The Best Small Irons for Sewing & Quilting of 2023
We have gone through more irons than we can count! On this page, we keep an updated list of the finest small sewing irons available on the market right now. Let’s get into it! 🙂
Our Top List
![VASTORE Travel Mini Steam Iron [Dual-use for Iron & Steamer] Powerful Portable Steam Iron, Non-Stick Soleplate, with Adjustable Temperature Button and Rotatable Handle for Home and Travel](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41IWjn2duzL._SL160_.jpg)
Last update on 2023-03-24 at 18:20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Black+Decker D2530
The main advantage of the D2530 is its high steam rate. This ensures it can remove wrinkles efficiently. Its effectiveness makes it a great purchase decision, albeit being less expensive than its counterparts. With its 1500 Watts, expect no creases on your clothes.
Having a digital temperature control also has its advantages. One advantage is that you can easily customize steam settings as per the fabric you are dealing with. Here, it is precision at its best since you get the exact temperature settings you need, and do not worry about the soleplate overheating because it will notify you when ready.
Features
- Wattage of 1500 Watts
- Electronic temperature settings
- 12 oz water tank capacity
- 2-year warranty
- Steam function
- Stainless steel soleplate
- Automatic shutoff
Pros
- High steam rate. Excellent in removing wrinkles.
- The soleplate is smooth.
- Heats up fast.
- It comes with digital temperature control.
- The automatic shutoff feature also generates great reviews. You will not burn anything.
Cons
- Difficult to see the water level. The presence of dark plastic makes it difficult.
2. CHI Steam Iron with Retractable Cord 13102
Have you ever heard of effortless ironing? That is exactly what you get when you use the CHI Steam Iron with Retractable Cord 13102. Removing wrinkles has never been this much fun, efficient, and fast. With 400 Steam Holes, I should expect nothing less. You get a guarantee of the above while using one of the best-looking irons around.
The grip on this iron is also one that makes ironing easy. Gifts you control, and it is comfortable on your hand. It is perfect for people who iron for long.
You also get to set the temperature as per the fabric guide. There is no guesswork here. Everything works to precision, and with a quick slide, you move from No Steam to Full Power.
Features
- 1700 Watts.
- A water tank capacity of 12 oz.
- Electronic temperature settings.
- 2 year warranty
- Long retractable cord
- Soleplate is scratch-resistant.
Pros
- It comes with a retractable cord.
- Scratch-resistant ceramic soleplate.
- Powerful steam mainly because of its 400 Steam Holes.
- It comes with electronic temperature control and a fabric guide.
Cons
- No off-button. It cannot be turned off. You either have to unplug or leave it to turn itself off automatically.
3. Clover Wedge Mini Iron for Sewing
The Clover Wedge Iron gives you the precise ironing you want. Its wedge-shaped soleplate tip makes it ideal for tight spots. It will fit in whichever layers of fabric you are working with.
The handle of any iron makes the ironing experience either better or worse. For this one, the grip is excellent, so you won’t ever lose control. Expect no accidents while using this iron.
The size of this iron also makes it a great option. Children can comfortably use it for their sewing projects. However, you need to be careful. With a high of 390°F in temperature, it can be dangerous to kids.
Features
- Temperature control is manual.
- Warranty is limited to 1 year.
- Wedge-shaped soleplate tip
- Large temperature dial
- Spray bottle contains 20 ml.
Pros
- You can carry it around with you. The portability advantage is mainly because of its small size.
- Kids can use it.
- It can get under layers and fits perfectly with your delicate projects.
- The temperature dial is large. Convenient while setting temperature.
Cons
- Temperature control is manual.
- No steam function.
4. Shark Steam Iron for Sewing
The feature that makes the Shark Steam Iron unique is its sharp tip. Ironing in awkward places is possible with such a tip. Get to iron delicate areas comfortably with this iron.
The steam output is efficient because of the holes in the steel soleplate. You are sure to achieve even distribution of steam while using it.
Its size and weight make it easy to handle. This means you get an easier time while using it to iron. The steam function also comes with multiple modes, including vertical steam, steam burst, and spray mist. You thus have options depending on your preferences.
Features
- Wattage is 1500.
- The water tank capacity is 8 oz.
- Manual temperature settings.
- Warranty limited to 1 year.
- Steam functionality
- Auto-shutoff.
Pros
- Steam functionality is good.
- Even distribution of steam.
- It works well in difficult and delicate places thanks of its sharp tip.
- It is light and thus easy to handle.
Cons
- It has a manual temperature setting with no fabric guide.
5. Vastore Travel Small Steam Iron
![VASTORE Travel Mini Steam Iron [Dual-use for Iron & Steamer] Powerful Portable Steam Iron, Non-Stick Soleplate, with Adjustable Temperature Button and Rotatable Handle for Home and Travel](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41IWjn2duzL.jpg)
This iron is dual-use. Meaning you can use it for both dry and wet ironing activities. Expect no creases and no wet spots on whichever fabric you are ironing. The ultra-fine steam and the rapid steam injection makes the above possible.
Temperature control works fine. Whenever temperature goes past 145 Celsius (293 F), the boiler switches off. This ensures longevity as it avoids damage to other components. Also, this iron comes with a fuse that ensures there is no power overload.
In 50 seconds, you get the highest temperature level with this iron. A rotating handle means you can turn it however you want to fit your ironing needs.
Features
- The temperature setting is manual.
- 800 Watts.
- The warranty is limited to 2 years.
- The water tank capacity is 2.3 oz.
- Steam brushes
- The handle rotates to 180 degrees.
Pros
- It has a rotating handle which makes it easy to turn it however you want.
- It achieves the highest temperature level fast.
- Ultra-fine steam leaves no wet spots.
