Best Steam Irons For Quilting in 2023

Finding the Right Iron for Quilters

When it comes to quilting, having the right tools can make all the difference in creating beautiful and lasting projects.

One essential piece of equipment that often goes overlooked is the iron, a high-quality steam iron not only helps in achieving precise and crisp seams but also enhances the final appearance of your quilt.

In this article, we will discuss the best irons for quilting and provide helpful tips on what to look for when choosing one.

Steam Iron For Quilting

What to look for in a steam iron for quilting

i. Variable temperature and steam settings
ii. Soleplate material
iii. Wattage/power

An excellent steam iron for quilting should have variable temperature and steam settings to accommodate different types of fabric, as well as an anti-scale feature to prolong the life of your iron.

The soleplate material is also crucial – look for stainless steel or ceramic options for smooth gliding across fabrics without sticking or scorching them.

A powerful wattage of at least 1500 watts so it can heat up quickly, providing consistent heat distribution to ensure desired results with every use.

Best Irons For Quilting

[Best Overall Iron For Quilting] Oliso TG1600 Pro Plus SmartIron
[Best Cordless Iron For Quilting] Panasonic Cordless NI-QL1000G Iron
[Best Small Iron For Quilting] Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron
[Best Budget Iron For Quilting] BLACK+DECKER IR40V Iron

Choosing Between Corded and Cordless Models

When selecting the best iron for quilting, one of the crucial decisions you’ll need to make is whether to opt for a corded or cordless model. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages from a mobility point of view. Understanding these differences can help you decide which option will fit your needs perfectly.

Corded Irons for Quilting:

Pros:

1. Constant power supply: With no batteries or charging required, corded irons provide consistent heat and steam throughout your quilting session, helping you achieve ideal results.
2. More powerful: In general, corded irons tend to be more potent than their cordless counterparts. They can reach higher temperatures faster, making it easy to remove stubborn wrinkles from fabrics.
3. Cost-effective: Corded steam irons are typically more budget-friendly compared to cordless models.

Cons:

1. Limited maneuverability: The power cable on a corded iron tethers you to a socket and may restrict your movement while working on larger projects.
2. Cable management: Working with a cord can sometimes become tangled or twisted during use, causing interruptions in your workflow.

Cordless Irons for Quilting:

Pros:

1. Greater freedom of movement: Without a power cable limiting your motion, you can comfortably move around large workspaces and navigate hard-to-reach spots easily.
2. More portable: A cordless iron’s lack of cable makes it easier to transport and store when not in use—particularly beneficial if you attend sewing workshops or travel frequently.
3. Clutter-free workspace: Since there’s no cable involved with a cordless iron, it reduces clutter on your workstation, keeping things neat and tidy.

Cons:

1. Restricted usage time: Panisonic Cordless Irons for quilting run on batteries that need regular recharging; this limited operating time might interrupt longer quilting sessions.
2. Less powerful: In general, cordless irons may not heat up as quickly or maintain high temperatures as effectively as corded models. However, the best cordless iron for quilting will still provide satisfactory results.
3. Higher cost: Cordless irons tend to be more expensive than their corded counterparts due to the added convenience and innovative features.

In conclusion, both corded and cordless irons have unique advantages catering to different user preferences. Take into consideration your quilting habits, workspace setup, and budget when deciding which model better suits your needs. Remember that regardless of whether you choose a steam iron for sewing or a small iron for quilting, finding the right match depends on your specific requirements.

Handpicked Reviews of Quilting Irons for 2023

Oliso TG1600 Pro Plus SmartIron

Description & Features

The Oliso TG1600 Pro Plus 1800 Watt SmartIron is a powerful and efficient iron designed specifically for quilters and sewers. This feature-packed steam iron comes with an impressive 1800-watt power output, providing consistent heat that helps remove wrinkles from your fabric quickly and effortlessly. It has a large stainless steel soleplate, ensuring smooth gliding across fabrics and even heat distribution. Its iTouch technology automatically lifts the iron when you release the handle, preventing scorching, tipping, and burning. The extended auto shut-off function offers additional safety, while the triple play extreme steam system allows for continuous, vertical burst, or horizontal burst according to your needs.

Why it is good for Quilting

The Oliso TG1600 Pro Plus 1800 Watt SmartIron is an excellent choice for quilting due to its powerful performance and specially-designed features tailored to meet the needs of quilters. The constant heat output ensures precise pressing of seams and edges on quilt blocks without damaging the fabric’s integrity. Its ergonomic design lets you work comfortably for long hours without straining your hand or wrist. Additionally, its variable steam settings enable you to tailor the amount of steam required for different types of fabrics commonly used in quilting projects.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Powerful 1800-watt performance
• Large stainless steel soleplate for smooth gliding
• iTouch technology prevents scorching and burning
• Extended auto shut-off function for safety
• Triple play extreme steam system with varied settings suitable for quilting

Cons:

• Can be heavier than some other models
• May have higher price tag compared to basic irons

Panasonic Cordless NI-QL1000G Iron

Description & Features

The Panasonic Cordless NI-QL1000G Iron is a versatile, high-performing iron that offers the convenience of cordless operation. This innovative iron features a removable 360-degree charging base, allowing you to move freely without the restriction of cords, and recharging it effortlessly. It has a double-pointed stainless steel soleplate that ensures optimal heat distribution and smooth gliding on fabrics. The iron comes with adjustable temperature settings suitable for various fabric types and a precise steam control system with vertical steam capability for added versatility.

