There is a difference between steam generator irons and steam irons. A steam generator iron actually has two major components. There is the iron itself, and there is a water container and steam generator apparatus. The two parts are connected by tubing to pass the steam from the generator to the iron.

The more common steam iron, as you know, generates its steam from water in a reservoir in the iron itself.

So, being that a steam generator iron has two components versus the one — just the iron — for a more common steam iron, what are the advantage of steam generator irons over regular steam irons to offset the additional complexity and expense of a steam generator iron?

For occasional ironing, where professional quality results are not necessary or necessarily wanted, these ironing systems may be overkill. But many fastidious users want those results anyway, so they will buy and use a steam generator iron system. There are even some male users who find that they can do a much better job with a steam generating ironing system than does a typical shirt laundry service.

The primary market for these are homemakers with a heavy ironing load, for those doing specialty sewing and craft work, for tailors and seamstresses. Manufacturers claim it is possible to cut ironing time in half and get much better results than with regular steam irons. Often, both sides of a garment can be ironed at the same time. Creases in heavy fabrics can be made with having to exert heavy pressure on the fabric.

Because most steam generator irons can also be used vertically, they can be used as garment steamers. Items such as drapes, gowns, and suits can be steamed. Steam should be available at any angle that the iron is held.

Being that the water is contained in the separate tank, the iron itself is lighter. The tanks hold much more water than stand-alone steam irons, so that allows an hour or two or ironing without requiring refills. Naturally, the maximum time possible depends on the make and model, and whether light steam or heavy steam is being used.