Common mistakes when using a clothes steamer

Using a clothes steamer is a convenient and efficient way to de-wrinkle and freshen up your clothes. While a clothes steamer is easier to use than a traditional iron in many ways, mistakes are often made that can reduce the steamer’s effectiveness or even damage your clothes. Below, we’ll discuss some common mistakes and how to avoid them to get the most out of your clothes steamer.

Insufficient preparation of the clothing

One of the most common mistakes when using a clothes steamer is not preparing the clothes properly. Before you start steaming, it is important to shake the clothes well and smooth them out with your hands. This helps to remove loose wrinkles and allows the steamer to work more effectively. Also, don’t forget to empty pockets and remove any accessories such as belts or brooches that could be damaged by the steam.

Using the wrong steam setting

Many garment steamers have different steam settings that are suitable for different fabrics. It is essential to choose the right setting for the material you are steaming. A steam setting that is too high can damage delicate fabrics such as silk or cashmere, while a setting that is too low may not be effective enough for heavier fabrics such as cotton or linen. Always consult your steamer’s manual and the care instructions on your garment to determine the correct settings.

Moving too fast

Another common mistake is moving the steamer too quickly over the clothing. It is important to move the steamer slowly and evenly over the surface of the fabric, so that the steam has enough time to loosen the wrinkles. If you move too quickly, the steam particles do not have a chance to penetrate deep into the fibers, which means that the wrinkles are not completely removed.

Incorrect position of the garment steamer

The way you hold and move your garment steamer can make a big difference in your results. The steamer should always be held in a vertical position and moved slowly from top to bottom. Using the steamer in a horizontal position can cause water to leak out of the steamer, which can stain your clothes. It can also reduce the effectiveness of the steamer, as the steam is not evenly distributed across the fabric.

Incorrect water use

The type of water you use in your garment steamer can have a major impact on the performance and lifespan of the appliance. Many people make the mistake of using tap water, which can cause mineral deposits and eventually clog the steamer. It is advisable to use distilled or demineralised water to prevent limescale build-up and keep the steamer working at its best.

Forgot to clean the steamer

A common mistake is not cleaning your clothes steamer regularly. Cleaning your steamer after each use can help prevent limescale and other build-up that can reduce its performance. Consult your steamer’s manual for specific cleaning instructions. Usually, emptying and rinsing the water tank regularly and cleaning the steam head occasionally is sufficient.

Steaming dirty clothes

A clothes steamer is great for refreshing and removing wrinkles, but it is not a replacement for a washing machine. Steaming dirty or stained clothes can cause odors and stains to set deeper into the fabric, so make sure the clothes are clean before steaming. If there is only a slight odor or a few wrinkles, steaming is a perfect solution, but if the clothes are heavily soiled, a thorough washing should be done first.

Do not use accessories

Many garment steamers come with attachments such as brushes or clamps that are specifically designed to treat certain types of fabrics or garments. Not using these attachments is a missed opportunity to get the most out of your steamer. These tools can help you steam delicate fabrics, remove lint, or create crisp creases in pants. Read the manual to understand how to use these attachments correctly.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your garment steamer performs optimally and that your clothes always look their best. A little attention to detail and following the correct techniques can make a big difference in the effectiveness of your garment steamer.