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Once you try an iron with a retractable cord, you’ll ask yourself why you ever bothered with any other iron. There are lots of cord-reel irons out there, but the best one I’ve found is the Rowenta Access Steam Iron with Retractable Cord.
This slick-looking iron boasts a cord that rolls up with the push of a button. I love this because it keeps my linen closet looking tidier.
But this iron is so much more than a space-age appearance and handy cord. Unlike many irons that only have three temperature settings, this Rowenta model has a dial that allows you to set the temperature to silk to linen and many, many degrees in between. I really enjoyed this feature because sometimes mid-temp is too cool and high is just too hot for some fabrics.
The toggle on the iron is also great for adjusting the level of steam. On full blast, this iron could serve as a steamer if need be. For everyday ironing, I’d recommend setting the switch somewhere in the middle.
Once adjusted to my liking and the projects I was working on, I found this iron worked like a charm. A pass or two over wrinkly linens and there were no creases to be had. The narrow tip of the plate also made it easy to press open any seams—perfect for sewists.
While this iron is hefty (irons with retractable cords tend to be a bit heavier), it was comfortable to hold and well balanced in my hand. The auto-off function also kicks in after eight minutes which is nice for us worry-warts. No one wants to leave the house wondering if the iron is still hot.
Pros
What I enjoyed about this Rowenta iron:
- Retractable cord (no more tangles!)
- Streamlined appearance
- Powerful steaming capabilities
- Fully adjustable settings for temperature and steam
Cons
Consider these factors before you buy:
Price: $60
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When we got our first cordless phone at home, my mom was positively thrilled; no tripping over cords, free-range throughout the house, the satisfying click of fitting the phone into the base! I finally understand that feeling after trying this Panasonic Cordless Iron.
Like a cordless phone, this Panasonic iron has a base that plugs into the wall. I set mine on a small table instead of my ironing board so I had plenty of room to work on that quilting project. The base itself is pretty nifty; it has a retractable cord and a lid that snaps into place over the top to keep the components together.
Once plugged in, you select your heat option; there are just three on this iron in addition to the steam and spray options. This iron takes a while to heat to the highest temperature—a minute and 50 seconds per my stopwatch.
But using this iron was worth the wait. The feeling of being untethered while you work is unmatched! No cord crossing over the ironing board while pressing quilt blocks, no cord to trip over as I rushed to iron a shirt I wanted to wear to dinner. Using this iron was absolute pressing freedom! Not to mention that it did a nice job of getting the wrinkles out of my favorite top.
Now, the plate on this iron was smaller than the rest with a small water reservoir. This means the iron is super lightweight and easy to maneuver as it presses wrinkles and seams, but it also means that the tank needs to be refilled more often. My advice: Keep a bottle of water at your sewing station or in your laundry room so you don’t have to run to the kitchen to refill.
Also, when you’re not ironing, it’s best to set this iron back on its base. This iron is a bit unstable when set on its heel. Returning it to the base also keeps the iron hot and charged.
Pros
What I enjoyed about this Panasonic cordless iron:
- No cords!
- Lightweight
- Convenient storage case with handle
Cons
Consider these factors before you buy:
- Takes nearly two minutes to heat
- Small water reservoir
- Pricey
Price: $85