If you are looking for an iron for sewing, the first thing you need to know is that you need one that is specifically designed for this type of ironing. As a rule of thumb, the best iron for sewing needs to have good steam pressure and control and it needs to be kept on – sometimes for hours at a time – without affecting any of the components.
Moreover, longevity is key and some of the other specific attributes of a good iron for sewing include a large water tank, quick heating time, and excellent steam pressure (if you’re looking for a steam iron). Dimensions and warranty are further features to look at when shopping for this particular type of appliance.
Top 7 Irons for Sewing Review 2020
Because it is often difficult to find a suitable iron for sewing, we spent weeks researching the best models on the market and reading hundreds of reviews from users who tested them in their homes. In the end, we selected seven of the best models available on the market, which you can find in the comparison table below. The detailed reviews of each of the irons can help you decide whether the features and functions of a particular model are suitable for your needs. You will also find a buying guide with all the information you may need to purchase the best iron for sewing for your craft. Now let’s have a look at the seven best irons for sewing that made it to the top.
1700-watt steam iron with electronic controls and a 12-ounce water tank capacity Compact and easy-to-use iron with a narrow wedge tip for delicate and precise ironing 1500-watt iron, includes a steam function, comes with a 2-year warranty Steam iron with manual temperature settings, with a narrow tip for precise ironing 800-Watt mini steam iron with a 180-degree rotating handle, comes with a 2-year warranty Highly compact and portable iron with an anti-slip handle and a steam function
Extra features: titanium-infused ceramic scratch-resistant soleplate, 8 ft. retractable cord Our best all-around choice is the CHI Steam Iron with Retractable Cord, which has a power rating of 1700 W and 400 steam holes. Featuring a retractable cord and an easy to control temperature, this steam iron has received praise from reviewers for its premium construction quality and excellent grip, which comes in very handy when you are using the iron for a longer period of time. Made from a combination of materials including titanium and ceramic, this appliance is designed in a way that it is both strong and scratch-resistant. The CHI Steam Iron with Retractable Cord has a steam release lever that makes it easy to control the amount of steam, so you can use the appliance in an efficient way without having to refill the water too often. The titanium-infused ceramic soleplate offers an extra smooth glide that works perfectly for sewing garments and reduces the wear and tear of the appliance at the same time. Because it features 400 steam holes, you can get more steam with a single release of the lever, so you can cover a larger part of the fabric at once. Users liked that you don’t have to wait too long to get the steam from the iron because the high-power rating of 1700W means that it generates steam at a rapid pace. CHI Steam Iron with Retractable Cord 13102 – Editor's Choice
Extra features: large temperature dial, comes with 20 ml spray bottle, sharp wedge shape soleplate tip A perfect choice for those who need a small iron they can take anywhere, the Clover Wedge Iron has received a lot of praise from users for its soft but sturdy handle that provides an excellent grip. This tiny iron has an extra point tip that makes it perfect to get into tight spots, which means that it is ideal for delicate sewing projects. This mini iron is suitable for home decor and all kinds of arts and crafts projects and one of its main benefits is that it is very easy to store and use. Because of its size, the Clover Wedge allows you to get under various layers of fabric easily. The iron doesn’t have a built-in water tank, but it comes with a 20 ml spray bottle. Many users mentioned that the iron is ideal for quilting and pressing seams open. Some users also mentioned that it is small enough for children to handle safely for their own craft projects. Suitable for precise ironing, the Clover Wedge gets very hot, even though it is only 80 Watts in power. Many users mentioned that it gets just as hot as a regular travel-size iron, but it saves you on energy, especially if you use it very often. All in all, this is a great choice if you’re looking for a compact iron suitable for smoothing out creases even in the hardest to reach places. Clover Wedge Iron – Best Mini Iron for Sewing
Extra features: automatic shutoff, stainless steel soleplate, steam function, 3-way auto shutoff One of the best choices on the market for users who are looking for a powerful, full-size iron for sewing that is not too heavy to handle for prolonged periods, the BLACK+DECKER Digital Advantage Steam Iron also has a generous steam output that makes it easy to get rid of wrinkles. The iron comes with a digital control feature that offers you enhanced precision when selecting temperatures and controlling the steam. Unlike many other irons for sewing, the BLACK+DECKER Digital Advantage Professional Steam Iron D2530 works well on wool and synthetic materials and has a large water reservoir. Even though this is not an expensive iron, it performs as well as others with a much more expensive price tag. According to reviews from multiple users, the soleplate remains hot for quick wrinkle removal and the 1500 W power is more than enough to tackle even stubborn creases. The BLACK+DECKER Digital Advantage Professional Steam Iron D2530 has a stainless-steel soleplate that looks and feels durable, and it comes with automatic shutoff for extra peace of mind. When left unattended for 30 seconds on its soleplate or side, or 8 minutes on the heel rest, the iron shuts off automatically, something that many users appreciated. An auto-clean system is also integrated in the iron to flush out mineral deposits. When it’s time to run the cleaning cycle, you will see a reminder on the screen. BLACK+DECKER Digital Advantage Professional Steam Iron D2530 – Best Steam Iron for Sewing
