Packing 101: Best Travel Irons at Target

We’re not fans of wrinkly clothes in the least, especially when we’re traveling. So, we’d been on the lookout for a dependable steam iron for not just quickly de-wrinkling clothes on the go but even for prepping fabrics for our next DIY project. When we went looking for travel irons at Target, we were delighted to find a plethora of options that were not only across various budgets and needs but also portable. What’s more, the e-tailer has plenty of great brands that glide smoothly and heat quickly. If that wasn’t enough, these were good irons that helped us not procrastinate about a monotonous task but rather helped us quickly smoothing our clothes, flattening stubborn wrinkles. However, it was quite a challenge to “iron out” the best choices on the market. Luckily, we’ve done the legwork for you – read our comprehensive guide to the best of these products at Target.

CHI Steam Iron

6

We begin our list with the amazing CHI Steam Iron, which we loved for many reasons, starting with the brand. This iron has the same maker as the cult-favorite Chi hair straightener and has the same titanium-infused ceramic plates on the iron too. What’s more, the plates heat quickly and are scratch-resistant, ensuring an extra-smooth glide. We’ve regularly used them on craft and sewing projects, bedding, and clothes, of course, and the steam bursts are powerful and smooth. The 4 oz. (118 ml) water tank capacity is enough for it to produce steam for a few good minutes more than most other irons. As a bonus, it’s quite lightweight, too, weighing just 2.9 lbs (1.3 kg). Besides the auto-shutoff and the 45-second heating time, the iron also has a retractable cord, which is very helpful when it comes to safety.

Conair Turbo Extreme Steam 2-in-1 Steam and Iron with Turbo

5

The Conair Turbo Extreme Steam 2-in-1 Steam and Iron with Turbo is touted as the “most powerful handheld steamer,” and we have to agree! Ready to use in less than 10 seconds, this steamer boasts 4 heat settings, namely low, medium, high, and turbo – along with the option to use it with/without steam. We especially loved the versatility of the steamer, as we could use it both vertically and horizontally as per our preference or even the clothes we were ironing. However, what bowled us over was the smart sensor safety feature, which would halt the steam when we placed the iron on a flat surface. But that’s not it – it would begin steaming again when we picked it up!

“If there was ever a value-for-money travel iron, this would be it. It’s got everything!”

WOW Travel

The best bit, though, was the bonus accessories that came along with it, including the bristle brush for loosening fibers and a silicone band to pull the fabric taut. It also had a creaser attachment for perfecting the folds and pleats and a “delicates bonnet” to protect the fragile fabric.

Rowenta Compact Travel Iron

4

If there was ever a crown given to the most compact iron ever, then it would go to the Rowenta Compact Travel Iron. Whether you’re traveling for pleasure or are a student shifting abroad, space-saving can’t get any better than this compact iron, whose handle folds down for the ultimate storage. However, the super-cute looks belie the actual power of this steam iron, which also works as a dry iron. Moreover, the large transparent water tank works with tap water, while the powerful vertical steam jets ensure that even hanging clothes stay wrinkle-free. Within minutes, our clothes were wrinkle-free, including the narrow edges, seams, and collars, thanks to the precise tip. Finally, aside from the sleek handle for travel storage, it even came with a travel pouch, so we could square it away separately among our things.

Interestingly, Rowena’s steamer also features amongst the best travel-size steamers!

Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 Iron/Steamer

3

We were looking for an effective 2-in-1 iron/steamer when we chanced upon the Hamilton Beach 2-in-1 Iron/Steamer. It not only allowed us to iron and remove wrinkles the traditional way, but we could also steam clothes right onto the hanger. Armed with an 8 ft-long cord (96 inches), the iron also has an easy water-view window; we could fill it easily from the top. We especially loved the compact and lightweight design, which allowed us to iron and steam in comfort, besides being easy to store without taking up much space. Even the easy-slide lever is simple to move and adjust, so we could seamlessly switch between steaming and ironing. Rounding up the features are the five temperature settings for ironing all kinds of fabrics.

Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Handheld Fabric Steamer

2

Our life was made a whole lot smoother thanks to the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Handheld Fabric Steamer. This handheld iron/steamer not only de-wrinkles clothes fast but even sanitizes them, killing 99.9% of the bacteria! All we had to do was add distilled water to the container, and the steamer heated up in just 40 seconds for a steaming time of as many as 20 minutes. What’s more, we could choose from five steam settings ranging from delicates to the super-charged Turbo setting. So, delicate fabrics weren’t damaged, and fabrics that needed more heat were de-wrinkled easily, too. As a bonus, the steamer even came with 3-in-1 attachments, namely a silicone band, a delicate fabric spacer, and a bristle brush. Wrapping things up is the 9-ft-long (108 inches) power cord.

Black+Decker Steam Iron with Retractable Cord

1

There are many reasons the Black+Decker Steam Iron with Retractable Cord earns the top spot. This solid option has the best of both worlds and has both traditional and vertical steaming features. We appreciated that it expelled steam consistently without leaking and spitting. But we really loved it because it was able to smooth out all fabrics in just one to two passes – even wrinkles from linen fabric! The iron was also ready for heating in 30 seconds, even though it took slightly longer for linen and cotton. What was totally cool, though, was the presence of the SmartSteam technology, which took the guesswork out of the equation. It automatically optimized steam levels based on the temperature we selected!

How To Choose The Best Travel Irons at Target?

Temperature settings

Obviously, temperature control was the most important factor when we were picking out a travel iron, as different fabrics require different temperatures for ironing so they aren’t damaged. Ideally, a great iron has a precise temperature gauge where one can easily switch to a lower heat setting when required. Also, it was important for us that iron heated up quickly, as some take less than 30 seconds! We didn’t want to wait minutes for the iron to reach the desired temperature.

Steam output

Steam output, which is measured in grams/minute, is important as that’s what gets through the fibers to get rid of wrinkles, unlike a dry one that gives a flat, crisp finish. Naturally, the more the grams per minute, the more effective is the iron. When we went iron-hunting, the grams of steam/minute varied as wildly as between 35 and 200 grams/minute!

You also need to ensure that irons with vertical steam features have anti-drip safety features. Otherwise, extremely hot water will leak out and cause harm to your skin and clothes. So, you also need to check out this feature, aside from the steam output.

Portability

Since we’re looking for a travel iron, there was no way we could ignore the weight and look for lightweight irons as compared to heavier ones. Additionally, check out whether it has a comfortable, non-slip grip and a retractable cord for easy storage.

Safety Features

Finally, you need to pay attention to the safety features of the iron, of which some common ones are anti-drip and automatic shut-off features. The former prevents water from dripping out of the soleplate, while the latter shuts the iron off automatically if it isn’t used for a specific period of time. However, you should always ensure that you unplug the iron when it’s not in use.

Are you looking to revamp your attire for your next trip? Check out the best Target travel dresses and the best women’s travel jeans.

Can you leave water in a steam iron?

Emptying the water is considered better for the iron’s optimal performance. This not only helps prevent mineral buildup inside but also ensures the iron’s longevity and prevents any leakage.

Can you use a steam iron without steam?

Yes, using the steam iron without the steam is possible, and the setting is known as a dry iron. They work well on wool, silk, and satin.

Do I need a travel iron?

Yes, as clothes tend to get wrinkled during travel, and a few quick strokes with the iron make them much more presentable.

Some images on this article are copyrighted by Target.