I rarely use steam in my iron. If I want dampness I spritz either with water or Best Press. One thing that was important to me when I bought an iron was a stainless sole plate. I didn't want any coating on the sole plate to start to peel off or get scratched. I also felt it would be easier to clean it if got gucky. I use a magic eraser (Mr. Clean or other brand) on a cold iron and it comes out shiny bright. I also wanted an auto off but the auto offs they have now seem to shut off very quickly after you quit moving the iron. It would be nice to have a longer time there.