sewer or quilter, a cordless iron can still be useful for ironing sheets or other large jobs: “There’s nothing worse than being tethered to an outlet” when ironing something large, Pozniak says.

Best iron with water tank

Rowenta Power Steam Station Iron

Power: 1,500 watts | Mineralization management: Anti-calcium flush system

One way to get the benefits of distilled water without the hassle of constant refills is to buy an iron with a large water tank. For long sessions of heavy-duty ironing and steaming, Gwen Whiting, the co-founder of the Laundress, recommends Rowenta’s power-steam iron, which holds 57 ounces of water, enough for nearly half an hour of continuous steam. “I turned my husband into an iron aficionado,” Whiting says. “He will only use this model because the powerful steam creates the best results.”

Best splurge iron

Laurastar Lift Steam Iron

Power: 1,600 watts | Mineralization management: Includes anti-mineralization cartridge

The Laurastar system is a high-end combination iron and garment steamer that can be used as a replacement for dry cleaning. Richardson has had this iron for several years and swears by it . “The thing I love about the Laurastar is the steam is so hot,” says Richardson. “Their steam dries on contact. I can iron a shirt in 60 seconds with their iron because you only go over the area once and it’s completely dry, so you can just keep moving.”

Some more garment care tools we’ve written about

Whitmor Tabletop Ironing Board, Cream,

Our experts

• Tracy DeChurch, the Sewing Channel  YouTuber • Alison Freer , costume designer and author of How to Get Dressed • Maira Kalman , illustrator • Tracy Ma , graphic designer • Crystal Martin , Strategist senior editor • Christine Millar , historical costumer • Marilee Nelson, co-founder of Branch Basics • Zach Pozniak, vice-president of operations at Jeeves New York • Patric Richardson, host of the Laundry Guy • Gwen Whiting, co-founder of the Laundress

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best women’s jeans , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , ultra-flattering pants , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

Every editorial product is independently selected. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.

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IRONS PRO

9 Best Travel Irons In 2022 – [ Top Mini & Portable Steamers ]

Ironing can be an annoying task for most people but having the best iron can make it easy for you to iron your clothes. You would have different types and categories of clothes and all these differences need different kinds and different timings of ironing to be done on the clothes. Some irons are also small and portable which are regarded as the best travel irons. There are some upgraded large-sized irons too which are specially designed for the use of professional dressmakers. While you are thinking of buying a perfect iron for you, there are so many things to consider but before that, you need to know which type of iron best suits your needs and requirements as there are different types.

Quick Answer: Top-Rated Best Travel Irons In 2022

Best overall: oliso m2 pro travel iron, best mini: steamfast sf-717 steam travel iron, best budget: sunbeam hot2trot compact travel iron, pursteam travel steamer iron mini, oliso tg1100 smart travel iron, colilove folding mini electric travel iron.

Ratings: 4.2/5 | Store: Amazon

Oliso M2 Pro Travel Iron

Amazon’s Choice ✅

The Oliso M2 pro-mini-project iron supports 100 watts of power and has a universal voltage system. The iron has a lightweight design and an amazing heat setup that it only takes about 45seconds to charge fully. The size of this iron is so compact that you can keep it with your sewing machine or take it with you on long journeys. The iron has two voltage modes that you can switch based on your nature of use including 120v or 240v which most probably is the ideal for ironing. The pivot cord is 8 feet long which you can move both right and left and have an amazing use of the iron. 

Moreover, the iron has a solemate which allows you to keep the iron even in the facedown posture as the iron never burns your clothes nor scorches the fabric. The amazing soleplate makes the iron easy to use and safe to store. This iron has no heating level difference from the large irons. 

Furthermore, this iron has a precision tip and the soleplate of the iron is diamond coated which maintains the even levels of heat all over the iron. Moreover, the iron easily glides over the fabric you are ironing and it even reaches all the hard to reach corners like collars. This travel iron is ideal for iron cotton, wool and all the types of synthetic fabrics. Moreover, the iron has a 3 years warranty. The water tank in this Oliso smart iron is also easy and convenient to fill whenever there is a need.

💡 Back To Top 3

Ratings: 4.5/5 | Store: Amazon

Steamfast SF-717 Steam Travel Iron

The steamfast SF-717 mini steam iron has dual voltage and comes with a travel bag too. The iron has a 2-year warranty with complete customer service by the manufacturers. The iron has a water tank of about 1.4 ounces which takes the minimum time of 15 seconds to get heated. The steam has touch controls and the iron has 3 levels of temperature which you can change based on the nature of fabrics you’re ironing. However, while filling the water in the water tank, leave some levels and fill maximum to 1.1 ounces. 

Moreover, the iron has a power voltage of 420 watts which works the best in removing the stubborn wrinkles from all the types of fabrics. The iron has an anti-slip handle which improves your grip while ironing the clothes. The 7.5-foot long cord increased the reachability of the iron.  

This iron has a compact design that lets you take it anywhere around the globe with you. You just have to choose among the 240 or 100 volts. Also, the iron comes with a separate travel case bag so that you can keep it safe during your travels. Moreover, there is a measuring cup too which you can use to refill the water in the water tank of the iron. 

Sunbeam Hot2Trot Compact Travel Iron

The sunbeam hot-2 trot 800-watt compact non-stick soleplate travel ironworks on a dual voltage system of 120 and 240V. You can select any voltage system. The iron also has a shot of steam feature which presses out the creases and all other stubborn wrinkles from the clothes. 

There is an indicator light too on the iron which lets you know the temperature of the iron. This iron has adjustable temperature control. There are various heat settings too which you can do based on the fabric type that you’re ironing. 

Furthermore, the handle of this iron is so soft and easy to handle that you can have a fine grip over the iron while using it. This iron is so comfortable and convenient to use. 

PurSteam Travel Steamer Iron Mini

The travel steamer iron mini 30 percent is one of the  top budget-friendly steam irons   made with high-quality premium components. The iron is of import quality and is efficient in removing stubborn wrinkles. This iron is one of the most powerful travel irons available in the market and has a power voltage of 800W. The iron supports a continuous superheat steam system which provides an excellent steam flow to all over the fabric neatly and smoothly. 

You can take this iron with you anywhere in the world because it is so compact. There is a plug adaptor too that you can switch into any outlet and get your iron start functioning. The iron has a dual voltage option for you to select the one that best suits your requirements. 

Moreover, the iron is small, lightweight and highly portable for you to carry it anywhere with you. The handle of this iron is specially designed as an anti-slip to provide a stronger grip on the iron. The iron is amazing for everyday use. The soleplate of this iron is non-stick so it doesn’t stick to the fabric and irons neatly. Also, this iron has an amazing customer service with a money-back guarantee to enhance durability. 

Ratings: 4.3/5 | Store: Amazon

Oliso TG1100 Smart Travel Iron

The Oliso TG1100 smart iron has an iTouch technology that lowers the manual controls and you’d only need to touch to stop the iron from functioning. This function lets the iron prevent tipping, scorching, and burns. The iron has an ultra-premium stainless steel soleplate with extra thick chromium finishing for effective scratch resistance. The iron on its base has evenly expanded steam holes which irons the whole fabric neatly. 

Moreover, the automatic shut off feature of the iron makes it easy and safe to use. The iron automatically turns off after 10 minutes of inactivity if it’s not active. If the iron is knocked over, it turns off after 30 seconds of use.  Also, the iron has 1800 watts of power voltage which heats the iron in just seconds. You can also preheat the iron and then use it on sensitive fabrics. 

Furthermore, the iron has three steam settings with three levels of steam. Three steam settings include continuous, horizontal and vertical and the levels include low, medium and high. You can easily iron all the hard to reach corners using these irons. The water tank with this iron is easy to fill. Yet you can’t find a more comfortable iron than this. 

Ratings: 4.1/5 | Store: Amazon

Colilove Folding Mini Electric Travel Iron

The colilove folding mini collar iron is the  finest iron of 2022 for double ironing.  The iron is highly portable and lightweight so you can carry it everywhere with you. The iron is so compact that it can fit even your palm. You can iron any cloth using this iron as it never harms the fabric. You can carry the iron in your handbag too and take it with you on work, and travel. 

This iron is so durable and comfortable to use and you can iron any unreachable corner using this because of the precision tip of the iron. The best thing about this iron is that it is perfect for quick touching and ironing with a more surface area. The iron has 6 temperature patterns that you can adjust based on your requirements. The temperature levels are settled based on the fabric types including linen, denim, cotton, and wool, silk and polyester. 

Moreover, this iron is really of premium quality and has a 100 percent customer satisfaction guarantee which makes it more durable and convenient to use. 

What are the different types of irons?

Below mentioned are the different types of irons:

1- Basic iron 

The basic clothes iron is a basic metallic sole plated iron which has a separate dial to control the levels of temperature. The basic type of clothes irons are less costly. Such types of irons don’t accurately fulfill all the ironing needs. Basic clothes irons are also called the dry irons and using them, you would need a separate water spray bottle so that you can have an amazing wrinkle free press. These iron clothes lack any additional features and they are also heavy. They don’t have any automatic off feature and neither any retractable cord. Irons Pro covers all types of irons for daily use.

2- Steam irons 

Steam irons are now one of the most commonly used types of iron which includes a built-in water tank that can be filled with water anytime when you feel the need for it. Using the steam iron is so easy and comfortable that you won’t need to have a separate water spray bottle with you. Steam irons smoothly press all your clothes and provide a complete wrinkle-free finishing to your clothes like linen and cotton. Steam irons have upgraded features and one of them is the burst of steam which neatens the clothes by removing all the stubborn wrinkles from them. They also include a retractable cord and an auto-off feature which never lets the iron function when not in use for more than 30 seconds. 

3- Vertical steam iron 

Vertical steam irons are the latest innovation in the cloth irons. This iron generates steam just like a regular steam iron but the best and innovative part of this iron is that you can use it horizontally as well as vertically. Though this iron doesn’t completely iron the clothes rather steam them which alone is enough for reducing the stubborn wrinkles from the clothes. Vertical steaming proves to be the best alternative to the traditional ironing and it saves your time too. 

4- Travel clothes iron 

Travel irons are portable, lighter and smaller irons than the standard ones. Most of the travel irons are foldable which makes them easy to pack. One thing for you to keep in mind regarding the travel irons is that they may or may not offer streaming options. Travel irons can also be cordless. Travel irons are highly beneficial and suitable for the ones who frequently travel. You should always have a travel iron with you while traveling. Though most of the hotels have irons available on their front desk, nothing can be more comfortable than having a clothes iron of your own as a travel iron will also fulfill your personal traveling needs.

How to select the best travel iron?

There are different types of irons available in the market but if you want one which you can use while being on travel, you can find nothing better than a travel iron. There are some of the most important things that you need to consider before buying the  best travel iron  for you:

1- Heat 

Heat is the one and the most important factor that you have to look for when buying a travel iron for you. Normally the irons have three heat modes including low, medium and high. However, you can adjust the heat modes according to the type of clothes you’re ironing. The ideal iron is that on which you can adjust the heat settings according to the type of fabric.  

Another thing regarding the heat levels of the iron that you have to make sure while buying an iron is the presence of automatic shut off feature in the iron which automatically turns the iron off if it is not in function for a time of more than 30 seconds. This feature is an added safety feature of the iron.

2- Steam 

Steam is the second most important thing after the heat that you must look for in an iron you want to buy. Steam efficiently removes all the extra wrinkles from the clothes and makes them look neat. You need to look for a travel iron that isn’t dry and has a steaming feature in it. Steam in iron may have different adjustable levels and there is a burst of steam feature too which handles all the tough wrinkles on clothes. 

Whatever the iron you may select to buy, make sure that it has a clear water tank to be filled easily. The tank should be clear so that you can see the water levels all the time and get it filled whenever it gets empty. It’s also important to make sure that your steam iron works as a dry iron too when there is no need for steam. 

In some of the types of irons, there is a self-cleaning option too which is ideal to use because having the burst of steam feature, your iron can clear all the clogs present in the soleplate. This self-cleaning feature prevents the water droplets from appearing on your light-colored shirts. 

Sometimes steam irons also have an option of vertical steaming the clothes. However, it all depends upon your nature of use. You can use the vertical steam iron for steaming and removing the wrinkles from drapes, velvet garments, and hanging clothes. 