Why it is good for Quilting

The Panasonic Cordless NI-QL1000G Iron is an excellent choice for quilters due to its cordless design that provides unrestricted movement while working on large projects. Its double-pointed soleplate enables you to iron both forward and backward smoothly, offering more precision in quilting patterns and aligning seams in quilt blocks. The multiple temperature settings ensure proper heat level management for all fabric types used in quilt making, preventing burns or damage to delicate materials.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Convenient cordless design
• Removable 360-degree charging base
• Double-pointed stainless steel soleplate for optimal glide and heat distribution
• Adjustable temperature settings suitable for various fabric types
• Precise steam control system with vertical steam option

Cons:

• Battery life may require frequent recharging during extended use
• May not reach maximum temperatures as quickly as traditional corded irons

PurSteam Professional Grade 1700W Steam Iron

Description & Features

The PurSteam Professional Grade 1700W Steam Iron offers top-notch performance designed to tackle even the toughest wrinkling challenges. With a powerful 1700-watt output, this iron efficiently eliminates wrinkles, creases, and folds from various types of fabrics. Its stainless steel soleplate ensures smooth gliding while its rapid even heat technology provides consistent heat for effective results. The steam iron boasts an easy-to-use thermostat control and has multiple steam settings tailored for different fabric requirements. Additionally, it is equipped with a self-cleaning system that prevents buildup of minerals and a 3-way auto-shutoff feature for enhanced safety.

Why it is good for Quilting

The PurSteam Professional Grade 1700W Steam Iron is perfect for quilting due to its rapid even heat technology that delivers consistent temperature required for pressing seams and quilt block edges accurately ensuring crisp, clean lines in your creations. Its premium stainless steel soleplate effortlessly glides on various fabric types while preventing any potential burning or scorching issues. Furthermore, the numerous steam settings allow you to customize the steam output according to the needs of your quilting project, enabling better control over seam placement and pattern shaping.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Powerful 1700-watt performance
• Stainless steel soleplate for smooth gliding
• Rapid even heat technology offering consistent results
• Multiple steam settings suited for different fabric types
• Self-cleaning system and 3-way auto-shutoff feature

Cons:

• May consume more electricity due to higher wattage
• Larger size may be inconvenient for some users during long quilting sessions

Rowenta Steam Force Pro DW9540

Description & Features

The Rowenta Steam Force Pro DW9540 is a professional-quality iron that offers powerful performance and advanced technology for superior results. This advanced steam iron has a 1900-watt power output, ensuring quick heat-up time and efficient wrinkle removal. Its stainless steel soleplate with the Microsteam 400 hole system provides excellent glide and even heat distribution across fabrics. The iron features a unique integrated steam force pump injection system, which releases up to 30% more steam than standard irons for extremely effective pressing. Moreover, its variable steam control and vertical steaming function allow you to handle different fabric types.

Why it is good for Quilting

The Rowenta Steam Force Pro DW9540 is an exceptional choice for quilting projects due to its professional-grade features designed to enhance precision and efficiency in your work. Its high-power output ensures optimal heat levels for crisp seams and smooth edges on quilt blocks without damaging the fabric. The stainless steel soleplate smoothly glides across various fabric textures used in quilting while providing consistent heat distribution for flawless results. The massive steam output produced by the integrated pump injection system penetrates deep into layers of batting, making it ideal for pressing intricate quilt patterns.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Powerful 1900-watt performance
• Stainless steel soleplate with Microsteam 400 hole system
• Integrated steam force pump injection system for extraordinary steam output
• Variable steam control suitable for different fabric types
• Vertical steaming function allows convenient handling of larger quilts

Cons:

• May require regular maintenance for maintaining optimum performance
• Higher price range compared to some other models available

SINGER Mint SteamCraft Plus Iron

Description & Features

The SINGER Mint SteamCraft Plus Iron offers efficient steam output, ensuring an excellent ironing experience for various sewing and quilting projects. With a power rating of 1750 watts, this iron provides powerful performance to remove wrinkles quickly. It features a high-quality ceramic-coated soleplate that ensures smooth and effortless gliding, along with even heat distribution on fabrics. The iron comes with an impressive 300ml water tank capacity for extended steam usage without needing frequent refills. Its adjustable temperature allows you to control the heat according to your fabric requirements, while the vertical steam function lets you handle hanging garments or drapes.

