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The Spruce / Michelle Konstantinovsky
Lightweight but sturdy
Ceramic soleplate for easy gliding
Auto-off system
Untapered tip
Extra long cord is cumbersome
Fewer steamholes than other mid-range models
The T-fal FV4495 Ultraglide Steam Iron is a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver option for everyday users seeking a product that’s simple and straightforward. That said, it’s a little expensive given the much lower price tag of similar competitors.
We purchased the T-fal FV4495 Ultraglide Steam Iron so our reviewer could put it to the test on her wrinkliest clothes. Keep reading for our full product review.
Founded in 1954, T-fal was initially known as one of the first manufacturers of non-stick cookware, but the company soon set off to create a variety of home appliances, including the world’s first cordless iron. The brand currently produces everything from bread makers and fryers to pressure cookers, and, of course, steam irons. But does the T-fal FV4495 Ultraglide Steam Iron deliver on its promise to eliminate wrinkles and provide ergonomic user comfort? Read on to find out.
Performance: Powerful and efficient
We found that this 1,725-watt iron quickly heats to high temperatures and delivers a substantial amount of steam. Unlike Rowenta irons that come equipped with hundreds of steamholes, the T-fal FV4495 Ultraglide Steam Iron has just 64, but the ceramic soleplate still manages to evenly distribution the steam.
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Design: Comfortable to operate, not as sleek as comparable models
Weighing a few ounces less than other high-end irons, the T-fal FV4495 Ultraglide Steam Iron still feels substantial enough to hold down fabrics while gliding smoothly and easily. The soleplate tip, however, doesn’t offer the same precision point of other models, so it was more challenging for us to access hard-to-reach spots like pleats.
This iron includes many of the same features found on competitors, but lacks the fancy accessories of higher-priced options (like an LED display).
The sturdy handle is comfortable to hold, and we appreciated the ergonomic design when operating the iron both vertically and horizontally. While the 12-foot cord may be a bonus to some, the length isn’t retractable and may get in the way.
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Still can't decide on what you want? Take a look at our selection of the best clothes steamers.
Helpful Features: Auto-off system
To help prevent accidents—both to you and your belongings—this iron comes equipped with an automatic shut-off system. The iron will power off when it’s been left untouched for eight minutes vertically or 30 seconds horizontally (or in the event it’s tipped over).
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Price: Right in the middle of the pack
The roughly $50 T-fal FV4495 Ultraglide Steam Iron includes many of the same standard features found on competitors but lacks the fancy upgrades of higher-priced options (like an LED display). Though it performed well, it’s hard to justify this model over budget options with even lower price tags.
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T-fal FV4495 Ultraglide Steam Iron vs. the Rowenta DW5080 Focus Steam Iron
Priced almost identically, the FV4495 and the Rowenta DW5080 Focus Steam Iron offer many of the same attributes, but the Rowenta has the slight upper hand. With fewer holes for steam distribution, and a less precise design for tackling corners and seams, the T-fal FV4495 lacks some of the extra oomph provided by the similarly-priced Rowenta DW5080.
See more reviews of our favorite steam irons available for purchase.
Adequate but pricey.
The T-fal FV4495 Ultraglide Steam Iron is a respectable product, but may not merit its lofty price tag, given that other basic models cost about half the price and deliver comparable results. The product is nicely designed and features a few of the attributes of higher-end models, but lacks a few key bells and whistles that would help justify the price.
Specs
- Product Name FV4495 Ultraglide Steam Iron
- Product Brand T-fal
- Price $44
- Weight 3 lbs.
- Product Dimensions 11.1 x 5.3 x 5.9 in.
- Color Black/Silver
- Model Number FV4495
- Power 1725 W
- Auto-Off Yes
- Warranty Limited lifetime