Best Handheld Garment Steamer

In today’s hectic world it can prove difficult to keep garments looking pristine. Taking the time to crease and iron clothes use moments that could be devoted to other chores.

Unfortunately, the costs of professional services also continue to rise. That's why handheld garment steamers may provide answers. Included below is a look at this equipment as well as a review of the following six handheld steamers:

What Is A Handheld Garment Steamer?

A handheld clothing steamer is a device that uses high-temperature steam to remove wrinkles from fabrics or garments. Instead of pressing and pushing fibers flat with an iron, steamers will relax the fibers.

The process of steaming is thought of as a more gentle way to remove wrinkles than traditional ironing. Originally, garment steamers were large models that were used in commercial settings. Today, steamers are available for home and travel.

What Are Some Of The Differences Between Irons And Steamers?

Both irons and steamers are used to remove wrinkles from fabric and garments and make use of steam in that process. The major difference between these devices is in the way that they go about doing it.

An iron uses a heated plate and applied pressure from weight to remove wrinkles, while a steamer applies hot steam while making little or no contact with the item itself. An iron requires a board to work upon while a steamer works on the material as it hangs.

What Are The Materials That Work And Do Not Work With A Steamer?

A handheld garment steamer does not apply scorching heat to remove wrinkles so it can be ideal to use with fabrics that delicate and softer such as jersey, polyester, satin, or even silk. There is little chance that you will be able to burn garments made from these materials compared to when you iron.

A steamer can be a great choice to use on jackets or shirts with screen printing on them. Wrinkles on pleats, ruffles, and sleeves are easier to remove. In the case of pleats, a steamer is beneficial as the item will maintain its original shape after use.

Heavy and thick fabrics such as Pima cotton or twill will not respond as well to a clothing steamer as they would to the direct heat and weight of an iron. It should be also be noted that items that require creases, such as dress pants or shirts, require ironing.

Are There General Guidelines To Follow When Using A Garment Steamer?

You will need to follow the handheld steamer’s directions for operation in order to use it properly. There are a few general guidelines that you can follow through, including testing a small area on the items before steaming the entire thing.

This is even more important when working with colors that tend to run. Consulting the garment tag to make sure it is sealed and can handle the high temperatures is also sound advice. Like ironing, do not stay in one section too long to avoid damage.

How Do You Use A Handheld Garment Steamer?

Using a handheld steamer should be fairly easy. Make sure to consult the operating manual that came with the steamer for any specific steps you need to take. Outside of the steps that are specific, the guidelines that follow should help.

Start by filling the water reservoir of the steamer. You will then turn on the unit and allow it build up steam. Make sure to hang the item you will work on with a hanger or clips. When ready, run the nozzle of the unit in downward strokes before allowing to dry.

When working on more dense of heavily wrinkled items, use a handheld pad or surface behind the fabric as you steam it. You can also steam from inside the garment or from below, using the items weight to help stretch the fibers.

With most materials, you will hold the nozzle an inch or two away from the surface, especially with very delicate items or items with embellishments, pleats, or ruffles.

What Features Should You Look For On A Handheld Steamer?

The most important factor with handheld garment steamers will be weight. A heavier steamer will cause fatigue in your arms, hands, and shoulders sooner than a lighter model will. Conversely, lighter weight often means the steamer is made with cheaper materials.

The size of the water reservoir is also important, as a larger tank will equate to fewer refills and recharges. Steamers with longer cords can make your job easier as they are less restrictive on movements.

The size and shape of the nozzle can be important, as can the inclusion of accessories that will make the task of steaming easier. Unique operating and safety features are worth considering when comparing models.

Finally, the cost and warranties can influence your purchasing decision.

Conclusion

After reviewing the six steamers above, we feel that the Steamfast SF-445 was the best. With a larger water tank that will require fewer refills combined with the unit's lightweight, it produces a winning combination.

The eight-foot-long power cord and non-slip ring at the units base supply moveability as well as safety. The wider base is more stable and the warranty and mid-ranged price seal the deal for us. We hope that one of these steamers will be right for you!