Extra features: multi-position auto shutoff, steam function, narrow/ sharp tip for ironing in awkward places A lighter unit suitable for those who want something between a regular steam iron and a travel version, the SharkNinja Steam Iron heats up pretty quickly and numerous users mentioned that it has a very good steam output that makes it easy to remove most wrinkles. Many users praised the design of the soleplate tip, which is narrow enough to iron comfortably around shirt buttons or other delicate areas. The soleplate is also very practical for small craft projects and quilting because it is very easy to maneuver. The SharkNinja Steam Iron is lightweight at just 3lbs, which means it easy to handle even when its water tank is full. The iron heats in under a minute, and on average, you can expect it to get to intermediate heat in 30 seconds, which is rather quick for an appliance in this price range. Some users mentioned that the iron may drip water from time to time and that it is a bit difficult to gauge the water level. The iron comes with an auto shut-off function for added peace of mind and features multiple modes when it comes to the steaming function, including steam burst, spray mist, and vertical steam. The water tank of this iron is easy to fill and has a capacity of 260 ml. SharkNinja Steam Iron – Best Iron for Sewing and Quilting
Extra features: 180-degree rotating handle, comes with steam brushes This dual use iron and steamer does a good job at penetrating the fabric and producing ultra-fine steam while leaving no wet spots behind. Users raved about how the VASTORE Travel Mini Steam Iron works well on just about any type of fabric, while reducing dust and killing bacteria at the same time. This appliance has a triple atomization technology and is equipped with three kinds of temperature settings. This high-efficacy iron comes complete with water cups and a cleaning brush. The vertical shot of steam feature makes this appliance very handy when it comes to sprucing things up in an upright position. The multi-angle handle and smooth base of the iron allows you to position it to suit your ironing needs. Because of its small size, this iron is highly portable. The four steam holes of the iron are enough to inject 0.3 to 0.5 ml of water with every press of the steam button, and the wire protector prevents leakage and wire damage effectively. The switching temperature indication point allows you to control the temperature so you can get to the exact setting needed for a particular type of fabric. As for temperatures, it takes the VASTORE Travel Mini Steam Iron about 50 seconds to reach the high temperature level. VASTORE Travel Mini Steam Iron – Best Mini Steam Iron for Sewing
Extra features: anti-slip handle, long 6.5-foot power cord, steam function This budget-friendly mini iron is a good choice for quilting thanks to its non-stick soleplate and miniature dimensions. Featuring a convenient anti slip handle, this iron has received a lot of praise from users for its ease of use. Despite its tiny design, the PurSteam Travel Steamer Mini Iron can produce up to 30% more steam than other steamers of the same size. The PurSteam Travel Steamer Mini Iron is a dual-voltage appliance, which means you can take it with you when you travel and not worry about various outlets around the world frying your steamer. The iron comes with a 6 ½ ft power cord, so you get a lot of flexibility in terms of where to plug it in. Many users who tested this mini iron for sewing jobs mentioned that it is the ideal size to get a professional finish for hand-made designs. The iron is also a perfect choice for steaming curtains, and because it is light and compact, it works well for those who need a portable appliance to take to sewing classes. Despite its small size, the water tank capacity of 2 oz. is enough for about eight minutes of continuous steam. The temperature settings on this mini iron are manual, and users reported that they are easy to set. PurSteam Travel Steamer Mini Iron – Best Portable Iron for Sewing
Extra features: heats up in 15 seconds, steam function, 6.5-foot power cord Our budget pick is the small, but rather powerful, IIMII Mini Travel Steam Iron, which does an amazing job at tackling wrinkles, considering it is smaller than your palm. This tiny iron has a 1-7 oz. water tank that is enough for up to six minutes of continuous steaming, and a powerful steam burst. Users mostly liked that it takes only 15 seconds for this miniature iron to heat up. Because it has a dual voltage, this iron is also an ideal travel companion. Users who tested it for sewing and quilting projects mentioned that it does an excellent job on just about any kind of fabric, including vinyl. Because it is very lightweight and easy to use, the IIMII Mini Travel Steam Iron can quickly become an indispensable addition to your work station. The iron comes with safety instructions, but no operating manual, which is something some users complained about. The power cord of this iron is rather long, and many users mentioned that the amount of steam it generates is impressive coming from such a small appliance. Moreover, the IIMII Mini Travel Steam Iron comes with an 18-month warranty for extra peace of mind. IIMII Mini Travel Steam Iron – Budget Pick
Buying Guide
Irons are essential appliances for any quilting station or for those who do other kinds of precise sewing projects. Ironing is important not only for completed garments, but also for ironing the fabric before cutting and sewing it. To do it right, you need the best iron for sewing your budget can buy. Below is a buying guide that can help you make an informed choice.
