How to choose a travel iron?

When going on the road, from the mass of things, people will definitely single out for themselves a few of the most necessary ones, which will certainly be needed on the trip. Often an iron becomes such a thing, but the dimensions of a standard electrical appliance do not always allow you to take it with you. A travel iron is a great way out of the situation. It will take up little space in your bag and you will always have a flawless look.

The travel iron is designed to take care of clothes outside the home (on a business trip, travel, at the dacha, etc.). Since the device is intended to be transported, it has some special features. Firstly, it has a low weight, which ranges from 0.5 kg to 1 kg. Secondly, it is quite compact. Some models fit in the palm of your hand and are up to 20 cm long.

As for the handles of such "kids", their designs are also aimed at saving space in the bag. They can be in the form of a protrusion on the surface of the device body or act as a separate element. Preference is given to the second option, since the standard handle greatly simplifies and speeds up the ironing process.

The advantage of mini irons is their ease of use. They are equipped with only the most essential functions that allow you to quickly tidy things up. Included in this category are the steaming system and steam boost, which will smooth out any wrinkles in your clothes.

A prerequisite for this option is the presence of a water tank. It is most often built into the handle of the device and has a small volume (up to 100 ml).It is closed with a silicone lid, protected from leakage by a special gasket. These containers are built-in and removable. However, the latter are not particularly welcomed by buyers, as they quickly fail.

Additional functions in travel irons are steam boost and spray. They are not available on all models.

The devices have several operating modes designed for different types of fabrics:

• cotton;
• silk + synthetics;
• wool + mixed fabrics.

This is very convenient, since it allows you not to waste time on choosing the right temperature for a particular type of matter. Simpler models are not equipped with such modes. They offer a temperature range that also helps iron different types of fabrics. In some models, the temperature regulator is completely absent, which makes it impossible to take care of delicate things.

In most cases, outdoor irons have similar characteristics, namely:

• light weight;
• compactness;
• the presence of a steaming function.

But still, there are small differences. Irons differ among themselves in power, weight, size, volume of the container for liquid, sole material, etc. The devices also differ in the design of the handle. It can be foldable and stationary.

Models with a folding handle are divided into positions:

• "Push";
• "to yourself".

In the first version, the handle is folded, pressing against the body of the iron. In the second case, it also adjoins the top or the side of the body, but this position is achieved by pressing a button at the back of the device. An option is possible when the handle, turning 180 °, turns into a brush for vertical steaming. Devices with a foldable handle are preferred as they take up less space.

A special type of travel iron is represented by the USB model. This portable mini-device will fit not only in a hiking bag, but also in a ladies' bag, and even in a pocket. Its peculiarity is that it runs on batteries. If the device is pre-charged via a USB cable, then it can do without them.

Another special type of travel iron is the handheld steamer. In fact, it is a steam generator that works exclusively with steam. Lightweight, convenient and sleek device is simply irreplaceable on a trip. It will take up very little space in your suitcase, and its benefits are invaluable.

It allows you to iron things upright. And although he cannot cope with too coarse and dense fabrics, he will perfectly smooth out such capricious elements as frill, pleated, flounces, ruffles and other small details. The device can work continuously for 15 minutes. This is not much, but as a business trip, this option is very good.

When choosing an iron for travel, first of all focus on your needs, financial capabilities and luggage volume. Here are some tips on what to look for in order to get a quality device at an affordable price.

• The weight. Excess weight on the road is useless, but you should not buy a device with a very low weight, because it will not cope with dense fabrics. Choose a device weighing 700-800 g.
• Compactness. It is small in size, but the foldable handle is an important element.
• Power. The optimal indicator for a travel iron is 1000 watts. An important point in the functioning of a mini-iron is the ability to work from both 220 V and 110 V. A special switch makes it possible to adjust the modes.
• Capacity for water. Larger volumes are preferred.

