Electric irons are a practical tool with a long history and some great contemporary developments. Let's look at the history, options, and applications of the modern electric iron.
Originally, irons were placed in a fire or hot coals to heat. They then were hollowed with room for hot coals inside the iron itself. Eventually, electricity was added. The modern electric iron features a heating element that evenly heats a non-stick metal soleplate.
Most modern electric irons also feature a steam function. An internal water reservoir is heated by the same element that heats the soleplate. Steam options usually include varying moisture levels (how much steam is emitted), as well as mist and spray settings. The advancement of the internal heating mechanism also allows for more specific control of temperature settings. Some newer models even have a digital readout of the temperature itself, while others let the user choose settings based not on degrees, but fabric type.
Safety features in electric irons include auto-off (overall use time, or face-down time), non-stick soleplates, retractable cords, insulated cords, heat shields, and more.
Irons come in standard at-home models (used by most people for clothes and drapery), professional models (more high power, used by seamstresses and tailors), and travel irons (smaller, less powerful, and lighter for ease of carriage).
The reliability of electric irons allows them to be used in other ways as well. People use the steam function of electric irons to serve as clothes steamers for clothes on hangers or curtains and drapery that is still hanging on the window. An iron may also be used (carefully and with proper technique) for steaming carpets and removing candle wax from carpets and tablecloths.
Crafters use electric irons for melting special beads together into solid shapes, pressing flowers, applying t-shirt designs, and other activities. Craft-specific irons come in sizes and with surfaces and functions specifically designed for craft work (especially sewing).
The cost of a modern electric iron is anywhere from to 0. Travel irons are the most affordable and professional irons are the most expensive. For at home use, and iron costing is usually quite sufficient.
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