Ceramic vs. Iron Soleplate: Which to Buy?

The most important element of your clothes iron is the iron soleplate. Two materials are used for iron soleplates today - stainless steel and ceramic. Learn more below about the advantages and drawbacks of each to help you decide on the iron soleplate that will best meet your needs.

Frequent Ironing

If you iron clothes several times a week, you will want a lightweight iron with a non-stick soleplate. Choose a ceramic soleplate iron with a wide range of dry and steam-based temperature settings.

Ironing Synthetic Fibers

If you do touch-up ironing on synthetics and fabrics blended with spandex, a ceramic iron will suit your needs best, as ceramic does not stick to these fabrics. Ceramic also does not create static electricity, so it helps keep synthetics from clinging. Always iron synthetics on a dry setting.

Ironing Natural Fibers

If you iron mostly natural fibers such as cotton, rayon, wool, silk and linen, you will want the maximum steam conduction of a stainless steel soleplate. Stainless steel soleplates work better than ceramic for pressing in sharp creases on sleeves and trouser legs. Ceramic soleplates can pick up color from natural fibers and will become darker over time. Stainless steel soleplates are easy to clean and resist stains.