Ironing machine: This is how the devices work

There are different types of automatic ironers that have different functions. Depending on what and how often you need the device, one or the other model is more suitable for you. We have summarized the most important facts about ironing machines for you.

How ironing machines work

The ironing machine is not the same as the ironing machine. There are different types that work differently to achieve a wrinkle-free result.

• The exact functionality depends on the model. Temple dolls, trouser presses and professional ironing machines work differently.
• Iron-on manikin: By stretching the clothes over an inflatable bag in the form of a human torso, the clothes are stretched and dried with the help of hot air and heat. The clothing must have a residual moisture of 25 to 40 percent. This variant is also available for pants.
• Ironing machine: This machine has a roller through which the garment or a tablecloth is pulled. There is a heatable surface above the roller that transfers the heat to the fabric. The ironing machine works at a high rotation speed and thus creaks the clothes. The residual moisture in the clothing should be approximately 12 percent.
• Trouser press : Without steam - the model only works with electricity.
• Other models: Some automatic ironers also work with steam, which swells the fibers in the fabric and makes them malleable. In principle, they work like a conventional iron. We have tested the best steam irons for you.

Differences, advantages and disadvantages of automatic ironers

• To get your clothes wrinkle-free, you need to use steam and your own physical strength with an iron. With some items of clothing, this doesn't always work so well.
• By contrast, an iron-on manikin / automatic machine can make clothes completely wrinkle-free using a certain technique - without you having to do much yourself.
• Disadvantages : Not all items of clothing can be smoothed in this way. In some places the result is not so perfect, for example on the shirt collar. Sometimes the devices take up a lot of space. Acquisition costs can be very high depending on the device.
• Advantages : Ironing is significantly more time-consuming than using an iron-on manikin. It is more gentle on the back to use an iron-on manikin. Ironing machines enable the best possible result without much effort. They smooth and dry clothes at the same time in just six to 15 minutes. The clothing is protected by the even smoothing. You save yourself cleaning when it comes to shirts. There are models that cover sizes XS to XXXL so that they can be used by the entire family.

You should pay attention to this when buying

• When buying, you have to pay particular attention to the type of automatic ironer you want and for what purpose. In private use, a shirt and trouser press that is easy to use is recommended. Other models are suitable for a trade.
• Especially as a beginner, you should rely on simple operation and not buy a complicated and possibly dangerous device. You should also consider whether you want a travel model or a stationary variant for home. There are also iron-on manikins that can be operated with a hair dryer when you are traveling.
• The costs vary from around 80 euros to over 1, 000 euros - depending on the model and quality. Temple dolls, which are only suitable for tops, are much cheaper than the combination machines for pants.
• On the other hand, travel iron-on dolls can already be bought for 20 euros in the sale .

Features for the optical differentiation of the machines

The temple dolls are visually very different from each other. Depending on what you are looking for, there are different models.

• Travel iron-on manikin : This top model is operated using a hair dryer. It is significantly smaller and offers a less beautiful result, but is easy to transport when traveling. This model is recommended for business travelers.
• Shirt ironer : This doll delivers nicer results, but is also bigger. It requires water and is powered by electricity. Many models also offer the option of smoothing out already dry clothes with a "pre-steam" function.
• Iron-on doll for shirts and pants : If you want to iron pants, you need a special doll. In a kind of bundle there is a doll for tops and one for pants. These work like normal shirt presses and also offer the option of straightening pants.
• The ironing machine : Instead of a doll, the clothes are smoothed by a roller. This machine is accordingly larger and is used more in business.
• The trouser press : Externally, it resembles a table that is folded up to iron the trousers smooth. With free-standing models, you have the option of hanging up your jacket and shirt.