How to use a clothes steamer

A clothes steamer is an indispensable tool for anyone who wants to quickly and effectively freshen up their clothes and remove wrinkles. While using a clothes steamer may seem intimidating at first, it’s actually a simple process that’s less time-consuming and often safer than traditional ironing. This article will walk you through the steps to using your clothes steamer effectively, as well as some important tips for getting the most out of your appliance.

Why choose a clothes steamer?

Before we get into how to use a clothes steamer, it’s helpful to understand why this appliance has become so popular. Clothes steamers offer a quick and easy way to remove wrinkles from clothing without the risk of burning fabric, a common problem with irons. They’re also particularly good for delicate fabrics like silk and cashmere, which can be sensitive to the direct heat of an iron. Another advantage is that clothes steamers can be used vertically, allowing you to steam clothes while they’re hanging on a hanger. This not only makes the process more efficient, but also easier on the fabric.

Preparing for steaming

Before you start steaming, it is important to prepare the clothes steamer properly. Start by filling the water tank with clean, preferably distilled water. This prevents limescale build-up in the appliance and extends the life of the steamer. After filling the tank, close it properly and attach it to the steamer. It is advisable to let the steamer heat up before you start, this usually only takes a few minutes. While the steamer is heating up, you can prepare your clothes. Make sure they are clean, as steaming can fix any odours or stains in the fabric.

The steam process

Once the steamer is heated and ready to use, you can begin steaming. Hang your garment on a sturdy hanger, making sure it is hanging freely. This will make it easier to distribute the steam evenly across the fabric. Hold the steamer a short distance from the fabric, usually about 1 to 1 inch, and move the steamer slowly and evenly across the fabric. Start at the top of the garment and work your way down. Moving the steamer slowly over the garment allows the steam to penetrate the fibers of the fabric and effectively remove the wrinkles. For stubborn wrinkles, you can hold the steamer a little closer to the fabric, but be careful not to drip water onto the fabric.

Safety and maintenance

Safety is important when using a garment steamer. Since the steam can be very hot, it is important to avoid contact with your skin to prevent burns. Always keep the steamer upright to prevent hot water from leaking from the appliance. When you have finished steaming, switch off the steamer and let it cool down completely before emptying the water tank and storing the appliance. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your garment steamer in optimum condition. Empty and rinse the water tank after each use to prevent limescale build-up. With heavy use, it may be useful to descale the steamer periodically according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Tips for the best results

While steaming itself is fairly simple, there are a few additional tips that can help you achieve the best results. First, for fabrics that are particularly sensitive to heat, such as silk, consider placing a piece of gauze or a thin cloth between the steamer and the fabric. This will provide an extra layer of protection and minimize the risk of damage. It is also important to keep the steam moving in a smooth motion to avoid concentrating the steam in one spot, which can stain or distort the fabric. Finally, for a fresh scent, you can add a few drops of scented oil to the water, if the manufacturer allows it.