I would prefer a dry iron, I do not use the steam feature on mine. I keep a spray bottle with water on the ironing board. Now mine does have automatic shut off and I do like that feature, you would be suprised I have at times walked away and not unplugged as I plan to get back there shortly. Something distracts me and there it is on, thankfully it shuts off. Even with this feature, I do try and unplug. I am going to watch this thread and see what everyone else has to say.