3- Soleplate surface 

The type of soleplate surface in iron is also an important thing to consider the type of soleplate surface the iron has. There are two types of soleplates used in the irons. 

  • The non-stick soleplate irons have the easiest to clean soleplates which never stick on your clothes and provide you neat and clean ironing. 
  • The other type is the stainless steel soleplate iron which may be needed to get scrubbed at least once a week to remove sizing and scratches. 

You can buy any of the above-mentioned soleplate irons based on your budget and your nature of your use. However, for increased comfort and ease, you are recommended to buy an iron with non-stick soleplate. 

4- Cord 

The iron you would buy could be cord or cordless. Normally the cordless irons have built-in heating systems and they get heated by a base. Such irons get heated maximum for five minutes and they have to reheat to heat them again by connecting with the cord. Such types of irons are easy to use and they have less or almost no mess of tangled cords and wires. 

The cordless irons, however, can be expensive to buy while the corded ones are less expensive. However, if you are planning to buy a corded iron, you can consider buying an extra-long cord so that it could enhance convenience. You can also have a pivoting or reversible cord which reduces the effort and makes ironing easier. Another option is to buy a card holder where you can hang your ironing board for increased convenience. 

5- Weight 

The weight of the iron matters the most especially when you have to buy the iron to take with you on travels. The weight of the iron differs from type to type and the nature of usage. Heavy weights irons are suitable for large areas and professional usage while lightweight irons are the best travel irons. 

Verdict 

If you are the one to travel so often regardless of the nature of your traveling, you would need a clothes iron with you. You could be traveling for pleasure or even for a business, the value of a good handy traveling iron can’t be denied. Travel irons are small handy irons that you can take on travel with you by packing them in your hand carries. 

Travel irons possess several features that make them amazing to use. However, they can have a long cord or they can also be cordless depending on their type. They can be dry as well as steam-based. You might need to have a travel iron that best meets your ironing requirements and that never harms your garments. 

If you are not sure regarding how to buy the perfect travel iron for you, this guide can be so helpful for you in selecting the best one for you. All you need to do is have a sketch in your mind regarding what exactly you want your perfect travel iron to be and this will let you buy the best for you. 

Another thing worth mentioning before buying a travel iron is that you can have different price options based on different categories and brands so just have to buy what you find affordable and suitable according to your requirements.

Which is the best travel iron to buy?

  • The Oliso M2 Pro Mini Project Iron with Solemate is the best travel iron to buy. This mini-project iron supports 100 watts of power and has a universal voltage system. The iron has a lightweight design and an amazing heat setup that it only takes about 45seconds to charge fully.
  • The different types of irons include a basic iron for which you would need a separate water spray bottle to effectively iron the clothes. Other types include steam irons, vertical steam irons, and travel irons. 

What factors to consider while buying a travel iron?

  • While buying a travel iron, there are certain factors to consider. The factors include heat levels, steam levels, cord length or cordless, soleplate type and weight of the iron. 

What is the best double ironing iron?

  • The Colilove Folding Mini Collar Iron,Portable Electric Mini Iron Double Ironing with Anti Slip Handles and Non-Stick Soleplate Portable Hand Held Clothing Steam Power Iron for Home Travel Business is the best travel iron for double ironing. The iron is highly portable and lightweight so you can carry it everywhere with you.  

What is the price range for travel irons?

  • The normal price range for travel irons is between $20 to $95. 

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6 travel-size hot tools: Flat irons, hair dryers and curling irons

Illustration of a Woman showing off her hair after using one of her hair tools and the Hot Tools Professional Travel Dryer, Drybar Baby Brush Crush Mini Heated Straightening Brush, BaByliss PRO Mini Nano Flat Iron and the T3 Mini Miracles Gift Set

As the coronavirus vaccine rolls out across the country and more and more people are fully-vaccinated , there is a greater desire to travel in 2021 — and while non-essential, one travel-friendly accessory to consider grabbing is the compact flat iron or hair dryer. Equipping travel-ready staples may be especially significant this year as 89 percent of Americans polled in a December 2020 Hotels.com survey said they plan on taking more “spontaneous” trips in 2021. If you’re looking to travel as the weather warms up, then you’re likely stocking up on hand sanitizer , face masks , portable chargers , portable speakers and Lysol disinfecting wipes , too.

Some travel-friendly mini hot tools pack a similar punch to their full-sized cousins and often cost less, too. For example, a three-piece CHI Air gift set that includes a mini flat iron, curling iron and blow dryer will only set you back $90 compared to the full-sized hair straightener , which alone costs $130. Mini hot tools are readily available at beauty specialty stores like Sephora , Ulta and Dermstore . You can also order them from Shopping reader-favorite retailers like Walmart , Amazon and Target .

We found six lightweight and portable hot tools that won’t take up too much space in your suitcase, along with some options favored by celebrity hair stylists.

professional travel iron

Shopping How Dyson's blow dryer transforms curly hair

Babyliss pro mini nano flat iron.

Hairstylist Kristen Shaw previously called the $30 BaByliss flat iron "compact, thin and perfect" for touching up your edges and part. The six-inch-long hair straightener is equipped with .5-inch-wide titanium plates that heat up to 430 degrees Fahrenheit. It also earned a 4.4-star average from more than 4,370-reviews on Amazon.

BaByliss PRO Mini Nano Flat Iron. Best travel-size hot tools.

Harry Josh Pro Travel Curling Iron

The biggest difference between Harry Josh's travel curling iron and the full-size model is an optional marcel clip. When you remove a curling iron's clip, it transforms into a curling wand, creating loose curls and waves rather than ringlets. Hairstylist Caile Noble previously told us he relies on the full-size ceramic curling iron because the barrel minimizes frizz, distributes heat evenly and adds shine. "You can achieve consistent curls or waves with overall less damage to each section," he said. Harry Josh's travel curling iron earned a 4.93-star average rating from more than 30 reviews on Dermstore.

Harry Josh Pro Travel Curling Iron

Drybar Baby Brush Crush Mini Heated Straightening Brush

The Drybar Baby Brush is a hybrid between a flat iron and a paddle brush. After drying your hair, run the ionic straightening brush through it to help smooth your strands and minimize flyaways. Given the device's small size, it is conducive when you need to focus on styling your roots and bangs. Drybar's mini straightening brush heats up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and boasts a 4.2-star average rating from more than 450 reviews on Amazon.

Drybar Baby Brush Crush Mini Heated Straightening Brush

Shopping What to know before buying azelaic acid products

Melophy cordless hair curler.

If you're unsure how to curl your hair, then Melophy's cordless iron is worth considering. After selecting from six temperatures and 11 timer settings, place your hair into the iron's chamber and press the start button to curl your hair automatically. After a three-hour charge, Melophy's rechargeable curling iron offers a one-hour cordless battery life. This ceramic curling iron automatically turns off after 10 minutes of non-use and earned a 4-star average rating from more than 3,400 reviews on Amazon.

Melophy Cordless Hair Curler

Hot Tools Professional Travel Dryer

Hot Tools Professional is a relatively affordable brand and popular among hair experts like Kristen Shaw, who previously told us she has been “a Hot Tools die-hard for years.” This foldable hair dryer is equipped with a concentrator nozzle to smooth your hair and a diffuser to enhance your natural curl pattern. It features two heat and two speed settings, along with a cool shot to help lock your style in place. The ionic hair dryer is best suited for those with fine-to-medium hair because it has a relatively lower wattage, according to hairstylist Annagjid “Kee” Taylor. This is the sole hot tool on our list that comes with a 7-year warranty if you shop directly through the brand .

Hot Tools Professional Travel Dryer

T3 Mini Miracles Gift Set

T3, a popular hot tools brand, created a two-piece gift set featuring the T3 SinglePass Compact flat iron and T3 Featherweight Compact hair dryer in two colors: Rose and White . The flat iron has .8-inch-wide ceramic plates with a single pre-set temperature: 410 degrees Fahrenheit. As a bonus, it comes with a heat-resistant cover for added safety. T3 says the ceramic Featherweight hair dryer boasts an ergonomic design and folding cord. It features two heat and speed settings and a cool shot and includes a concentrator nozzle and travel storage bag.

T3 Mini Miracles Gift Set

Shopping Staff pick: Dyson Corrale hair straightener

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Nicole Saunders is a former associate commerce editor for Select on NBC News, covering wellness and lifestyle.

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  • Home Reviews
  • Laundry Reviews

We Put 30 of the Best Steam Irons to the Test—But These 6 Are Actually Worth Buying

We love these irons for how effortlessly they remove wrinkles from a variety of fabric types.

Marcus Reeves is an experienced writer, publisher, and fact-checker. He began his writing career reporting for The Source magazine. His writing has appeared in The New York Times, Playboy, The Washington Post, and Rolling Stone, among other publications. His book Somebody Scream: Rap Music's Rise to Prominence in the Aftershock of Black Power was nominated for a Zora Neale Hurston Award. He is an adjunct instructor at New York University, where he teaches writing and communications. Marcus received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey.

professional travel iron

In This Article

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  • Our top picks

The Bottom Line

Our testing process, what to know about irons before shopping, other steam irons we tested, your questions, answered, what is bhg recommends.

Better Homes & Gardens / Dera Burreson

Whether you're headed to a wedding, picking out clothes for work, or you simply didn't get your laundry hung up in time, having an iron that effectively erases wrinkles can keep your clothes looking crisp and clean while helping you make a great first impression.

The best steam irons heat up quickly, offer multiple settings to accommodate a variety of materials, and are easy to maneuver. Added features like auto-shutoff settings, anti-drip soleplates, and retractable plugin cords are also helpful.

We put some of the best steam irons to the test to determine which ones are actually worth buying. Our expert home testers purchased and used 30 different steam irons in our lab in Des Moines, Iowa, putting each one through its paces on materials like cotton, linen, and satin.

In addition to testing the iron's functionality, we noted its design (Is it too big? Too heavy? Does the handle get hot when in use?) and portability to choose our favorites.

Best Overall

Black+decker light 'n easy compact steam iron.

  • Effectiveness 4.5 /5
  • Design 4 /5
  • Portability 4.5 /5

During our tests, this steam iron removed wrinkles and deep creases from satin and cotton in one pass.

There's no way to tell when this iron has reached the desired temperature.

If you want an iron that efficiently rids your clothes of wrinkles without having to splurge on an expensive appliance, this option from Black+Decker is a great choice. Though it has many of the same features as the pricier irons we tested, the Light 'N Easy iron is a lot less expensive while still acting as a time-saving solution to wrinkly fabric.

When testing, our experts found that the Light 'N Easy iron worked best on satin and cotton, removing wrinkles in just one pass. Deeper creases took a few tries to remove, though the process was still relatively effortless. Even on linen, our testers found that the iron could get rid of wrinkles easily (though deep creases were still slightly visible).

You'll be able to change the temperature settings using a dial on the iron's handle, which corresponds to a chart printed below the handle. This allows you to adjust the temperature according to the material you're working with, making it easy to iron a whole load of laundry at once.

We also loved how large this steam iron's water tank is, meaning you don't have to add more water during a long ironing session. The steam feature automatically adjusts the amount of steam it produces based on the setting you select, allowing for the right combination of heat and moisture. Plus, its automatic shutoff feature—which turns off the machine eight minutes after use when upright and after 30 seconds when facedown or on its side—provides added peace of mind.

Given its low price point, we weren't surprised to find that the Light 'N Easy iron feels a bit cheap compared to other models. There's no way to tell if the iron has reached its desired temperature, which we found frustrating, and deciphering some of the symbols on the iron was a challenge for our testers.

Product Details: Weight: 2.45 pounds | Water Tank Size: Not Listed | Wattage: 1200 watts | Soleplate Material: Stainless steel | Safety Features: Anti-drip, automatic shutoff | Cord Length: Not Listed

Better Homes & Gardens / Dera Burreson

Best Splurge

Rowenta perfect pro station iron.

  • Effectiveness 4.6 /5
  • Design 5 /5
  • Portability 4.8 /5

This iron's detachable water tank holds up to 37 ounces of water and filters out calcium to prevent buildup on your iron.

There's no indicator to tell you when the iron has reached the desired temperature.

If doing the laundry frequently includes ironing wrinkles out of clothing, tablecloths, or other fabrics, the Rowenta Perfect Pro iron is a great investment. While it's more expensive than other models, we found it to be exceptionally capable of cutting through deep wrinkles on multiple fabric types.

