Best Philips Iron in Kenya: Dry vs Steam Iron Buying Guide

Quick Answer

Choose the Philips 1000 Series DST1020/36 Steam Iron when you regularly iron cotton shirts, school uniforms, trousers, bedsheets, linen and garments with stubborn creases.

Its 1800W power, continuous steam output and steam-boost function make it more effective than a basic dry iron for heavier fabrics and larger ironing loads.

Choose the Philips Classic HD1172/27 Dry Iron when you want the simplest possible appliance without a water tank or steam controls.

Its lightweight design, 1000W power and smooth aluminium soleplate make it suitable for straightforward ironing, light creases, synthetic garments and users who prefer uncomplicated temperature control.

Choose the Philips GC012/00 Soleplate Cleaning Stick when burnt fabric, starch or other residue begins collecting on the iron’s soleplate.

The right option depends on:

• The fabrics you iron most often

• The size of your normal ironing load

• Whether you need steam

• How much weight you are comfortable handling

• Water quality in your area

• Your preferred level of maintenance

• Whether convenience or crease-removal performance matters more

Red Rhino is an authorised Philips retail partner in Kenya and stocks genuine Philips garment-care products with applicable manufacturer warranty support.

Browse Philips Irons at Red Rhino

---

Philips Iron Comparison

Model	Type	Power	Soleplate	Best suited for
Philips DST1020/36	Steam iron	1800W	Non-stick coated soleplate	Regular family ironing, cotton, linen, uniforms and stubborn creases
Philips HD1172/27	Dry iron	1000W	Linished aluminium soleplate	Simple everyday ironing, light loads and users who do not need steam
Philips GC012/00	Cleaning accessory	Not applicable	Suitable for different soleplate types	Removing burnt fabric residue, stains and deposits

Stock availability changes throughout the day. Check the live product page before ordering.

---

Why Choose a Philips Iron?

Philips offers garment-care appliances across several levels, including:

• Dry irons

• Entry-level steam irons

• Higher-powered steam irons

• Steam-generator irons

• Handheld garment steamers

• Standing garment steamers

• Soleplate-care accessories

This allows customers to choose according to their ironing habits rather than purchasing a single standard model.

Philips iron features vary by model and may include:

• Non-stick or ceramic soleplates

• Continuous steam

• Steam boost

• Adjustable steam settings

• Calc-clean functions

• Drip-stop systems

• Large water tanks

• Automatic shut-off

• OptimalTEMP technology

• Steam-generator pressure systems

Not every feature is included on every Philips iron. Review the exact model specifications before purchasing.

---

1. Philips 1000 Series Steam Iron DST1020/36

The Philips 1000 Series DST1020/36 Steam Iron is an entry-level steam iron designed for normal household ironing.

It combines 1800W power with adjustable steam, a 250ml water tank and a non-stick soleplate.

Main Specifications

• 1800W power

• Continuous steam up to 20g per minute

• Steam boost up to 90g

• 250ml water tank

• Non-stick soleplate

• Variable steam settings

• Temperature-control dial

• Slim precision tip

• Button groove

• Self-clean calc-management function

• Eco mode

• Heat-up time of less than approximately 45 seconds

• Approximately 0.86kg product weight

• 1.6-metre power cord

Philips officially lists the DST1020/36 with continuous steam up to 20g/min, a steam boost up to 90g and a 250ml tank.

Best Suited For

• Cotton shirts

• School uniforms

• Work clothes

• Trousers

• Bedsheets

• Pillowcases

• Linen

• Mixed household ironing loads

• Garments with stubborn creases

• Customers moving from a dry iron to steam ironing

Advantages

• Steam helps relax fabric fibres.

• Steam boost tackles more difficult creases.

• The 250ml tank reduces frequent refilling.

• The non-stick soleplate glides smoothly across ironable fabrics.

• The pointed tip reaches around buttons and pleats.

• Variable steam provides more control for different fabrics.

• The calc-clean function helps manage mineral deposits.

• The lightweight construction makes it easier to handle than many larger steam irons.

