A review……….

Occasionally I am contacted by a company to see if I would like to review their product on my blog.  Sometimes it is a product I don’t even use, but this time it caught my attention.  My favorite iron of all times was a Hamilton Beach and I had it for over 8 years before it bit the dust.  It still steamed up until the day it died. 

I have never been a fan of soleplates with a coating but this one caught my attention.  It sounded like a more durable and slick coating than most irons offer.







They are really standing behind this one.  Here is a link to the info about this iron on their website.








I am happy to say the little water compartment door stays open instead of flopping down as you are filling it.  Little things like that make me happy.

It is easy to see the water level which is a must for me.  My previous irons had me guessing all the time.

It has an automatic shut off, with a little beeping sound.  If you hold it too long in the down position it will also beep (and eventually shut off).  Of course that is a safety feature in case you left the iron in that position accidentally.

My first thought was “It’s so big, it must be heavy” but the bottom part is the retractable cord compartment so it doesn’t add any weight.  After using the iron for a month I found that it is heavy enough that I don’t have to add any extra pressure to the iron to get out fold marks from my stash fabrics but not so heavy that it is uncomfortable using it.  It glides SO smoothly across the fabric.  The steam?  It has lots of steam and I love a steam iron.  Only a few things need a dry iron.  I recommend this one if you like lots of steam.

I read all of the instructions that came with the iron.  Do you do that?  Or do you just pull it out and use it?  How many of you empty the water when you shut off the iron?  I never did in the past but I am doing it with this one.

Now for the giveaway- Hamilton Beach will send one of these irons to one of my readers.  Warning!! If you are a no reply blogger, you are automatically removed from the list.  That is all of you with Blogger accounts that haven’t enabled your email, 90% of Google+ are no reply.  If you don’t know, you can add your email in your comment with the word AT instead of @ and the word DOT instead of .  I will pick the winner with the random number generator at 11:30 p.m. CST Saturday night 2/22.

The drawing is closed!!!!

226 thoughts on “A review……….

  1. I am happy to hear that someone else likes irons the same way I do!!! Not too heavy with lots of steam and auto off. If I don't win, I'll consider this one when I need a new one!

  2. My all time favorite was a Black & Decker, but my current iron is Hamilton Beach and I love it. Lightweight, lots of steam–like the one you are trying. Thanks for the chance at a giveaway!

  3. I've been reading your wonderful blog every day for months, now, but have never commented. I have a question about batting: Do you ever use flannel as a batting? I like it because it's thin and flat and adds weight.
    Suellen Franze
    sfranze at gmail dot com

  4. Sounds like a great iron and I need a new iron! Thanks for the review. . .and no, I don't empty the water. . .guess that's not a good practice. . .so a new iron would inspire me to “change my errant ways”!

  5. Thanks for reviewing this iron. I am always concerned with the weight of a product and how easy it is to use it. This sounds like a winner. I am glad you used it for a month before telling us what you liked about it, too.

    spirit dot in dot stoney at gmail dot com

  6. My current iron is just barely adequate … the biggest downside is that it just doesn't put out much steam. When I read that your iron really puts out the steam, I was “sold”. Plus it leaks frequently … what a pain.

  7. I am always on the lookout for a good iron, and this one sounds like a winner! I hope the soreness from your recent fall on ice is abating. You can reach me at fdemmertatwindstreamdotnet.

  8. Oh, yes! I have to have lots of steam! When I was at my sisters recently she had a really cheap iron that hardly had any steam and it was awful – she doesn't quilt, needless to say. So, please enter me in the drawing!

  9. My current iron is also a Hamilton Beach. I really like the shut off feature and the fact that when I put the iron in the down position it turns back on again.

    deb
    ladara at cfl dot rr dot com

  10. I have a Hamilton Beach that I like but could always use a new one so put me in the drawing! jrshep at golfersandquilters dot com. I have your blog on my list of favorites and read you every day.

  11. I use water in my garment iron (which frankly doesn't get a lot of use) and I do tend to empty that out. I only use a dry iron for quilting with a spray bottle. I'm not sure why though – maybe I should give steam a try! Thank you for a chance to win!

  12. Irons are something that are so essential but so difficult to find one that has a lot of steam, balanced to use, hot enough, no spitting, and lightweight. I gave up on the Rowentas and currently have a cheapie from Target that is barely adequate. I would love to try this one.

