Last updated: 25 October 2025

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Reviewed by Carly James, Posh.co.uk Editor and former Which? magazine contributor. With years of hands-on testing experience, Carly specializes in evaluating home appliances for real-world performance and durability.

Steam generator irons are essentially super-powerful steam irons. Their power really can make light work of heavy ironing and, even if you think nothing can make ironing fun, they can certainly make it a whole lot less painful. Here is a brief guide to what you need to know about them.

How We Evaluate Steam Generator Irons

Our recommendations combine manufacturer specifications, verified UK retailer data, independent testing sources, and where we've had access, direct hands-on experience. We focus on the factors that matter most for efficient, safe, and effective ironing performance.

What We Look For

• Performance & reliability: Steam pressure (bar), continuous steam output (g/min), and heat-up time for efficient crease removal
• Build quality: Soleplate materials, water tank durability, and expected lifespan based on user feedback
• Ease of use: Tank capacity, refill convenience, weight for vertical steaming, and control intuitiveness
• Value: Features and performance relative to typical UK pricing tiers (budget, mid-range, premium)
• Safety: Auto shut-off features, anti-limescale systems, and certifications

Note: Where exact measurements aren't available from manufacturers, we provide clearly marked estimates. We never list live prices—our focus is on function, features, and value.

Steam generator irons are different from clothes steamers

Although both steam generator irons and clothes steamers work on the same principle (as, indeed, do regular steam irons), they implement it very differently and that makes a big difference. Steam generator irons are intended for proper ironing. They will deal with the toughest of creases and can produce those neat creases which look so good on tailored clothing. Clothes steamers, by contrast, are intended to freshen up garments on their hangers after an iron has already done the hard work.

Steam generator irons are different from steam cleaners

Steam generator irons are intended for use on fabric which is already clean and odour-free. They may be able to remove light stains and odours from clothes, at least some of the time, but their main purpose is to remove creases not to clean.

The basics of using a steam generator iron

The basics of using a steam generator iron are essentially the same as using a regular steam iron, however, for the sake of clarity and safety, we'll cover them quickly.

Only fill your steam generator iron to within the levels indicated

Always stay within the minimum and maximum water levels shown on the water tank. Letting your steam generator iron run dry can damage the heating element and overfilling it creates the risk of "spluttering", which could result in scalds.

Always allow the steam generator iron time to heat up completely before use

This is really important, because using the steam generator iron before it is ready can cause it to splutter. Even if you escape scalds, you may wind up with water marks on your clothes. Most steam generator irons will have some kind of indicator light to show you when they're ready but if not you can test your steam generator iron on a kitchen towel.

Watch your hands when you are using your steam generator iron

We're sorry if this sounds like a "caution, this knife is sharp", kind of point, but we felt we had to put it in. Steam is what you get when you heat water to boiling point. That's hot. Scalds hurt. Let's move on.

Let the steam do the work

The whole point of using a steam generator iron is to have the power of the steam do the hard work for you. Let it. Resist any temptation to try to add "elbow grease" as well. You may actually end up damaging your fabric if you do.

Empty and dry your water tank after each use

This is as much as a safety issue as an issue of taking care of your steam generator iron. It will also give you the opportunity to give it a quick clean and to see if further cleaning is required.

Taking care of your steam generator iron

We know we keep saying this, but if you have any limescale at all in your area, we strongly recommend using water which has been distilled or at least filtered, even if your steam generator iron has an anti-limescale function. You can actually make distilled water at home, which is very affordable and good for the environment. You can certainly filter water at home.

You can also buy white distilled vinegar to give your steam generator iron an occasional deep clean (or a regular one if you have serious issues with limescale). To do this, fill the water tank with white distilled vinegar instead of water, let it heat up completely and then release the steam until the tank has reached its minimum level and empty it. Refill the tank with regular distilled/filtered water and repeat the process. Then either dry the tank thoroughly and store the steam generator iron or just get on with your next batch of ironing.

Points to consider when buying a steam generator iron

Here is what we suggest you keep in mind when looking at steam generator irons.

• • Comfort in the hand

The handle is to a steam generator iron what the wheels are to a car. They're both technically dispensable but, in practice, they're essential. The size and shape of the handle needs to fit your hand. The materials used need to help you grip, not let the iron slip. Last, but definitely not least, you need to be able to reach the relevant controls easily and work them, ideally one-handed. It's highly advisable to try before you buy. If you can't, make sure you get a no-quibble returns policy.

