ricability logo

 

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

If you have poor sight

If you have poor sight, large or strongly colour-contrasted labelling and well-spaced settings on the temperature and steam controls are important. Temperature controls are more important because you're likely to have to adjust them more often. Other ways of letting you know that you've set the iron correctly, such as click positions or raised markings are also helpful, though none of the irons we tested had these. Look out too for temperature or mains-on indicator lights which are large and bright enough to be seen easily. See also Safety about possible dangers from hot soleplates.

Filling with water, emptying and descaling can be fiddly tasks for anyone, but more so if you have poor sight. Check out also how easy it is to see the water level in the tank. We found big differences with the irons we tested - see test results.

Finally, large print and clear diagrams in the instructions are a big help while you're getting used to your iron. None of the irons we tested had instructions in large print.


 

Back to top

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