  13. Looks like a good one, especially if it gets hot enough. Removing the water after use probably helps with the spitting problem irons often develop over time. I would like to try this one out.

  14. You didn't say if it gets really hot. I bought a new iron last year that was supposed to be great, but it doesn't get as hot as a cheapy I bought at an estate sale. Lots of steam would be great, if the iron was really hot.

  15. I always like to have a back-up iron and this sounds like a good one. I've been having issues with people replying even though I've done everything in the world that I'm supposed to!! So contact me at itsknotsew at gmail dot com just in case I win! Thanks!

  16. What a nice giveaway.
    Would love to have a new iron. I have a few and don't really love any of them

    Sue.quilts at verizon dot net

  17. Hi Wanda,
    It sounds like you found a good, reliable iron. Many quilters have problems with theirs and wish for something better. I'll give this one a try.
    Thanks for hosting the giveaway!
    -Kim

  18. I would love a new iron! I have a Shark now which is ok but the steam is not great on it. Had a Rowenta that I loved but my hubby dropped it. I replaced it with another Rowenta but it was not as good as the old one.

    My hubby doesn't understand why I fret over irons. I know you understand!

  19. There is nothing better than having a good iron! I like lots of steam so I will have to save this info in case I don't win and need to replace the cheap iron I am now using.

  20. What a great giveaway. I haven't put water in my iron–killed too many of them that way, but I guess I never emptied them of water at the end of the day. My bad! Thanks!

  21. A good iron is worth it's weight in gold. After going through a gazillion irons in short order, I learned to empty the water after each use and it is amazing how much longer they last. If I don't do it they start spitting in just a few months.

  22. Thank you so much for the review. Irons don't last like they used to and I am always baffled with the extensive choice.
    Hope you are feeling a bit better! And thanks for the give-a-way!

  23. Sure would love to find an iron with lots of steam. This sounds like a good one. Thanks for the review, Wanda. I read your blog everyday and love it! My email address is ercolburn62atgmaildotcom

  24. Thank you for the great giveaway. I like the retractable cord. They always get in the way when you store it. I solved the problem of iron left iron by plugging it into a switch controlled outlet with a small light. Light on = iron on. When we were doing our new house I specifically asked for a 30 amp outlet with a switch in my sewing room. ( my current iron draws 15 amps and that can cause problems like brownouts in your sewing room if not popping the circuit breaker – ask me how I know that 🙂 !!)

  25. Thank you for the iron review! I've been in the market and I've added this one to the list to think about.

    How long does it stay on before the auto-shutoff kicks in?

    islandcat98 AT yahoo dot com

  26. What a great review – you identified so many areas that are important. I love the look of all those steam holes! And a retractable cord? That's a fabulous feature!
    I'm in the market for a new steam iron and will now ask at stores for Hamilton Beach, although I don't think I've ever seen them here.

  27. My all time favorite iron is a Hamilton Beach 14413. I bought it just after I started my blog after a series of short lived expensive and inexpensive irons. I am still using it and it is still working. It would be great to have a second iron that works.

  28. I used to like Rowenta irons but the last couple of irons have not held up – spitting water etc….. I would love to try this newer iron. Like you not too heavy of an iron is important. But it also can't be too light either. Thanks for the opportunity!
    LauraT

  29. Thank you for the review. I have learned SO much from your blog! I need a good steam iron and now know which direction to look. Frances blupeony at yahoo dot com

  30. Your blog is the first one I check every day. I am an iron freak but have not been happy with the six Rowenta irons I've had; they work beautifully until they start spitting water. I'd love to try this new Hamilton Beach iron!

    katquilter at gmail dot com

  31. What a great give-away! I also love an iron with tons of steam, and my current one does not fit the bill.

    Hope your aches from your fall are so much better that you have forgotten it even happened!

    Juliana
    julianaellington at gmail dot com

  32. I need a new iron so badly. My current one never shuts off so I have to “plug in” and then remember to “unplug” every time I'm ironing. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that you pull my number, Wanda. 🙂

  33. Hi Wanda,
    You could be a copy writer for an ad agency! Well done. I don't need a new iron right now, but you know how it goes… say that, and the next day the iron goes on the fritz. So put me on the list too!
    grace, Elsie

  34. I'd welcome the opportunity to try out this iron. I never use steam for patchwork…it's caused me distortion in the past. But I find myself spritzing fabric that has been folded for a long time, when I'm ironing it BEFORE cutting, so this feature could be very handy.