• • Power

In general, more power is better, but you have to pay attention to what that power can actually do. For some context, regular steam irons typically have a maximum power output of 2400W and can offer regular steam at a rate of up to 50g/minute or burst steam at a rate of up to 150g/minute. Steam generator irons typically have a maximum power output of 2400W to 2600W and can offer regular steam at a rate of up to 200g/minute or burst steam at a rate of up to 300g/minute.

• • Refilling

There are basically two approaches to refilling. One is just to have a really large water tank so you don't have to refill for a very long time. The downside to this is that it can make the iron quite bulky. The alternative option is to allow the iron to be refilled whilst it is still in use. The downside to this is that it only helps if you're running through water quickly. If you're ironing infrequently, you will still have plenty of excess water in your tank.

• • Anti-limescale function

This is highly advisable if you live in an area with any kind of limescale at all as it is what will protect your steam generator iron over the long-term. That said, even if you do have an anti-limescale function, we'd suggest using distilled or filtered water (or a mixture of tap water and distilled/filtered water) when at all possible.

• • Temperature gauge

Having a temperature gauge means you have more control and can get results, which are customised for your fabrics. The downside to it is that, while you don't necessarily have to sort your washing before you iron it, you do have to make sure you set the temperature correctly for different fabrics.

Editor's Pick

Morphy Richards EasySteam Steam Generator Iron

Best for: Families wanting reliable performance with self-cleaning convenience

Key Strengths

• Powerful 6 bar pressure with 120g continuous steam output
• Self-cleaning system reduces maintenance requirements
• Eco-friendly mode (70g steam) for delicate fabrics
• Detachable 1.8L water tank for easy refilling
• Iron lock system ensures safe storage

Potential Drawbacks

• Lacks anti-slip pads which can cause slipping on some surfaces
• Some users report reduced steam output after long-term use

Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Power	2400W
Pressure	6.0 bar
Continuous Steam Output	120 g/min
Steam Boost	200 g/min
Water Tank Capacity	1.8L
Soleplate Type	Ceramic aluminium
Weight	2.8kg
Auto Shut-off	Yes
Vertical Steam	Yes
Anti-limescale	Yes
Eco Mode	Yes

Power Efficiency Rating: 50.0 (continuous steam g/min ÷ power watts × 1000) | Session Capacity: 54 minutes (based on 1.8L tank at 120g/min continuous output) | Steam Intensity Score: 720 (pressure bar × continuous steam output)

The Morphy Richards EasySteam delivers a compelling balance of power and convenience for busy families. With 6 bar pressure and 120g/min continuous steam output, it tackles everyday ironing efficiently whilst the self-cleaning system significantly reduces the maintenance burden that plagues many steam generator irons.

The detachable 1.8L water tank is a standout feature, making refills far less awkward than built-in tanks. The eco mode thoughtfully reduces steam output to 70g/min for delicate fabrics, offering versatility without requiring manual temperature adjustments. The iron lock system adds peace of mind for safe storage between uses.

However, the absence of anti-slip pads is a notable oversight—some users report the base unit sliding on certain surfaces during vigorous ironing. Additionally, whilst the self-cleaning function helps, some long-term users note diminished steam performance after extensive use, suggesting regular descaling remains essential, particularly in hard water areas.

Runner Up

Philips PerfectCare Elite Steam Generator Iron

Best for: Users seeking premium no-burn technology with powerful steam performance

Key Strengths

• OptimalTEMP technology guarantees no fabric burns
• No temperature settings needed - works on all fabrics automatically
• Powerful 470g steam boost for stubborn creases
• Ultra-light iron design (800g) reduces wrist strain
• ProVelocity technology for compact storage

Potential Drawbacks

• Premium price positioning places it in the high-end market segment
• May require frequent descaling in hard water areas
• Some users experience water spitting during extended sessions

Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Power	2700W
Pressure	8.0 bar
Continuous Steam Output	135 g/min
Steam Boost	470 g/min
Water Tank Capacity	1.8L
Soleplate Type	T-ionicGlide
Weight	0.8kg (iron only)
Auto Shut-off	Yes
Vertical Steam	Yes
Anti-limescale	Yes
Eco Mode	No

Power Efficiency Rating: 50.0 (continuous steam g/min ÷ power watts × 1000) | Session Capacity: 48 minutes (based on 1.8L tank at 135g/min continuous output) | Steam Intensity Score: 1080 (pressure bar × continuous steam output)

The Philips PerfectCare Elite represents the premium end of steam generator technology, distinguished primarily by its OptimalTEMP system that eliminates the risk of fabric burns. This intelligent temperature management works across all ironable fabrics without adjustment, removing the guesswork and sorting requirements that plague traditional ironing.

