Needles

I am using my Proctor Silex iron that is over 50 years old. It's heavy and I've never had a problem with it. Probably because it's never had any water in it but distilled. Never have cleaned it because the build up never occurs. I have wrapped the cord in electrical tape as over the years it has worn a bit, however, I have the bracket that hold the cord in the air, has a spring that allows the cord to move anywhere. And 'when' it quits working, I'll get another, I think they are between $15 and $20. I think I paid $5 for this one, in the 60's, a lot at that time. A friend with a very expensive 2 year old iron, was upset because her's went bad. The instructions said DON'T use distilled water. Of course it does, you have to buy a new iron right?

And this comment: More importantly for the manufacturer, the lack of minerals will make distilled water slowly dissolve the metal components of the iron. This corrosion can dramatically reduce the life of the iron.

I say someone is feeding you a line if you believe it. Mine steams just fine, if the new ones don't, they are defective. Water is water. I never empty it either unless I put the ironing board down as I use it ever few days.