Cons
- It takes up the same space as a normal iron.
6. Steamfast SF-717 Steam Sewing Iron
The Steamfast SF-717 is true to its brand name. The water tank heats up in 15 seconds. Also, it comes with 1-touch steam control. You can use this one for all kinds of different fabric types. The three temperature settings make this iron versatile.
Its 420 Watts ensures that it can remove creases and wrinkles from most fabric types. Also, you have control while using it because of its anti-slip handle. Expect no accidents or slip-ups while working with it.
Its tiny size makes it perfect if you are looking for a iron fit for travelling, yet its 7.5-foot cord offers a lot of reach.
Features
- 420 Watts.
- Dimensions are 5.8 x 3.7 x 3.5 inches.
- Warranty is limited to 2 years.
- Manual temperature settings.
- The water tank capacity is 1.4 oz.
Pros
- Perfect travel size.
- Anti-slip handle. No slip-ups while using it.
- It comes with three different temperature settings that you can use with varying types of fabric.
- It comes with a 1-touch steam control.
Cons
- The water tank is small. The capacity is only 1.4 oz.
Verdict & Review
- High steam rate. Excellent in removing wrinkles.
- The soleplate is smooth.
- Heats up fast.
- It comes with digital temperature control.
- Difficult to see the water level.
The steam output of the D2530 is also quite efficient, enhancing the effectiveness of this iron, especially while trying to get rid of wrinkles. Another great feature is the digital temperature control that makes it easy to customize to the fabric you're working with. Also, the automatic shutoff feature means you can leave it on and find it off with no danger of any kind.
Buying Guide
The information you have on a product influences your purchase decision. This is true for all products. You have to know the features to look out for before you head out to shop. Some products will give you a hard time because of their technical features. Well, for irons, here are a few things to consider when choosing your sewing iron.
Water Tank Capacity
The water tank capacity you choose depends on your ironing needs. High-water tank capacity is vital when you have major ironing needs. It will be inconvenient for you if refilling happens every 2 to 3 minutes. Assess your ironing needs and then make a decision. If you do not have daily ironing needs, then consider an iron with a small water tank capacity. Water tank capacities are relevant features while choosing steam irons.
Power
The power of an iron determines how fast it gets to higher temperatures. If your ironing needs do not come up as often, then purchase an iron with low wattage. The opposite will need an iron with higher wattage.
The idea iron for your sewing needs should be between 400 and 1500 Watts. Any iron within this range will do the task you wish to do. So, make sure you inquire more about power before you make a purchase.
Safety Functions
Every iron should have some safety features that reduce the likelihood of injury to users. One safety feature includes the handle. The handle has to be anti-slip. An anti-slip handle makes it difficult for a user to slip and burn themselves. Ensure the handle is anti-slip before you make the purchase.
The auto-shutoff is also another safety feature. It is a nuisance because you will have to wait for an iron to heat up again. But we are all forgetful, and you may forget your iron is on. The next thing you know is the fire department is at your door. We agree it is a nuisance, but it is necessary.
Safety features are not for you alone. Children can use irons such as the Clover Wedge Iron. You, thus, have to ensure they are in danger of having any accidents.
Temperature Settings
Temperature settings are also another feature that should help you while choosing a sewing iron. Good irons allow you to customize temperature, which will serve you better.
No one wants to buy a different iron for every fabric they intend to iron. We all want to buy one iron that works with various fabrics. The best iron, in this case, is, thus, one that allows you to customize temperature.
The best ones will adjust the temperature depending on the fabric you are ironing. These are a bit expensive but will serve you better. The choice is yours.
Soleplate
You will find sewing irons with soleplates made from either ceramic, titanium, or stainless-steel material. Each of these could do the work you want to do. But some features are crucial while choosing a soleplate. A plate with a sharp-wedge will do a splendid job for you. The awkward and delicate places you want to iron will not be a problem for you.
You want a soleplate that gets rid of wrinkles while maintaining your fabric’s quality. Be careful not to choose one that will leave you with more problems than before.
Steam
Steam functionality is not a must and not all irons come with this functionality. This does not mean you should not learn more about it, though!
Steam makes the process of removing wrinkles a lot easier. But this is not the case for all sewing irons. Some have uneven releases and will not help you deal with stubborn creases effectively.
Shop for iron with great steam functionality. The higher the steam output, the better, especially when dealing with tough fabrics. However, not all sewing irons come with this functionality. The above applies to irons with such a feature.
Size
The size of the iron is a crucial feature. Those planning to travel with their irons should get small ones. Ensure it fits in your travel bag.
The disadvantage of having a small one is that it takes more time to iron. Those who want to finish their ironing errands fast should get a big one. These are perfect when the owner has no intention of traveling with it.
Cord
The length of cord matters a lot in our experience. You want to buy a sewing iron with a long cord so you have a good amount of reach.
A retractable cord is another feature you should seek. This ensures that your iron takes up little space. Storage is convenient. This is a great feature for those wishing to travel with their sewing irons.
FAQ
To help gift your fabric a polished look. While working with seams, for example, you can only achieve clean lines if you iron your seams. Working with fabrics like wool also calls for good ironing.
The answer here is no. Ironing a cloth looks quite elegant. On a piece of fabric, the same is not true. Ironing before sewing can lead to minor changes to the fabric. In the end, this may affect the fit of the piece you are working on.
This depends on the instructions in the manual. While some will respond well with tap water, others will not. Some will suggest that you use distilled water to avoid lime or calcium build-up. Others will ask you to use a mixture of both. Read your manual and follow the instructions.
I’m a true sewing enthusiast and have spent almost the entirety of my adult life practicing this age old art. Sewing genuinely has a special place in my heart and I’m glad to be able to share all of my experiences with each of you.