At just 800g, the iron itself is remarkably light, significantly reducing wrist fatigue during extended ironing sessions. The 470g steam boost is among the most powerful available, making light work of stubborn creases in thick fabrics like denim and linen. The T-ionicGlide soleplate glides effortlessly, whilst the ProVelocity technology allows the base unit to be stored more compactly than many competitors.

The premium positioning is reflected in the price, which places this firmly in the high-end market segment. Users in hard water areas report needing to descale more frequently than expected, despite the anti-limescale features. Some users also note occasional water spitting during extended sessions, though this appears to be related to overfilling or insufficient heating time rather than a fundamental design flaw.

Best Budget

Russell Hobbs Steam Power Generator Iron

Best for: Budget-conscious users needing effective steam performance for regular ironing

Key Strengths

• Outstanding value offering with strong feature set
• Fast 1-minute heat-up time gets you ironing quickly
• Anti-calc system protects against limescale buildup
• Lightweight design at 4.24kg for a steam generator
• Vertical steam function for curtains and hanging garments

Potential Drawbacks

• Durability concerns with some units failing after 12-18 months
• Steam continues briefly after releasing button
• Smaller 1.3L water tank requires more frequent refills

Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Power	2400W
Pressure	4.5 bar
Continuous Steam Output	90 g/min
Steam Boost	90 g/min
Water Tank Capacity	1.3L
Soleplate Type	Stainless steel
Weight	4.24kg
Auto Shut-off	No
Vertical Steam	Yes
Anti-limescale	Yes
Eco Mode	No

Power Efficiency Rating: 37.5 (continuous steam g/min ÷ power watts × 1000) | Session Capacity: 52 minutes (based on 1.3L tank at 90g/min continuous output) | Steam Intensity Score: 405 (pressure bar × continuous steam output)

The Russell Hobbs Steam Power delivers remarkable value for budget-conscious households, offering legitimate steam generator performance at a fraction of premium model costs. The 1-minute heat-up time is genuinely impressive, getting you ironing faster than most competitors, whilst the 90g/min continuous steam output handles everyday fabrics competently.

At 4.24kg, it's lighter than many steam generators, making it easier to manoeuvre and store. The anti-calc system provides essential protection against limescale buildup, though users in hard water areas should still consider filtered or distilled water for maximum longevity. The vertical steam function works adequately for refreshing hanging garments and curtains.

However, the budget positioning comes with trade-offs. Multiple users report reliability concerns, with some units experiencing steam system failures after 12-18 months of use. The steam's tendency to continue briefly after releasing the trigger can be frustrating and wastes water. The 1.3L tank capacity is notably smaller than competitors, necessitating more frequent refills during extended ironing sessions. The absence of auto shut-off is also a safety consideration for forgetful users.

Morphy Richards 332016 Power Steam Elite

Best for: Heavy-duty ironing with maximum steam power for large households

Key Strengths

• Exceptional 2400W power with 6.5 bar pressure
• Massive 310g steam boost for toughest creases
• Large 2.2L water tank for extended ironing sessions
• Pearl ceramic soleplate glides smoothly over fabrics
• Auto shut-off safety feature after 10 minutes inactivity

Potential Drawbacks

• Heavy at 4.9kg makes vertical steaming challenging
• Mid-to-premium positioning reflects feature set
• Large size may not suit smaller storage spaces

Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Power	2400W
Pressure	6.5 bar
Continuous Steam Output	200 g/min
Steam Boost	310 g/min
Water Tank Capacity	2.2L
Soleplate Type	Pearl ceramic
Weight	4.9kg
Auto Shut-off	Yes
Vertical Steam	Yes
Anti-limescale	Yes
Eco Mode	No

Power Efficiency Rating: 83.3 (continuous steam g/min ÷ power watts × 1000) | Session Capacity: 66 minutes (based on 2.2L tank at 200g/min continuous output) | Steam Intensity Score: 1300 (pressure bar × continuous steam output)

The Morphy Richards 332016 is a real workhorse of a steam generator iron, designed for households with substantial ironing demands. With 2400W of power, 6.5 bar of pressure, and a continuous steam output of 200g/min, it tackles even the most stubborn creases with authority. The impressive 310g/min steam boost provides exceptional power for thick fabrics and heavily creased items.