The most notable feature on the Perfect Pro iron is its extra-large water tank, which doubles as a docking station when you're not using the iron. If you tend to spend a large chunk of time ironing, the 37-ounce water tank allows you to keep working longer (up to 90 minutes) without having to stop and refill.

Plus, the separate tank keeps the iron itself quite lightweight and easy to use while offering powerful steam capabilities.

During testing, our experts found that this steam iron was quite versatile; it performed well on linen, cotton, and satin napkins with similar effectiveness. While it took a few passes across each fabric to flatten the wrinkles, we found it to be a pretty quick and easy job.

Similar to other Rowenta irons, the Perfect Pro has over 400 holes across the face of the soleplate, allowing for even steam distribution and even more precision when removing wrinkles. The iron automatically adjusts how much steam it outputs based on the temperature and fabric setting you've selected, better protecting the fabric from damage . We also liked this iron's extra-long cord (11.5 feet), which makes it easy to steam curtains.

When testing the Perfect Pro, our experts were slightly overwhelmed by the number of features this iron offers. In order to fully understand its capabilities and get the most out of the iron, you'll have to watch tutorials online, since the directions don't offer much insight into how to use the product.

For all its high-tech features (such as manual steam controls, extra-powerful steam distribution, and a long-lasting steel soleplate), our testers were disappointed to find that this iron doesn't have a ready light indicator. There's no way to tell when the iron has reached the right temperature and is ready for use.

Product Details: Weight: .95 pounds | Water Tank Size: 37 ounces | Wattage: 1800 watts | Soleplate Material: Stainless steel | Safety Features: Anti-drip, automatic shutoff, safety lock | Cord Length: 11.5 feet

BLACK + DECKER Advanced Steam Iron

  • Effectiveness 4.2 /5
  • Portability 4 /5

Our testers found the steam mode on this iron to be especially effective, removing wrinkles in a single pass on linen and cotton.

When dry ironing with this model, we found it took a few tries to get rid of wrinkles.

For fabric that's particularly wrinkled, the best way to target unwanted creases is to add heat and moisture, which softens the wrinkles and helps reverse the process that created them in the first place. The Black+Decker Vitessa steam iron is exceptional at just that; our testers found this iron to be particularly powerful at flattening creases on multiple types of fabric.

While many other irons we tested took at least a few swipes to get rid of deep creases, we found that this Black+Decker option made wrinkles disappear from cotton and linen in a single pass across the material when using the steam setting.

The vertical steam button is clearly marked at the top of the handle, making it easy to remove wrinkles from clothing, curtains, and more without taking them off the hanger or even touching the fabric. You also have the option to use the misting feature on this iron, which distributes a quick puff of water droplets to the fabric for tackling set-in wrinkles.

The Black+Decker steam iron also stood out to our testers because of its other perks, like the retractable power cord for easy storage, the anti-drip feature that eliminates water leaking out of the soleplate, and the automatic shutoff for added peace of mind.

Though our experts loved the steam settings on this iron, the dry iron settings weren't anything special. It took a few attempts to get rid of wrinkles on cotton, satin, and linen fabrics alike, but the process was still relatively quick and easy. If you prefer to use the dry setting to iron your clothes, this one certainly does the trick, but other irons we tested yielded better results.

Product Details: Weight: 2.5 pounds | Water Tank Size: 10.8 ounces | Wattage: 1200 watts | Soleplate Material: Nonstick | Safety Features: Anti-drip, automatic shutoff | Cord Length: 8 feet

Best for Travel

Conair ez press steam iron.

  • Effectiveness 4.3 /5

This iron is super lightweight and easy to pack when traveling.

The small soleplate on this iron makes it less equipped for big ironing jobs.

We've all been there—you're unpacking clothes after a long day of traveling, and you find that the only nice outfit you brought on the trip is covered in wrinkles. Rather than putting your trust in the cheap hotel iron (or showing up to an important event all wrinkly), the Conair EZ Press iron is the ideal travel companion to get rid of unwanted creases.

Weighing 1 pound and small in size for convenient packing, the Conair iron tucks away easily in a suitcase while removing wrinkles just as easily as its more expensive counterparts. You'll be able to use the steam setting (though our testers found the water tank to be quite small) or use it as a dry iron, and its varying temperature settings allow you to work on multiple fabric types.

While testing, our experts were pleasantly surprised to find that the Conair iron removed wrinkles from our satin, linen, and cotton napkins with minimal effort in just a few passes. While we had a bit of trouble getting the deepest creases out of linen, they eventually disappeared after several attempts.

The temperature dial under the handle makes it easy to raise or lower the temperature to work on different fabrics, and we liked that the ready light indicates when the iron is heated to the correct temperature so we didn't accidentally burn low-temperature fabrics.

This iron also has a vertical steam option for getting wrinkles out of hanging clothes, making it incredibly versatile when you're away from home.

Because of its smaller size, the Conair iron is best suited for quick ironing jobs, and our testers found that it was pretty time consuming to use when working with a larger piece of material, like a tablecloth. We also found its water tank to be quite small and difficult to refill, with the removable cap leaking slightly when tipped on its side.

However, it's a great all-around choice when you're in a pinch and you need a quick and lightweight solution for travel-induced wrinkles.

Product Details: Weight: 1 pound | Water Tank Size: Not listed | Wattage: 800 watts | Soleplate Material: Stainless steel | Safety Features: None | Cord Length: 8 feet

Best for Dry Ironing

Sunbeam iron.

This iron had great versatility across linen, cotton, and satin materials when dry ironing.

This iron's temperature fluctuates slightly when used for longer periods of time.

Dry ironing is a great way to make your clothes or fabric extra crisp, but finding a trustworthy iron that won't scorch your clothes or melt the tag can be a challenge. The Sunbeam Steam Master Steam Iron was the most effective dry iron we tested, removing wrinkles and deep creases on satin and cotton in just one swipe (though it needed a little more elbow grease to get rid of wrinkles on linen fabric).

When you want a burst of steam, our testers were impressed with this iron's steam capabilities—it flattened wrinkles in one to two attempts. Built-in settings for variable steam and spray mist mode allow you to target deep wrinkles more easily, too. The retractable power cord makes it super simple to put the iron away when not in use, and you won't have to worry about fussing with a too-long cord while you work.

Our testers noted how lightweight this iron felt when using, making it a lot easier than other models to use for long periods of time. All of the iron's settings are pretty self-explanatory, so you won't have to dig out the instructions every time you want to switch between steam and dry ironing. Plus, the temperature dial has specific markers for linen, cotton, wool, and synthetic materials to ensure nothing melts or sticks to the soleplate.

During testing, our experts noticed that the temperature of the iron's soleplate tended to decrease slightly after using it for a few minutes. We had to bump up the temperature a bit higher than the dial markings indicated after a while to maintain the correct heat levels.

Product Details: Weight: 2.6 pounds | Water Tank Size: Not listed | Wattage: 1400 watts | Soleplate Material: Non-stick soleplate | Safety Features: Anti-drip, automatic shutoff | Cord Length: 8 feet

Best Digital

Beautural 1800-watt steam iron.

  • Effectiveness 3.8 /5
  • Portability 5 /5

The LCD display makes it easy to see the settings and temperature while ironing.

Testers found that the steam setting doesn't remove wrinkles on cotton fabric.

This easy-to-use iron takes the guesswork out of selecting a temperature when you're ironing on different fabrics. Its digital display at the top of the handle clearly shows what fabric setting you're on as well as the steam level and mode number. These preset modes align with the general fabric heat recommendations, ensuring that you don't accidentally ruin your clothes while ironing.

Unlike many of the models we tested, it's super easy to tell when the Beautural iron is on and has reached the proper temperature. The LCD display tells you what fabric setting and steam level you're using, and the screen momentarily turns red once you've turned the iron off to provide reassurance that it's powering down.

Our testers found that the Beautural iron is extremely effective when dry ironing—it removed wrinkles from cotton fabric in just one swipe, and it only required one or two more passes on linen and satin. When we turned on the steam setting, our testers were able to lift wrinkles out of linen in one pass, but the steam was pretty ineffective on cotton. If you plan to iron cotton with this appliance, you'll want to turn off the steam.

We also liked the ergonomic handle grips, which made this Beautural iron extra comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver across the ironing board. The ceramic soleplate is designed to resist scratches, and its double-layer design helps to ensure the entire plate heats evenly and doesn't burn delicate clothing. Plus, the auto shutoff feature protects you if you forget to turn off the iron once you're done working.

Product Details: Weight: 3.18 pounds | Water Tank Size: 11.5 ounces | Wattage: 1800 watts | Soleplate Material: Ceramic | Safety Features: Automatic shutoff

Whether you constantly find yourself ironing wrinkles out of laundry, tablecloths, and more or you only need an iron occasionally, finding a steam iron that effectively removes wrinkles without damaging fabric is a top priority. Our winner for the best overall steam iron is the Black+Decker Light 'N Easy , which erased wrinkles from cotton, linen, and satin fabric in one to two swipes.

To determine our list of the best irons, we gathered a team of home experts in our lab in Des Moines, Iowa, and had them put 30 different steam irons through extensive testing. Our testers prepared satin, linen, and cotton napkins several days in advance, wetting the napkins, balling them up, and then securing them with rubber bands to create deep wrinkles and creases in the fabrics.

During our two-day test, we ran each iron across the wrinkled material in both dry and steam modes, making note of its effectiveness, the number of passes it took to remove wrinkles , and any changes we noticed to the fabric itself.

In addition to checking the effectiveness of the irons in getting rid of creases, we also took note of the design, portability, ease of use, and any safety features advertised.

Temperature

Whether you're working with cotton, linen, or another type of fabric, it's important to change your iron's temperature to avoid damaging the material. Many irons on the market have different settings that accommodate a variety of material types, but if you often iron one type of fabric over others, you'll want to find an iron that will safely and effectively remove wrinkles.

Water Tank Capacity

If you're purchasing an iron that has at least one steam setting, you'll want to consider the size of the water tank. If you plan to iron a lot of different items at once or you're ironing something large like a tablecloth, you'll want to find an iron that has a large enough water tank to get you through the job. This can help you avoid having to stop midway through a project to refill.

Soleplate Type

Soleplates are the flat metal piece on the face of your iron, and they're responsible for conducting heat and distributing steam evenly across fabric as you're working. Depending on the type of iron you purchase, you may find that it has either a ceramic or stainless steel soleplate.

While ceramic soleplates better protect you from accidentally burning your clothes while ironing, they also tend to wear out faster . Stainless steel soleplates last a lot longer but may stick to fabric when set at a high temperature. Depending on the material type you work with most and how long you'd like your iron to last, you'll want to keep these factors in mind.

Safety Features

Since irons conduct high levels of heat to remove wrinkles from your clothes, you'll want to consider added safety features that can prevent you or your family members from getting hurt. Many steam irons have automatic shutoff settings, which turns off the appliance after a certain amount of time. Others have anti-drip features, which prevent water from leaking out of the machine and getting near an electrical source.

Vremi 1800 Watt Steam Iron for Clothes

Our testers really liked the display on the Vremi Steam Iron , which has a temperature dial that allows for "in between" settings and turns green once you've reached your desired temperature. It performed especially well on linen and cotton when we tested this iron, flattening wrinkles in just one pass on dry mode and needing only a couple of extra passes with the steam setting. However, our experts found that the Vremi iron wasn't as effective as competing irons at removing wrinkles from cotton.

Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Iron

The Sunbeam Hot-2-Trot Travel Iron also caught our testers' attention in the lab, and we loved how lightweight and easy to maneuver this small-but-mighty appliance is. Overall, it was surprisingly effective when dry ironing on satin, linen, and cotton, and it could erase wrinkles with minimal effort. Our testers found it to be less effective on deep creases on satin and linen material, though it worked great on cotton.

Sunbeam Classic 1200 Watt Mid-size Anti-Drip Non-Stick Soleplate Iron

Our testers found the Sunbeam Classic 1200 Watt Iron to be a great basic option for shoppers who want a no-frills appliance. We found it to be lightweight, easy to maneuver, and particularly effective at clearing wrinkles when dry ironing cotton and satin. However, it didn't work well on linen and required a lot of extra passes to remove wrinkles on both the steam and dry settings.

