You may never have put much thought into irons before you started sewing. Now, you know how important the iron is. Finding the best iron for sewing can be time-consuming.
We wanted to help you make your decision easier. If you are new to sewing or have been doing it for years, we have found an iron that will be perfect for you.
Top 3 Best Iron for Sewing in 2023
Overall Best Iron for Sewing
We love that this powerful sewing iron is cordless. Panasonic NI-WL600 Cordless have the ability to move around freely will make completing sewing projects quicker and easier.
Premium Choice
The Reliable Velocity 230IR Steam Iron can handle heavy fabrics and delicates in the same load. It makes ironing simple and effortless. There is no need to separate your pile, so you can work with like fabrics.
Great Value
The Shark Steam iron does not have all the fancy features that other irons have. But it is affordable and can get the job done. If you are looking good reliable iron that is reasonably priced, the Shark Steam Iron may be for you.
What is an Iron?
An iron is a useful heated tool that is used to smooth fabrics. The temperature can usually be set between 275 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature setting that you use will depend on the type of fabric you will be working with.
An iron can remove wrinkles from cloth by loosening the bonds between the fibers of the cloth. The weight of the iron and the pressure you apply will help to straighten the heated fibers. Some fabrics may need water to help loosen the fibers. To add water, you will need a steam iron.
Most Common Fabric Temperature Settings:
- Acetate: 290 F
- Acrylic: 275 F
- Corduroy: 390 F
- Cotton: 400 F
- Lace: 275 F
- Linen: 300 F
- Lycra/Spandex: 275 F
- Nylon: 275 F
- Polyester: 300 F
- Silk: 300 F
- Triacetate: 390 F
- Velvet: 275 F
- Viscose/Rayon: 375 F
- Wool: 300 F
Do You Need an Iron When Sewing?
An iron is a necessary tool when sewing. Ironing is performed throughout the whole process from preparing the fabric to pressing seams. No project can be completed perfectly without using an iron. And if you don’t have the best iron for sewing, you will be causing yourself a lot more work and stress.
How to Choose the Best Iron for Sewing
When choosing the best iron for sewing there are a few things you will want to take into consideration. These are:
- Weight of the Iron (empty and filled with water)
You want an iron that is heavy and can straighten the fabric fibres. However, you want an iron that is light enough to work with and is comfortable to use. The best iron for sewing will have a little weight but will not put a strain on you.
- The Water Tank
A clear water tank that is easy to fill is the optimum choice. Having a clear tank gives you the ability to monitor the water level easily. Having a detachable tank will make it easy to fill and dump. You will also want to make sure that the spout is large. Filling a tank can be difficult, and you will not want to spill any water when doing so.
- Ergonomic
Ironing can be uncomfortable. Take into consideration how well the iron feels in your hand. The better it feels, the less strain you will be putting on yourself. The best iron for sewing will feel comfortable and natural in your hand. A non-slip handle is also a positive feature.
- Pointed Sole Plate
An iron with a pointed sole plate at the tip will make ironing tricky spots easier. The pointed tip will allow you to iron around buttons and other obstacles with ease.
- Power Cord
The length of the power cord is a feature that many people overlook. However, a short cord can be a real problem. Look for an iron that has a long cord that gives you the ability to move around your project freely.
- Anti-scale feature
If you use water, the elements can buildup and need descaling. To remove this hassle, purchase an iron that has a limescale filter.
- Wattage
The wattage will determine how fast the iron heats up. It also determines how hot the iron can get and the amount of steam it can generate. Higher wattage irons often perform better than lower wattage irons. The best irons for sewing have a wattage over 1500 watts.
- Steam Holes
The more steam holes there are, the more steam the iron can generate. More steam equals easier ironing. The holes should be distributed evenly for best results.
- Auto Shut Off
An iron that has been left on can cause a fire and serious burns. The auto shut off feature can help prevent potential disasters. It is easy to walk away from an iron and forget that it is on. This is dangerous. The auto shut off feature can give you a sense of peace.
10 Best Iron for Sewing in 2023
1. Rowenta DW5080 1700-Watt Micro Steam Iron
The Rowenta DW5080 iron can get you to work fast. It has 1700-watt of power and can heat up in 60 seconds.
Why We Like the Rowenta DW5080 Micro Steam Iron:
This iron is easy to use and can also be used as a vertical steamer.
- Steamer
This function makes it easy to touch up clothing and drapes without dragging out the ironing board.
- Ergonomic Knob
The ergonomic know is easy to use and understand.
- Heats Up Quickly
This iron heats up and is ready to use within one minute.