Why it is good for Quilting

The SINGER Mint SteamCraft Plus Iron is suitable for quilting due to its exceptional power output and advanced soleplate technology that help achieve precise pressing results effortlessly. Its large water tank capacity ensures uninterrupted steam flow for dealing with thick quilt layers effectively. Moreover, the adjustable temperature settings let you choose the appropriate heat level depending on your project’s fabric type, preventing potential damage. The ceramic-coated soleplate allows for easy maneuvering around appliques or embroidery work without damaging delicate materials.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Powerful 1750-watt performance
• Ceramic-coated soleplate for smooth gliding and even heat distribution
• Large 300ml water tank capacity
• Adjustable temperature settings cater to diverse fabric types
• Vertical steam function for added versatility

Cons:

• May have a higher price tag compared to basic irons
• The size of the iron may take up more storage space

BLACK+DECKER IR40V Iron

Description & Features

The BLACK+DECKER IR40V Iron is a compact and budget-friendly option that packs impressive features for its size. This reliable steam iron comes with a user-friendly dial control to adjust temperature settings according to your fabric needs, as well as a push-button spray mist function for added moisture and wrinkle-fighting power. It has a non-stick soleplate ensuring easy gliding across various materials without sticking or scratching. The 3-way auto shut-off feature adds an extra layer of safety by automatically turning the iron off when left unattended, upright or on its side.

Why it is good for Quilting

The BLACK+DECKER IR40V Iron offers great value and sufficient features tailored for quilting enthusiasts working within a budget or in need of a compact iron that can be easily stored and transported. It provides adjustable temperature controls to ensure accurate heat levels for different fabrics used in quilts, preventing potential damage caused by high temperatures. Its non-stick soleplate allows smooth gliding over your fabrics without residue buildup, ensuring clean seams and precise alignments.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Budget-friendly option
• Compact design ideal for storage and transportation
• User-friendly dial control for temperature adjustment
• Non-stick soleplate for smooth gliding
• 3-way auto shut-off feature for enhanced safety

Cons:

• Lower wattage may result in longer heating times compared to more powerful irons
• Steam output may not be as strong as higher-end models

Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron

Description & Features

The Oliso M2 Mini Project Steam Iron is a compact and lightweight iron designed for small projects and travel purposes. It features a 1000-watt power output, providing efficient heat for precise pressing of seams and appliques in quilting projects. The iron comes with a Diamond Coated Ceramic soleplate that ensures smooth gliding on various fabric types and minimizes the risk of sticking. Its three temperature settings accommodate different fabric types, while the water tank allows you to use steam when needed. Additionally, it includes integrated Solemate silicone trivet for easy storage and protects your work surface from heat.

Why it is good for Quilting

This mini steam iron is ideal for quilting due to its compact size and portable design, allowing quilters to handle intricate details, touch-ups, or travel with ease. The 1000-watt power enables efficient pressing without damaging delicate fabrics common in quilting projects. Its Diamond Coated Ceramic soleplate offers excellent glide over quilt blocks, ensuring quick pressing while maintaining precision in patterns and alignments. The three temperature settings offer versatility in handling different materials used in quilt making.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design suitable for small projects and travel
• 1000-watt power output for efficient pressing
• Diamond Coated Ceramic soleplate ensures smooth gliding
• Adjustable temperature settings for various fabric types
• Includes Solemate silicone trivet for convenient storage and protection

Cons:

• Smaller water tank may require frequent refilling during extensive steaming sessions
• Not suited for larger quilting projects or heavy-duty tasks

How to Care For Your New Iron

Caring for your new quilting iron is essential to ensure its longevity and performance, here are some practical tips to keep any quilting iron running smoothly:

1. Use distilled water: Utilizing distilled or filtered water can reduce mineral buildup inside the iron, which helps prolong the life of the steam feature.
2. Clean the soleplate regularly: A clean soleplate ensures smooth-gliding movement and prevents residue from transferring onto fabric during pressing. You can use a damp cloth to wipe off any accumulated dirt or debris. For stubborn stains, prepare a mixture of baking soda and water, apply it gently to the soleplate, then wipe it off using a cloth or sponge.
3. Empty the water tank after each use: Emptying the water reservoir after each quilting session helps prevent mold and mildew growth inside the chamber.
4. Store your iron properly: When storing your iron, always place it upright on its heel rest and avoid wrapping the cord around its body as this can cause damage over time.
5. Regularly inspect cords for damage: Check power cords for fraying, kinks, or other signs of wear that may pose a safety risk due to exposed wires or electrical shortages.
6. Avoid dropping or banging your iron: To prevent internal damage from impact, handle your quilting iron with care during usage and storage by avoiding drops or knocks against hard surfaces.

By following these practical tips, you can protect your investment in a high-quality iron for quilting while experiencing optimal performance throughout its lifespan.