oldtnquiltinglady

Thanks for all the comments, ladies. I, too, am in a gripy mood about irons this morning. I bought a new one not too long ago; forget where and how much I paid, but not much because I refuse to waste money on an iron. Last week I used it on my regular ironing chores (yes, I do still iron my husband's shirts, a habit from his AF days) and was so disgusted I would have returned it to the store where I bought (if, if, if). Pretty, but with a Teflon finish that prevents smooth and fast ironing. UGHHHHHH. I hated it. I might even go looking for a receipt yet.

Debbie C

I don't know why, but we quilters seem to go through irons rather rapidly!! I NEVER buy one new any more. Whenever I see an iron at an estate/yard/garage sale, I always get it. They are usually from $1-$5. When these irons cease to work, they go to my recycle container. Last fall I was lucky enough to find a Rowenta for only a couple of dollars STILL IN THE BOX!!!

tessagin

Also why would one want to caulk an iron when they get hot. I don't blame you.

kellen46

I too have had several brands but always seem to come back to Black and Decker as a reliable iron that gets hot enough for me. As for spitting I found they mostly all do that, but if I press the steam or spray button once as the iron heats up the spitting is not a problem. I will defiantly stick with Black and Decker in the future.

coopah

That probably works for most irons, but read the directions thoroughly if you buy a new iron. Mine specifically said NOT to use distilled water. So it just depends! Wouldn't it be nice if all the irons used the same kind of water?

Anne P

I, too, am looking for a new iron. I have a Rowenta that doesn't steam anymore, but I think it's because it's fallen on the concrete floor many times because the cats keep jumping up on the ironing board and knocking it off! That's a problem I've got to fix. However, still need to get a new iron.
I just checked Consumer Reports site and, wow, there doesn't seem to be a good one out there - of any brand. I read some reviews and several have problems leaking. Even expensive (up to $220!) ones have poor reviews. Now I'm thinking the idea of getting a used or bargain store one is the way to go, even if I have to replace it every so often. Bummer!

madamekelly

I bought an inexpensive Sunbeam at Walmart about 9 years ago, and only use distiller water in it and it still works as good as the day I bought it for about $10-$14. I think tap water anywhere is what kills irons just because of the natural occurring minerals. The only issue I have ever had with it was remembering to give it a little jiggle, if it has not been used it a little while, because it has an auto shut-off. The good news is it heats up, or reheats up real quick. I do love having the Teflon faceplate, makes ironing with wet starch no problem, and wipes of nicely when cool.

nena

Bought a Rowenta ($70.000 started leaking in about a week. So mad ,ditched it and bought a Sunbeam model #4267-000. ( My daughter had one and I loved it) It was 49.00 ordered online. Had it 3 years now and still love it. Finally one that does not leak!

wellphooey

Strongly agree. My Black & Decker is at least 15-20 years old and NEVER has leaked or spit. I got it at an Ace Hardware.

roserips

I don't like the newer irons they are not made for the pressing we need them for. I have managed to get some really great irons from the thrift stores I love old general electric or sunbeam irons