Pros and Cons of the Rowenta DW5080 Micro Steam Iron:
Pros:
- Precision Tip
- 400 plus stem holes
- 1700 Watts
- 3-way auto shut off
- Anti-calcium System
- Easy Vertical Steaming
Cons:
- Heavy
- Price
- Semi-transparent Water Tank
2. Shark Steam Iron
The Shark Steam iron is perfect for those on a strict budget. It does not have all the bells and whistles that more expensive irons have. But it can get the job done.
Why We Like the Shark Steam Iron:
This affordable iron heats up quickly.
- Stainless Steel Soleplate
The stainless-steel soleplate glides smoothly over fabric.
- Vertical Use
Being lightweight and having multiple steam settings this iron can handle most fabrics while they are hanging.
- Price
You cannot beat the price.
Pros and Cons of the Shark Steam Iron:
Pros:
- Affordable
- Stainless Steel Soleplate
- Transparent Water Tank
- Smooth Glide Technology
Cons:
- Knob Location
- Just at 1500 Watts
3. Sunbeam Steammaster Steam Iron
For those that need a lightweight iron the Sunbeam Steam Master may be the right choice.
Why We Like the Sunbeam Steammaster Steam Iron:
This is a good iron for beginners and those with arthritis. It is affordable and easy to use.
- Retractable Cord
The retractable cord makes the Sunbeam Steam Master Steam Iron easy to store.
- Vertical Shot of Steam
This convenient function makes it easy to touch up things around the house.
- 3-Way Motion Smart technology
The iron will automatically shut off if left unattended, tipped over or set in an improper position.
Pros and Cons of the Sunbeam Steammaster Steam Iron:
Pros:
- 3-Way Motion Smart technology
- 8’ Retractable Cord
- Stainless Steel Soleplate
- Variable Steam
- Vertical Shot of Steam Feature
- Anti-calcium System
Cons:
- 15 macro holes
- Only 1400 Watts
- Cannot See Water Level Without Opening
4. BLACK+DECKER Professional Steam Iron with Extra Large Soleplate
The Black and Decker Professional Steam Iron is perfect for a beginner.
Why We Like the BLACK+DECKER Professional Steam Iron:
This high-performance affordable iron can take care of wrinkles quickly and effectively.
- 10-Foot Cord
The cord length allows you to move around your project easily.
- Weight
This best iron for sewing has a good weight that is easy to work with.
- Safety Features
If this iron is left on its soleplate or falls over, it will go into standby mode to prevent damage and a fire.
Pros and Cons of the BLACK+DECKER Professional Steam Iron:
Pros:
- Affordable
- 3 Lbs.
- Heats Quickly
- Comfort Grip Handle
- 10-Foot Cord
- Standby Mode After 8 Minutes
- Standby Mode After 30 seconds on Side or Soleplate
- Stem Surge
- Auto Clean System
Cons:
- Temperature Control Dial Use 1-6
- Steam Surge Button Location
- Only 1500 Watts
5. Rowenta DW9280 Digital Display Steam Iron
Rowenta is known for being one of the best irons on the market. The DW9280 model is no different.
Why We Like the Rowenta DW9280 Digital Display Steam Iron:
This is a high-power iron that heats up almost instantly.
- 1800 Watts of Power
The Rowenta DW9280 heats up quickly and retains the heat. It can handle all types of fabrics.
- Powerful Burst of Steam
This iron has a powerful burst of steam that is effective in removing creases.
- Anti-Calcium and Self-Cleaning Systems
The anti-calcium and self-cleaning system will help increase the iron’s lifespan.
Pros and Cons the Rowenta DW9280 Digital Display Steam Iron:
Pros:
- 1800 Watts of Power
- 400 Steamholes
- LED Ready Indicator
- Smart Steam Motion Sensor
- Anti-Calcium and Self-Clean Systems
- Precision Tip
Cons:
- A Little Heavy
- Water Tank is Not Clear
- 7’ Cord
- Price
6. Black & Decker D6000 All-Temp Steam Iron with Stainless-Steel Soleplate
Black and Decker is one of the most trusted brands on the market.
Why We Like the Black & Decker D6000 All-Temp Steam Iron:
This digital iron is one of the most affordable best irons for sewing. The powerful steam features and heavy soleplate gives professional results.
- 360-Degree Pivoting Cord
The pivoting cord feature helps keep the cord out of the way.
- Digital Fabric and Temperature Selector
This iron has a powerful burst of steam that is effective in removing creases.
- Smart Steam Technology
Smart steam technology allows the iron to adjust steam automatically.
