A steamer is a device that smooths fabrics using a stream of hot steam. The classic design is a telescopic rack with a hanger, a steam iron, a steam generator in a plastic case and a steam hose. There are also compact hand-held models.
Let's try to figure out how to choose a garment steamer among the wide range of products offered by manufacturers.
Content
Types of home steamers
Steam devices are divided into 5 types - which steamer to choose depends on the required functions:
- steamers;
- steam generators;
- steam cleaners;
- steam mops;
- steam vacuum cleaners.
Steamer
Designed for ironing fabrics. The essence of the operation of such a device is to generate wet steam, the temperature of which reaches 98-99 ° C. It quickly and efficiently copes with folds, smoothes shirt cuffs and collars. Also, the device does not come into contact with clothes, which means that even the most delicate fabrics can be processed with it. Already a minute after switching on, the device is ready for use. It is lightweight, compact, and affordable. Disadvantages of a manual steamer model:
- the need to use only purified or distilled water;
- insufficient power;
- operation is possible only in an upright position;
- steam is supplied without pressure, so ironing does not always bring the expected effect.
In cases of using tap water, the hardness of which is very high, the device may fail due to the accumulation of scale. Use only purified water, and preferably distilled water!
Stationary steamer models have higher power and increased tank capacity, but they also cost more.
Steam generators
To choose a garment steamer, with which you can also clean products from contamination, pay attention to steam generators. The stationary model consists of a stand with water and an iron connected by a cord. The iron treats fabrics with dry steam at temperatures up to 160 ° C and pressures up to 6 bar. The advantages of the model include versatility, efficiency, pressurized steam and high power. The steam generator can even smooth out several layers of fabric, remove stains, and refresh the color of the fabric. The steamer also works with ordinary tap water, performs its functions both horizontally and vertically. The maximum time of continuous work is 1.5 hours. The disadvantages of the device include:
- lack of mobility (has impressive dimensions);
- prolonged heating;
- high cost.
Steamer-steam cleaner
It is intended for processing the most inaccessible places and various surfaces.This applies to household items, house, car, etc. Its task is to steam, clean, disinfect various surfaces (laminate, plastic, carpets, furniture upholstery and others).Which is the best type of steam cleaner to buy, given the sheer number of modifications? It is not difficult to understand this issue: the devices are equipped with numerous attachments, it remains only to choose the most preferable ones. Steam cleaners are mobile and lightweight. Disadvantages:
- high price;
- low-power models allow water dripping in the form of drops.
Steam cleaners have proven themselves well in cleaning bathrooms and especially in the fight against bacteria, ingrained plaque on tiles and ceramics!
Steam mops
If you need a cleaning assistant for home use, check out our range of steam mops - this type of steamer is an inexpensive but good tool for dissolving dirt right before your eyes. The absorption of contaminants occurs with the help of special nozzles. Mops are used not only for cleaning floors - they can effectively clean windowsills, windows, carpets and other surfaces. Removing the nozzle transforms the mop into a steam cleaner with a directed steam under pressure. This steamer model is convenient and versatile in use, it allows you to easily disinfect indoors. Disadvantages:
- weight;
- large dimensions;
- does a poor job of cleaning in hard-to-reach places.
Steam cleaner
If there is no need for a universal device and you only need to choose a good steamer for cleaning the floor, then a steam vacuum cleaner will become an indispensable assistant. It is an effective tool for killing germs and bacteria. The device does not require the use of detergents, has a high power supply of steam, and leaves the floor completely dry.
Disadvantages:
- regular filter replacement;
- high cost of the device and filters.
Varieties of garment steamers
Vertical view
Inexpensive floor standing steamers are equipped with a gravity steam system. In the boiler of the lower box, steam is generated, which enters the ironing nozzle through the hose. In view of this movement, the temperature begins to drop to 98 degrees, but the device works. This is a great option for tidying up medium-weight fabrics.
This group of products contains options that work under pressure. They are capable of emitting a jet of steam in about 3 atmospheres, which allows it to penetrate much deeper even through coat fabrics, which, as you know, are of high density.
Benefits
- the volume of the tank can increase the duration of operation up to 1–2 hours at the filling station;
- it is convenient to work with the device. You only need to hold an iron that does not weigh much;
- the design is simple and reliable;
- the cost is an acceptable option.
disadvantages
- small size;
- energy consumption is high;
- you need to wait until the water reaches the desired temperature and the required pressure is reached.
The vertical models are incredibly comfortable when ironing clothes. They will come complete with a tripod, you can hang hangers and things on it to make the steaming process even more comfortable.
Manual view
Differs in compact size, presented in the form of a brush for clothes, only there is no nap. There is also an option with a small kettle, which is equipped with a spout in the form of an iron. The case is small, it will not allow you to hide inside a powerful heating element or a water tank with a high capacity. The steamer can easily fit into your travel bag if you need to take it with you.
Benefits
- convenient application;
- light weight;
- dimensions are compact;
- you can reach the top of the curtains on the eaves;
- models run on batteries;
- the cost is acceptable.
disadvantages
- the tank is small;
- the flow rate is low;
- works 15-30 minutes, after which it needs a break.
This is a handy travel option when you need to get your clothes looking good, but a steamer won't work for a stack of laundry.
Pump-action view
This appliance functions under the condition of a forced steam supply process, which is released under pressure. Its formation takes place in a slightly different way. The entire volume of water poured into the tank will not boil. The liquid is supplied by the pump to the red-hot heating element in accordance with the drop, and then the evaporation process occurs abruptly. Those. this is a kind of mini-explosion that can increase the pressure in the area of the boiler chamber.
