A hand iron internally heated by electricity has two switches (1 ,2) for connection to electric power, each switch corresponding to a separate electrical switching circuit. In a first case of a horizontal position of the iron during ironing of an item of clothing, using a first electrical switching circuit, a first switch (1) on the underside of the handle of the iron has to be pressed for supply with electric current for heating of the sole plate of the iron. The iron does not receive power in the horizontal, ironing position, if switch (1 ) is not pressed. In a second case of a vertical, upright position of the iron, whereby the iron lies on its rear base, whereby a second switch (2) on the rear base is pressed by the weight of the iron, using a second electrical switching circuit, power will be supplied to the iron as well. This second electrical switching circuit does not work, if the iron is picked up from its position lying on its rear base.