Advantages of having a top-quality iron for sewing
Ironing garments that you have created is often more complicated that your regular ironing. In many cases, more precision is needed, which is why it is important to have a top-quality iron with a narrow tip. You also need an appliance that heats up quickly and can sustain steaming for minutes on end. High-quality irons for sewing also come with safety features such as an auto shut-off function for extra peace of mind.
Features to consider when choosing a sewing iron
Just like with any other type of appliance, there are multiple features to consider when shopping for the best iron for sewing. Some of the most important include power, water tank capacity, soleplate, steam, safety functions and warranty.
Power
Many of the top-quality irons for sewing on the market have a power that ranges between 400 and 1500 W. The higher the power, the quicker the iron can reach a high temperature. If you need to use the iron very often, it’s a good idea to purchase a model with a higher wattage.
Temperature settings and controls
The capability to customize the temperature of your iron is important especially if you intend to use the appliance with various types of fabrics. For example, you need a low temperature for ironing silk, but a higher one for fabrics such as linen. Irons can have manual or digital controls – usually, digital controls are best as the iron automatically adjusts the temperature to suit the job at hand.
Water tank capacity
Depending on your type of use, you may need an iron with a high-water tank capacity so you don’t have to refill it too often. This means you can save time and complete your projects quicker. This only applies to steam irons, however.
Soleplate
Steam
The output of the steam is important because it relaxes the fabric, which means the soleplate of the iron can glide more easily over the fabric. A high steam output can help you tackle stubborn creases effortlessly. Not all irons come with a steam function, but it’s a good function to have, especially if you’ll be working with tougher materials.
Dimensions
The dimensions of the iron for sewing are important because a lightweight, compact appliance can be easier to maneuver, especially if you use it very often. Mini irons such as the Clover Wedge Iron are tiny and suitable for children as well, whereas models such as the IIMII Mini Travel Steam Iron are compact enough so you can take them with you when traveling.
Auto Shutoff
Even though some people who use iron for sewing don’t like an auto shut-off function because it means they have to wait for the iron to reach the optimum temperature every time it shuts off automatically, this is an important feature to have for your peace of mind. Most irons that have this function shut-off after 30 seconds of leaving the appliance unattended on the soleplate and up to 10 minutes of leaving it idle on the heel.
Warranty
No matter what type of iron for sewing you end up choosing, it’s important to consider how long the warranty of the product is and what it covers. You can generally expect to get one- or two-years warranty for this kind of appliance.
FAQ
Most manufactures recommend that you fill the water tank of an iron with distilled water to avoid calcium and lime scale build-up over time. This is especially important if you live in an area with hard water.
Most small irons for sewing are suitable for applique pieces. If this is something you do on a regular basis, it’s always a good idea to look at a model with a narrow tip.
This may happen when the iron collects greasy residue from previous use. To solve the problem, clean the soleplate of the iron until it glides smoothly. If these patches are slightly more faded or “watery” and you have a steam iron, then it could be caused by the water inside your iron – make sure to always use clean, distilled water to prevent any marks.
Our Verdict
Whether you are looking for the best iron for sewing for your quilting projects or because you need a portable appliance you can take with you everywhere, it’s essential to do some research beforehand to make sure the appliance you buy is a suitable one for your projects. Our best all-around iron, the CHI Steam Iron with Retractable Cord, combines all the features you would expect in a top-quality iron for sewing with a budget-friendly price tag. If you’re looking for a more portable option, the Clover Wedge Iron is the best mini iron for sewing on the market. Finally, if you think a digital display and a powerful steam function is needed for your projects, the BLACK+DECKER Digital Advantage Professional Steam Iron D2530 has both of those features. No matter what kind of sewing iron you decide to buy, don’t forget to take into account other factors such as warranty and safety features.
