I have a Rowenta too and it leaks and the dial that tells you how hot it is keeps falling out. Also, when I want steam it doesn't give me any and it's full to the top with water.

I love the "Shark" Irons. Best steam ever from any iron and you use plain tap water, not distilled. Has a self cleaning feature which is wonderful. I had two Rowentas. NEVER AGAIN! Good luck in your search. Hope you find one you really like.

What's bad is the Rowenta wasn't cheap either!

About the Rowenta irons: I've had mine for 20(?) years or so. Early on, I heard about the water tank leaking. Seems to be a problem that many people complain about. Well, instead of removing the tank to fill it, I use an emptied dishwashing liquid bottle to fill the tank while still on the iron. Have had NO problems with leaking!!

Then the other day I was watching a video of Ricky Tims. He stated that he NEVER uses the steam in a steam iron - any brand. He said that they will ALL spring a leak. So, he uses a spray bottle, sprays his fabric, then irons (or presses) his fabric. I have started doing that.

What a great idea Abacus!

I have a Rowenta Sew & Press, hey, about 6+ years old. Leaks like a sieve, but it still gets really hot. Don't know if they still sell that model, but it still works even after being dropped several times. I usually spray my fabrics and use the dry iron.

I just went on Consumers Report and they only had 2 irons that they stated were europeon made.

1) Rowenta Focus DZ5080 was recommended
2) Rowenta Effective DX1900 was not recommended

I have Rowenta Model# DM160 made in Germany. I've only been using it for about a year, but no problems. Did'nt pay that much for it. Maybe $35. I couldn't tell you about the 2 previous irons, as the managed to walk to my son's house...Maybe they didn't like working conditions.... :hunf:

Wow look at this I found:

make sure the model Rowenta you are buying says "MADE IN GERMANY ". At one time all the Rowenta irons were made in Germany, as a reduction in costs, the business is manufacturing many of its lower-priced models in China. The difference in quality between models made in Germany and China is quite dramatic.

The Rowentas used in the clothing industry by employees all seem to agree that the Rowenta Pro Maser DW-8080 made in Germany is the best Rowenta iron.

I just looked at mine and it's a sew n press and was made in Mexico.