It's
amazing how much more efficient, not to mention enjoyable, a task can be when
you use the appropriate tool!
Earlier
this year, I purchased a new iron.
Probably not the most exciting purchase to most, but I had taken some
sewing lessons and learned that ironing is a key component of any well-made
sewing project. Seeing how a good iron
could easily create well pressed seams with a hit of the "steam"
button, well, I was sold. And I was
quickly on the hunt for a replacement of my decade old Proctor Silex.
Having
road tested a Rowenta at my Sew Basics I sewing lesson, provided by the lovely
Emmeline of
Emmeline & Annabelle, I was pretty convinced that I was getting myself a Rowenta. I was happily surprised to see that Rowenta
irons are readily available through Best Buy, Future Shop, and Sears; however,
since each retailer carried a slightly different selection, I perused the
Rowenta site to
better understand their models.
Having
spent a whopping $24.99 on my Proctor Silex (which, at the time, I thought was
a decent amount), I was a little shocked to see most of their units selling for
over $100. Following a review of each
model's specifications, I ultimately decided on the Rowenta Focus II. My selection is based on a few criteria,
including:
1. PRICE -
Had to be somewhat reasonably priced.
Now you may be saying that $100 for an iron is steep, and I wouldn't
have disagreed with you at the time (nor did my significant other, for
that matter!). But I took the plunge and I haven't regretted
my decision once.
2. STEAM -
Had to have a steam button. Even if you
have no intention of sewing, the steam button is an amazing feature for
creating the perfect crease and for effortlessly removing wrinkles (without
having to go over, and over, and over the same spot!).
3. SELF
CLEAN - Had to include a self-cleaning feature.
I am so in love with my iron, that I actually follow the recommended
bi-weekly cleaning. The fact that it is
easy and quick to complete probably helps!
4. AUTO OFF
- This feature is quite practical if you like to sew. This unit turns off and on automatically
simply by moving the iron. It heats up
super quick and provides peace of mind, knowing that it will auto shut off
if I step away.
From
day one, I have loved using this iron, which totally took me by surprise. Any doubt related to spending $100 completely
disappeared after the first use. Just
the weight of the unit had me sold. My
previous iron was extremely light and cannot compete with the high heat
settings the Rowenta offers. The
Precision Chrome Tip is designed to glide easily and perfectly fit to iron narrow
edges, seams and collars.
An
iron is a basic laundry necessity, but having a really well-made version just
makes the whole process that much more efficient and enjoyable.
Happy
organizing!