How many watts should an iron have?

The average clothes iron uses between 1,000 to 2,000 watts, which is higher than other household appliances. The higher the wattage, the more powerful the iron is (and the more careful you'll need to be in order to avoid damaging your clothes).

Is a steam iron better than a normal iron?

Steam irons and dry irons are typically a matter of preference. Though dry irons usually leave a crisper look that is hard to achieve with a steam iron, the latter is better at removing deep creases with less effort. The added moisture released through holes in the steam iron's soleplate allows you to flatten wrinkles in less time. With a dry iron, you'll need to use a spray bottle to lightly moisten the material, and you'll also need to be more careful not to burn or melt your clothes than you might with a steam iron. Most irons on the market can be used for both dry and steam ironing.

This article was written by Samantha Jones , a former associate commerce home editor for Better Homes & Gardens . In order to write about the best irons, Samantha did several hours of research into steam irons, important features and safety concerns related to ironing, and the most popular steam irons on the market currently. She then compared this research to the detailed testing information gathered during our iron tests in Des Moines, Iowa. In addition to writing about irons, Samantha has contributed other articles to Better Homes & Gardens ' portfolio about meal delivery services, the best air conditioners, and stick vacuums.

Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed our BHG Recommends seal of approval. Products that earn the seal have been put through rigorous testing to make sure they're worth a spot in your home. We buy most of the products we test ourselves, but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying isn't an option. In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.

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  • Closet and laundry

The Best Clothing Iron

A blue Rowenta clothing iron resting on an ironing board covered in a towel.

A hot, steamy iron is a crucial tool in your laundry arsenal. A steamer does a pretty good job of smoothing fabrics, but nothing creates sharp pleats or flattens stubborn wrinkles like an iron.

We’ve tested more than two dozen irons and researched countless more, and we recommend the Chi Electronic Iron with Retractable Cord 13102 for its powerful steam, durability over time, and useful features for frequent ironers.

Everything we recommend

professional travel iron

Chi Electronic Iron with Retractable Cord 13102

A reliable everyday iron.

This durable iron flattens creases in no time, and it stays hot longer than any other iron we’ve tested, so it’s ideal for marathon laundry sessions and craft projects with lots of back-and-forth trips to the ironing board.

Buying Options

Costco membership required

Budget pick

professional travel iron

Black+Decker Allure Professional Steam Iron D3030

An excellent but less reliable iron.

This affordable iron produces more powerful steam than many other models we’ve tried (even pricier ones), so it removes wrinkles quickly. The company has strong customer service, too. The heating element, however, is prone to breaking.

Upgrade pick

professional travel iron

Rowenta SteamForce DW9280

Top of the line.

The SteamForce DW9280 is the most reliable iron we’ve ever tested for regular use, with the strongest bursts of steam, but it costs nearly three times as much as many irons we’ve tried and has only a one-year warranty, the shortest among our picks.

How we picked

We looked for irons with forceful bursts and visible clouds of steam. The bigger the puff, the better the iron.

Our iron picks all have at least 1,500 watts, which is enough to get the job done.

We looked for irons that had comfortable handles and weren’t too heavy.

Ideally the cord should be at least 8 feet long so that you can comfortably work around the ironing board.

The Chi Electronic Iron with Retractable Cord 13102 is one of the best irons I’ve ever tested, and it’s been a reliable performer for three years of regular use on clothes, bedding, and sewing and craft projects (where it really shines). Its steam bursts are almost as powerful as those of our upgrade pick, the Rowenta DW9280, but smoother. It’s lighter, too, and it has a slightly larger water tank, so it can produce steam for a couple of minutes longer. It’s our only pick with a retractable cord, and it has a 30-minute auto-shutoff time when you leave it vertical, the longest of any iron I’ve tried; this is helpful for sewists and crafters who want an iron that stays hot while they’re working on a project.

The Black+Decker Allure Professional Steam Iron D3030 creates strong whooshes of steam, its stainless steel plate glides smoothly across a variety of fabrics, and its handle is comfortable to hold and use. It’s a fantastic, affordable iron—as long as it works. This iron was once our top pick, but after a year, the heating element in our test unit broke. Thanks to its two-year warranty, I easily traded it in for a replacement, which I’ve been using since late 2016 with no problems. We’ve seen similar reports of mixed reliability in reviews, as well. If you don’t mind possibly replacing this iron every so often, it’s still a top performer, and it’s almost half the price of the Chi 13102.

The Rowenta SteamForce DW9280 performs better than any other iron I’ve tested. It melts creases out of crinkled button-downs and flattens quilt seams with almost no effort. I’ve never seen an iron give off more steam. I’ve been using our original test model since 2015, and it still produces strong steam, with just a few minor water leaks onto fabrics. It’s heavier and much more expensive than the Chi and Black+Decker irons, but it’s worth the upgrade if you craft or sew (that weight is helpful for pressing seams), do tons of laundry, or want an iron with the best chance of surviving more than a couple of years.

The research

Why you should trust us, who should get this, how we picked and tested, our pick: chi electronic iron with retractable cord 13102, budget pick: black+decker allure professional steam iron d3030, upgrade pick: rowenta steamforce dw9280, what to look forward to, the competition.

I’m a senior staff writer at Wirecutter, and I’ve covered irons since 2015. I’ve also written our guides to ironing boards , sheets , blankets , and robes (among many others), and I’m a quilt designer with more than a decade of experience. I iron almost every day. I’ve talked about irons with Ingrid Johnson, a professor in the Textile Development and Marketing Department at the Fashion Institute of Technology; Tod Greenfield, co-owner of bespoke New York City tailor Martin Greenfield Clothiers ; Kimberly Chaveco, senior product manager at Rowenta at the time of our interview; and members of the NYC Metro Modern Quilters Guild (I’m a former member myself but have since moved to the Seattle area).

Nothing I’ve tried—using a steamer, hanging things in the shower, or grabbing clothes right out of the dryer—combats tough creases like an iron. An iron is the most effective tool for busting wrinkles, for creating sharp pleats, and for sewing and crafting. If you hate to iron, though, and most of your clothes and linens just get lightly rumpled, choose a steamer instead; here are our favorite steamers .

Three gleamingly clean clothing irons, standing, lined up side by side on an ironing board.

In addition to testing irons for Wirecutter, as a quilter I’ve been a heavy iron user for years. I’ve also read hundreds of iron owner reviews on various major retailer sites, including Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, Target, and Walmart, and I’ve checked review sites like The Strategist and Good Housekeeping for their recommendations, noting how they compare to my own testing experience. These are the qualities I’ve found that make the best irons:

Strong steam bursts: The amount of steam whooshing out of an iron’s soleplate affects how quickly you can press an item, especially with heavier fabrics. I look for forceful bursts and visible clouds of steam while ironing—the bigger the puff, the better the iron. I also look for irons that strike a good balance between lots of steam and a water tank that doesn’t need constant refilling.

Enough wattage: Every iron we recommend offers at least 1,500 watts, which is enough to get the job done. In testing, I’ve found that low-wattage irons don’t produce enough heat and steam to fight tough wrinkles. Higher-priced, more powerful irons—like the Rowenta SteamForce DW9280, which has 1,800 watts—produce bigger clouds of steam and make the task faster.

Comfort: An iron that is too heavy or has an uncomfortable handle makes the chore harder on your arms and hands. Some heft can be helpful for pushing wrinkles out of fabric, but having the right combination of weight, an ergonomic handle, and powerful steam makes ironing much easier.

A good warranty and responsive customer service: Testing irons for this guide has been particularly frustrating because we’ve found so many of them—even the top performers—to have reliability problems. We’ve been reporting on irons since 2013, and almost every year we’ve changed our picks after long-term testing and reader feedback revealed problems. The best irons we’ve tried perform beautifully, but we just can’t guarantee they’ll last long. If an iron is going to fail, it seems to happen within two years of purchase (based on my experience and all the reviews I’ve read), and that’s the typical warranty length I’ve seen. And if you do have to replace your iron under warranty, you need good customer service to make the process as painless as possible.

A long cord: A cord that’s at least 8 feet long offers more mobility for you to work along the entire length of an ironing board and makes the iron easier to use if you’re tall. A long cord is also helpful if your electrical outlets aren’t conveniently located.

After evaluating models based on the above criteria, reading owner reviews, and combing our own reader comments, I came up with a list of 16 irons in 2019. We narrowed the list to 13 irons that we brought in for testing, including brand-new samples of our three current picks for retesting, new-to-us irons, and a few options that we had tested and dismissed in years prior. (These were models that other publications, including The Strategist and Good Housekeeping , recommended—I wanted to give them a fresh look.)

In 2019, I set up the irons in my home with our top-pick ironing board , the Brabantia Ironing Board B, and ran them through a series of tests. I timed how long each iron took to heat up and to automatically shut off (a safety feature that’s standard on every iron I’ve seen). I measured the water tanks to their fill lines, timed how long the steam lasted before the tank needed a refill, and noted how powerful the bursts were. I also measured the length of the cords.

I tested each iron’s wrinkle-busting ability on a variety of materials that I kept in a laundry basket for a week to make sure they were good and wrinkly: button-down shirts, cotton pillowcases, silk tops, cotton-polyester tees, and denim. I noted which irons produced weak steam or leaked water from the holes in the soleplate, causing wet spots. I also noted how comfortable each iron was to hold and use, and I recruited another tester (my mom) to weigh in on comfort, too. For 2019, the top performers turned out to be the same three irons we’d been recommending and long-term testing for several years: the Maytag M400 (now discontinued), the Rowenta DW9280, and the Black+Decker D3030. In 2023, we replaced the discontinued Maytag model with the Chi 13102, which we had been long-term testing since 2019.

The Chi Electronic Iron with Retractable Cord 13102 in a gray color with red accents.

The 1,700-watt Chi Electronic Iron with Retractable Cord 13102 is a fantastic steam iron that has performed reliably for three years of continued testing. It’s a new top pick for 2023, but I originally tested it in 2019 and have continued using it regularly since. We’ve had several top-pick irons over the years, and this Chi model is the most expensive iron we’ve ever recommended as a top pick, but it is so pleasant to use, and so durable compared with our past top picks, that we’ve concluded it’s a worthwhile investment. It’s an effective everyday iron for eliminating wrinkles, it’s the most comfortable of our picks to use, and it has clever features that make it my favorite iron for sewists and crafters. It’s been consistently available since it was released in 2017, and it comes with a two-year limited warranty from the manufacturer (PDF) .

The Chi 13102’s steam burst function is almost as powerful as that of our longtime upgrade pick, the Rowenta SteamForce DW9280 . The Rowenta iron’s steam bursts are short and assertive—perfect for attacking the toughest creases—but the Chi iron’s bursts are long and smooth, so it applied more consistent steam to the surface of our test fabrics in our 2019 testing. The Chi iron also has a larger water tank than the Rowenta model (12 ounces versus 10 ounces), so it can produce steam for a few minutes longer before needing a refill. And in three years of semi-regular use of the Chi 13102, I’ve never had problems with drips from the plate’s holes, which are a chronic issue with most irons I’ve tested, including the Rowenta DW9280 and our budget pick, the Black+Decker D3030 .

Since 2019, the Chi 13102 has become my go-to iron because it’s so comfortable to use. At 3.3 pounds, it is heavier than the Black+Decker iron but lighter than the Rowenta model. It feels well balanced, and its heftiness helps apply pressure to fabrics so I don’t need to push down as hard on wrinkles to eliminate them. Because of those long, smooth bursts of steam, I also don’t have to push the steam button as often, which is a thumb-saver during frequent use or long sessions at the ironing board. The ceramic soleplate (Chi’s marketing says it’s “titanium infused,” whatever that means) glides more easily across most fabrics than the stainless steel plates of the Black+Decker and Rowenta irons. Even little touches such as the water-tank cover, which has a sliding latch instead of a flip top as on most irons, and the retractable cord (it’s our only pick that has one) are less physically taxing to use, and they make the whole experience of ironing less of a hassle.

