Maureen NJ

I had a Rowenta for years and it started leaking. Then I was at the Outlets and bought a refurbished Rowenta for $25. I’ve used it a lot for about 10 years. I only use distilled water in it as we have very hard water. I also emptied it after every used. I love the steam and how hot it gets. Recently,it started leaking. Last year we broke up my mother-in-laws home and she had 3 Rowentas (product of the Depression so she always had spares). Luckily, I don’t have to go out to buy one.

Boston1954

I have something that was only about $14. I do not put water in irons anymore. I have a little spray bottle in reach and it is wonderful.

Scraplady

I've always bought cheap irons and just consider them a consumable that will have to be replaced every couple of years. My hubby bought me a Rowenta once, it leaked after just a couple of months and I never like it. I'm using a B&D Digital Advantage at the moment. I like it because it holds a LOT of water. I do use the steam function since I don't like having to use a separate spritz bottle all the time. But it's the third one I've bought and its thermostat is already starting to die.

My next iron is going to be a gravity feed. I vaguely remember someone here recommending one a year or two ago, but can't remember the brand. I plan to do my homework before I make my investment. I don't need an industrial version, but I don't want a cheapo either. I already have the perfect place for the tank to sit on a shelf right next to my ironing station.

jothesewer2

Thanks for all of your help. I am not buying another expensive iron. I will buy a cheap steam iron an if it leaks throw it away. I will probably be money ahead. It seem that they have had the same problem for years and do nothing about it. I have had three Rowenta irons and the same happened to all. I called the factory and they told me I should use spring water which I did. Didn't help. Seems like mine have lasted about one or little over is all. Poor company for standing behind their products.

Peckish

What does that even mean?? You need to grab a bucket and hike on down to the spring and fill it? Pet the bunnies, baby deer, and squirrels along the way??

Reliable Digital Velocity. Awesome iron.

themadpatter

You kill me, lol. I can't believe they mean spring water, because it has just as many minerals in it as tap water. I understand that you can use tap water in Rowentas because they have self cleaning built in, but in areas with hard water, I don't see why they have a prohibition on distilled water.

redmadder

I have a couple of Black and Decker Classic found at thrift stores. They are heavy, solid, and get HOT and stay that way for 15 minutes after I turn them off. Half my ironing is done with the iron turned off. I just have to remember to turn down the heat with poly thread.

jmoore

Like Peckish, I have had a Reliable Digital Velocity for almost 2 years now. I have a “leaky” Rowenta up on a shelf in our laundry room but hang on to it for a back up and use a spray bottle if I need steam/water.

Intereresting that no one has mentioned an Olioso iron which I see quite often on quilt shows and videos.???

tranum

Presently I’m using a $1.00 travel iron from a garage sale. Gets hot but no automatic shut off.

cat-on-a-mac

Same for me, except I did have to replace mine last week! (It quit heating ... and when I picked it up, I could hear something rattling inside ... )

I got another from Amazon. Never put water in it. It's nice and heavy, which makes it better for pressing seams.