Are you plagued by wrinkled clothes? We've all experienced the frustration of pulling an item from the closet or drawer only to find it too wrinkled to wear. That’s why investing in a clothes steamer can be a game-changer. After many years of dealing with annoying wrinkles, I finally bought a clothes steamer and never looked back.
Once you start using a clothes steamer, you'll wonder how you ever managed without one. Though it might seem intimidating at first, learning how to steam clothes is simple and effective. This guide will help you master the art of clothes steaming and highlight the key differences between steaming and ironing.
Choosing a Clothes Steamer
When you’re in the market for a clothes steamer, you’ll come across various options, from large, upright models to small handheld ones. Personally, I prefer a compact handheld model like the Reliable Dash 150GHB Portable Garment Steamer. It’s small enough to travel with, heats up quickly, and works on various fabrics.
When selecting a steamer, consider the following features:
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Easy-to-fill water reservoir: A good handheld steamer will have a reservoir that easily pops in and out for convenient filling.
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Continuous steam button: This allows you to maintain a steady steam flow without constantly pressing a button.
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Well-made soleplate: Similar to the metal part of an iron, a quality soleplate lets you get in some ironing action if needed.
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Good high pressure: Ensures all wrinkles are effectively removed.
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Lint brush or delicates attachment: Increases the versatility of your steamer for different types of fabrics.
Clothes steamers range in price, but spending a bit more can get you a higher-quality machine. Remember, buy once, buy well.
Setting Up Your Clothes for Steaming
Setting up for steaming is simple. You need a sturdy surface to hang your garment so you can gently tug and move it around. A drying rack works well, but an over-the-door hook or even a camera tripod can do the trick.
How to Steam Clothes
Most clothing steamers work similarly, but always read your specific unit’s instructions. Here’s a general step-by-step guide:
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Fill the reservoir with water: Use distilled water if recommended, especially in areas with hard water.
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Attach any accessories: Connect any attachments, such as lint brushes or delicates attachments.
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Plug in the steamer: Wait for the indicator light to signal it’s ready.
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Prime the steamer: Activate the steam button continuously for about a minute to ensure a consistent steam flow.
When steaming:
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Work in sections: Don’t try to steam the entire garment at once. Break it down into manageable sections.
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Hold the garment taut: This helps the steam penetrate the fabric more effectively.
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Move top to bottom: Start at the top and work your way down. For particularly stubborn wrinkles, hold the steamer over the area for up to 30 seconds.
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Use the soleplate if necessary: If your steamer has a soleplate, you can press it against the fabric like an iron for tougher wrinkles.
For sleeves, place your free hand inside to help spread the fabric. Move slowly and carefully, holding the steamer over difficult areas for a few extra seconds. Avoid creating new creases by not holding the fabric too tightly.
Steaming Delicate Fabrics
To avoid damaging delicate fabrics, use the delicate attachment for your steamer. This attachment keeps the soleplate from touching the fabric, preventing scorch marks. Always test on an inconspicuous area first.
Distilled Water vs. Tap Water
There’s a debate about using distilled versus tap water in steamers. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Use distilled water if recommended, especially in areas with hard water, to prevent mineral deposits that can clog your steamer.
Ironing vs. Steaming
Steamers are excellent for removing wrinkles from most fabrics but aren’t ideal for stubborn materials like linen or thick cotton. For these, use an iron. Irons use pressure along with steam to loosen wrinkles, perfect for crisp collars, cuffs, and creases. If you’ve used a steamer and the wrinkles persist, it’s time to switch to an iron.
Conclusion
By now, you should be well-equipped to tackle any wrinkled garment with confidence. Steaming is a quick, effective way to keep your clothes looking fresh and wrinkle-free. Just remember to work in sections, use distilled water when necessary, and follow the guidelines for your specific steamer. With these tips, you'll enjoy perfectly steamed clothes in no time.
Related
- How to Remove Lint from Clothes
- How to Keep Clothes Fresh Without Washing
- How to Clean an Iron: Keep Your Clothes Snazzy and Wrinkle-Free
- Steamer vs. Iron: What's the Difference?
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