• Eco mode provides a lower-consumption operating option.

Limitations

• Steam output is lower than that of higher-series Philips irons.

• It does not include automatic temperature selection.

• The user must select the correct heat and steam settings.

• The tank requires filling, emptying and occasional scale management.

• Steam should not be used at temperatures that are too low.

• The non-stick soleplate should be protected from abrasive cleaning tools.

• It may not be sufficient for very large commercial ironing loads.

Is the DST1020/36 Suitable for Cotton and Linen?

Yes.

Cotton and linen normally benefit from:

• Higher temperature

• Continuous steam

• Steam boost for stubborn creases

• Light fabric dampening where appropriate

Always check the garment-care label before selecting the temperature.

Can It Iron Synthetic Fabrics?

Yes, but synthetic garments generally require lower temperatures.

Depending on the fabric, steam may need to be reduced or switched off.

Begin with the lowest suitable temperature and increase only when the fabric-care label permits it.

Shop the Philips DST1020/36 Steam Iron

---

2. Philips Classic Dry Iron HD1172/27

The Philips Classic HD1172/27 Dry Iron is designed for customers who want simple ironing without a water tank, steam settings or descaling requirements.

The HD1172 design has remained popular because it focuses on basic heat, temperature control and a smooth aluminium soleplate.

Main Specifications

• 1000W power

• Linished aluminium soleplate

• Adjustable temperature control

• Temperature-ready indicator light

• Pointed precision tip

• Button groove

• 1.9-metre power cord

• Cord storage around the heel rest

• Tested durability-focused design

• Dry ironing only

Philips describes the HD1172/27 as using a high-quality linished aluminium soleplate. It is not officially described as having a non-stick coating.

Best Suited For

• Light everyday ironing

• Synthetic garments

• School clothes

• Small ironing loads

• Quick touch-ups

• Customers who do not want a water tank

• Students and first-home purchases

• Households that already use a separate garment steamer

• Users who prefer a lightweight traditional iron

Advantages

• No water tank to fill.

• No steam settings to manage.

• No internal steam chamber to descale.

• Lightweight and straightforward to operate.

• Aluminium soleplate heats efficiently.

• Pointed tip reaches between buttons and pleats.

• Long power cord provides useful reach.

• Cord can be wrapped around the heel for storage.

• Suitable for customers who prefer traditional dry ironing.

Limitations

• No continuous steam.

• No steam boost.

• Less effective on deeply creased cotton and linen than a steam iron.

• Difficult creases may require a separate spray bottle or damp pressing cloth.

• The aluminium soleplate is not officially described as non-stick.

• Temperature must be selected manually.

• It is not automatically a travel iron and should not be assumed to support multiple voltages.

Is a Dry Iron Good for Synthetic Fabrics?

A dry iron can work well on synthetic fabrics because the user can select a lower temperature without introducing steam.

However, always check the care label.

Some synthetic or heat-sensitive garments may:

• Require a very low temperature

• Require ironing inside out

• Need a pressing cloth

• Be unsuitable for ironing

Can the HD1172/27 Iron Cotton?

Yes.

It can iron cotton using an appropriate higher temperature, but stubborn creases may take more passes than they would with a steam iron.

A lightly dampened garment or separate spray bottle can assist, provided the fabric permits moisture.

Shop the Philips HD1172/27 Dry Iron

---

3. Philips GC012/00 Iron Soleplate Cleaning Stick

The Philips GC012/00 Soleplate Cleaning Stick is designed to remove stains and deposits from an iron’s soleplate.

Philips states that it is suitable for different types of soleplates from Philips and other iron brands.

What It Removes

The cleaning stick is intended for deposits such as:

• Burnt fabric residue

• Scorched material

• Starch buildup

• Surface impurities

• Marks affecting the iron’s glide

Why Soleplate Cleaning Matters

A dirty soleplate can:

• Drag across fabric

• Transfer stains onto clothing

• Catch on delicate material

• Reduce smooth gliding

• Block some steam openings

• Produce an unpleasant burnt smell

Cleaning the soleplate when contamination appears helps maintain smoother ironing.

