How Much Do Steam Irons Weigh?

One of the steam iron features that you have to consider when shopping for this appliance is its weight. You may not think it matters but the weight can vary quite widely among the different models. Furthermore, the weight can also affect your ironing speed. So, how much do steam irons weigh then and should you settle for a heavy or lightweight iron?

Weight Of A Clothes Iron

A mini steam iron that is suitable for traveling typically weighs less than 1 lbs. It is small and light to make it easy to pack. However, there are limitations on the effectiveness of a travel iron. Hence, it is not a model that you would want to buy for home use although it is really light and easy on the arms.

For a typical home use steam iron, it can weigh anywhere between 1.5 lbs to over 4 lbs with an empty water tank. The weight depends on the size and features. If it is compact and basic, you would probably find it weighing just under 2 lbs. But if it comes with a high wattage and all the bells and whistles, it will weigh closer to 4 lbs. Many Rowenta irons weigh more than 3.5 lbs as they tend to feel more solid such as the Rowenta Steam Force Iron.

Bear in mind that these weights are with an empty tank. Once you add in the water, the steam iron can weigh an additional 0.5 lbs. It can be slightly lower or higher depending on the tank capacity. Since the water will make the iron heavier to use, you will have to make an allowance for that when evaluating the weight of the steam iron when you shop for one.

Heavy vs Lightweight Steam Iron

Generally, a heavier clothes iron is more effective in removing wrinkles. This is because you need a certain amount of pressure to flatten your garment and smooth out the lines. Hence, when you are using a lightweight iron, you will need to exert more strength to press down on the item that you are ironing.

However, if you are using a heavy iron, the weight of the iron itself will help things along. Less pressure is needed to press it down and this should make it easier to iron especially when it comes to getting rid of the more stubborn wrinkles and setting sharp creases on pants. Ironing jeans or other thick fabrics could also be tricky with a lightweight iron compared to a more solid model.

On the flip side, a heavy iron could be tiring on your arm as you need to move it continuously as you go through your clothes. It may be more effective and efficient in erasing wrinkles but it will not be comfortable to use if it feels too heavy for you.

Trade-Off

Basically, there is a trade-off between a heavy and lightweight steam iron. There are advantages and disadvantages to both and it is a matter of what is more important to you as a user. If you are willing to sacrifice better results for lighter weight, then a compact steam iron may be enough for your needs. It is very easy to move a lightweight iron around especially if it also has a smooth and sleek soleplate.

But if you want professional results, then you will have to invest more to get a heavier iron with a higher wattage and steam output. These would be those $100 steam irons. They are heavy but you will feel more satisfied with the results.

Different people will have different opinions about which would be easier and more comfortable to use. Some regard irons that can get rid of wrinkles fast as easy to use even if they weigh more. Others would find the exact opposite as a heavy iron feels like a drag.

Perhaps the compromise is to find a mid-sized steam iron that is roughly about 2.5 to 3 lbs. It wouldn’t be too flimsy nor too heavy then. That way, you can still get a steam iron which has sufficient weight and heat for respectable results. Oftentimes, when you don’t know which to choose, a middle range model is always the safest option!