The things I want most in appliance is convenience, efficiency and not a lot of picky instructions. The Black and Decker Model F605 Auto-Shut-off provides this. This model appears to be an older version of the Black and Decker Quick and Easy Iron X380.

I bought this iron in January, 1998, for $29.95. You can pay a lot more with similar features but I believe these irons are excellent for the price. I have never had any problems with this iron since I bought it.

This model is marked clearly for the adjustable steam settings: Dry for acryllic, silk, acetate and nylon; light for polyester and rayon; medium for cotton and cotton blends and wool blends; heavy for wool, cotton and linen. Instructions are specific for each fabric in the booklet.

Filling the water in the water fill hole is easy and you can use ordinary tap water unless you have a water softening system in your home. I have always used tap water in my previous irons, even when bottled water was recommended. It doesn't seem to matter much. The window for the water hole(that's what they call it!) is large and easily visible.

The instruction book says the iron has a pivoting cord but it is not noticeably effective.

There is a surge spray which has a complicate pump[ing method to attain the surge. Five seconds between pumps is too bothersome to see that blast of steam. Cleaning is easy but I've only done it once. While ironing, the steam never spurts or discolors the garment.

The automatic turn off does not turn off right away. There is time to put away the ironed clothes or rest or whatever you do to get through the ironing. The book says it will stay on for 55 minuts. The light that lit up when you pushed it when you started the iron witll blink for five minutes before it turns off. Otherwise the motion of you moving the iron will keep it going.


I would recommend this iron for almost anyone.



Recommended: Yes