Best Iron for Iron-On Transfers: Our Top 5 Picks

Instead of a heat press, you can use an iron for iron-on transfers or heat presses. But a random iron is never recommended. To get the best iron for iron-on transfers just go through this article

What Are The Best Iron For Iron On Transfers?

It’s difficult to mention or claim any single product is the best for iron-on transfers, Different products have different specialties. Based on overall performance we’ve found 5 irons best iron for vinyl transfer.

Here’s the list – 

• Panasonic Cordless Iron – Best for Even Heat Distribution 
• PurSteam Steam Iron – Best for Precise Temperature
• BLACK+DECKER IR40V Textile Iron – Best Affordable Iron for Heat Transfer
• Newbealer Travel Iron with Dual Voltage – Best Alternative to Mini Heat Press
• BEAUTURAL 1800-Watt Steam Iron – Best for Safety

What To Look For Choosing Iron For Iron On Transfer? 

Before you opt for an iron for t-shirt printing or vinyl transfer there are some key facts you should consider. Here we’re mentioning 5 major considerations for picking the best iron for iron on vinyl.

Even Heat Distribution

One of your major concerns while choosing the best iron for iron on t-shirt vinyl is the heat distribution capability. Make sure that the iron is capable of producing even heat distribution. 

Even heat distribution makes sure that the paper or vinyl transfers evenly onto the fabric and it’s necessary for creating a smooth design. If the heat isn’t spread out evenly, the transfer might peel or crack, and your design won’t turn out right.

To ensure even heat distribution you can select iron with a Double-layered soleplate. Such soleplates are designed with a thicker layer of heat distribution material that spreads the heat evenly across the whole iron soleplate.

Soleplate Performance

The Next thing you should consider is the performance of the soleplate. The soleplate affects how evenly the heat can be distributed and how smoothly the iron can glide. Quality soleplate like nonstick ceramic soleplate glides smoothly, prevents snags, and ensures the transfer material is applied seamlessly.

Additionally, by ensuring even heat distribution it lets the transfer adhere uniformly to the fabric without causing damage. So, while opting for the best iron on vinyl for t-shirts make sure it’s equipped with a double-layered nonstick ceramic/stainless steel soleplate.

Compatibility

Here is another considerable fact before picking an ideal iron for Cricut iron on transfers for t shirts. If the iron isn’t compatible with a variety of fabrics, there is no good use of the iron for heat transfer. You’ll have to be limited while designing your clothes. 

So, we suggest getting an iron that is compatible with different types of fabrics such as wool, cotton, plus, silk, linen, polyester, and other fabrics.

Precise Temperature

If you want to ensure a professional-looking high-quality transfer, maintaining precise temperature is essential. The precise temperature heats the transfer material at the correct temperature and allows it to adhere uniformly to the fabric without any damage.

Here If the temperature is too high it’ll damage the transfer material or the garment. Again if the temperature is too low then the transfer won’t adhere properly. 

So, it’s highly necessary to get an iron that ensures precise temperature. But most irons don’t come with a temperature rating. In that case, getting an iron with different preset temperatures or more temperature settings can ensure precise temperature. 

Safety Feature

One last thing you must consider is the safety feature. It’s always recommended to get an iron with an auto shut-off system. 

It’s very natural that you forget to turn off the iron and go out of the room for a while keeping it powered on. This can consume electricity, damage your garment, and be highly dangerous for pets and kids. So, when choosing an iron it’s better to check this feature.

5 Best Iron For Iron On Transfers – Product Recommendations

It’s time to provide you with some detailed info about the products we’ve mentioned before.

1. Panasonic Cordless Iron – Best for Even Heat Distribution 

First on the list, we got a very popular iron from the famous brand Panasonic. We’ve picked the iron because of the heat distribution and double-tipped precision soleplate.

Key Features and Specifications

• Operates on 120 volts with a wattage of 1500 watts.
• Non-stick double-tipped soleplate for effortless and smooth gliding. 
• The iron is 7” in length and 11.3” in width.
• Cordless design and smooth ironing. 
• The 30-minute auto shut-off feature ensures ultimate safety.
• Powerful vertical streamer with anti-drip and anti-calc system.

