Originally, irons were placed in a fire or hot coals to heat. They then were hollowed with room for hot coals inside the iron itself. Eventually, electricity was added. The modern electric iron features a heating element that evenly heats a non-stick metal soleplate.Most modern electric irons also feature a steam function. An internal water reservoir is heated by the same element that heats the soleplate. Steam options usually include varying moisture levels (how much steam is emitted), as well as mist and spray settings. The advancement of the internal heating mechanism also allows for more specific control of temperature settings. Some newer models even have a digital readout of the temperature itself, while others let the user choose settings based not on degrees, but fabric type.  Read more...