Electric iron

Electric iron is the plain household tool for anyone who still wants shirts, trousers, and hems to look pressed without sending them out. By our assessment, its best side is directness: heat, weight, and a flat soleplate do the job with no learning curve beyond not burning fabric. The trade-off is just as plain, because it asks for attention, a stable board, and the right setting for each material, and careless use can leave shiny marks or scorches. In practice it is a bit of routine work rather than a clever appliance, and that is exactly why many people still keep one around. Compared with steamers, it is better when a crisp crease matters; compared with a press, it is cheaper and less fussy, but slower on a pile of laundry. Electric iron suits people who want a simple, durable tool for regular clothes care, and less so anyone hoping to make ironing disappear.