GREAT BRITISH DESIGN
ESTABLISHED 1980
FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY
GREAT BRITISH DESIGN
ESTABLISHED 1980
FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY
We often get asked about how clothes steamers compare to using an iron. So here is a quick Q&A we compiled of the pros and cons of clothes steamers versus irons.
Steamers are faster than irons. There’s no ironing board to set up, fabrics can be steamed in-situ, and clothes steamers often heat up faster than irons.
Also clothes steaming does not compress fibres so there is no damage to the fabric, whereas the pressing of hot metal from an iron can cause irreversible damage.
Steaming fabrics in-situ is a major advantage for steamers. The lack of ironing board means set up is fast and steaming can be done in the tightest of spaces. Clothes are steamed straight on the hanger, curtains directly on the curtain rail, and cushions and seat covers directly on the sofa.
And now with the rise of handheld steamers, steaming is even easier. Traditional clothes and fabric steamers work well but are more suited to commercial environments where there is more space and a heavy duty device is needed. Handheld steamers are light, portable and can work anywhere, ideal for travelling and keeping clothes fresh and crease free on the move.
Steaming removes creases by relaxing the fibres of the fabric. Ironing, on the other hand, uses the heat of the metal base and weight to compress the fibres.
The compression of fibres over time can cause irreversible damage and shorten the life of the garment.
Steaming kills bacteria and in doing so removes odours. Steaming is also environmentally friendly. Clothes last longer, less dry cleaner visits are needed (and the use of environmentally damaging chemicals), and less washes (steaming can be used to freshen between washes, saving water and energy). See more at Apartment Therapy.
Steaming is quicker than ironing for three reasons – there’s no ironing board to set up, the steamer heats up faster, and the steam is more powerful so creases fall out faster.
Typically a steamer, particularly a handheld steamer, is ready to use in about 45 seconds.
Generally speaking, a steamer will never fully replace an iron. Some fabrics like denim, organza and thick cottons will still need an iron to get all of the creases out. But with some of the higher quality steamers now including a hot plate, those tougher creases can be removed, and required creases added with ease.
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