Ironing is part of every household routine—but choosing the right type of iron box can make all the difference in how fast, easy, and effective that routine is. In Kenya, the most common types are dry irons and steam irons.

So which one is best for you?

In this post, we’ll break down:

• ✅ The different types of iron boxes

• ✅ What is a dry iron box?

• ✅ What is a steam iron box?

• ✅ Steam iron vs dry iron: Which one should you choose?

🔹 1. What Are the Different Types of Iron Boxes?

Iron boxes generally fall under two main categories:

a) Dry Iron Box

This is the traditional, no-frills ironing box that uses heat only—no steam. It has a flat soleplate, adjustable heat settings for different fabrics, and is lightweight.

b) Steam Iron Box

A modern iron with a built-in water tank that emits steam through holes in the soleplate. This helps loosen fabric fibers, smooth wrinkles faster, and handle thicker fabrics.

There are also specialty types, such as:

• Cordless irons – Allow more flexibility

• Travel irons – Small, compact, and portable

• Garment steamers – Use steam only, ideal for delicate or vertical ironing

🔹 2. What Is a Dry Iron Box?

A dry iron box works by pressing heat onto your clothes. It doesn’t use water or steam. It is ideal for:

• Cotton, linen, polyester, and general daily fabrics

• People who prefer simple, budget-friendly appliances

• Areas without constant electricity or hard water

Advantages:

• Cheaper than steam irons

• Lightweight and easy to use

• Low maintenance (no water tank)

• Longer lifespan due to simple design

Disadvantages:

• Not effective on stubborn wrinkles

• Struggles with thick fabrics (e.g. jeans or coats)

• May require more effort and pressure during ironing

🔹 3. What Is a Steam Iron Box?

A steam iron box produces steam through its base and helps break down wrinkles with heat and moisture. It’s the most effective option for fast, smooth ironing.

Key Features:

• Built-in water tank

• Steam control and spray button

• Vertical steam (in some models)

• Anti-drip and self-cleaning functions in premium models

Advantages:

• Superior performance on wrinkles

• Easier to iron thick clothes (denim, jackets)

• Some models allow vertical steaming (for curtains or hanging garments)

Disadvantages:

• More expensive than dry irons

• Heavier due to water tank

• Requires regular descaling and maintenance

• May leak or drip if misused

🔸 Dry Iron vs Steam Iron – Key Comparison

🔍 Which Iron Box Is Best – Steam or Dry?

The best iron box depends on your needs, budget, and lifestyle.

Choose a Dry Iron if:

• You’re looking for an affordable, simple iron

• You mostly iron light clothes (like shirts and dresses)

• You want minimal maintenance

• You live in an area with hard water (to avoid scale)

Choose a Steam Iron if:

• You often iron thick clothes, beddings, or heavy fabrics

• You want faster results with less effort

• You can maintain the iron (clean the tank regularly)

• You want advanced features like spray and vertical steam

🛍️ Where to Buy Iron Boxes in Kenya

You can buy dry and steam irons at most home appliance stores or supermarkets. Recommended places include:

• Kejani Cleaning Services Limited

• Skyshop.co.ke – Home & cleaning appliances

• Hotpoint Appliances

🔧 Popular Iron Box Brands in Kenya

• Philips

• Ramtons

• Binatone

• Sayona

• Mika

• Bruhm

• Scarlett (budget-friendly)

💡 Tips for Choosing the Best Iron Box

• Check the wattage: Higher wattage = faster heating

• Non-stick soleplate: Prevents sticking and makes gliding smooth

• Temperature control dial: For ironing different fabrics safely

• Warranty: Look for at least a 1-year warranty for peace of mind

• Cord length: Longer cords are more convenient

✅ Final Thoughts

Both dry and steam iron boxes have their place in the Kenyan home. If you iron daily and need quick results, a steam iron is worth the investment. But for a tight budget or simple clothes, a dry iron will do the job just fine