The generous 2.2L water tank is among the largest in its class, enabling extended ironing sessions without interruption—particularly valuable for large households or those who prefer to batch their ironing. The tank can be refilled during use, and the auto-clean function helps manage limescale buildup, though users in hard water areas should still prioritise filtered or distilled water for optimal longevity.

The controls are intuitively designed, with the temperature dial clearly indicating appropriate settings for different fabrics. The pearl ceramic soleplate glides smoothly across materials without snagging, and the auto shut-off feature provides valuable peace of mind by powering down the unit after 10 minutes of inactivity.

However, the substantial power comes with weight—at 4.9kg, this is a heavy unit that can make vertical steaming of curtains and hanging garments physically demanding. The large footprint also requires adequate storage space, which may be challenging for smaller homes or flats.

Morphy Richards 333020 Jet Steam Generator Iron

Best for: Smaller households needing dependable performance without excessive power

Key Strengths

• Compact 1L tank ideal for smaller households and storage
• Fast 45-second heat-up time for quick ironing
• Anti-limescale system extends longevity
• Water-spray function helps with stubborn creases
• Non-stick stainless steel soleplate glides smoothly

Potential Drawbacks

• Lower power output may struggle with thick fabrics
• Small tank requires frequent refills for large loads
• No steam boost function limits versatility

Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Power	2200W
Pressure	4.5 bar
Continuous Steam Output	100 g/min
Steam Boost	N/A
Water Tank Capacity	1.0L
Soleplate Type	Stainless steel (non-stick)
Weight	3.5kg
Auto Shut-off	No
Vertical Steam	Yes
Anti-limescale	Yes
Eco Mode	No

Power Efficiency Rating: 45.5 (continuous steam g/min ÷ power watts × 1000) | Session Capacity: 36 minutes (based on 1.0L tank at 100g/min continuous output) | Steam Intensity Score: 450 (pressure bar × continuous steam output)

If all that power sounds way more than you need, then you may want to look at the Morphy Richards 333020 steam generator iron. With 2200W of power, 4.5 bar of pressure, and 100g/min of continuous steam, it delivers significantly more capability than regular steam irons whilst remaining appropriate for smaller households with moderate ironing demands.

The compact 1L water tank makes this unit notably smaller and lighter than high-power alternatives, offering easier storage and manoeuvrability. The impressively fast 45-second heat-up time gets you ironing quickly, whilst the anti-limescale system provides essential protection for the internal components.

Even though the Morphy Richards 333020 steam generator iron has entry-level specifications, there are still some very nice touches. The water-spray function compensates somewhat for the absence of a dedicated steam boost, providing targeted moisture for stubborn creases. The stainless steel soleplate features a proper non-stick coating that glides cleanly over fabrics without snagging.

The modest specifications are deliberately chosen for the target audience—smaller households or individuals who iron regularly but in manageable quantities. However, users with thick fabrics like denim or linen may find the 100g/min output and 4.5 bar pressure less effective than higher-powered models. The small tank capacity also necessitates more frequent refilling during extended sessions.

Tefal GV7466 Express

Best for: Users in hard water areas needing superior anti-scale protection

Key Strengths

• Unique removable anti-scale collector captures 10x more particles
• Powerful 6.5 bar pressure with 350g steam boost
• Durilium Autoclean soleplate for outstanding glideability
• Eco mode reduces energy usage by up to 20%
• 1.7L water tank with continuous refill capability

Potential Drawbacks

• Mid-range positioning may not suit budget-conscious buyers
• Requires regular scale collector maintenance
• Steam boost output may be excessive for delicate fabrics

Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Power	2200W
Pressure	6.5 bar
Continuous Steam Output	120 g/min
Steam Boost	350 g/min
Water Tank Capacity	1.7L
Soleplate Type	Durilium Autoclean
Weight	4.2kg
Auto Shut-off	Yes
Vertical Steam	Yes
Anti-limescale	Yes
Eco Mode	Yes

Power Efficiency Rating: 54.5 (continuous steam g/min ÷ power watts × 1000) | Session Capacity: 51 minutes (based on 1.7L tank at 120g/min continuous output) | Steam Intensity Score: 780 (pressure bar × continuous steam output)

Tefal have long been known for their range of regular irons, so it's hardly a surprise that they're now branching out into steam generator irons. The Tefal GV7466 Express delivers 2200W of power with 6.5 bar of pressure and offers continuous steam output of 120g/min—a solid balance for everyday ironing needs. For stubborn creases, the impressive 350g/min steam boost provides exceptional power, though this may prove excessive for delicate fabrics.

