How to choose the best garment steamer? We share proven tips.
How to choose a garment steamer
A garment steamer is an indispensable thing in the house, especially if you often have to deal with things that are difficult to iron: long dresses, fluffy skirts, pleats, ruffles, delicate fabrics. But what can I say, sometimes even ironing shirts or bed linen takes an incredible amount of time and effort. After an hour at the ironing board, fatigue appears, my back aches, my legs are buzzing. And in this regard, the steamer has a big advantage over the iron – you get less tired with it. The damp, hot steam quickly straightens the fabric for a neat and tidy look. There is no need to be afraid that while ironing the product, you will inadvertently make a fold with an iron or burn through a thin fabric. In addition to the straightening effect, steam disinfects, removes dust and disinfects. Steamers can be used not only instead of an iron, they can clean any textile surfaces, from outerwear to curtains and furniture.
There are two types of steamers: hand-held and floor-standing. Having studied the opinions of users and experts, we have identified the characteristics that the best garment steamer should have.
- Perhaps the most important property to look out for when choosing a garment steamer is power. The power of the steam supply depends on it and, accordingly, the efficiency of work. With a weak steam supply, the process will take longer, and the result will be average. For floor-standing steamers, the power starts from 1400 W, but professionals advise you to pay attention to devices with a power of at least 1500 W. The steam pressure must be at least 3,5 bar. In this case, the steamer can be used to care for outerwear, disinfect carpets and mattresses, and even to clean ceramic tiles with hot steam in the kitchen and bathroom. Handheld steamers are lighter and take up less space, but have less power and will automatically turn off after 10-15 minutes of operation. They are good for small items or as a travel option. Their power ranges from 900 to 1200 watts.
- When choosing a steamer, pay attention to the volume of the water tank – the larger it is, the longer the appliance will work. The best option for home use is 1–1,5 liters.
- The lifespan of a steamer largely depends on the quality of the water and the material from which the heating element is made. Give preference to steel or brass. These metals have high thermal conductivity and virtually eliminate the formation of scale. If your garment steamer has a filter for water purification, it’s better to find out right away if you can buy the same filters in your city so that when the time comes to change them, you will not have any problems.
- Many stores offer the customer to purchase additional separate steamer heads. But, as practice shows, there is enough standard equipment for household needs. The only thing you may need is a brush to clean the fluffy fabric.
We have described the key characteristics that are important when choosing and purchasing a garment steamer. But before going to the store, we advise you to read the reviews of those who have already bought a garment steamer in order to consult or get an impression about a particular model. Or understand for what purpose you are buying it, whether it will be a heavy load or not. In the meantime, we suggest watching a video in which specialists will once again tell you how to choose a good steamer for clothes.