As someone with over 15 years of experience quilting and sewing, I love this iron for almost every craft project, from quilts to Halloween costumes. (For messier projects that might melt onto the iron’s soleplate, however, I’d opt for the cheaper, easily replaced Black+Decker model.) My favorite feature on this Chi iron is its 30-minute auto-shutoff time, the longest of any iron I’ve tried (most are about eight minutes). If you’re working on a project and constantly going back and forth to the ironing board, this feature is a time-saver, keeping the iron hotter for longer so it’s ready when you are—this is especially helpful for the Chi 13102 because it’s the slowest of our picks to heat up and produce steam. This Chi model also has the longest, narrowest tip of our picks, which helps it get into pesky tight spaces if you’re pressing, say, a complicated quilt block or working on a curved garment seam.

How the Chi Electronic Iron with Retractable Cord 13102 has held up

The Chi 13102 looks almost as new as it did when I opened the box in 2019. The buttons and mechanisms all still function smoothly, with no signs that springs or screws are starting to wear down. It heats up as well as it did on day one, and the auto-shutoff feature still seems to last as long as ever.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

If you’re forgetful about shutting off your iron when you’re finished, or if you have young kids or curious pets around, the Chi 13102’s 30-minute auto-shutoff time might not work for you. Both of our other picks shut off after less than 10 minutes. And, as we mentioned, this Chi iron is the priciest top pick we’ve ever had in this guide. We were reluctant to recommend it in 2019 because of the price, but after observing several years of standout performance and consistent availability, we believe it’s an investment that should pay off over time.

The Black+Decker Allure Professional Steam Iron D3030 standing on an ironing board.

The Black+Decker Allure Professional Steam Iron D3030 is the best iron I’ve found for about $50. It was once a top pick, and it’s one of the most powerful irons I’ve tried. It has the most unpredictable reliability of our picks, though, which is why we no longer recommend it in the top spot. This Black+Decker iron consistently produces stronger bursts of steam than most other irons I’ve tested, even though it’s less powerful than our other picks, with only 1,600 watts. It weighs 3.1 pounds, making it the lightest of our picks (the Chi 13102 is 3.3 pounds and the Rowenta DW9280 is 3.9 pounds), and it has a 14-ounce water tank, the biggest of our picks. As a result, it produces steam for longer than the Chi and Rowenta models, lasting about 22 minutes before needing a refill. In addition, the D3030 is the fastest to heat up of the irons we recommend, producing steam in 30 seconds. I’ve also tried the Allure D3040 , a very similar iron with a digital display, but I’ve found the cheaper D3030 to be the better performer.

This Black+Decker model’s reliability problems are well documented in owner reviews. I also had to replace our original review unit when the heating element suddenly stopped working after a year (I used the iron two or three times a week). The two-year warranty covered it, though, and Black+Decker’s replacement process was straightforward—I didn’t have to send back the whole iron, just the plug. I’ve now been using its replacement since 2016 with no problems. That’s more than six years of steady performance, with semi-regular use, from the replacement, although over time the Chi 13102 has surpassed the D3030 as my favorite everyday iron because it’s more comfortable to use. That length of service would make the D3030 more reliable than almost any other iron I’ve tested if it were not for the breakage of our initial test model. Irons, especially cheap irons, are unpredictable, and the D3030 is a perfect example—you could end up with one that breaks quickly or one that lasts for ages. For the price and performance, we recommend it as long as you don’t mind the possibility of replacing your iron every so often. It’s excellent—until it isn’t.

How the Black+Decker Allure Professional Steam Iron D3030 has held up

These days, the Black+Decker D3030 looks and feels like a six-year-old iron. It doesn’t look as new and shiny as it did when it came out of the box, and some of the buttons make creakier noises than they used to. The iron still works perfectly, though, and I’ve managed not to melt stuff on the soleplate or stain it with anything.

The Black+Decker D3030 resting face down on a towel on an ironing board.

If an iron can be dreamy, the Rowenta SteamForce DW9280 is dreamy. This German-made iron has been the top performer in our tests since I first used it in 2015—it has flattened every wrinkle I’ve tried it on. The stainless steel soleplate has about 400 holes (I haven’t counted; that’s from the manufacturer), the same number as the Chi 13102 advertises, so it releases big clouds of steam to melt creases away. Its steam burst function, which shoots out an extra punch of steam to target problem creases at the press of a button, is much more forceful than the Chi iron’s. When I’m ironing something I’ve sewn, I push the burst button constantly to flatten new seams, and that extra force does wonders to smooth everything into place. It is less comfortable to push than the Chi model’s steam burst button, though, so over time your fingers might get stiff from using it. This iron’s tip offers Rowenta’s Precision Shot, a group of holes that emit an even more concentrated blast of steam for tougher creases. The DW9280 has a good-size water tank (10 ounces) in comparison with several other irons I’ve tested, but it’s the smallest of our picks, and it produces steam for only 12 minutes before needing a refill. Because this Rowenta model is so powerful, though, it makes up for its thirst for water by getting the job done a little faster.

The Rowenta DW9280 is the most reliable of our picks, too. Our original test iron lasted for four years of regular to heavy use on quilt seams and a variety of other fabrics before the steam feature stopped working in late 2019. Although the Black+Decker D3030 I’m currently long-term testing has lasted for six years, that iron has been through less rigorous everyday use than our original DW9280 test unit, which I used into the ground (ironing became a low priority at my house over the course of the pandemic). I’ve been testing our replacement DW9280 test iron since fall 2019, with no problems after three-plus years (although, again, it’s getting less regular use). Rowenta covers the DW9280 with a one-year warranty in the United States, which is less generous than the two-year warranties accompanying our picks from Chi and Black+Decker, but since our test unit performed well for so long, the warranty might not be as important a consideration for the DW9280 as it is for other irons.

A closeup of the DW9280's soleplate, showing the larger holes for its Precision Shot feature.

The DW9280 also drips a bit more water from its steam holes than our other picks do, so it might not be ideal for delicate, water-stainable fabrics. I’ve read enough reviews to know that leaks are a common problem with all Rowenta irons, but I’ve tested six of the company’s models, and the DW9280 is the best when it comes to leaks. This iron is also heavier than our other picks (3.9 pounds, in contrast to the 3.3-pound Chi 13102 and 3.1-pound Black+Decker D3030), and that weight can help it push out the toughest wrinkles. It may be too heavy for some people to use comfortably, but because it gives off so much steam, I’ve found that using it cuts down on ironing time overall, which is helpful if you have mountains of laundry. The cord is only 7 feet long, which is a little puny, and the DW9280 is expensive—usually almost three times as much as the D3030. But I know that it lasts for years, so if you want the most powerful, reliable iron available, I’m confident this is it.

How the Rowenta SteamForce DW9280 has held up

I still love the way it feels to pick up the Rowenta DW9280 and blast a wrinkle with it. Our current test model is the same age as the Chi iron I’ve been testing, and over time the Chi model has come to feel a little sleeker and less noisy. But this Rowenta iron’s soleplate looks new, its steam functions all work as well as ever, and it still heats up the way I expect it to.

In early 2023 we’ll be testing several new irons under $100, including the Conair ExtremeSteam Pro Steam Iron GI300 , the Rowenta Access Steam DW2459 , and the Singer SteamCraft Plus . We’re also considering some cordless irons—a category we haven’t tested in years—as well as newer iron models from Chi. We’ll update this guide with fresh testing results soon.

The Black+Decker Allure Digital Stainless Steel Soleplate Iron D3040 is a slightly upgraded version of the Black+Decker D3030 , our budget pick. The main difference is this model’s digital display, which is a flashy, fun add-on but is a little less intuitive than the controls of the D3030. The main reason we didn’t pick this iron is that it didn’t perform as well as the D3030 or the Chi 13102. It also now appears to be discontinued.

I hated the Black+Decker Vitessa Advanced Steam Iron ICR2020 . It was hard to fill, it was uncomfortable to hold, and the steam was flimsy and ineffective. It’s only 1,200 watts, lower than we recommend—and in our tests, using it was a good reminder of the importance of a more powerful iron.

We brought in the PurSteam Professional Grade 1700 Watt Steam Iron for testing and then discovered that it was discontinued.

The Rowenta Everlast Anticalc DW7180 leaked right away during our testing, and there’s no excuse for an iron costing $100-plus to leak straight out of the box. It also was the least effective iron in our 2017 testing for getting out wrinkles.

I used to own the Rowenta Professional DW8061 and had major problems with it leaking. The unit we tested in 2017 was no different: It gave off a good amount of steam, but the leaks became too problematic for delicate quilt work or favorite clothes.

The Shark Lightweight Professional GI435 (now discontinued) was terrible, which wasn’t a huge surprise for an iron so cheap ($25 at the time of our research). As soon as I started testing, it left a scorch mark on a T-shirt, with hardly any pressure.

The Sunbeam Turbo Steam Iron GCSBCL-202-000 has a retractable cord, a great feature if you want easy storage. It’s one of the least-powerful irons I’ve tested, but if you can find it for less than $20, it isn’t bad.

In past years we’ve also tested the Black+Decker Digital Advantage Professional Steam Iron D2030 , as well as these now-discontinued models:

  • Hamilton Beach Chrome Electronic Iron 14955
  • Maytag M400 (our previous top pick)
  • Maytag Premium Analog
  • Maytag Smartfill Digital Iron and Steamer M1200
  • Oliso TG1050 Smart Iron
  • Panasonic NI-E660SR
  • Panasonic W950A
  • Reliable V50
  • Rowenta Eco-Intelligence DW6080
  • Rowenta Effective Comfort
  • Rowenta Focus DW5080
  • Rowenta SteamCare DW3180
  • Shark Ultimate Professional GI505 (a former runner-up)
  • Singer Expert Finish
  • T-fal Ultraglide FV4495

This article was edited by Daniela Gorny and Christine Ryan.

Ingrid Johnson, professor, Textile Development and Marketing Department at the Fashion Institute of Technology , email interview , October 28, 2015

Tod Greenfield, co-owner of Martin Greenfield Clothiers , phone interview , October 27, 2015

Kimberly Chaveco, senior product manager at Rowenta , email interview , January 12, 2016

Members of the NYC Metro Modern Quilters Guild , online group chat , October 14, 2015

Meet your guide

professional travel iron

Jackie Reeve

Jackie Reeve is a senior staff writer covering bedding, organization, and home goods at Wirecutter since 2015. Previously she was a school librarian, and she’s been a quilter for about 15 years. Her quilt patterns and her other written work have appeared in various publications. She moderates Wirecutter’s staff book club and makes her bed every morning.

Further reading

A lunch box, a water bottle, and a rash guard with labels on them, shown next to three sheets of labels.

The Best Labels for Kids School Gear and Clothing

by Lauren Sullivan

Customized labels are a cute and convenient way to help kids keep track of their own stuff—and get things back when they’re lost.

Our pick for best clothes steamer, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer (GS54), in dark blue.

If You Hate Ironing, Try This Handheld Steamer Instead

by Elissa Sanci

An iron isn’t the only way to blast away wrinkles.

A person using an iron on the Brabantia ironing board

The Best Ironing Board

by Jackie Reeve

For the second time, our favorite board is the Brabantia Ironing Board B . It’s the best we’ve tried for the price—just the right size, with a sturdy build.

Our pick for best clothes steamer, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer (GS54), in dark blue.

The Best Clothing Steamers

by Jackie Reeve and Zoe Vanderweide

To smooth wrinkles without an iron, try the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer . It’s light and easy to maneuver, and you can control the force of the steam.

Travel Fashion Girl

What’s the Best Travel Hair Straightener? A Dual Voltage Flat Iron

Hair , TOILETRIES

dual-voltage-flat-iron

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Having the right voltage is crucial when you use electronics internationally, including your hair tools. Find out why the best travel hair straightener is a dual voltage flat iron, and check out our top picks!  

Dual Voltage Flat Iron

Table of contents.

A well-groomed mane adds the perfect touch to your carefully planned travel outfit . But when you’re on-the-go, your hair styling tools shouldn’t take up too much space in your luggage.

For ultra-sleek straight hair or soft waves, a dual voltage hair straightener will make all your vacation pics Insta-worthy.

Your styling tool shouldn’t force you to give up space in your suitcase. These travel flat irons and travel straighteners are perfect for when you’re ready to pack up your bag and head on your trip!

In this article, we’ll explain what a dual voltage flat iron is, why they’re beneficial for travel, and we’ll also recommend some of the best travel flat irons for your next trip!

What is the best travel straightener?

All of the 10 best travel straightener options listed in this post are compatible with international voltages to make it easier to take them anywhere in the world.