This iron from Panasonic comes with some exciting features and we consider this as the best iron for iron on vinyl. The most mentionable thing here is the advanced double-tipped non-stick soleplate. The nickel-coated stainless-steel soleplate is curved and by using it you can iron in any direction with precision which is highly required for vinyl transfers.

Next, we found the powerful vertical steamer great for regular usage. The iron produces steam evenly all along the soleplate through the steam vents. It ensures even and powerful streaming. It also helps you to get rid of tough wrinkles.

Aside from that, the addition of anti-drip and anti-calc systems takes this iron to a new level. Anti-drip system prevents unexpected water drip and the anti-calc system keeps your fabric safe from stains

Now let me discuss 2 major features; temperature setting and heat distribution. The first great thing is there are 3 temperatures for different types of fabrics. And the next thing, mostly important for vinyl transfer is the even heat distribution throughout the soleplate. 

Now a unique feature of this iron is natural 360° movement. The iron moves effortlessly in any direction which helps a lot while working on a large surface area. 

If you’re now thinking about safety then you won’t be disappointed. If you keep the iron idle for 30 minutes, it’ll automatically shut off. In addition to this, this is the only cordless iron on today’s list. So, there is no hassle of twisting or tripping after getting entangled with the power cord.

In addition to this carrying the iron is completely safer as it comes with a heat-resistant carrying case. No need to worry about additional weight, it’s lightweight and easy to carry having a handle. 

Lastly, we want to mention the detachable water reservoir. Here you won’t have to apply pressure with both hands. You can release it with just a press of a button and you can fill it up to 5.4 fl oz. 

2. PurSteam Steam Iron – Best For Precise Temperature

Next on the list we got PuSteam Steam Iron. We have chosen the iron because of its 11 preset modes and LCD screen.

Key Features and Specifications

• It’s an 1800-watt iron that operates with 120 volts.
• Double-layered ceramic soleplate for smooth ironing. 
• 3-way auto shut-off feature for optimum safety. 
• 11 preset temperature options for all types of fabrics. 
• Equipped with self-cleaning and Anti-Calc systems for better lifespan. 
• 11.61 inches in length and 5.12 inches in width. 

When you’re using an iron for vinyl transfer the right amount of heat is your first priority. Without a screen, it’s really tough to measure and get the perfect result. Most of the irons lack a display but this one comes with an LCD screen. On the screen, you can see the current setting and the setting will ensure the right temperature. 

Another remarkable thing about this iron is its 11 preset modes. No matter what type of fabric you’re using for ironing or vinyl transfer, this iron is safe for all. You’ll also love the steam adjustment feature to avoid cloth scorching. 

The previous one from Panasonic was a 1500 watt iron but this one is even more powerful. This is a 1800 watt iron and using it you can smoothly remove wrinkles with its evenly dispersed heat. 

Now let’s talk about the soleplate and steam holes. The iron comes with a nonstick ceramic-coated soleplate which is appropriate for effortless gliding. Here the steam holes are axially aligned. Aside from that, you’ll love the vertical steam system. It’s perfect for steaming hanging items. 

There is also a spray function added to the iron. So, you won’t be needing any additional sprayer. Additionally, the iron is equipped with an anti-calc system just like the previous one. So, there is no chance of calcium build-up. Also, the self-cleaning feature automatically dries dust and minerals out of the soleplate using steam and water. 

Finally, we’ll talk a little about the safety function. So far this one has the most unique safety feature along with a 3-way auto shut-off feature. When the iron remains idle horizontally then it’ll automatically shut off after 30 seconds. When it’s tripped over then it’ll shut off after 30 seconds and when it remains idle vertically it’ll shut off after 8 minutes. 

3. BLACK+DECKER IR40V Textile Iron – Best Affordable Iron for Heat Transfer 

The third product on the list is the  BLACK+DECKER IR40V iron. The main reason for choosing this product is the nonstick soleplate and its affordable price. 

Key Features and Specifications

• Operates on 120 volts and has a wattage of 1200 watts. (AC Power)
• Nonstick Soleplate for smooth gliding.
• 3-Way auto shutoff features automatically shut off the iron when it’s idle for a certain time.
• Anti-Drip and SmartSteam functions ensure no dripping and better steaming. 
• Spray Mist button to avoid deep wrinkles.

