This guide contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
A handheld garment steamer uses hot steam to relax wrinkles while the garment hangs. It is quick, needs no ironing board, and is gentle on many fabrics that are tricky to iron, such as blouses, dresses and suits between dry cleans.
Quick answer
- Travel and quick touch-ups: a compact handheld steamer.
- Frequent use or a whole wardrobe: a larger handheld or an upright steamer with a bigger tank.
- Check heat-up time, tank size and whether it has an auto shut-off.
- For crisp creases (like dress-shirt collars or trouser pleats), an iron still does a better job.
Steamer vs iron
| Task | Steamer | Iron |
|---|---|---|
| Quick wrinkle removal on hanging clothes | Excellent | Slower |
| Delicate fabrics (silk, chiffon) | Often better (check label) | Risk of shine or scorching |
| Sharp creases and collars | Limited | Excellent |
| Curtains and upholstery | Handy | Impractical |
| Setup | None | Ironing board needed |
What to look for
- Heat-up time: many handheld models are ready in under a minute; check the manufacturer’s stated time.
- Water tank size: larger tanks steam longer between refills but add weight.
- Continuous steam: some need a button held down; others steam continuously.
- Safety: auto shut-off, a stable base, and a heat-resistant cover or pouch for storage.
- Attachments: a fabric brush helps open thicker fabrics; a lint brush is a bonus.
- Voltage: if you travel internationally, look for a dual-voltage model.
Popular options to compare
These are widely bought models with strong ratings from a large number of owner reviews at the time of writing. Prices and availability change often, so check the latest details on Amazon before you buy.
How to steam clothes properly
- Fill the tank with water (use distilled water if your manual recommends it, especially in hard-water areas).
- Hang the garment and pull the fabric gently taut from the bottom.
- Move the steamer slowly from top to bottom, keeping the head close to or lightly touching the fabric as the manual allows.
- Let the garment dry for a few minutes before wearing.
Fabric tips
- Cotton and linen: steam from the inside for best results.
- Silk and delicates: keep the steamer a little further away and check the care label.
- Wool and suits: great for refreshing between wears.
- Avoid steaming leather, suede and some synthetics unless the label says it is safe.
Safety
Steam is hot enough to cause burns. Never steam clothes while wearing them, keep the nozzle pointed away from your hands, and let the unit cool before refilling or storing.
FAQ
Why is my steamer spitting water?
Usually it was not fully heated, or the tank was overfilled. Let it heat completely and hold it upright. Mineral buildup can also cause problems; descale as the manual directs.
Can a steamer replace an iron completely?
For many everyday clothes, yes. For crisp shirts and pleated trousers, many people keep an iron as well.
Related: How to Remove Common Stains from Clothes.