Abstract: The present invention is directed to a lightweight portable steam iron utilizing an internal heated mass of sufficiently high temperature during operation to assure the generation of steam and having a plastic pressing surface which is heated by the aforementioned internal mass yet sufficiently insulated therefrom to maintain a relatively cool temperature in relationship to the internal mass. In the preferred form steam iron has a preset temperature control means which maintains the above mentioned temperature relationships during operation of the iron. Preferably the exterior surfaces of the iron are all plastic and the soleplate is maintained at a lower temperature than heretofore common in steam irons during a steaming operation. The iron also contains a steam valve which is operated from the handle in such a manner that it is always open when the iron is in use.