T-fal FV4495 Ultraglide Steam Iron 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.

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.

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.

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.

Still can't decide on what you want? Take a look at our selection of the best clothes steamers.

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).

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. 

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.