I read somewhere last week that you are NOT supposed to turn your steam on until the iron is completely hot. It made sense to me. (heating iron/cold water) Keeps it from spitting. So, that's what I've been doing & have not had a problem since. I too, like the cheapy irons. I bought one at the $ store that doesn't have the auto shutoff. I think I paid $7 or $8 dollars for it. I have a bigger, little more expensive one, that I bought at Wally World but, I don't care for it. To heavy & has the auto shutoff. It makes a good door stop. LOL!!