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Choosing an iron that’s easy to use (view report contents)

If you have poor or painful grip or reduced strength

Most irons we tested were comfortable to use, though if you do a lot of ironing the handling ratings in the test results might be important to you. These include how well balanced and comfortable to grip the irons were. Handles which are not heavily moulded or shaped may be easier because they can be gripped in a number of ways.

If you have limited strength in your hand or arm a light iron will be easier to lift but you may feel you need to press harder on it when ironing. The ones we tested varied from under 1kg to almost 2kg. People have their own preferences - it could be worth weighing your present iron if you're happy with it, and checking against any iron you are considering an the weight of the irons we've tested in test results. Some more expensive irons can be used vertically, on hanging curtains for example, but this can strain your hand and arm, so this may not be worth spending the extra on.

Look carefully at the size, shape, position and ease of setting of the temperature and steam controls. Look out for fairly large controls which are easy to grip without too much bending of finger joints, and which don't need a lot of force to turn or press. Temperature settings should be well spaced on the dial. Grooved edges are easier to grip than smooth edges.

If you have swollen joints, check that there's room for your fingers to fit comfortably under the handle.

Also check out the filling with water, emptying and descaling ratings in the test results as these things are sometimes fiddly or difficult to do if you have unsteady hands. For example, it's easier if the iron can be filled while it's standing on its end or base, not held at an angle.

 

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Report contents

Introduction
Finding an easy to use iron
If you have poor or painful grip or reduced strength
If you have poor sight
Guide to test results

Buying Guide
Manufacturers Addresses