  35. My Rowenta's water compartment started leaking almost a year ago. With what irons cost these days, I've just been going dry. A new steam iron, that actually works, would be a blessing. Add my email to the draw list, thank you, Wanda!

  36. Thanks for the review. I will add this iron as a possible replacement for my current Rowenta. Rowenta is no longer the iron it used to be. Maybe HAMILTON BEACH is the new Rowenta. Hoping to win, since I never win anything. Just in case here's my e-mail.
    yenrab82671 at yahoo dot com.

  37. Well, that's really cool that you get to review products! This iron sounds good to me. Thanks for all the work you do to make your blog so interesting and fun. Hope your bruises are much better by now!
    quiltdjataoldotcom

  38. After two Rowentas that leaked like a sieve I purchased a Hamilton Beach iron for about 1/3 the cost and I LOVE IT! It does steam so well without leaking. I actually like the weight but it's still lighter than my previous iron. I wouldn't mind a new iron so thanks for including me in the drawing.

  39. Hi Wanda,

    I've been shopping for a new iron for the past 6 months and haven't found one I like.
    I would love to win this Hamilton Beach Iron. It sounds like a winner to me!
    Count me in for the drawing!

    Thanks

    kkarlinATsalpublibDOTorg

  40. you know I have never owned an iron as an adult. When I got married my husband had one, but it was crappy. I don't have one currently b/c I hate ironing clothes, but it's also preventing me from doing any sewing!

  41. Sounds like a wonderful iron. I, too am interested in whether it gets real hot. My main steam iron doesn't so use my old GE which used to be a good steamer until it got dropped once too many times. Would love to win this one.

  42. I love to read your blog with my morning cup of tea each day. Usually, I lurk and rarely make a comment. Today-thanks for the chance to win this great giveaway. jlpfefferATgmailDOTcom

  43. This Hamilton Iron looks so easy to use, what a thrill to be a tester, not sure if they post to NZ, maybe too far-away, but if they do, I would so like to be included. Cheers, Jean
    jeanmck at clear dot net dot nz

  44. Oh I hope I win… I could use a new iron. Mine – well it's falling apart. The dial is off, and now lost, so I can't turn it to any setting but cotton. Oh well. I only use it for quilting.
    Hope you are feeling better – I am.
    Hugs

  45. A new iron would be wonderful. My old one bit the dust and I'm using another old one that my mom had. Thanks for the review. I hate to shop for an iron because you really don't know how they will feel or work.
    paweis at yahoo dot com

  46. I always read iron reviews with great interest, as an iron is a necessity item and can be really “hit or miss”. This Hamilton Beach sounds great – thank you for your insights – I really enjoy your blog!

  47. I love the look of that iron as well as all of the information you gave us. I've had several irons over 10 months and just can't seem to find one I really love. Hope I win. I never win anything. jmtdmt53 AT aol DOT com

  48. My iron gets taken downstairs once or twice a week when my husband irons his shirts while watching sports on TV. (Good man!) His sports TV time is my best sewing time, and I really miss my iron during those times! I'd love to win this iron, and if I don't, it sounds like a good one to purchase! Then the question will be, which one of us gets the new iron??

  49. I love the retractable cord. I always wind mine up, afraid the cat will play with it and cause the iron to come crashing down on her. I just discovered your blog recently, and love viewing your daily comments. Your quilts are beautiful! Thanks for the inspiration!

  50. Great to hear that this iron will take out the creases from stashed fabric! Always good to have more than one iron, too. Thanks for the complete review and the chance to enter a drawing. Your blog is the best, by the way.

    Irene
    povertybaykwiltr at yahoo dot com

  51. Thanks for the chance! I love Hamilton Beach irons too! In fact, I have one (old old old) that I use just FOR the steam. My DH keeps trying to get me to throw it away but I slap his hands…

  52. That is a good review. You covered many concerns for consumers. This sounds like a great iron for quilters.
    I usually do read the instructions on just about everything but I have never emptied the water out of my steam iron when I'm done using it. Hum…perhaps I should start doing that. I'd love to win this iron! Thanks for the chance to win. 🙂
    suecarter(at)gmail(dot)com

  53. Yup, I read instructions! And because of that I do empty my iron after using steam while pressing.

    I'd love a new iron, mine is over 20 years old. I was just about to start researching a new one so your review is good timing for me.

