Well, my Rowenta just sizzled/fizzled and made a funny "burnt wire" smell -

Tried looking at ratings and review on other sites - one has to subscribe to Consumer Reports to get any rating info - and that's usually outdated

Kind of hard to get "definitive" answers - guess a lot depends on what one wants

It seems like two Black and Decker irons seem to have quite positive ratings - the Digital Advantage D2030 and the Classic

My B and D 2030 was also unreliable. I got it replaced through the warranty, but while I waited for it to be shipped I bought an "antique" GE iron off Ebay CHEAP. After the replacement arrived, I didn't even open it. I like the old GE that much.

It works great. Really substantial and no problems whatsoever after 6 months.

If you want to know about what's out there, try looking at where all the irons are made now. Every single one at Sears, Target, etc are MADE IN CHINA.

I am glad I got an old GE that was made in the USA. No plastic parts. Still going strong and it is probably older than I am.

I have a Black & Decker and I also have this one. Like them both.

http://www.vermontcountrystore.com/b...on/D/30100/P/1:100:1030:10340:101110/I/f06328?evar3=SEARCH

I love the looks of this iron but -- does it have an "on/off" switch? Or does it go off by itself if not used for a few minutes?????

It has a temp. dial with an Off position.

Really interesting thread!! I have an old, old GE, which works great! Lately though my room lights are dimming, and the iron's started making a pfishing (? lol!!) noise.... I'm wondering if my cord is getting a short in it! Am thinking it's time for a new iron, or maybe a new cord.

This is a brand new iron that will be on the market in a few weeks. I saw it advertised in the December American Patchwork and Quilting magazine. It comes with a cute carrier that doubles as a pressing mat when you open it. It would be great for retreats and classes. It also has a feature that allows you to choose whether you want automatic shut off or have the iron stay on until you shut it off.

http://www.hamiltonbeach.com/stainle...oning-mat.html

Oooo I'm going to keep my eye on that and see what the reviews are! I ended up getting another Black and Decker and somehow I managed to get glue on it from using the Heat n Bond for tote bags :oops:

Thanks for sharing!