The iron from BLACK+DECKER is great for iron on vinyl transfers. First, we’ll mention the TrueGlide Nonstick Soleplate. The soleplate mainly helps prevent the transfer material from sticking to the iron. Also, its enhanced design lets it glide smoothly and it can be used on all types of fabric. 

Next, we found 2 great features; SmartSteam and Anti-Drip. Some specialists recommend steam iron for iron transfers for clothes and some don’t. However, this iron can be used for both. But if you need to steam it works quite well. One thing to keep in mind, up to stage 3 there won’t be any steam production.

And about the next feature, the iron is designed to prevent dripping. It maintains water at the proper temperature so it can produce steam when needed and avoid dripping. 

Now, if you’re thinking about the size and grip then the product also works great. It is 10.4 inches in length and 5.8 inches in width. In addition to this, there is an ergonomically shaped handle to fit hand contours for comfort. 

Next, if you’re looking for temperature control then it might not feel completely satisfying. Here there is no reading for real-time temperature. However, there is a temperature control knob for adjusting the temperature. 

For heat distribution, the product’s performance is average. It can work well in high heat but if you want to operate it at a lower temperature it might not perform well. However, for iron on vinyl transfers you mostly need to work with high temperatures. So, it shouldn’t bother you.

If you’re looking for safety features, the product will satisfy you. There is a 3-way auto-shutoff feature. The manufacturers have used motion-sensitive technology which automatically shuts off the iron if you don’t use it for a particular time. It doesn’t matter if it’s standing upright, on its side, or flat on the ironing surface, the sensor is designed to work automatically.

Finally, we’ll mention slightly about the spray mist push button. Using this function you can make fabrics a little wet and easily get rid of deep wrinkles. 

4. Newbealer Travel Iron – Best Alternative to Mini Heat Press

If you’re looking for an alternative to a mini heat press or easypress machine then this one is the perfect alternative and that’s why we choose this product. 

Key Features and Specifications

• 2 different voltage settings; 120V and 220V (300 Watts AC Power)
• The Product is 6″ in length, 3″ in width, and 1.3″ in height, and only 0.95 lbs.
• Can reach 302℉ (150℃) in just 2 minutes.
• Diamond-coated nonstick ceramic soleplate for fast and smooth gliding.
• Collapsible handle for better grip.

Did you know that heat transfer dry irons are more suitable than steam irons? Till now we’re suggesting steam iron but this one is a dry iron. 

This is the most compact-sized iron in today’s list. The dimension of the iron is 6″ X 3″ X 1.3″ and it weighs only 0.95 lbs. No matter where you’re traveling this home iron will suit any travel bag without making the bag heavy. 

The iron might seem light but it uses heavy-duty technology to deliver fast and wrinkle-free results. The iron heats up very quickly and can reach and maintain a temperature of 302℉ (150℃) within 2 mins. 

Now let’s discuss the soleplate of the iron. Like the previous products, this one is also made of nonstick ceramic soleplate. However, this one is diamond-coated ceramic that can conduct heat faster and is more scratch-resistant compared to stainless steel plates.

Aside from that, something unique about the super cheap iron is the double-pointed arc design on the front and back. It is very helpful for ironing small areas like buttons, plackets, and collars.

Here is another unique thing – the dual voltage setting. The iron is equipped with a dual voltage switch that allows you to switch between 120V to 220V. However, make sure to keep a plug adapter for this.

There is another great advantage of this dual voltage feature. Different voltages make it suitable for different types of clothes such as wool, silk, cotton, plush, linen, brocade, polyester, and other fabrics.

Lastly, we’ll slightly talk about its collapsible handle. The handle ensures a great grip and being collapsible it is easier to store. 

5. BEAUTURAL 1800-Watt Steam Iron – Best for Safety

This iron is a cheaper alternative to our second product from PureSteam. The reasons for picking the iron are almost the same as the 2nd one, various preset temperatures and LCD screen.

Key Features and Specifications

• Operates on 120 volts and has a wattage of 1800 watts.
• 9 Preset modes make it compatible with all types of fabrics. 
• The iron is 11.3″ in length and 5.75″ in width.
• 3-Way automatic shut-off feature for ultimate safety.
• Double-coated non-stick soleplate ensures perfect ironing. 