How to Use It

Philips instructs users to apply the cleaning stick to a hot soleplate and wipe away the loosened residue with a cloth.

Because the soleplate is hot:

• Follow the product instructions carefully.

• Keep fingers away from the soleplate.

• Work on a stable, heat-resistant surface.

• Use a suitable old cloth.

• Keep children away from the cleaning area.

• Allow the iron to cool before final handling or storage.

The GC012/00 is officially described as suitable for different soleplate types from Philips and other brands.

How Often Should You Use the Cleaning Stick?

Do not use it according to an arbitrary monthly schedule.

Use it when:

• Burnt residue becomes visible

• The soleplate begins dragging

• Starch has collected on the surface

• Fabric residue has transferred onto the iron

• Marks threaten to stain clothing

Routine wiping with a soft damp cloth may be sufficient when there is no burnt residue.

Shop the Philips GC012/00 Cleaning Stick

---

Dry Iron vs Steam Iron

Choose a Dry Iron When:

• You want the simplest appliance.

• You do not want to fill a water tank.

• Your ironing loads are relatively small.

• You mostly handle light creases.

• You prefer traditional ironing.

• You already use a separate spray bottle.

• Lower appliance weight is important.

• You do not want to manage limescale.

Choose a Steam Iron When:

• You regularly iron cotton and linen.

• School uniforms are part of the weekly load.

• You iron bedsheets and larger garments.

• Clothing develops stubborn creases.

• You want faster crease removal.

• You iron several garments at once.

• You want an integrated spray and steam system.

• You are prepared to clean the water tank and manage scale.

---

Dry Iron vs Steam Iron Comparison

Feature	Philips HD1172/27 Dry Iron	Philips DST1020/36 Steam Iron
Power	1000W	1800W
Soleplate	Linished aluminium	Non-stick coated
Water tank	No	250ml
Continuous steam	No	Up to 20g/min
Steam boost	No	Up to 90g
Temperature control	Manual	Manual
Steam control	Not applicable	Variable
Calc cleaning	Not required for steam system	Self-clean calc management
Weight	Lightweight	Approximately 0.86kg
Best for	Light loads and simple ironing	General family ironing and stubborn creases
Main advantage	Simplicity	Better crease removal
Main limitation	No steam	Requires water and scale maintenance

---

Which Philips Iron Should You Buy?

Best Entry-Level Steam Iron

Choose the Philips DST1020/36.

It offers:

• 1800W power

• Continuous steam

• Steam boost

• Large 250ml tank

• Variable steam control

• Non-stick soleplate

• Calc-clean function

It is the better option for most households that regularly iron cotton shirts, uniforms and bedsheets.

Best Simple Dry Iron

Choose the Philips HD1172/27.

It offers:

• Straightforward temperature control

• No water tank

• Lightweight handling

• Aluminium soleplate

• Long power cord

• Easy storage

It is suitable for customers who want reliable basic ironing without steam.

Best Option for a Student

The HD1172/27 may be more practical because:

• It is simple.

• It requires no water.

• It is easy to store.

• It handles basic clothing touch-ups.

The DST1020/36 is preferable when the student regularly irons cotton shirts, trousers or uniforms with stronger creases.

Best Iron for School Uniforms

Choose the DST1020/36.

Steam can make it easier to remove creases from:

• Cotton shirts

• Trousers

• Skirts

• Uniform dresses

• Blazers where the care label permits ironing

Use lower temperatures for synthetic uniform materials.

Best Iron for Bedsheets

Choose a steam iron.

The DST1020/36 provides better assistance for large cotton or polycotton sheets than a basic dry iron, although larger households may benefit from a higher-powered steam iron or steam-generator system.

Best Iron for Quick Touch-Ups

Choose the HD1172/27 when:

• The garment is only lightly creased.

• You want to avoid filling a tank.

• The fabric requires dry ironing.

Choose the DST1020/36 when the garment needs steam-assisted crease removal.

