Irons are like everything else, the quality isn't as good as older models BUT the newer ones are generally safer. When my old one goes I will be getting one with automatic shut off or the one that pops up off the ironing board surface if left face down. I know I'll have to pay an arm and a leg for a new one and it won't last very long. The one I am currently using was a wedding shower gift (ages ago). I've replaced the cord and plug a couple of times, you can't even do that with the new ones. My old iron is a GE and I don't use the steam feature that no longer works.