• Steam delivery, which is measured in grams per minute. Possible options: 10 to 30 g / min. Take a device with an average value.
• Steam boost. The maximum amount is up to 100 g / min. This indicator copes with super heavy tissues. You can opt for 60-75 g / min.
• Cord length. This is an important guideline as you cannot know for sure what conditions you will be in. The optimal figure is 2 m.
• Case. It's good if the device comes with a special case. It is essential for safe transportation.

One of the important criteria for choosing a traveling iron is its sole, or rather, the material from which it is made.

• Aluminum. A very light material that heats up instantly and also cools down easily. Its significant disadvantage is increased softness, due to which accidental contact with metal accessories renders the surface unusable. In order to secure the coating a little, a spraying is applied to it: gel, Teflon, ceramic or stainless steel.
• Stainless steel. Reliable, durable coating. Durable, not injured. Smoothes any creases with high quality. It heats up a little longer than aluminum, and also surpasses it in weight. Despite the fairly good performance, manufacturers are trying to improve these soles. They add chromium, sapphire chips, aluminum, titanium. This ensures the durability of the material, improves sliding and thermal conductivity, and gives strength.

A significant disadvantage is increased fragility. The material is easily injured, and carbon deposits accumulate on the damaged area.

If you decide to choose a handheld steamer for yourself, pay attention to the following recommendations:

• power - 1500 W;
• pressure - 3.5 bar and higher;
• steam supply - the more, the better;
• case - metal;
• minimum additional functions.

Let these tips help you choose a worthy assistant, but still, do not forget to focus on your wardrobe first. Perhaps you will make some deviations from the recommendations.

The modern market is represented by a wide variety of models of mini-irons, differing in characteristics and prices. But usually, preference is given to proven, world-renowned manufacturing firms.

• weight - 600 g;
• power - 800 W;
• non-stick coating;
• network switch;
• steam flow - 30 g / min;
• foldable handle;
• streamlined shape;
• cost - 1600 rubles.

• power - 1100 W;
• steam supply - 15 g / min;
• steam boost;
• stainless steel;
• water tank - 40 ml;
• price - 1700 rubles.

• weight - 700 g;
• power - 800 W;
• non-stick coating;
• rubber inserts on the sole;
• vertical steaming;
• case;
• cost - 1800 rubles.

• ceramic sole;
• voltage switch 220/110;
• steam blow - 90 g / min;
• weight - 450 g;
• water tank - 70 ml;
• measuring cup, cover;
• cord - 2 m;
• steaming in an upright position;
• cost - 1600 rubles.

• stainless steel sole;
• 200 steam holes;
• long nose, button groove;
• high power;
• foldable handle;
• case;
• cost - 2900 rubles.

When buying a mini iron, you can rely on the ratings of various companies. But it will be useful to find out the reviews of real users who have already tested their purchase. According to buyers' opinions, two models are especially good.

Vitek VT-1227. This iron has received many positive reviews. It has a small size and foldable handle, easy to transport and use. The device is equipped with the most necessary functions. The outsole has a non-stick coating with steam holes. Additional outputs distribute it evenly over the surface. In addition to regular steam supply, there is a steam boost option. The device allows you to select the temperature regime, it is equipped with a sprinkler. Its power is 1000 watts.The cost is 1250 rubles.

Scarlett SC-1135S. The device has a constant supply of steam with a regulator of its blow.

Power - 800 W, cost - 1200 rubles.

Thus, we can conclude that the most practical are devices with high power, high-quality sole and a minimum set of functions. Only the most essential characteristics are taken into account. In the pricing policy, preference is given to devices with an average cost.

A travel mini-iron will become an indispensable device for you if you are often on business trips or travel. With it, you no longer have to rack your brains by choosing less finicky things. The iron will allow you to grab your favorite and comfortable clothes, as it will keep them in proper condition throughout the trip.

For the pros and cons of travel irons from different manufacturers, see the video below.