---

Does Iron Wattage Matter?

Wattage indicates the electrical power rating of the iron.

A higher-wattage iron can generally:

• Heat more quickly

• Recover temperature faster

• Maintain stronger steam production

• Handle larger ironing loads more effectively

However, wattage is not the only important factor.

Performance also depends on:

• Soleplate construction

• Steam output

• Steam-boost strength

• Temperature control

• Iron weight

• Soleplate size

• Water-tank capacity

• Fabric type

• User technique

The 1800W DST1020/36 is not simply “better” than the 1000W HD1172/27 in every situation.

The DST1020 is designed to generate steam, while the HD1172 is a simpler dry iron with lower electrical demand and fewer maintenance requirements.

---

What Does Continuous Steam Mean?

Continuous steam is the steady amount of steam produced while ironing.

The DST1020/36 provides continuous steam of up to 20g per minute.

Continuous steam helps:

• Relax fabric fibres

• Reduce normal creases

• Improve results on cotton and linen

• Reduce repeated passes

• Maintain steam across larger garments

Steam output depends on:

• Temperature setting

• Steam setting

• Water level

• Limescale condition

• Whether the iron has heated fully

---

What Is a Steam Boost?

Steam boost is a stronger short burst of steam used for difficult creases.

The DST1020/36 provides a steam boost of up to 90g.

Use steam boost for:

• Thick cotton

• Linen

• Trouser creases

• Shirt cuffs

• Collars

• Heavily folded fabric

Do not press the steam-boost control continuously unless the instructions permit it.

Allow the iron to recover between boosts where necessary.

---

Understanding Iron Soleplates

Linished Aluminium Soleplate

The HD1172/27 uses a linished aluminium soleplate.

Advantages include:

• Efficient heating

• Lightweight construction

• Smooth traditional surface

• Straightforward maintenance

Care requirements include:

• Avoiding abrasive scouring

• Preventing contact with zips and metal fasteners

• Cleaning residue promptly

• Using the correct temperature

Non-Stick Soleplate

The DST1020/36 uses a coated non-stick soleplate.

Advantages include:

• Smoother gliding

• Reduced fabric sticking

• Easier routine cleaning

• Better convenience across different garments

Care requirements include:

• Avoiding metal scraping tools

• Avoiding abrasive pads

• Preventing contact with sharp fasteners

• Cleaning burnt residue using an approved method

A non-stick iron soleplate is not immune to scratches or burnt deposits.

---

What Water Should You Use in a Philips Steam Iron?

Philips steam irons are generally designed for use with tap water.

However, hard water can cause scale to build up more quickly.

In hard-water areas, Philips generally recommends using demineralised or distilled water, or a mixture of approximately 50% demineralised water and 50% tap water, depending on the model instructions.

Do not place the following inside a Philips steam iron:

• Perfumed water

• Fabric softener

• Starch

• Vinegar

• Essential oils

• Water from a tumble dryer

• Ironing additives

• Unapproved descaling chemicals

These substances can cause:

• Brown staining

• Water spitting

• Internal deposits

• Steam blockage

• Appliance damage

Philips confirms that its steam irons are designed for tap water but recommends demineralised or distilled water in areas with rapid hard-water scale buildup.

Always follow the manual supplied with the exact iron.

---

How to Reduce Limescale in a Steam Iron

• Use the recommended water type.

• Empty old water after ironing.

• Operate the calc-clean function as directed.

• Do not add perfume or starch to the tank.

• Do not leave the iron unused with water inside for long periods.

• Clean the steam system according to the manual.

• Do not use random household descaling chemicals.

The DST1020/36 includes a self-clean calc-management function.

Calc cleaning should be completed according to usage and water hardness rather than only when steam has already stopped.

---

Ironing Different Fabrics

Always check the garment-care label first.

Synthetic Fabrics

Examples include:

• Polyester

• Nylon

• Acrylic

• Acetate

General approach:

• Use a low temperature.

• Iron inside out where appropriate.

• Use a pressing cloth for delicate surfaces.

