Laurastar: Ironing for dummies
13.5.2019
Translation: machine translated
Ironing with the help of a coach? The Bluetooth technology of the Smart M ironing system from Laurastar connects via Bluetooth to an app designed to turn you into an ironing pro.
It's definitely not my favourite household chore. On the contrary: I hate it because I fail miserably every time. My blouses look even more creased after ironing than before. Fortunately, I have found a way to look reasonably well-dressed without ironing. But because the whole thing still annoys me, the "Smart M" from Laurastar makes me prick up my ears. An ironing system with a coach to support me
.
The functions at a glance:
- Automatic steam release
- Active ironing board
- Removable water tank
- Transport handle
- Limescale protection system
- Vertical steam
- Cable winding device
- Integrated rollers
- can be opened and closed
- automatic switch-off
- overheating protection
- readable water level
- height adjustable (6 levels)
When I open the packaging, it hits me: at first glance, the almost 20-kilogramme package contains many individual parts. My initial euphoria fades and I postpone the test. The next morning, I dare to try again and have to smile: the whole thing is easier than I thought, as there are virtually no loose individual parts - except: a water tank, a drip tray, a steam cable holder, an ironing cover for the board, the operating instructions and a protective soleplate including a hook to which I can attach it.
After I have set everything up, inserted the anti-scale filter and filled the water tank, it's time to rinse out the steam generator. To do this, I use the mini basin supplied, which collects the water from the steam tank. This process should be carried out before the first use and then once a month. [[image:21744130]]After filling the water tank, I unscrew the drain and filler cap on the steam container. Descaling only takes a few minutes.
After ten minutes, my Laurastar is ready for use. A further three minutes pass before it starts up. The system is relatively loud and reminds me of the sound of a coffee machine. My dog gives me an irritated look and disappears into the guest room.
I stand in front of the height-adjustable active ironing board, which has a fan and a suction function. The former creates an air cushion that shapes the clothes. The suction function, on the other hand, ensures that the fabric does not slip when ironing. This should enable quick crease ironing. [[image:21743598]]The iron fits well in the hand and is smaller than conventional models.
I am pleasantly surprised because the fine steam emitted by the rather heavy iron is effective. What stands out: The iron has just three buttons. You won't find a temperature control because the integrated thermostat thinks for itself. I'm glad about that, but I'm still not allowed to switch it off completely, as I have to briefly consider whether I should attach the protective soleplate to the iron before each new item of clothing. This is used when ironing delicate materials such as silk or angora. Shiny spots on dark fabrics should also be a thing of the past with the attachment.
Warm-up
I start with a black hoodie because there's not much that can go wrong here. I slowly glide the iron over the jersey. The result is impressive: The jumper is crease-free in no time at all. I smooth out the hood, which is a little awkward to iron, with the vertical steam. To do this, I hold the hoodie in the air and iron over it with the iron. Caution: I hold the hoodie by the hem so that the hood is facing downwards. After all, I don't want to burn my fingers on the hot (!!!) steam. Incidentally, you should also steam silk blouses using this method. To do this, hang the top on a hanger and hold it in the air by the handle. [[image:21766460]]
Now I dare to try a linen shirt. I slip the protective sole over the hot iron with one hand. Mission accomplished. I let the iron glide over the top and am surprised at how easily the crumpled linen fabric can be smoothed out. The result impresses me again this time. A professional ironer would probably say nothing more than "quite acceptable". The result can be perfected... with the help of a professional or a coach. Now the real test begins: the "Laurastar Smart" app.
Connected for ironing
You can connect the system to your mobile via Bluetooth. A virtual coach shows you how to iron correctly. I download the free Laurastar Smart app. After downloading it, I scroll through seven steps that show me how to set up my Laurastar correctly. Oh well, I should probably have started with that. But anyway, the whole thing worked well even without the app.
The tension is rising: Now I connect my smartphone to the ironing system. To do this, I connect it to the power supply and activate Bluetooth mode with the required key combination.
Pairing works straight away. Strike! That's not always the case with my old iPhone7.
After the whole registration procedure, I get to the main menu. I tap on "Learn the basics" and get to "The perfect ironing motion" mode. Anyone expecting a boring demo is mistaken. My commitment is required, because I am immediately asked to imitate the demonstration with my iron. I am reprimanded for moving the iron back and forth too slowly. At the second attempt, I get the movement right. Next, I learn how to control the active ironing board and how to iron delicate fabrics.
I then click on the tips from my coach. There are six to choose from. These are simply video tutorials on topics such as "How to iron a shirt in two minutes", "How to de-crease your jacket" and "How to de-crease angora". The videos are self-explanatory.
Deep cleaning
My Laurastar is equipped with a steam system that deep cleans textiles. The hot steam supposedly kills mites, bacteria and fungi that survive in the fabric after a wash cycle at 40° Celsius. This is an exciting feature that I don't want to or can't go into here because it's simply impossible without external help. What is noticeable: My freshly washed laundry smells even better after ironing.
Conclusion
I never thought I would mention the words "ironing" and "enthusiastic" in the same breath. Sure, the system isn't cheap. But if even a dummy like me can use it, that's saying something. I'm suddenly enjoying ironing and I'm already thinking about all the other things I could iron. But: the app or the coach is a nice gimmick - nothing more. I can also watch the video tutorials online if I need to. What I do find helpful, however, is the reminder to replace the anti-limescale cartridge as soon as this is necessary. Something I tend to forget, like regularly replacing the mothproof paper in my wardrobe.
All in all, I'm happy with my Laurastar and wouldn't want to be without it. What you might also need to know: Although you can fold the appliance, it doesn't take up much space. The investment is particularly worthwhile if you attach great importance to ironed clothes and rely on a freshly ironed shirt every day.
Here you can find all Laurastar ironing systems. If you want to hype more products with me, then follow me by clicking on the button at my author profile.
When I’m not exploring the depths of the sea as an open water diver, I enjoy plunging into the world of fashion. On the streets of Paris, Milan and New York is where I keep my eyes peeled for the latest trends. And I’ll show you how to take them from the catwalk to your everyday life.
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