My $30 Black & Decker never leaked, but it never seemed as hot as I wanted it. It only lasted about 5 years, which I find a short time for an iron. I replaced with a $30 Hamilton Beach which is a little heavier, heats up well, steams well, doesn't leak as long as I hit the opening when filling it. The opening is rather small. I did not read the book to see what kind of water to use. Just assumed distilled. It has a more pointed soleplate which I like a lot when I press clothing or if I ever feel the need to press a seam open. So far, so good.