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Blow
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HOT FEATURES
It's getting HOT in here. Check out some of these key features when choosing an iron:
Anti-calcium filter: Plain and simple, this helps prevent mineral build-up for maximum efficiency and a prolonged life for your iron. Irons with an auto-clean feature typically offer this feature too.
Anti-drip: Delicate clothes require a delicate setting. If you find yourself using these settings, this feature is great. It controls spitting and leaking from steam vents to protect fragile fabrics and garments.
Anti-skid bumpers: This feature helps when your iron is upright. It ensures stability and security when the iron is left in this position.
Auto-clean: What's not to love about
this feature? Having an iron with auto-clean prevents the build-up of
minerals, lint and impurities in the steam chamber so you have the proper
heating capabilities throughout the life of your iron.
Auto Shut-Off: If you're always in a rush and leave the house wondering whether you left the iron on, look for this feature. It will automatically shut off the iron, so you don't have to worry about it.
Cool mist: Have a tougher fabric like denim to iron? This feature will dampen it with a cool mist to get out even the most stubborn wrinkles.
Intra-Steam: A technology used that delivers steam in powerful bursts to penetrate fabrics. It pulses steam to create the perfect cycle for great results when pressing.
Non stick: A feature found on the soleplate that prevents starch residue from building up, making the iron easier to clean. It allows the iron to move smoothly on fabric for top speed and performance.
SmartSteam™: Don' t know how to use steam settings? This wonderful feature automatically adjusts steam for any temperature setting so you get perfect results every time.
Soleplate: The heat plate of the iron. The wider the better to let you cover more area quickly. Stainless steel is your best option because it's tougher against corrosion and rust.
Stainless Steel: The ideal surface for a soleplate because it's durable and scratch-resistant. Highly polished stainless steel makes for effortless ironing.
Steam: The feature that distinguishes from the basic iron. Steam is key to removing the tough wrinkles out of clothes. Advanced irons will even provide a vertical steam feature so you can get wrinkles out of drapes and clothes that are hanging.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Ever wonder why some irons are so expensive? Or what you should do if your iron leaks water? Or even when you should use your iron? Read on!
How do I know if I should use my iron on
a certain fabric?
Before you use an iron on any garment, be sure to check the garment label
for the manufacturer's care instructions. If there are no instructions,
or you don' t know what the fabric construction is, start with a very
low heat setting and test a small area, like an inside hem. Gradually
increase the heat until you find the perfect setting.
Why are certain irons so expensive?
Generally, the more safety and convenience features that an iron has,
the more expensive it is. The best irons offer a steam feature. You might
also want to look for an iron that is heavy-weighted so you need less
manual pressure.
Can I use tap water in my iron?
You'll want to check your instruction manual because it depends on the
iron. It is usually not recommended in irons that do not have automatic
or self-cleaning features.
What if my iron leaks water?
Make sure the steam valve is closed. If it is, consult your instruction
manual. Different irons have various ways of dealing with leaking water.
Why isn't my iron heating up?
First, ensure that it is plugged in to a working outlet. Some are also
equipped with motion technology. In this instance, moving the iron will
cause it to begin to reheat.
What if my iron does not steam?
Begin by making sure that it is on a setting for steam. Allow the iron
to reach full temperature before setting the steam dial to the desired
setting. If this does not work, try cleaning the valve.
CARE & MAINTENANCE
On
the body and soleplate: Use a soft damp cloth and wipe the iron
clean. DO NOT use any household cleaners, solvents or harsh abrasives.
You can also purchase quality soleplate cleaners designed for this specific
purpose.
Steam chambers: Most will have self-cleaning features. Please refer to your instructional manual for proper guidance. Recommended self-cleaning frequency is at least once a year, but no more than once a month.