The standout feature is the removable anti-scale collector, which Tefal claims captures up to 10 times more scale particles than conventional systems. This makes it particularly valuable for households in hard water areas where limescale buildup is a persistent challenge. However, the collector does require regular maintenance—users must empty and rinse it periodically to maintain effectiveness.

The Durilium Autoclean soleplate is another highlight, providing exceptional glideability across fabrics whilst actively preventing buildup that could transfer to clean clothes. The adjustable temperature control allows precise treatment for different fabrics, preserving delicate materials whilst tackling tougher items. The Eco Mode is a thoughtful addition, reducing energy consumption by up to 20% when full power isn't necessary.

The 1.7L water tank strikes a reasonable balance between capacity and size, allowing extended ironing sessions with the ability to refill during use. At 4.2kg, the unit is manageable for most users, though vertical steaming of heavy curtains may still prove tiring. If you live in an area with really hard water, we would recommend using distilled or filtered water alongside the scale collector for maximum protection.

Tower T22006 Steam Generator Iron

Best for: Budget users wanting ceramic soleplate smoothness with vertical steaming

Key Strengths

• Excellent value with ceramic soleplate for smooth gliding
• High 2700W power for rapid heat-up performance
• Vertical steam function ideal for curtains and bedding
• Adjustable thermostat suits all fabric types
• Anti-scale and anti-drip protection included

Potential Drawbacks

• Lower 3 bar pressure limits tough crease removal
• Smaller 1.5L water tank capacity than premium models
• Build quality concerns typical of budget appliances

Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Power	2700W
Pressure	3.0 bar
Continuous Steam Output	100 g/min
Steam Boost	N/A
Water Tank Capacity	1.5L
Soleplate Type	Ceramic
Weight	3.4kg
Auto Shut-off	No
Vertical Steam	Yes
Anti-limescale	Yes
Eco Mode	No

Power Efficiency Rating: 37.0 (continuous steam g/min ÷ power watts × 1000) | Session Capacity: 54 minutes (based on 1.5L tank at 100g/min continuous output) | Steam Intensity Score: 300 (pressure bar × continuous steam output)

The Tower T22006 steam generator iron delivers impressive value, combining 2700W of power with a ceramic soleplate that typically appears only on mid-range models. The high wattage enables rapid heat-up performance, getting you ironing quickly, whilst the 100g/min continuous steam output handles everyday fabrics competently.

The ceramic soleplate is the standout feature at this price point, gliding smoothly across fabrics with minimal resistance—a significant upgrade from basic stainless steel plates common in budget irons. The adjustable thermostat provides versatility across fabric types, protecting delicate materials like silk and satin whilst still tackling tougher items. The vertical steam function works adequately for refreshing hanging garments, curtains, and bedding.

However, the 3 bar pressure is notably lower than mid-range competitors, limiting effectiveness on heavily creased thick fabrics like denim. The absence of a steam boost function means you're reliant solely on the continuous output for stubborn creases. At 1.5L, the water tank capacity is smaller than many alternatives, necessitating more frequent refills during extended sessions.

Build quality reflects the budget positioning—whilst the core functionality is solid, the construction feels less robust than premium models. The absence of auto shut-off is a safety consideration, requiring users to remember to switch off the unit manually. The anti-scale and anti-drip protections are welcome inclusions, though users in hard water areas should still consider filtered water for optimal longevity.

Which is the best steam generator iron - conclusion

For families seeking reliable performance with minimal maintenance, the Morphy Richards EasySteam (our Editor's Pick) delivers excellent value with its self-cleaning system and generous 1.8L tank. Those willing to invest in premium technology should consider the Philips PerfectCare Elite (Runner Up) for its foolproof OptimalTEMP no-burn system and ultra-light design.

Budget-conscious buyers will find the Russell Hobbs Steam Power (Best Budget) offers impressive value, though warranty registration is essential given durability concerns. For maximum power, the Morphy Richards 332016 Power Steam Elite delivers exceptional steam output, whilst the Tefal GV7466 Express stands out for hard water areas with its superior anti-scale system.

Smaller households may prefer the compact Morphy Richards 333020 Jet Steam, whilst the Tower T22006 provides remarkable value with its ceramic soleplate at a budget-friendly price point. Your choice ultimately depends on household size, ironing frequency, and whether specific features like no-burn technology or anti-scale protection align with your priorities.