How effective is this mini iron?
21.2.2024
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
Pictures: Christian Walker
It might look like a toy, but it’s fully funtional – the miniature steam iron by Prym. I put it to the test to find out if it’s a worthy, space-saving substitute for a conventional model.
When I spotted Prym’s mini steam iron in our range, I wasn’t sure it was real or a toy. After I realised it was a real household appliance, I asked myself: is this the alternative to my bulky ironing set-up I’ve been waiting for? Soon after, the pint-sized product’s in my letterbox. Ready to be put to the test.
Looks cute, feels nice
The appliance is marketed as an iron for travel and delicate ironing work for sewing projects, such as pressing hems or ironing on fleece. The iron has a Swiss plug and includes a measuring cup and storage pouch.
Source: Christian Walker
I unpack the iron and instantly fall for its cuteness. Using it for the first time, I find it very comfortable to use thanks to its light weight and rounded handle. The continuous temperature control can be set between 60 and 200 degrees Celsius, and the appliance heats up very quickly. The water tank holds a mere 40 millilitres, which means it needs a refill after every one or two items of clothing you’ve ironed. That’s if you have the steam on full blast. Refilling water is quickly done, so no biggie.
Source: Christian Walker
Not very powerful, but decent results
I was particularly excited about the steam function. Can such a small thing actually produce enough steam? If you’re expecting a billowing cloud of vapour, unsurprisingly, you’ll be disappointed. Although the mini iron visibly produces steam, it’s as powerful as you’d expect from an appliance this size. What’s counter-intuitive is that the steam button’s up and not down when it’s switched on.
The most important question, however, is if the mini iron is any good at getting rid of creases. I’d say it does a decent job. In terms of crease-busting, the iron performs better than compact steamers, whose main selling point isn’t necessarily a flawless result.
Source: Stephanie Vinzens
The small soleplate alone means ironing takes longer than with conventional irons. What’s more, you obviously can’t compare the power with regular models. According to the manufacturer, this little thing has an output of 375 watts and a steam output of 0 grammes per minute. I find the information on steam somewhat confusing, but it matches that of other manufacturers. State-of-the art, standard-sized irons start usually feature around 2,000 watts with a maximum steam output of 100 grammes per minute. In other words, there’s no way the miniature version can keep up.
Semi-suitable for immaculate shirts
The lacking power is particularly noticeable if you’re dealing with highly crease-prone, formal garments that require thorough and precise ironing, such as cotton shirts. However, I find the performance perfectly fine for low-maintenance pieces. If you’re only tackling the odd crease and not dealing with the entire garment, you’ll also be done quite quickly, despite the iron’s small soleplate. As far as sewing goes, I can definitely say that hems are easy to press over. I tried it out on relatively thick denim fabric and got a clean result.
You’ll still need an ironing board
I used a space-saving ironing blanket instead of a board, but it makes ironing much more difficult. Even more than the small size and lack of power of the mini iron. Why? Because the garments can’t be draped over the edge and as carefully placed as you’d be able to with a regular ironing board. This means you’re making slow progress and creating new creases during the process, which is very frustrating. If you quickly want to iron out some light creases, the mini iron and ironing blanket will do the trick. But if you’ve got several shirts to iron and are on a timer, I wouldn’t recommend it.
Source: Christian Walker
In a nutshell
Handy for travel and occasional ironing jobs
Does what it says on the box: suitable for delicate sewing work and travel. Stowed away in its bag, it hardly takes up any space. Actually even less than a compact steamer. The cord neatly wraps around the handle. Exceptionally, a hotel bed will have to do as an ironing board.
Due to its compact size, you’d think small surfaces would be much easier – collars and between buttons, for example. However, seeing that all irons are tapered at the top, the mini iron doesn't offer any particular advantage in this respect, I find. What’s more, you really need the bulkiest piece of ironing equipment for perfect results – an ironing board.
I’d still say Prym’s mini iron could be a good alternative for home use if you rarely iron your clothes. If you religiously iron your outfits and shirts are a staple, however, you’re better off using a standard iron.
Pro
- manageable and compact
- smooths out creases decently
Contra
- not very powerful
- small soleplate
Has endless love for shoulder pads, Stratocasters and sashimi, but a limited tolerance for bad impressions of her Eastern Swiss dialect.
Home + Kitchen
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