    ~Jillian (email address is in my About Me tab in my blog)

  54. Well this is timely, considering that my Rowenta iron suddenly has no “Burst of Steam” feature any longer. Grrrrr. I spent 3-4 HOURS looking online at irons two days ago, only to give up in frustration and hopelessness of ever finding an iron I liked as well as the Bosch iron I had in Germany (Bosch doesn't market irons in the US unfortunately). I looked at this one actually, and now, after looking at so many, can't remember what I didn't really like about it. Might have been the number of holes on the soleplate–I do like the Rowenta for that particular feature.

    Anyway, glad you like the HB iron–and thanks for the review!

  55. Would always love another iron! I'm reconciled that there is no perfect one.

    I never empty the water at the end of a session–too many extra steps. I was reassured that you didn't either, but now I'm curious as to why you decided to change and do it the recommended way.

  56. I am in the market for a new iron. (again) It's been a LONG time since I had one that I really liked. This one sounds like it might be the one I'm looking for. Thanks so much for the review and the chance to win!

  57. I can always use another iron, especially one with lots of steam.

    I tripped over iron cord tonight and almost had the iron on the floor; retractable cord would make it safer in my studio:)

    amcumming52atyahoodotcom

  58. Always good to hear how one likes different products. And irons that work well are good to know. Thanks for your review and the opportunity to win one!!

    itskarenk at yahoo dot com

  59. I love an iron that has some weight to it. My current iron is a classic Black & Decker but, if I win, I would definitely put the iron to good use!

    crazyquiltpatcher at yahoo dot com

  60. It sounds even better than my Rowenta beeping to let you know. A very thoughtful review. …and you are right I don't read the manuals and I have never emptied the water, always mean to 🙂
    Marsha
    vamoody(one)(at)verizon(dot)net

  61. It sounds even better than my Rowenta beeping to let you know. A very thoughtful review. …and you are right I don't read the manuals and I have never emptied the water, always mean to 🙂
    Marsha
    vamoody(one)(at)verizon(dot)net

  62. Thank you for the chance to win an iron.

    I enjoy seeing what you create. I mostly work with repro's, but you are opening my eyes with your beautiful quilts.
    Shirl~PA
    handquiltATyahooDOTcom

  63. Dear Wanda,
    I look forward to your messages every day, and was sad to hear that you fell on the ice! Thanks for the info about the iron.
    Sherrill
    sherrillkossATverizonDOTnet

  64. love reading your blog every day. I can always count on you brightening my morning. Thanks so much for helping me as I learn how to put quilt tops together.

    The iron giveaway looks nice too.
    Dian gdavidhoffmanatyahoodotcom

  65. Thanks for the info on how to add your name. I have tried a few times, but it's never successful.
    I never know which box to check at the bottom
    I hope I understand how to do this. Also, thanks for having the giveaway.

    Lucy
    LizjeanATaolDOTcom

  66. My old iron just died so a new one is desperately needed! I hope I win it! I love your blog; I am inspired by your use of color. I only found it recently and LovE it! Thanks so much. My email is soygal99 AT sbcglobal DOT net. I'll keep my fingers crossed (except while sewing)!

  67. I enjoy reading your blog every day and and am inspired by all you do. I need a new iron and this sounds like a nice one.
    Thanks,
    Sue P

    suepearson55atgmaildotcom

  68. This from julietwood191atgmaildotcom.
    Would love a new iron for my quilting efforts and I have a friend who would bring it down to me in Venezuela. The weight sounds just right, I am tired of leaning on mine!

  69. Thanks for the great review and chance to win. I'm always on the lookout for a good iron. I tend to buy one based on the weight. I have a hard time using a heavy iron. They bother my wrist.

  70. Thanks for the opportunity to win a good iron! We all know that's a must. I can't imagine using one that isn't a good steam iron; sometimes I have to press my work into submission, not just remove stubborn folds and wrinkles from unused fabric!

  71. Having recently killed two irons and replacing them with a steel soleplated one, I'm still not a happy iron owner! I would LOVE to have a coated soleplate again. And Yes, I empty out the water when I am done – we have bad water & I use distilled in the iron but I'm not taking any chances. Thanks for the giveaway!

  72. A good iron is so important! Since I love to iron – both clothing and while making quilts and projects – I go through irons pretty quickly these days and just haven't found the perfect one yet. From your description this one sounds close… would love to win one and try it!

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