Black + Decker Classic Steam Iron

I often recommend products I use but don't always tell you about my experience. My recent iron purchase is something I want to share. I've never owned a fancy, quilting-specific iron. There are fancy irons that cost more than $100 and steam pressed that cost more than twice that. I don't need an iron that does tricks. Well, not many. I do have a Panasonic Cordless Iron (less than $100) because I had used a friend's and sometimes even I need a cordless iron. I also have the Steamfast Mini Travel Steam Iron for travel. 

I've had the BLACK+DECKER Classic Steam Iron on my Amazon wish list for a while. I just didn't need a new iron so I kept using the BLACK+DECKER Vitessa Advanced Steam Iron. Sadly, the Vitessa had fallen on the floor (more than once) and the plastic cover for the water fill had broken off and had to be mashed into place every time I opened it to add water. It was finally time to order the Classic.

The reviews on Amazon were good, and the price point is more than reasonable (less than $30 as of publication of this post).

What I want in an iron:

• heat up quickly and maintain temperature
• easily add water for steam
• non-coated (no non-stick coating) or chrome sole-plate
• won't break the bank
• longevity
• sturdy

How do these two compare?

The Classic is heavier than the Vitessa by about one pound. What does that mean? Well, to me it means the iron does more of the pressing than I do. I used it on several quilt blocks the first weekend I had it and it performed as expected. Good temp and steam. 

• Vitessa weight: 2 lbs 5 ounces (including the cord)
• Classic weight: 3 lbs 7 ounces (including the cord)

Overall, I'm pleased with the Classic (left). I'll likely put the Vitessa (right) away for when I need to lend an iron or take one to a retreat.

The BLACK+DECKER Classic Steam Iron is my new favorite. Do you have a favorite iron?

Irons I own and like (affiliate links):
BLACK+DECKER Vitessa Advanced Steam Iron
Panasonic Cordless Iron
Steamfast Mini Travel Steam Iron