Everything else functions according to the standard parameters. The valve opens, steam is escaping with special force. You can control this process personally, relying on the button that is equipped on the iron itself.
Benefits
- the steam flow is intense;
- ironing things quickly and efficiently;
- under the applied pressure, steam quickly penetrates into the thick tissue;
- convenient steam control;
- the device can work without time limits. The main thing is that there is enough water, and therefore this parameter should be monitored.
disadvantages
- the released vapor pressure drops rapidly;
- the price is reasonable.
This is a great solution that will make it easy to iron things made of fur or dense fabrics. This is felt, tweed or drape.
Combined view
It is a kind of hybrid of a household steam cleaner and a garment steamer. The steam is supplied under constant pressure. It is 3 atmospheres or more. It can be used not only for ironing purposes, but also for safe cleaning, cleaning heat-resistant surfaces.
Benefits
- processing of heavy fabrics;
- disinfection and odor elimination process;
- the presence of replaceable nozzles in the package;
- multifunctionality.
disadvantages
- high price;
- excess steam.
All lovers of absolute cleanliness and perfectionists will be able to appreciate the capabilities of combined steam cleaners, while the use of chemistry is excluded. The attachments can be changed by using the same device, even those things that are capricious in care, it will allow you to put in order, removing the fat on the tile, which constantly accumulates in the kitchen.
Power consumption
This parameter varies in the range of 840-2400 W - what power of the steamer should I buy, and how does it affect the operation of the device? Two indicators depend on the power: the supply force and the steam temperature - the higher it is, the better:
- 800 W - suitable for smoothing thin fabrics, removing light dirt;
- 1200-1500 W - for ironing all types of fabrics, combating stains of any complexity;
- From 2000 W - these devices are already called professional steamers.
Performance
What is productivity and how to choose the right steamer for this parameter? This is one of the most important criteria. The more milliliters of steam per minute generated by the device, the less time it takes to process the products:
- 18 ml / min - can smooth out one layer of fabric, dissolve surface dirt;
- 35 ml / min - performs the same functions, but much faster;
- From 100 ml / min - it will be more than enough for processing dense fabrics.
Maximum steam temperature
To choose a steamer for your home, you need to figure out at what maximum temperature it can work. For household models, this parameter varies from 98 to 160 ° C. Each type of fabric needs an individual approach. Categories of devices:
- Up to 99 ° С - gentle processing of all types of fabrics, cleaning, cleaning of furniture upholstery;
- 100-160 ° C - disinfection.
Some models are equipped with temperature control - this is convenient and multifunctional.
Control type
By the type of control, steamers are divided into manual, mechanical and electronic. When manually operated, the device is equipped with a button, when pressed, steam is delivered. This is convenient for quick ironing of clothes or processing various surfaces. Mechanical control involves connecting the device to the network, after which it starts to release steam automatically after heating.An electronically controlled steamer makes it possible to fine-tune the operating mode of the device, but the price-quality ratio is also appropriate. Such models are equipped with displays.
Ready to go
The larger the container with water and the steamer itself, the more time it takes to heat up, but such a model will also have more continuous operation time:
- manual model - up to 1 min;
- steam generators - after 8 minutes;
- steam cleaners - from 15 s to 10 minutes (depending on the volume of the tank);
- steam mops - up to 1 min;
- steam vacuum cleaners - 5 min.
The given values have an average value and may differ from manufacturer to manufacturer, therefore, it is better to check the device's readiness time for operation upon purchase.
Tank volume
To find a quality steamer for your home, consider the volume of its tank, which can vary between 100-3800 ml. Some models are equipped with built-in containers. They have special holes for filling and draining water. The removable tanks have valves that prevent water from leaking before the tank is installed. There are also reservoirs closed with rubberized plugs.
For home use, a 1500 ml tank will be more than enough for continuous operation for one hour!
Continuous working time
The following parameters affect the duration of continuous operation of the steamer:
- power;
- steam power;
- tank volume.
For example, a steamer with a 100 ml capacity works no longer than 5 minutes, and a steam generator with a large tank can be operated for about half an hour.
Equipment
When choosing the best steamer option, pay attention to the complete set of the device. The more all kinds of attachments and brushes included with the device, the more useful and effective it is for home use. For example, the most diverse equipment for a steam cleaner:
- brush for carpets, furniture upholstery;
- for tiles, countertops, hobs;
- windows, mirrors;
- bayonet / curved nozzles;
- extension hose.
Complete set of stationary and manual steamers:
- flat nozzle;
- removable brush;
- polishing case;
- nozzle for the formation of "arrows" on the trousers;
- clothes hanger.
The steam mop is equipped with attachments and covers that allow using this model of a steam cleaner for curtains, wet cleaning and various surfaces.
Choosing a steamer company
With expert advice and customer reviews, Philips brand devices have the best reputation. The devices are pleasing with their high efficiency and a pleasant price, sufficient power, fast heating, several modes of steam supply. The versatility of the devices allows you to process any surface and fabric.It is up to you which company to buy a steamer, but it does not hurt to study the rating of the best manufacturers, which includes such brands as Philips, Kitfort, Polaris, MIE, Tefal. Although these are not all well-known manufacturers in the household appliance market, they are leaders in quality and reliability, so decide for yourself which company to choose a garment steamer so that the price and quality will please you.
Rating of the best steamers in 2020
- Philips GC536
- Kitfort KT-910
- MIE Deluxe
- Polaris PGS 1806VA
- Tefal IS8380E1
Outcome
Having carefully studied all the characteristics of the steamer you like, making sure that it meets all expectations and has the proper functionality, after looking at the model overview, you can purchase an affordable and high-quality steamer. This is a very useful and convenient assistant in the household, and the compact models can even be taken with you on trips.