Let’s start talking about the 9 preset modes of the iron. For heat transfer one of our main concerns is whether the iron is compatible with fabric type or not. You’ll be happy to know this iron has 9 preset temperatures for silk, wool, nylon, jeans, cotton, acrylic, polyester, blended, and linen. So, undoubtedly this one is a highly compatible iron.

Another major concern for iron on vinyl transfers is the temperature rating. With most of the iron, we generally have to do guesswork. But here you’ll get an LCD screen to understand which mode you’re working with. 

Now we’ve also loved the double-layer ceramic soleplate of the iron. Here the best thing is being double-layer the heat distribution of the iron is even which is highly required for vinyl transfer. 

The next great thing is the smooth gliding performance and no matter what type of fabric you’re ironing, you’ll get the same smooth performance. Additionally, the scratch-resistant and easy-to-clean features make it more convenient. 

Just like the PurSteam Steam Iron this one also operates at 1800 watt voltage and this one even heats up quicker. Steaming is also fun with this iron as it produces 40% more steam. So, no need to worry about stubborn wrinkles or creases. 

The safety function of this iron is also top-notch. The iron comes with a 3-way auto shut-off feature. It uses motion-sensitive technology and detects idle time. If you leave it idle in a vertical position then it’ll shut off after 8 minutes. If it remains in a horizontal position or trapped over then it’ll shut off after 30 seconds. 

Finally, we’ll mention 3 more advanced features; self-cleaning, Anti-Calc, and Anti-Drip. The self-cleaning system ensures the cleaning of the internal soleplate and gets rid of loose mineral deposits. 

Next, the Anti-Calcium system prevents calcium build-up by automatically filtering water in the tank. Lastly, the Anti-Drip system prevents water leaks especially, when the iron operates at a low temperature. Here the first 2 systems ensure cleanliness and durability and the third feature keeps you relaxed about water droplets that can cause stains falling on your clothes.

Pros and Cons of Different Iron Types for Iron-on Transfers

For iron-on transfer there are mainly 2 types of irons available; dry irons and steam irons. Both types have advantages and disadvantages when used for iron-on transfer. Below we’re discussing the pros and cons of dry irons and steam irons. For iron-on transfer. 

Dry Iron

Dry irons generally don’t come with steam functions and as steam functions aren’t required for HTV they are preferred for iron-on transfers. Besides, they can provide even heat distribution while maintaining a consistent transfer. Lastly, the final benefit of a dry iron is you won’t have to spend a lot on this.

Now let’s come to the negative sides. The first problem with using dry irons for iron-on transfer is most dry irons don’t come with a precise temperature control feature. So you’ll have to play a guessing game to find the precise temperature. Any wrong guess can affect the quality of the transfer. 

The next disadvantage here is the time consumption. Dry irons are generally compact in size. So, using them it’ll be a bit difficult to transfer heat and it will take more than enough time to complete your task. 

Steam Iron

Here is the second regular iron type; steam irons. You can also use a steam iron for heat transfer but you must have to turn off the steam feature during iron-on transfer. Otherwise, the moisture can affect the transfer process and might not get the best heat transfer results.

But here one advantage you’ll get is even heat distribution and consistent transfer. Aside from that, most steam irons come with precise temperature control features that ensure the transfer is heated to the right temperature.

However, keep in mind that steam irons are generally more expensive than dry irons. 

FAQs

Is There A Specific Type Of Iron That Works Best For Different Materials?

No, different types of fabric/garment require different types of irons for the best result. If you have clothes made of a wide variety of materials, using a steam iron is usually a good idea. If you as individually, steam irons work best for muslin, cotton, linen, velvet, and others.On the other hand, dry iron has better compatibility such as with wool, polyester, nylon, silk, rayon, acrylic, and others. 

Are Digital-Temperature-Control Irons Better For Transfers?

Yes, digital temperature-control irons are better for iron-on transfers. Using them you can ensure precise temperature and maintain consistency. So, you’ll get better results with such irons.

Conclusion

So, that’s all we got for you on the best iron for iron-on transfers. In the article, we’ve mentioned 5 best iron for Cricut iron on vinyl for shirts. We’ve selected the irons based on their specialty in different features. However, considering the overall performance, the Panasonic Cordless Iron  is, so far, the best for iron-on transfers.