10 Best Steam Generator Irons 2025 in the UK

The Tefal Express Essential Steam Generator Iron offers strong steam performance, with 120 g/min continuous steam and a powerful 340 g/min boost, supported by a 5.9-bar pump pressure. This combination helps smooth out wrinkles quickly, making ironing faster and easier. Its 1.7-liter removable water tank allows for long ironing sessions without frequent refills, which is great for tackling large loads. The iron heats up in just 2 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long to start.

The Xpress Glide soleplate promises smooth movement over fabrics, which can reduce effort and improve comfort during use. It also includes a scale rinsing system to help prevent buildup, which can extend the lifespan of the iron and maintain steam performance. Weighing 3.89 kg, it is manageable, especially with its compact design and carry lock system that make storage and transport easier. The eco mode is a nice touch for reducing energy use, and vertical steam adds versatility for freshening hanging clothes.

This iron is well suited for users seeking efficient, powerful steam output combined with quick heat-up times, as well as convenient handling and maintenance features.

The Philips PerfectCare Elite Steam Generator Iron, model GC9630/20, is designed to simplify the ironing process with its robust features. A key strength is its powerful steam output, offering a continuous flow of up to 135 g/min and a significant boost of 470 g, which effectively tackles stubborn creases. The OptimalTEMP technology is a standout feature, ensuring no fabric burns, allowing users to iron different materials without adjusting temperature settings. This innovation is especially beneficial for those who iron diverse fabric types, from jeans to silk, without pre-sorting laundry. The iron's detachable water tank with a substantial 1.8 liter capacity means fewer refills during extended ironing sessions. Its fast heat-up time is supported by the 2400 W power and 6.7 bar pressure, ensuring efficiency and performance. Moreover, vertical steaming is convenient for de-creasing hanging garments and curtains, eliminating the need for an ironing board.

In terms of drawbacks, the weight of the unit at 5.1 kg might not be ideal for those seeking ultra-portability, although it is considered lightweight in the steam generator category. Users should also be aware that while the ceramic soleplate offers smooth gliding, it may not be as durable as some other materials available in the market. The product's comprehensive anti-scale system helps in maintenance, but regular care is still necessary to ensure longevity. Ergonomics are addressed through its compact design, making it suitable for storage and use on an ironing board.

The Philips PerfectCare Elite is a great option for users seeking efficiency and ease in ironing, especially those dealing with various fabrics and looking for a reliable, high-performance steam generator iron.

The Philips PerfectCare Compact Steam Generator Iron, model GC7840/26, offers a robust set of features tailored for home use. Its standout feature is the 400g steam boost, paired with a continuous steam output of 120 g/min, which works effectively on thick fabrics and stubborn creases. This makes it a great choice for households dealing with varied fabric types and large ironing loads.

One of the appealing features is the OptimalTEMP technology, which ensures no burns across different types of fabrics, eliminating the hassle of adjusting temperatures. This is especially useful for users who want to transition smoothly between delicate silks and heavy jeans without worrying about damage. With a 1.5L water tank, the iron promises about 1.5 hours of continuous ironing, reducing frequent refills and enhancing convenience for users tackling larger laundry piles. The transparent tank with a large filling door adds to this convenience, making it easy to monitor and refill water.

The iron is designed to be compact and lightweight, facilitating easy storage and handling, which is ideal for users with limited storage space or those who prefer a less cumbersome ironing experience. Furthermore, its built-in anti-scale system and scratch-resistant soleplate ensure good durability and performance over time, providing a smooth glide across clothes. At 3.3 kg, it may still feel a bit heavy for some users, particularly if long ironing sessions are common. Additionally, while it features an auto shut-off for safety, some might find the absence of advanced digital controls limiting compared to other modern models.

In summary, this steam generator iron is well-suited for home users seeking efficient and effective ironing with minimal fuss, especially those who appreciate the reliability of a reputable brand like Philips.