Pros and Cons of the Black & Decker D6000 All-Temp Steam Iron:
Pros:
- Digital fabric and temperature selector
- Comfort grip handle
- 360-degree pivoting cord
- Automatic Shut Off
Cons:
- Bulky
- Heavy
- Only 1500 Watts
- No Precision Tip
7. Reliable Velocity 230IR Steam Iron
The Reliable Velocity 230IR Steam Iron makes ironing simple and effortless.
Why We Like the Reliable Velocity 230IR Steam Iron:
With the Reliable Velocity 230IR Steam Iron, you can iron large volumes of clothes. The iron produces continuous powerful high-pressure steam.
- Touch Sensor Technology
This iron can release steam just by touching the handle
- Auto and Turbo Setting
These features allow you to iron heavy fabrics and delicates in the same load.
- Anodized Aluminum Soleplate
Scratch-resistant soleplate glides smoothly over fabric.
Pros and Cons of the Reliable Velocity 230IR Steam Iron:
Pros:
- Sensor Technology
- Anodized Aluminum Soleplate
- 360-degree Swivel Cord
- Touch Sensor Technology
- Auto and Turbo Setting
- Transparent Water Tank
- Compact Vapour Generator
- Auto Off & Bypass
Cons:
- Price
- Heavy
- No On/Off Button
- No Precision Tip
8. Panasonic NI-WL600 Cordless, Portable 1500W Steam/Dry Iron
The PAN-NI-WL600 has an ergonomic design that is comfortable to use.
Why We Like the Panasonic NI-WL600 Cordless:
Having a cordless iron gives you the freedom you need to move around. And you never have to worry about the cord being in your way.
- Cordless
You have the freedom to move around when your iron is not tethered to the wall.
- Water Tank
The water tank is transparent and removable.
- Visually Appealing Design
This iron looks like no other.
Pros and Cons of the Panasonic NI-WL600 Cordless:
Pros:
- Cordless
- Stainless Steel Soleplate
- Retractable Cord in Charging Base
- Anti-Drip Design
- Vertical Steaming
- Transparent Water Tank
- Detachable Water Tank
- Digital temperature control
- Self-Cleaning
- Storage Case
- Iron in Every Direction
- Spray-Mist Button
Cons:
- Price
- 32 Steam Vents
- Takes Time to Get Used to Design
- Rechargeable Battery Dies Quickly
9. CHI Steam Iron for Clothes with Titanium Infused Ceramic Soleplate
This steam iron is made by the same company that manufactures CHI flat Irons.
Why We Like the CHI Steam Iron:
This CHI Iron has some notable features that help put it on our Best Iron for Sewing list.
- Titanium-infused Ceramic Soleplate
This is the same technology that they use in the hair styling tools.
- Temperature Control Function
With the CHI iron you no longer have to guess as temperatures. Pick the fabric you are using, and the iron chooses the correct temperature.
- Modern Design
This iron will turn heads.
Pros and Cons of the CHI Steam Iron:
Pros:
- 8 ft. Retractable Cord
- Electronic Temperature Controls
- 1700 Watts
- Titanium-infused Ceramic Soleplate
- Over 400 Steam Holes
- Auto shut off
- Textured Comfort Grip
Cons:
- Heavy
- Price
- Red Water Tank
- Difficult to Fill Water Tank
10. Rowenta DW6080 Energy Saving Steam Iron
This powerful 1700 watt steam iron has a lot of features that make ironing easier.
Why We Like the Rowenta DW6080 Steam Iron for sewing:
The Rowenta DW6080 can remove stubborn wrinkles easily.
- Less Energy Consumption
This iron uses less energy making it more economical.
- 400 Hole Design
The 400 micro holes ensure that the steam is distributed evenly over the fabric
- 3 Different Steam Settings
You get to decide how much steam is released.
Pros and Cons of the Rowenta DW6080 Steam Iron for sewing:
Pros:
- 400 Micro Steam Holes
- 3-Way Auto-Off Feature
- Anti-calcium System
- 1700 Watts
- Smart Eco Position
- Stainless Steel Soleplate
- Vertical steaming capability
- 3 Different Steam Settings
- Auto shut off
- Ergonomic Design
Cons:
- Price
- Leaks
- Difficult to Fill Water Tank
Having the best iron for sewing can make your finished creations look polished and professional.
Having a good steam iron when you are sewing will make it easier and safer to work with your fabrics. There are countless models available on the market. But they are not all the same. We have put a lot of research into finding the highest-quality iron for sewing.
For more sewing related stuff, check our Favorite Heavy Duty Sewing Machine Review, Backpack Sewing Patterns and Yellow Brick Road Quilt Patterns.
We hope our top 10 list of Best Iron for Sewing helps make your purchasing decision simpler.