Dual Voltage Flat Iron Recommendations

dual-voltage-flat-iron

HSI Straightener

Most Durable Travel Straightener

For a durable travel straightener that works with fine to coarse hair, the HSI Professional Flat Iron is a step up. The advanced infrared heat technology has an adjustable temperature from 240°F to 400°F to work with all hair types. This dual voltage flat iron also comes with a 1-inch plate that’s wide enough for any hair length.

At 12 inches, it’s not the smallest  travel flat iron dual voltage, but it’s a more compact option for heavy duty manes.

dual-voltage-flat-iron

AmoVee Mini Iron

Best Travel Straightener for Short Hair

If you’re on the hunt for a smart style, the AmoVee Mini Flat Iron gives you salon quality results while you’re on vacation. For polished curls or a sleek straight hair, this dual voltage straightening iron is recommended for women with short hair.

If you’re looking for the best travel curling iron, read this post !

dual-voltage-flat-iron

T3 Singlepass Travel Straightener 

Most Luxurious Straightener

I’m not sure if we could call the T3 the best travel straightener, but it’s definitely the most luxurious option in our round-up and at the top of our wishlist, too! On the plus side, this travel flat iron heats up super quick, but on the down side, you can’t adjust the temperature setting. However, the high heat can help style your hair quickly and efficiently, which is a plus when you’re on the go! Also available in Nordstrom !

Try these three simple travel hair styles for long hair!

dual-voltage-flat-iron

T3 Lucea 1-inch Professional Straightening & Styling Flat Iron

Best All-in-1 Flat Iron

If you can’t decide between a travel flat iro n and regular straightener, the Lucea flat iron straightens hair beautifully and smoothly, plus its a styling iron powered by Rapid HeatIQ Technology. Besides straightening, it also curls and waves hair too, which gives you multi-looks to play with. 

Up to 9 adjustable heat settings, ideal for coarse and natural hair types. The auto shut off function comes in handy if you tend to be forgetful with your styling tools! Also available in Nordstrom !

Use my free packing checklist so you don’t forget anything when you pack!

dual-voltage-flat-iron

Conair MiniPRO Iron

Best Mini Travel Straightener

Since most hair straighteners are large and heavy, the Conair MiniPRO is ideal for keeping your luggage at a minimum. The ceramic technology protects each hair strand without pulling and frying your hair. For short to medium hair, the 1/2-inch plates get close to the roots for a quick, effortless style, making it a great travel flat iron.

Learn to Pack Light Stylishly with my e-book!

dual-voltage-flat-iron

Vanessa Pro Flat Iron for Hair

Most Stylish Flat Iron

Who says your travel flat iron can’t be cute? The  Vanessa Pro flat iron in black with its Titanium plate is one of the best dual voltage flat irons to take traveling around Europe or anywhere else you may be headed. The adjustable temperature allows you to create styles quickly if you’re running late — guilty — and it even has an automatic shut-off system just in case!

Need to find ways to dry your hair quickly? Try these tips !

dual-voltage-flat-iron

Lovani Mini Portable Flat Iron

Most Portable Travel Straightener

For a quick and easy hair style, the ultra-portable Lovani flat iron is incredibly versatile and can be carried around in your purse with its heat-proof carrying case! The 7.1-inch travel flat iron offers a 2.76-inch ceramic plate to prevent your hair from excessive heat damage.

Looking for some cute summer hair ideas? Check these out!

dual-voltage-flat-iron

Herstyler Straightening Flat Iron

Best Lightweight Travel Straightener

A lightweight travel straightener, the Herstyler Forever Travel Flat Iron  has an ultra-fast warm up to 460°F with an adjustable temperature allowing you to manage your hair with ease. The compact 1.25-inch can be carried in your carry-on for easy traveling! This is one of the best dual voltage flat irons for international travel.

Find out which beauty products to pack or leave at home!

dual-voltage-flat-iron

BaBylissPRO Mini Straightening Iron

Best Ultra-compact Straightening Iron

For an ultra-compact travel flat iron that smoothes out frizz and fly-aways, the BaBylissPRO travel straightener includes a ceramic plate to prevent frying your hair. This dual voltage flat iron is about half the size of a regular straightener and only has one heat temperature to make your hair styling a breeze.

Read our ultimate guide to maintaining your hair while traveling!

dual-voltage-flat-iron

AmoVee 2in1 Mini Straightener Curling Iron

Best 2-in-1 Flat Iron

If you’re looking for an easy-to-carry, 2-in-1 travel flat iron, the AmoVee 2in1 Mini Flat Iron Curling Iron includes a curling iron and a flat iron in one! The 365℉ to 420℉ temperature heats up in just a few seconds. The 1-inch tourmaline plate will give your locks a glossy, healthy look. It includes a sleek leopard print insulated carrying case.

We’d definitely agree that the best dual voltage flat iron is one that can multi-task, so this one gets two thumbs up! A ccording to our readers is the best 2-for-1 straightener set.

Read about the best travel diffusers here !

Best Flat Iron Product Comparison Chart

Here’s a quick review of the ten best travel flat iron options. You can read more about each one in the article below.

Travel Straightener vs Travel Flat Iron

The terms “hair straightener,” “straightener,” and “flat iron” all mean the same thing — they are just words used by different countries. For example, in the US, we may use flat iron or hair straightener, but in the UK, they only use hair straightener. The terms all refer to a hair tool that is used to flatten or straighten hair with heat.

What Does Dual Voltage Mean?

Some electronics are designed so they can be used in different countries. This means they’ll be labeled as “dual voltage.” Dual voltage electronics have two options: 110-120V and 220-240V. They are ideal for travel because they are safe to use at home and abroad, too.

Some electronics, such as newer Macbooks and iPhones have dual voltage that automatically adjust in their destination. However, you may need to adjust the voltage manually by moving an external switch in certain items such as hair tools.

If your device isn’t dual voltage, you’re better off leaving it at home. However, most modern devices such as phones and laptops already have a dual voltage capability built in.

Dual voltage flat irons (or dual voltage straighteners), like the ones we have featured here, have two voltage options: 110-120V and 220-240V.  They are ideal for travel, because they are safe to use at home and abroad, too.

Read our guide that explains how voltage converters and travel adapters work!

Why Do I Need a Dual Voltage Flat Iron for International Travel?

Voltage refers to electricity; different countries have different types of electricity. This means that your electronics are the same voltage as the country in which you bought them, so if you take them to another country, they may not work.

For example, in the US, we use 110-120V; whereas in Europe, they use 220-240V. If we plug our electronics into each other’s outlets, they can blow a fuse and stop working. In some cases, they can even fry your hair.

Visit this website for a full list of voltage by country.

dual-voltage-flat-iron

Best International Travel Adapter

Your travel straightener needs to have two things in order to work in other countries:

  • The correct voltage
  • A travel adapter

Hair tools such as blow dryers, wands, curling irons, and your travel flat iron use a large amount of electricity, so it’s particularly important that they are used with the correct voltage.

Some travel flat iron options are designed so they can be used in different countries. This means they’ll be labeled as a “dual voltage flat iron.”

Travel adapter for travel straightener tools and other electronics:

Even if your hair tools are dual voltage, you still will need a travel adapter. A travel adapter enables you to plug your electronics, such as a travel flat iron, into international outlets. Not all countries use the same type of plug, so I recommend you buy an international adapter like this . Read more about the best travel adapter here .

Visit this power outlet guide for travelers to see a full list of plugs and outlets by country.

Best Travel Straightener to Use in the USA

If you’re from the US and traveling within the US, then you don’t need to have a dual voltage flat iron or travel straightener. However, you might want to save space by choosing a travel flat iron instead or one of the smaller options featured in the article.

If you’re traveling to the US from outside of the US, then you should use a dual voltage flat iron and make sure to switch to the 110V/120V before using it.

How to Choose a Travel Straightener for Europe

If you’re from the US and traveling to Europe, Asia, Africa, or the South Pacific, including Australia and New Zealand, then a dual voltage flat iron is absolutely essential. If the one you use at home has the dual voltage feature, then you can also use it on your travels, too.

Remember to switch your travel flat iron to 220V/240V when you arrive to your destination !

Where to Buy a Travel Straightener and Dual Voltage Flat Iron

You can buy a travel straightener or dual voltage flat iron in local beauty supplies or general stores such as Target . For premium options, Sephora and Nordstrom offer quality brands.

Personally, I love the convenience of Amazon since I have Prime , which includes free 1-2 day shipping, and free returns, too. They have a wide selection of travel flat irons for all budgets. You can click on any of the product names above to shop directly on Amazon.

Warning: a dual voltage flat iron will generally work in most countries, but travel blow dryers are a bit more complicated. Read this for more information.

What’s your favorite dual voltage flat iron or travel straightener? Please share in the comments below!

For more tips on travel hairstyles, please read these posts:

  • Best Travel Hair Dryers
  • How to Make Your Blowout Hairstyle Last for Days
  • What’s the Best Travel Hat?
  • Best Hair Products for Travelers with High Maintenance Manes

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We hope you learned which dual voltage flat iron is best for you. Please share this article with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

21 comments.

Linda

I have short-medium length thin hair. I have been looking unsuccessfully for a travel flat iron that has 1/2” wide or greater plates, is ceramic, ionic, dual voltage with adjustable temperature or maximum temperature of 375. Do you know of a travel flat iron that has all of the characteristics I am looking for? Thanks for your help.

Alex

Hi Linda, thank you for reaching out. The HSI straightener and the BaBylissPRO Nano Titanium Mini Straightening Iron have many of the features you are looking for including the adjustable temperature up to 410f, and ceramic plates. For more feedback about travel flat irons, I would recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ It is a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and suggestions to share. Hope this helps. Have an amazing time on your travels! ?

m. stein

is there a dual voltage straightener that is wider than 1″? my daughter’s hair is very thick and very long, she’ll be gone for 2 months and thinks she needs something a bit bigger. thanks,

Hi there, thank you for reaching out! The HSI Straightener featured on the article is great for heavy duty manes. For more suggestions, I would highly recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best packing advice and recommendations to share. Sorry I could not have been of more help. Hope your daughter has an amazing time on her travels! ?

Barbara

Can someone tell me the weight of the HSI flat iron? I have a dual voltage Chi with a one inch wide plate that weighs 13 3/4 ounces and is 10 1/4 inches at the longest point. I took it to Paris last March and it worked great with an adapter. I have short, thick hair. I’d love to find something more compact and lightweight if that’s possible, but will keep using the Chi if it’s not. Anyone have suggestions?

Hi Barbara, thank you for reaching out. Many of our readers rave about the products from BaByliss and the BaBylissPRO Mini Straightening Iron weighs 9.6 ounces, the HSI flat iron appears to be heavier at 1.4 pounds. The MHD Mini Straightener is lighter weighing about 6.4 ounces. Hope this helps. Happy travels! ?

Nancy Buck

Do you have a suggestion for a dual voltage hot air brush?

Hi Nancy, several of our readers recommend CONAIR 2-1 Hot Air Brush: https://amzn.to/2Sdpcnj or the PHOEBE Hot Curler Hot Brush: https://amzn.to/2LQSnf0 I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question about dual voltage hot air brush: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. I hope this helps. Happy travels!

Marcela

Best I have ever used is the Karmin

Hi Marcela, thank you for your sharing your recommendation! 🙂

Michele

Several of these that are listed as dual voltage actually are NOT dual voltage.

Robin

I bought the AmoVee straightener. Love it: lightweight, compact, comes with a heat-resistant pouch & glove.

Hi Robin, thank you so much for your comment! 🙂

Jennifer

This is an awesome resource. I have to have a straightener or else I fro out. Thanks for the tips!

Sue Hardy

Your dialogue says that there is switch on flat irons for changing the voltage. I just bought a dual voltage Hot Tools Titanium flat iron, but there is no switch. Is that something new?

alex

Hi Sue, sorry for the confusion. Some dual voltage products will have a switch. If they don’t, then it might be already be something that happens automatically such as with a Macbook.

Vikki Rome

How do I find out if my Ultra Chi flat iron is dual voltage? How do I find out the wattage? It is at least 12 years old. I could not find customer service number of Ultra Chi.

