Common Uses for a Garment Steamer

There are actually three types of garment steamers, the floor model which was originally used mainly in dress shops to steam wrinkles from new clothing before displaying; compact handheld steamers for use when traveling, for quick pressing clothing that has become wrinkled while packed in a suitcase, and garment steamer tools that are often included as an accessory with a steam cleaner. All three types are commonly used at home and the compact model is very popular for traveling.

In fact in many homes, a garment steamer has replaced the common steam iron as a faster, though not quite as thorough - but acceptable, clothes pressing alternative. However, it could be argued that with a garment steamer, you have to give the clothing several passes, where a powerful iron could press a shirt in one pass, sometimes two. When it comes to setting pleats, an iron does a much neater and crisp pressing. There are other pressing appliances, a steam generator and garment steam press. These are also very effective for pressing garments as they steam in the pressing process.

With an iron, the job is much easier if an ironing board is used. On the other hand, with a steamer you can press clothes right on a hanger. Since prices can be comparable depending on models, the process of ironing versus steaming, really becomes a matter of preference.

If you already have a garment steamer or are thinking of buying one, you'll want to make the most of this handy appliance. And garment steamers are not only used to press garments, but also to freshen and/or dust other cloth items.

Compare prices of garment steamers

Word of Caution When Using a Garment Steamer

Fabrics or textiles that cannot take heat or moisture, should never be steamed. If a garment is labeled - dry clean only - steaming could damage or leave moisture spots on the fabric. And use caution when steaming, especially with colors that could run; best to test a small area inside a seam first. When in doubt, leave it for the experts at the cleaners.

Common uses for a garment steamer

• Clothing including jackets, suits, pants, shirts to remove wrinkles or to freshen.
• Bedding such heavy quilts, pillows, comforters to freshen, but allow to dry completely.
• Draperies to remove wrinkles or freshen.
• Mattresses to freshen. Some do steam to kill dust mites, but there is no test data to prove this theory.
• Upholstery - home or vehicle, steam to freshen or dust.

Read More About Fabric Care & Steamers

How to Buy an Iron, Steamer
Laundry Appliances, Tips, Resources
About Irons and Presses
Using 2x Detergents
What is a Steam Generator?
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