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There is something so satisfying about freshly ironed clothes. From the comforting warmth it gives to the smell of fresh laundry to, most importantly, the crease-less appearance of your favourite garments and linens – these are just a few simple joys that come as a result of the, well, less enjoyable chore of ironing.
And how does one achieve crease-less shirts and crisp linens? With a humble steam iron, of course. It is not a revolutionary home appliance but a very necessary one. That’s why finding a model that works well is crucial.
What to look for when buying a steam iron
So, what should you look out for when buying a steam iron? There are a few key factors to consider.
- Adjustable steam output – finding a steam iron that allows you to control the amount of steam it produces is crucial. This is because, depending on the type of material you’re ironing, you will need to adjust the steam output accordingly.
- Soleplate construction – arguably, one of the most important elements of a steam iron is its soleplate. Make sure the soleplate of your steam iron is made from high-quality materials. This is because this is the part of the iron that will come in contact (or very close to) with your clothes/linens.
- Auto shut-off – most steam irons have safety features such as auto shut-off. And when life gets busy, having this safety feature is a must.
The best steam irons to shop in Australia 2025
01
CareStyle 9 Steam generator iron
$499, Braun
If you’re someone who can dedicate hours, and even days, to ironing – the steam generator iron by Braun is the investment you won’t regret. While on the premium side of the market, this high-tech appliance is designed to last. With automatic descaling and steam features, plus a vertical steam function for quick fixes and straitening out curtains, iron will become more of a meditative practice than a chore.
Read our CareStyle 9 Steam generator iron review here
Key features:
- 2-minute rapid heat up time
- 6 settings including iCare, Turbo, Auto Steam, Boost and Eco
- Vertical option for steaming garments and curtains
- Up to 55% energy saving in eco mode
- Anti-bacteria function
- Cord storage
- 2L water tank capacity
- 1.90m power cord length
- Auto off mode when not in use
Also available at:
- $499 at Amazon
- $459 at Appliances Online
02
Philips PerfectCare Powerlife steam iron
$99 (usually $159), David Jones
If you’re a lover of delicate fabrics, you can breathe a sigh of relief as this steam iron from Philips is 100 per cent safe – even on your most prized pieces. Iron everything from denim to silk in one go. Equipped with the brand’s innovative OptimalTEMP technology, there’s no need to manually adjust the temperature of your iron anymore.
Key features:
- OptimalTEMP technology
- 45g/min performance
- SteamGlide Plus soleplate for ultimate gliding performance
03
Tefal Ultraglide Plus Anti-Calc steam iron
$99.95 (usually $139.95), Tefal
For just under $150, the Tefal anti-calc steam iron is powerful and efficient – just what we need come laundry day. Featuring the brand’s exclusive removable calc collector system, this iron ensure a longer product life. Plus, with a quick heat-up time, auto-off feature and a continuous steam output of up to 45 g/minute, you can bet that even the toughest of wrinkles are smoothed out easily.
Key features:
- Anti-calc system ensures easy maintenance and longevity
- 2400W of power means fast heat up time
- Auto-off feature
- 100% active steam holes distributes steam evenly
- Vertical steaming feature
Also available at:
- $99 (usually $139) at David Jones
- $99 at The Good Guys
04
Sunbeam Verve 680 Resilium steam iron
$129, The Good Guys
Featuring the brand’s premium Resilium anodised soleplate that is incredibly durable whilst providing a super low friction glide, this steam iron is high quality and easy to use. Plus, with its patented dual-steam chamber technology, optimised steam pressure deeply penetrates fibres for faster ironing, too.
05
Philips PerfectCare 8000 Series steam generator
$619 (usually $699), David Jones
Effortless ironing is at the tip of your fingertips with the Philips PerfectCare 8000 steam iron. Equipped with motion sensor technology, powerful automatic steam, and OptimalTEMP technology that guarantees no burns on your clothes as you iron, it’s a trustworthy unit that will elevate your laundry game. Plus, with its lightweight design, you’re able to use it upright as a handheld garment steamer, too.
06
Braun Texstyle 3 steam iron
$96.44 (usually $119), Amazon
If affordability is what you’re after, this model by Braun is perfect. Not compromising on quality, the Texstyle 3 steam iron features the world’s first 3D BackGlide soleplate that guarantees 360° glideability over any fabric and any obstacle – even backwards. You’ll never get stuck on buttons and pockets ever again.
07
Philips Azur 8000 series steam iron
$169 (usually $229), Amazon
Worried about calc build-up? Well, consider it a worry no more with the Philips Azur 8000 steam iron. The Azur features a Quick Calc Release system that easily breaks down and collects calc particles in a fuss-free removable container. Plus, it also boasts a SteamGlide Plus soleplate and 55g/min of continuous steam.