Hi Vikki, thank you for reaching. You could search for your flat iron brand online and look for the specific details for your appliance, or look at the flat iron itself and check that it is marked with a 100-240 volt notation. It might tell you on the tiny fine print on the plug end. If it says it’s 110-220 volts, then it is dual voltage. If it only says 110 volts or 220 volts (depending on the country you’re in), then it’s not dual voltage. Hope this helps answer your question! ?

Gloria

Loved the suggestions-will definitely bring a flat iron instead of the curling iron on my next drip!

Glad you liked the suggestions Gloria!

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professional travel iron

5 Best Clothing Irons of 2024, Tested by Laundry Experts

So long, rumpled, crumpled laundry.

best steam irons

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

What's the best steam iron? After months of testing irons in the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab , we named the CHI Steam Iron our best overall pick. A Lab favorite, it smoothed stubborn wrinkles and has an easy-fill water chamber, retractable cord and scratch-resistant soleplate. For a budget pick, we loved the Black+Decker Vitessa Advanced Steam Iron , which tied for the top spot in our wrinkle removal tests.

Our top picks:

Steam Iron with Titanium-Infused Ceramic Soleplate

Best Overall Steam Iron

Chi steam iron with titanium-infused ceramic soleplate.

Vitessa Advanced Steam Iron

Best Value Steam Iron

Black+decker vitessa advanced steam iron.

360º Ceramic Cordless Freestyle Iron

Best Cordless Steam Iron

Panasonic 360º ceramic cordless freestyle iron.

ExtremeSteam Pro Steam Iron

Fastest-Heating Steam Iron

Conair extremesteam pro steam iron.

Smart Temp Steam Iron

Best Steam Iron for Beginners

Rowenta smart temp steam iron.

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, we test thousands of new appliances and gadgets each year, including washing machines , vacuum cleaners , dishwashers , robot vacuums and, of course, steam irons. To find the best irons, we spent over four months testing irons and garment steamers in our Lab and considered feedback from our at-home consumer testers . Our tests included categories such as wrinkle removal, heat-up time and amount of steam produced, among other pressing factors.

At the end of this guide, learn about our testing process and how to find the best iron for your household, plus advice on extending its lifespan.

Maybe you know the CHI name from its curling irons , hair straighteners , curling wands and other beauty products. The brand has applied its top-notch heating and pressing technology to its line of irons too. In our Lab, this model not only expertly pressed linen and heavy cotton, but it also had the most powerful burst of steam in our tests.

The CHI is comfortable in the hand, and when you dial the fabric selection, the illuminated display confirms your choice. The large water tank's lid swivels out to fill, and a retractable cord means tidy, safe storage (no tripping over a dangling cord). The scratch-resistant ceramic soleplate glides beautifully.

This is such a Lab favorite that when a staffer comes in to borrow an iron — to freshen up GH lab coats for a photo shoot or press table linens for events in our Good Housekeeping dining room — we hide this one away, lest it disappear on us! But take note, we did find the CHI prone to tipping.

The Black+Decker Vitessa was among our top performers for wrinkle removal and is available at a third of the cost of our top pick. We love the six different temperature settings for more customized ironing. The nonstick soleplate glides evenly and we didn't experience any snagging. This light model (only 2 pounds) handily removed wrinkles from all of our test fabrics — linen, heavy cotton, light cotton, wool, silk and polyester and did a very good job producing steam.

To store, just push a button to retract the cord. It took a little longer to heat up, but once it picks up steam, it’s a cinch to maneuver. We appreciate its clear water tank that allows you to easily see how much water you have left. Overall, it's a great budget buy.

We named this handy iron with its own dock the best overall pick in our most recent cordless iron test — and over 1,050 five-star reviews on Amazon back us up. The Panasonic 360º Freestyle Cordless has a pointed tip at each end of the soleplate, so the whole surface is functional in any direction. Holes in the perimeter allow it to emit steam all around. You can speedily de-wrinkle larger items without the flat end of an iron scrunching up what you've already gone over.

You have to set it back on the base to reheat as you reposition your ironing. When we tested a similar cordless model, we never waited long for it to get back to full temperature. There's no cord to wrinkle what you’ve already pressed and you can move around to touch up bedding and other fabrics that are far from an outlet. With an easy-clean ceramic soleplate, this is a favorite portable option for sewers and quilters. It has a carrying case and removable tank to fill at the sink, plus steam, spray and temperature controls right on the handle. We like the deep groove that runs around the soleplate so you can glide around a button, zipper or snap. Although bulky, the base automatically shuts off if no movement is sensed after 10 minutes.

The Conair ExtremeSteam Pro heats up in under 60 seconds, even to the highest heat setting, and was a top steam producer in our tests. This model also impressively flattened persistent wrinkles on cotton, wool, silk and linen. Rubber feet make it less likely to topple, but it was a little bulky to maneuver. We found that keeping the water tank full to the max line helped prevent drips as we steamed.

This Good Housekeeping Seal -holder resists corrosion with a calcium collector and self-cleaning function. It has adjustable temperature settings, continuous vertical steam that doesn't spit and a misting function that doesn't drench fabric.

The Rowenta Smart Temp Steam model is designed to iron all fabrics at optimal heat, without any temperature dials. We didn't test this exact model in our Lab yet, but did evaluate a similar Rowenta with the same smart temperature function. It finished in a three-way tie for best wrinkle remover (with CHI and Black+Decker) and came in second in Lab performance tests.

With a 4.1-star Amazon rating, we aren't the only ones loving this. One reviewer said, "I am most impressed with the amount of steam generated." A stainless-steel soleplate and anti-calc system help the iron work and look like new for years. One pain point is the dark water tank which makes it hard to see how much water is inside. You have to lift the iron and jiggle it to gauge the water level.

We also like the Rowenta brand's Professional Steam Station with a 57-ounce removable water tank, fabric steamer and garment steamer. But it is an investment at almost $200.

How we test steam irons

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In the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab 's most recent iron-off, we dedicated a minimum of 10 hours to testing each iron. For the 15 irons in this round, we wrinkled, pressed and graded 90 fabric swatches and conducted nearly 400 performance and ease-of-use evaluations over a total of 150 hours.

When we test irons, we grade them in 14 categories, including the amount of steam they produce and at what rate. We gauge the temperature of the soleplate at various settings and the temperature swings (highs and lows), using heat sensors attached to the bottom. We also check how hot the handle and body of the iron get, for safety.

We weigh the irons (ease of lifting is important) and time how long each takes to heat up. We assess how user-friendly the controls and sprays are and how easy the water tank is to fill. Using a force gauge, we record how many pounds it takes to tip each iron over if placed on a wobbly board.

Finally, we wrinkle and ball up cotton, linen, wool, silk, nylon and other synthetic fabrics and allow the creases to set overnight. The next day, we iron each swatch and rate it on a smoothness scale of one to five, using standard visual guides employed by the textiles industry.

What to look for when shopping for the best iron

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Read up with this quick study guide ahead of time, whether shopping in-store or online.

✔️ Size: Get an iron that is right-sized for you. For safety, be sure it is comfortable to lift and handle. Our picks range from 2 pounds (Black+Decker) to 4.94 pounds (Panasonic, including carrying case). To cover more surface area in a single pass, choose an iron with a larger soleplate. If you plan on long ironing sessions, scope out a larger water tank that can go the distance, especially one that's transparent, so you can see how much water you have left.

✔️ Steam Power: Generally, we've found that the best irons have 1,700 to 1,800 watts of power. Steam is your friend when tackling tough wrinkles. An iron with a stronger, longer stream of steam will press fabrics better (and faster).

✔️ Safety Features: Most irons today automatically shut off when tipped. We prefer those that turn off quickly when landing in any direction, not just onto the soleplate. The CHI iron automatically shuts off in 60 seconds if it lands on either its side or the soleplate but stays on for 30 minutes if positioned on its heel, which quilters and sewers appreciate when going back and forth to the ironing board.

✔️ Ironing Needs: For wrinkled linen, heavy cotton or denim, use the steam burst and spray features. Vertical steam works well for drapes, bed skirts and other home furnishings. A steam station with a large water tank, vertical steam and a sturdy base to hold the iron when not in use is good for quilting, sewing and handling big batches of rumpled garments. But for flawlessly crisp shirts, the best strategy is still to use a steam iron on a flat ironing board.

Can I put tap water in my iron?

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Tap water is usually fine in your iron unless your home has hard water, meaning it contains higher levels of dissolved calcium and magnesium. According to the use and care manual for our top pick, the CHI Steam Iron, the water reservoir should be filled to the max line with untreated tap water, except if you have extremely hard water. Then the company suggests mixing 50 percent untreated tap water with 50 percent distilled water instead. That way, you won't end up with mineral deposits inside your iron.

When to choose an iron over a steamer

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An iron can outshine a clothes steamer when it comes to perfectly crisp dress shirts and pleats. Irons are also better at de-rumpling tablecloths, napkins, curtains and any big swaths of fabric that are more easily laid flat on an ironing board than hung to vertically steam. Maneuvering a steamer over an area that large would be awkward and tiring. Sewers and quilters prefer irons for their handiwork because pattern pieces should be crease-free before being stitched into place.

How long does an iron last?

With proper handling, an iron can last for years and years. Make sure to keep the soleplate clean, empty the water tank after each use and flush or self-clean the iron every few months to ensure the holes in the plate are open and clear. Poor maintenance can lead to a shorter lifespan, and some irons break when accidentally knocked over. To avoid this, purchase a stable and sturdy ironing board so your iron is still standing even if you or your pet happen to bump into the board.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Carolyn Forté has tested dozens of steam irons and steamers in over 40 years of experience researching, testing and writing about appliances like washers, dryers and vacuums. As the executive director of the Cleaning Lab, she oversees all testing done by our reviews analysts, including the most recent tests of steam irons and steamers.

Contributing writer Alice Garbarini Hurley has written about home, food and style for more than 40 years for Seventeen, Good Housekeeping, Coastal Living and other magazines. She still has the ironing board her friend's mother gave her as a bridal shower gift, and Alice loves the short story she first read in college called "I Stand Here Ironing," published by busy mother Tillie Olsen in 1956.

Headshot of Carolyn Forté

Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor's degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.

Headshot of Alice Garbarini Hurley

Alice Garbarini Hurley has been a lifestyle and consumer writer since a pizza parlor taste test for the Dumont High School Periscope . She wrote about prom dresses and mascara at Seventeen, then about everything that matters at Good Housekeeping as a senior lifestyle writer for 10 years and as a GH freelancer for 10 more. Her work has appeared in The New York Times , Coastal Living and InStyle . She has published essays and has blogged at Truth and Beauty since 2010. Writing keeps Alice calm and focused while raising a teenage girl. She loves bluebells and daffodils, Cape Cod, accessories, cream in her coffee and reading cookbooks cover to cover.   

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Remington Shine Therapy 1 inch Hair Straightener Iron, Flat Iron for Hair Infused with Argan Oil & Keratin, Professional Ceramic Flat Iron for Less Frizz, Shinier & Smoother Hair, Hair Styling Tools

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Remington Shine Therapy 1 inch Hair Straightener Iron, Flat Iron for Hair Infused with Argan Oil & Keratin, Professional Ceramic Flat Iron for Less Frizz, Shinier & Smoother Hair, Hair Styling Tools

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

  • Advanced Ceramic Plates: Dive into a superior styling experience with 9X more ceramic than standard Remington models. Infused with antioxidant-rich Argan oil, protein-packed Keratin, and a magical micro-conditioner for consistently even heat.
  • 2x Shine-Enhancing Technology: Say goodbye to dull, frizzy hair! As you style with this hair iron straightener, the micro-conditioner combines with advanced ceramic to gift you smooth, radiant shine that beams with confidence.
  • 1” Wide Flat Iron: A hair flat iron that's got your back! Featuring a floating plate for the silkiest glide. Paired with professional hair straightener technology, you're in for an unbeatable hair transformation!
  • Shine Like Never Before: Achieve up to 50% shinier hair with the Remington Shine Therapy ceramic hair straightener. Boost your hair's health and shine, making every strand count. Rejuvenate your hair's inner glow.
  • Travel-Friendly Radiance: Whether at home or on the move, the Remington travel hair straightener ensures your hair always radiates. Unveil your hair's potential with every straightening iron session.

professional travel iron

Frequently bought together

Remington Shine Therapy 1 inch Hair Straightener Iron, Flat Iron for Hair Infused with Argan Oil & Keratin, Professional Cera

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From the manufacturer

flat iron straightener

Product Description

In a world awash with hair tools, the Remington Shine Therapy Argan Oil & Keratin hair straightner emerges as an emblem of perfection. This isn't just a typical straightener flat iron; it's a masterclass in hair care, blending superior technology with nature's treasures. Tailored with the brilliance of a professional hair straightener, every session with this device ensures precision, making each strand sing with vitality and shine. The straightening iron isn’t just about transforming your hair's appearance; it's about enhancing its inherent health and radiance. Amidst the extensive array of hair straightening irons, Remington stands unparalleled, offering salon-like brilliance wherever you are. And for those always on the move, this jewel doubles as the quintessential travel hair straightener, ensuring you never compromise on your hair's panache. Dive into the Remington experience, where it's not merely about style; it's about a profound commitment to your hair's health and vibrancy.