• Avoid strong steam unless the care label permits it.

• Test on a hidden area first.

Silk

• Use low heat.

• Iron inside out.

• Avoid excessive steam.

• Use a pressing cloth where needed.

• Do not leave the iron stationary.

Wool

• Use the wool setting where available.

• Use a pressing cloth.

• Avoid pressing heavily.

• Steam cautiously where the label permits it.

Cotton

• Use medium-to-high heat according to the label.

• Steam assists with creases.

• Steam boost can help on thicker areas.

Linen

• Use a suitable higher temperature.

• Iron while the fabric is slightly damp where appropriate.

• Use steam for stubborn creases.

• Work in manageable sections.

Printed Garments

• Iron inside out.

• Do not place the soleplate directly on prints, logos or transfers.

• Use a pressing cloth.

---

How to Prevent Clothes from Burning

• Read the garment-care label.

• Begin with low-temperature fabrics.

• Increase the temperature gradually.

• Do not leave the iron face down.

• Keep the iron moving.

• Use a pressing cloth for delicate fabric.

• Iron printed areas from the reverse.

• Allow the iron to cool when moving from high heat to a lower setting.

• Test uncertain fabric on a hidden section.

The DST1020/36 and HD1172/27 both use manual temperature controls. They do not include Philips OptimalTEMP no-burn technology.

---

How to Clean an Iron Soleplate

Light Dirt

1. Unplug the iron.

2. Allow it to cool until safe to handle.

3. Wipe the soleplate with a soft damp cloth.

4. Dry it completely.

Burnt Residue

Use an approved soleplate cleaning product such as the Philips GC012/00.

Follow the cleaning-stick instructions carefully because it is applied while the soleplate is hot.

Avoid Using

• Knives

• Razor blades

• Steel wool

• Metal scrapers

• Harsh abrasive powders

• Unapproved chemicals

These can permanently damage the soleplate.

---

Iron Safety

Use a Stable Ironing Surface

Use a firm ironing board or another heat-resistant surface designed for ironing.

Check the Voltage

Confirm that the appliance rating matches the local electrical supply.

Avoid Overloaded Extensions

Irons are high-power heating appliances.

Use a suitable wall outlet and avoid weak extension cables or overloaded multi-plugs.

Never Leave a Hot Iron Unattended

When pausing:

• Place the iron upright on its heel.

• Keep it away from the edge.

• Keep the cable out of children’s reach.

Keep Water Away from Electrical Parts

Do not immerse the iron, cable or plug.

Do Not Open the Tank While Handling the Iron Carelessly

Refill according to the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid spilling water over the electrical body.

Allow the Iron to Cool Before Storage

Do not wrap the cable tightly around a hot appliance.

Inspect the Cable

Stop using the iron when:

• The cable is frayed

• The plug is damaged

• The iron sparks

• The temperature behaves unpredictably

• Water leaks excessively

• The soleplate is physically damaged

---

Common Iron-Buying Mistakes

Choosing Only by Wattage

Steam output, soleplate and intended use also matter.

Assuming Every Philips Soleplate Is Non-Stick

The HD1172/27 uses linished aluminium.

Buying a Dry Iron for Heavy Weekly Ironing

A steam iron may reduce the effort required for cotton, linen and large loads.

Buying a Steam Iron When You Never Use Steam

A dry iron may be simpler and easier to maintain.

Ignoring the Weight

An iron that feels manageable when empty may feel different after its water tank is filled.

Using Steam at Too Low a Temperature

This can cause water droplets or staining.

Filling the Tank with Perfumed Water

Perfume and additives can damage the steam system.

Ignoring Scale Cleaning

Scale can reduce steam performance and produce flakes.

Cleaning the Soleplate with Metal Objects

Scratches can permanently affect glide.

Including Live Stock Counts in Evergreen Content

Inventory can change immediately after publication. Link customers to the live product page instead.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Philips Iron Is Best for Everyday Use in Kenya?

The DST1020/36 is suitable for households that regularly iron cotton, linen, uniforms and larger loads.

