The Steam Iron Vs. Dry Iron debate needs to be settled once and for all. To be completely honest, there are takers for both kinds in almost ‘rivalling’ numbers. One cannot place a finger at ‘why’ and ‘how’; each of these types is different, better, or worse than the other. Nevertheless, for the sake of argument, it is essential to be able to weigh the pros and cons of both the products in order to be able to better analyze which one is better for what task. So, what is the difference between a steam iron and a dry iron? Well, let us look at each individually to know better.
Some of the most important features of a clothes iron to compare are:
The Water Tank
This is where one needs to store water for the process of ironing:
Steam Iron: In Steam Iron is used to create ‘steam’ which is great for smoothening out the wrinkles in the clothes.
Dry Iron: As the name suggests, the dry Iron does not feature a water tank as it is not applicable to the process of dry ironing.
Inference: In case you are not up for trips and drips of water while ironing, then Dry Iron is the perfect choice for you. However, the Wet Iron is more suitable for a fine crisp ironing experience if you are dealing with wrinkles.
The Steam Output And Steam Holes
As the name suggests, the steam holes or outputs are meant to ‘let go’ or release the steam during the ironing process. Often, it has been considered a good idea to have lots of steam holes, as the more the release of the steam, the better will the process of ironing be, as the wrinkles will ease off better.
Steam Irons: as expected, the steam iron feature innumerable holes to let out the steam from the water tank during the process of ironing. Hence, this offers a better wrinkle-free experience that ensures a fine crisp effect over the fabric.
Dry Irons: As the Dry Iron does not comprise the use of a water tank, hence, it also does not need Steam holes. However, the ironing is not going to be as precise as that of the steam iron.
Inference: The Dry Iron is the perfect choice if you are up for the art and crafts kind of work. However, when using the Steam Iron, be sure to check if the steam holes are not blocked.
The Spray Mist
A spray mist is a feature that allows the user to Iron-out the wrinkles by dampening the fabric it is used upon.
The Steam Iron: The steam iron usually comprises the Spray mist as it is to be able to enhance the overall effect of easing out the wrinkles from the surface of the fabric.
The Dry Iron: As the name suggests, the dry Iron does not comprise the Spray Mist feature. This appliance is for the simple process of dry ironing the fabric without the use of water, steam, or sprays in the first place.
The Soleplate
The soleplate of an Iron is responsible for allowing pressure to be applied uniformly so as to ensure proper results.
The Steam Iron: The Soleplate of the steam Iron comprises innumerable steam holes, which makes it rather a ‘rough’ surface for the fabric.
The Dry Iron: As mentioned earlier, the soleplate of the Dry Iron is flat, smooth, and basic so as to offer the right kind of pressure and uniformity of the heat throughout the surface that needs to be ‘ironed out.’
Versatility
Steam Iron: One of the main advantages of steam iron vs. dry Iron is that the steam iron can double up as a dry iron as well, thus, allowing you the benefits of both types in one. To be able to do so, one needs to empty the water tank and use it in ‘dry mode.’
The Dry Iron: On the contrary, the dry Iron cannot be used as a Steam Iron, as it completely lacks a water tank in the first place.
Inference: It is recommended to opt for a steam iron if you need more versatility when it comes to applications.
The Frequency Of Usage
Steam Iron: As the steam iron can also be used as a Dry Iron, it is far more versatile and can be used more often.
The Dry Iron: this can only be used for the specified purposes of dry-ironing.
Inference: it is therefore only obvious that you opt for Steam iron if in case you need to iron out a bulk of clothes every single time.
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Difference Between Steam Iron and Dry Iron
The main difference between Steam Iron and Dry Iron are:
STEAM IRON | DRY IRON |
Features Steam vents and Ceramic or stainless steel soleplates | Features smooth, non-stick soleplates |
The cord length various with a 360-degree swivel | Does not offer the 360 swivel movement with the varying cord length |
Is not suitable for travels | Is travel friendly |
Is heavier | Is lightweight |
Comprises of a water tank | Does not feature a water tank |
ALso includes LED, auto-clean and Spray mist | Does not include Spray mist, auto clean or any other such added features |
Can be used for dry ironing as well | Cannot be used for steam ironing |
Not a great choice for the beginners | Is suitable for the beginners |
Is expensive | Is affordable |
Steam Iron Vs. Dry Iron: The Conclusion
The ironing of clothes is one of the most important aspects of proper grooming and needs to be just as good while you are at it. However, most times, we tend to get confused about what to select:
For Every Day Wrinkle Free Fabric: If you are in need to iron-out clothes that are many and with lots of wrinkles, it is recommended that you opt for the Steam Iron as it does the job just as well.
For Craft, Art: If your requirements extend to ironing various fabrics and materials that are rather water-sensitive, it is recommended that you go for the Dry Iron.