Product details

  • Product Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 10.8 x 1.2 x 1.2 inches; 1.04 Pounds
  • Item model number ‏ : ‎ S9511
  • UPC ‏ : ‎ 074590556063
  • Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Remington
  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09GKY436P
  • Country of Origin ‏ : ‎ China
  • #2 in Hair Straightening Irons

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First Time Trying & Review: Remington Hair Straightener

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1+ Years of Use: Do I REGRET Buying? Quick DEMO

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Customer Review: Very dissatisfied with the product

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Honest review of Remington hair straightner

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Customer Review: Affordable and effective

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Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

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Customers say

Customers like the value, effect, quality and temperature of the hair iron. For example, they mention it works well for curly, frizzy hair, straightens it and that it heats up fast. Customers are also impressed with the appearance, saying it looks beautiful, shiny and healthy.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the hair iron. They mention it's a great straightener, works well at straightening hair, and leaves hair soft and shiny. The plates straighten hair without pulling.

"...Not only did this iron straighten my hair quickly but it left is soft and shiny." Read more

"...Heats up super fast and leaves my (dyed!) hair shiny and healthy . Stays straight all day." Read more

"This is by far the very best hair straightener I have ever used! Turns on fast. Slides through my fine old lady hair like butter!..." Read more

"...This is a great quality flat iron for a great price point. I would buy again." Read more

Customers like the performance of the hair iron. For example, they say it works well, produces amazing results, and doesn't break the bank. Some mention that the temperature control works perfectly well and that it works quickly.

"Very lightweight and easy to use! Heats up quickly and provides great results so far !" Read more

"... This does the job perfectly . Heats up super fast and leaves my (dyed!) hair shiny and healthy. Stays straight all day." Read more

"...In the last month or so since I’ve had it- it works well ...." Read more

"... Works perfectly for my needs . My hair is fine above shoulder length." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the temperature of the hair iron. They mention that it heats up fast, smooths hair beautifully, and has an insane 15 second warm up. They also appreciate the different heat temperatures, and the adjustable temperature. The straightener is lightweight and turns on fast.

"The flat iron is pretty. It is very light weight and heats up quickly ...." Read more

"Very lightweight and easy to use! Heats up quickly and provides great results so far!" Read more

"...This does the job perfectly. Heats up super fast and leaves my (dyed!) hair shiny and healthy. Stays straight all day." Read more

"...This straightener is lightweight, has adjustable temperature which was a requirement for me...." Read more

Customers like the effect of the hair iron. They mention that it works well for their curly, frizzy hair, and that it gives their hair a smooth and shiny look. Some say that it's easy to maneuver and that the product is lightweight. Some customers also mention that the hair straightener saves their hair's texture. Overall, most are satisfied with the product's effect on hair.

"...Slides through my fine old lady hair like butter! Doesn’t pull hairs out , not even once! My hair feels so soft and looks absolutely gorgeous!..." Read more

"...I can control the temperature as low as 300F and save my hair’s texture . I love this for smoothing my hair after using the blow dryer...." Read more

"...Said it heat up pretty fast and curls her hair very good ." Read more

"...This straightener has saved my hair ! Absolutely a game changer" Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the hair iron. They say it's a good product for the price, easy to use and control, and works well for the cost.

"...This is a great quality flat iron for a great price point . I would buy again." Read more

"...Doesn’t leave my hair staticky like some others do. Great for the price !" Read more

"This straightener is excellent and works so well. Given the cheap price (compared to other straighteners on the market) I would recommend this..." Read more

"...I love Remington straiteners. Cost , ease of use, and longevity are why I remain loyal to this brand...." Read more

Customers like the appearance of the hair iron. For example, they say it looks beautiful, makes their hair look shiny, and healthy. Some mention it's easy to style and has several options for your hair and preference.

"...My hair feels so soft and looks absolutely gorgeous ! And the shine!!! Highly recommend!! Don’t pass this one by!" Read more

"...I can tame fly aways, get my hair evenly styled , removing the strap "moulding" from my VR headset and fluff my hair if I need...." Read more

"...my hair is soft, shiny no frizz so easy to style . I feel so much more confident. I have natural wavy hair with some curls...." Read more

"Its lightweight. Has a sleek design . Great lock feature at the bottom. and the lowest temperature is 300...." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the shine of the hair iron. They mention that it makes their hair very shiny and soft, with no frizz. Some say that the hair is the softest and shiniest at this temperature. Overall, most are happy with the product's shine and quality.

"...only did this iron straighten my hair quickly but it left is soft and shiny ." Read more

"...My hair feels so soft and looks absolutely gorgeous! And the shine !!! Highly recommend!! Don’t pass this one by!" Read more

"... This flat is is PERFECT . I can control the temperature as low as 300F and save my hair’s texture...." Read more

Customers find the hair iron easy to use. They say it's easy to straighten and curl their hair, and it takes 5 minutes.

"Very lightweight and easy to use ! Heats up quickly and provides great results so far!" Read more

"...like how it styles my hair, it heats un super fast and it’s very easy to manipulate ." Read more

"...I love Remington straiteners. Cost, ease of use , and longevity are why I remain loyal to this brand...." Read more

" Easy to use ." Read more

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In 1981, then-Prince Charles’s private secretary Michael Colborne tried to prepare sacrificial lamb and the very inexperienced Lady Diana Spencer about the life that lay ahead: “You could get a diary for three years from now and write in it the things that you are going to have to be doing – Trooping the Color, Ascot, Order of the Garter – and you’ll know where you’ll be and what date.”

A royal existence might be many things – grand, rarefied, far too many partridges – but it is also tediously, soul-crushingly predictable.

Colborne’s instruction was just as true several decades later when underemployed Chelsea resident  Kate Middleton , owner of the borough’s most used treadmill and curling tongs, prepared to marry Prince William .

If the princess had gotten herself a diary in those heady pre-wedding days she could have plotted out those very same events – Trooping, Ascot blah blah blah – only she could have added one major red-letter outing of her own.

For years now, by and large, Kate has used the early months of each new year to debut some new big, bold bit of her marquee early childhood work.

Let us take a Princess Anne-approved canter down memory lane.

In January 2020, Kate launched the Five Big Questions survey, which saw 500,000 Brits take part in a landmark survey about the state of early childhood.

The beginning of 2021 proved a bit of a bugger thanks to the perfidious spread of a certain virus and the fact that someone had to pop round to sanitize the Crown Jewels.

Still in June of that year Kate was able to launch the Royal Foundation for Early Childhood.

Catherine Princess of Wales during a visit to the Windsor Family Hub on June 06, 2023 in Windsor, England

(William has no foundation of his own, it’s worth noting.)

In February 2022 the show was back on the road with the princess heading to Denmark for a two-day trip to learn about the Scandinavian nation’s world-leading approach.

Did the world get to see a future Queen go down a slippery slide?

Yes indeed, and it was a delight.

Come February 2023 (are you noticing a pattern here?), the debut of the Foundation’s Shaping Us campaign, a UK-wide advertising and communications push to change the way that early childhood is understood.

Kate Middleton's cancer diagnosis announcement

March 2023 saw the Princess of Wales hit the City to make the swinging d-cks look up from their Bloomberg terminals to take notice of the launch of her Early Years Business Taskforce, which includes NatWest bank, UK insurance giant Aviva, Ikea and the Lego Group.

Proving that a second-class art history degree isn’t entirely decorative, also in March she penned a think piece for the prestigious  Financial Times  about the Task Force urging “we have to invest in early childhood now, as a down payment for our collective future.”

(In a break with the usual timing, November 2023 saw the first Shaping Us symposium, which brought together big names and hard hitters from academia and politics. It’s between you and your god if you think symposium participants Sir Tony Blair and former conservative leader Lord William Hague constitute the ‘great’ or the ‘good’.)

So you can see, when it comes to the princess’s work, as the years passed, trails have been blazed, firsts racked up, and she has spent more and more of her time doing events with PhDs and boffins than Women’s Institute stalwarts and clammy regional Lord Lieutenants.

Therefore, by rights, given we are now in April, we should have had our regularly scheduled big Early Years event where I get a chance to do some eager cheerleading about Kate’s work.

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(The short version – Early Years sounds like a playgroup started by a village vicar’s wife using wooden blocks but is in fact a sweeping project focused on a UK-wide paradigm shift with the aim of fundamentally improving an entire generation’s mental health and emotional development.)

Except of course, 2024 has so far proven to be a year where rules, precedent and form have gone out the window as both Buckingham and Kensington Palaces try to work out how the hell to do royal-ing when two of their principals, as they are known, are battling cancer.

Late last month, watching Kate reveal on camera that she has cancer, the princess was a far paler, far more wan version of her usual chirpy self, the emotional, psychological and physical toll of not only her diagnosis but abdominal surgery clear.

A huge part of this weight, working out how “to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that is appropriate for them, and to reassure them that I am going to be OK”.

There is a lot and there is what the princess has gone through over the last 10 weeks.

Prince William and Catherine Duchess of Cambridge

And while it is far down on the list of worries, the terrible cherry on top of this cake is that the building momentum around Early Years has skittered to an abrupt halt.

Obviously, the Foundation is still chuffing along and things have not ground to a complete standstill simply because Kate can’t be sent out to launch a report while done up in a purple power suit.

Also, even though Kate has been on sick leave, it does not sound like her out-of-office has entirely been on.

In January, when the princess’s abdominal surgery was first announced (it would only be in the course of this that doctors would discover she had cancer), the  Sunday Times ’ royal editor Roya Nikkhah reported that Kate was set to “work from bed” and that “aides insist her work will not stall.”

But the impact of her surgery and her diagnosis on Early Years – something that Kate is deeply invested in and which has been really gaining steam – is inevitable.

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And it has taken Kate such a hike to get here.

In the years after William and Kate wed, the princess proved a dab hand at buying nice hats and having the requisite babies and charming mid-tier diplomats at dull drinks receptions, forever clutching a glass of plain tap water.

However, it was only with 2016’s Heads Together, the joint mental health initiative set up with William and Prince Harry, and then the progression of her interest in mental health that led to Early Years that Kate really started to demonstrate that there is much more to her than might meet the eye.

Despite that tortoise-like start, as this year rolled round, the princess’s royal career was unlike any a princess or future Queen in history could boast – a woman on her way to making a difference for an entire generation.

Big, bold national change sure beats an HRH being poured out of the back of a Jag to officially open a Midlands aquatic center when it comes to impact, hmm?

I still haven’t quite gotten my head around recent events – 2024, you see, was meant to be a nice steady year where no senior members of the royal family bolted for the exits or made right tits of themselves on television.

We should be enjoying a year where royal aides can tirelessly trot out naval metaphors (plain sailing, smooth seas, steady as she goes) to explain how things are going inside the palace walls.

Not only does King Charles have cancer but the Princess of Wales does too, which coming hot on the heels of the erupting egos of the spares and the attendant fallout, has left the monarchy on the verge of being hobbled.

Given how long it has taken Kate to reach a point where she has this impressive professional beast of an outfit to her name, I think we owe it to her to at least acknowledge that down the list from the personal and family price of her diagnosis, is the massive professional setback she now faces too.

When she’s recovered and hale and hearty and her curling tongs are heating up ahead of another big symposium, the world – and that diary of hers – will be right here waiting.

Daniela Elser is a writer, editor and a royal commentator with more than 15 years’ experience working with a number of Australia’s leading media titles.

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Catherine Princess of Wales during a visit to the Windsor Family Hub on June 06, 2023 in Windsor, England

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