The HD1172/27 is suitable for lighter ironing and users who prefer a simple dry iron.

Is the Philips DST1020/36 a Good Steam Iron?

It is a practical entry-level steam iron with:

• 1800W power

• Up to 20g/min continuous steam

• Up to 90g steam boost

• 250ml water tank

• Non-stick soleplate

• Variable steam settings

• Calc-clean function

Is the Philips HD1172/27 Non-Stick?

No.

Philips officially describes it as having a linished aluminium soleplate.

What Is the Difference Between a Dry Iron and a Steam Iron?

A dry iron uses heat and pressure.

A steam iron adds moisture and steam to help relax fabric fibres and remove creases.

Which Iron Is Better for School Uniforms?

The DST1020/36 is generally more practical for regular uniform ironing because steam assists with cotton shirts, trousers and deeply folded garments.

Use lower temperatures for synthetic uniforms.

Which Iron Is Better for Synthetic Clothes?

Both can iron synthetics when used at the correct low temperature.

The HD1172/27 provides simple dry ironing, while the DST1020/36 can be used with steam reduced or switched off.

Which Iron Is Better for Cotton Shirts?

The DST1020/36.

Its continuous steam and steam boost help remove creases from cotton more efficiently.

Does the Philips DST1020/36 Have a Ceramic Soleplate?

No.

It uses a coated non-stick soleplate.

Does the Philips HD1172/27 Have Steam?

No.

It is a dry iron.

Can I Use Tap Water in a Philips Steam Iron?

Yes, Philips steam irons are generally designed for tap water.

In hard-water areas, follow the manual’s guidance regarding demineralised or distilled water.

Can I Put Perfume in the Iron Water?

No.

Perfume, essential oils, starch and other additives can damage the iron and cause staining.

Should I Empty the Iron After Use?

Emptying unused water can reduce stagnant water and scale-related problems during storage.

Allow the iron to cool and follow the manual’s storage instructions.

How Often Should I Clean the Soleplate?

Clean it when dirt, burnt fabric, starch or other residue becomes visible.

There is no need to use a cleaning stick every month when the surface remains clean.

Can the Philips Cleaning Stick Be Used on Other Brands?

Philips states that the GC012/00 is suitable for different soleplate types from Philips and other iron brands.

Follow the individual iron and cleaning-stick instructions.

Does Red Rhino Sell Genuine Philips Irons?

Red Rhino is an authorised Philips retail partner in Kenya and stocks genuine Philips garment-care appliances with applicable manufacturer support.

Does Red Rhino Deliver Philips Irons Outside Nairobi?

Yes.

Red Rhino provides qualifying Nairobi delivery and countrywide shipping, subject to stock availability, order processing and destination.

Where Can I Buy a Philips Iron in Nairobi?

Philips irons are available through Red Rhino’s website and Parklands showroom, subject to current stock.

---

Shop Philips Irons at Red Rhino

• Shop All Irons and Garment-Care Products

• Philips DST1020/36 1800W Steam Iron

• Philips HD1172/27 1000W Dry Iron

• Philips GC012/00 Soleplate Cleaning Stick

• Browse All Philips Domestic Appliances

Product pages may remain visible when stock is low or temporarily unavailable. Review the live page or contact Red Rhino to confirm availability before ordering.

---

Visit Red Rhino in Nairobi

Red Rhino
PJ Center, Shop D11
4th Parklands Avenue, Parklands
Opposite Highridge Primary School
Nairobi, Kenya

Call or WhatsApp:
+254 797 080 808

Email:
info@myredrhino.com

Red Rhino is an authorised Philips retail partner in Kenya, stocking genuine Philips irons, steam generators, garment steamers and other domestic appliances with applicable warranty support.

Customers can shop online for delivery within Nairobi and countrywide shipping or visit the showroom for assistance comparing dry irons, steam irons and garment-care appliances.

Red Rhino — Where Quality Brands Come Together.

Product models, specifications, warranties, colours and stock availability may change. Always review the garment-care label and the manufacturer’s instructions before ironing.