I’ve always found ironing to be quite meditative. But after an intense year studying fashion design two years ago, I frankly never wanted to see an iron again. Since then, garment steamers have been my saving grace, and the days of quietly setting aside time to iron have drifted into the ether.
I still own an iron – but it lies dormant in the cupboard, never seeing the light of day. So when I was asked to review the CareStyle 9 steam generator iron by Braun, I hesitated. Do I really need to iron again? When would I even find the time? Is owning an iron still worth it? And at this price point, could a quality iron actually change my mind?
So, I put it to the test.
CareStyle 9 Steam generator iron review verdict
- Our rating: 8.5 out of 10
- Why we rated it a 8.5/10: The CareStyle 9 Steam generator iron is a game-changer for those looking for an innovative and smart upgrade from your traditional iron. While on the more expensive side of the market (retailing at $398), the iron is designed to last you through the years as it can automatically recognise when descaling is needed and automatically performs it for you. It also has a vertical steaming function for refreshing clothing and straightening out curtains.
Pros
- Vertical steaming ability for a steamer and iron in one
- Anti-drip technology prevents leakage
- Auto Steam technology senses movement and releases the right amount of steam
- 6 settings available, from Turbo Mode to Eco Mode
- Stable heel design helps keep the iron vertical when not in use
- Detachable 2L tank
Cons
- No spray feature to help soften fabrics
- Loud buzzing noise when first turned on
- Quite bulky and difficult to store if you lack storage space
What’s so special about the CareStyle 9 Steam generator iron?
I was a bit sceptical about how a steam iron could really be better than my last. But I quickly discovered that the CareStyle 9 steam generator iron is a game-changer. It addresses all the usual issues associated with traditional irons – leakage, inconsistent steam output, and limited tank size – offering a hassle-free ironing experience.
CareStyle 9 Steam generator iron features
- 2-minute rapid heat up time
- 6 settings including iCare, Turbo, Auto Steam, Boost and Eco
- Vertical option for steaming garments and curtains
- Up to 55% energy saving in eco mode
- Anti-bacteria function
- Cord storage
- 2L water tank capacity
- 1.90m power cord length
- Auto off mode when not in use
How to use the CareStyle 9 Steam generator iron
An iron is an iron, so the steps are pretty straightforward. What sets the CareStyle 9 steam generator iron apart, though, is that it alerts you when the water is ready to heat up, which takes about two minutes. Choosing between the six modes is easy. If your wrinkles are particularly stubborn, just tap the OLED screen at the top of the handle to switch to Turbo mode. There’s also an Eco mode available, ideal for the environmentally conscious or for delicate fabrics like silk.
Results from our test
After two years without owning an iron, I’ve officially been converted.
To set the scene: I carved out some time over the weekend to give my neglected button-downs a little love. While the thought of spending my afternoon on this chore initially felt like a drag, it turned out to be quite pleasant. With a glass of wine to my left and Gilmore Girls blaring on my right, I had everything I needed for an unexpectedly enjoyable ironing session.
My first test subject was an old white button-down. You know, the kind that lives in the back of the wardrobe, waiting for a revival. It had a fair few wrinkles, but the iron handled them. I started with the standard setting but had to bump up to Turbo to smooth out the tougher creases. Eventually, the fabric gave in. I did wish the iron had a traditional spray function, which I find helps with stubborn wrinkles, especially on cotton. Luckily, I had a spritz bottle on hand.
By shirt number two, I’d hit a rhythm. The iron’s detachable water tank is generously sized, so I didn’t have to stop midway through and break my flow to refill or replug anything. It powered through the wrinkles with ease.
On the third shirt, I tested the Auto Steam function. The iron senses your movements and releases the right amount of steam automatically, no trigger required. It took me a moment to adjust to not pressing the steam button, but I found the feature effective on a cotton tee. That said, I do still prefer having manual control over steam. It just feels more intuitive, in my opinion.
You can tell the CareStyle 9 is a high-quality appliance from the moment you pick it up. It never felt like it was overheating, and I felt safe using it across a range of fabrics. I also appreciated the ability to vertically park the iron using its built-in stand – a small feature that makes a big difference. The cord was thicker than I’m used to, which took a moment to adjust to, but I completely forgot the iron comes with a cable holder that attaches to your ironing board to keep the cord out of the way.
Overall, is the CareStyle 9 Steam generator iron worth it?
While a handheld garment steamer is undeniably more convenient for quick jobs, I genuinely enjoyed using this steam iron. It felt good to slow down and take proper care of my clothes. That said, as someone working a 9–5 (with more hobbies and weekend projects than I care to admit), I don’t see myself setting aside time for this every week.
But if you’re someone who irons regularly, investing in a high-quality steam iron like the CareStyle 9 is absolutely worth it. The build quality alone is impressive, and the Turbo and Auto Steam functions added real value to the experience.
I’d also recommend it for households with adequate storage, especially those with a dedicated laundry room (which my apartment sadly lacks), as the appliance is on the larger side.
Where to buy the CareStyle 9 Steam generator iron
- Braun, $398
- Amazon, $398
- Appliances Online, $390
