Today, instead of the usual iron, you can easily and efficiently iron things using universal devices - steamers. They are used to care for clothes at home, in studios, and in production workshops. It does not have to be expensive; you can opt for an inexpensive budget hand-held device. As you may have guessed from the name, a “steamer” is a device that performs a wide range of functions, which is based on the strong effect of steam on the surface of textiles. The design has a water tank that heats up to high temperatures. As a result of boiling, a stream of steam enters a flat nozzle, with the help of which the fabric is processed. Due to strong pressure, the fibers of the material tend to “relax”, allowing the surface to smooth out. It is also worth saying that steamers have an advantage over conventional irons. With their help, you will not only iron the item, but also easily remove unpleasant odors and stains. With steamers, the process of ironing things is much faster and easier than with a household iron. A powerful jet of steam easily straightens creases and folds on clothes, and also copes well with complexly cut items. The ironing process occurs without contact of the heating element with the fabric, therefore eliminating the possibility of damage or the appearance of shiny stripes.
Criterias of choice
Globally, there are two types of devices:
- Hand steamers are small, compact devices with a water tank, similar to a brush or electric kettle. They are convenient to take on the road, especially if it is possible to operate on a battery, they take up little space and also weigh little. But their water capacity is small, so such steamers are not designed for a long operating time and are not suitable for a large volume of things. As a rule, hand steamers have low power, so they are not suitable for working with heavy and dense fabrics - they simply will not have an effect.
- Vertical or floor-standing models of steamers are more bulky - in addition to the iron, they come with a rack for things, a hose and a capacious boiler, which allows you to work for several hours without interruption. High power ensures intense steam formation and strong pressure, under which even strong creases on dense fabrics are straightened. The iron itself is light and does not tire your hands. The only thing you have to worry about is finding a place to store the device and all its components.
Often, in addition to the main function, steamers can perform several parallel ones, such as cleaning fabric sofas, armchairs, mattresses; disinfection of soft toys; if there are nozzles - washing various surfaces, for example, windows; removal of mold in tile joints, etc. The capabilities of the steamer will depend largely on its technical and operational characteristics:
- Power is a double-edged sword. Devices that are too powerful consume a lot of electricity, while steamers with low energy consumption take longer to heat water, produce less steam and only work well with knitwear and delicate fabrics. Steaming jeans or a coat will be a problem for them. The optimal power indicator is 1700-1900 W.
- Maximum steam supply is ensured by pressure. The greater the steam supply and the stronger the pressure, the more efficiently the device copes with complex tasks. The optimal pressure is 4-5 bar, and the steam supply is 40-50 g/min and higher.
- The volume of the water tank is important for both manual and vertical models, and when choosing a device for your home you need to stick to the average values. If the tank volume of a hand-held steamer is too large, your hand will get tired. The oversized capacity of the floor-standing version makes the device oversized and inconvenient for storage. But you shouldn’t opt for a steamer with a small tank either, since the operating time directly depends on the volume. However, here you can focus on your personal data - if you need to steam a new shirt a couple of times a week, then a liter tank will be enough, but for a large family it is better to choose a capacity of at least 1.5 liters.
- The sole material of the iron can be metal, ceramic or plastic. A plastic sole is a less reliable option. An additional heating element can be built into the metal sole, which will save you from condensation. It is worth paying attention to the number of holes: the more there are, and the thicker they are applied, the more uniform the steam supply and the better the result.
- The number of modes affects the functionality of the device. Steamers with one mode are suitable for fabrics with similar characteristics. The more modes, the wider the choice of fabrics suitable for processing.
- The length of the steam hose is a parameter that you should pay attention to when choosing a floor steamer. It affects the maneuverability of the device, but the longer the hose, the lower the outlet temperature, and if there is no additional heating element, a lot of condensation can form.
- Water quality is a separate requirement for each model. If the steamer is not equipped with filters, then only distilled or purified water can be poured into it. If there is protection against scale, then you can pour water from the tap, but bottled water will extend the service life.
How to choose a reliable steamer?
When purchasing, it is recommended to evaluate the following characteristics:
- Type . There are compact hand-held models and floor-mounted steamers.
- Power . The higher, the faster the heating. For hand-held steamers, the power starts from 1 kW, for floor-standing steamers - from 1.5 kW.
- Steam supply . The effectiveness of fabric smoothing depends on the intensity of steam supply.
- Spacious water container . The size of the tank determines how long you can work without interruption.
- Modes . Some models have economical and intensive steam modes. There are models for which this parameter cannot be configured.
- Anti-scale protection . You can fill the tank with distilled water, but if there is a softening filter in the steamer, tap water is suitable.
The best manufacturers of clothing steamers
To avoid disappointment in steamers, buy devices from well-known brands that value their reputation. Such technological devices will serve you for years and delight you with the quality of steaming.
- Philips is a company founded in the Netherlands that produces steamers in the mid-price segment and features. Their devices cannot boast of wide functionality, but everyone praises their reliability. Moreover, home steamers from Phillips cope with their tasks one hundred percent.
- MIE – Italian professional equipment. Production facilities are located in Italy, each household appliance undergoes thorough quality control. Mie equipment is distinguished by its power and ease of use; it is often used in dry cleaners and workshops where a large volume of work needs to be handled.
- Kitfort is a Russian manufacturer that produces a large number of various household appliances, including steamers. Buyers will be pleased with the price against the backdrop of optimal functions, availability in most stores, including chain stores, and the number of service centers with available spare parts.
- ENDEVER is part of a Russian group of companies, but the brand is actually Swedish. Everyone is familiar with the reliability, simplicity and convenience of the Swedes, and in the production of household appliances they are true to themselves. ENDEVER produce a wide range of steamers, both vertical and manual, at an affordable price.
- Tefal is a French company whose name is synonymous with quality. Their appliances and utensils are distributed all over the world and are in great demand, and steamers are no exception. Simplicity combined with a signature recognizable design, wide functionality and long service life attracts many buyers. True, the price of their steamers is higher than the market average, but people are willing to pay for a combination of technical and external properties.
Which steamer should I buy?
The most justified purchase of universal devices that combine the functions of a steam cleaner, steamer and iron. They are usually the most expensive. But it is possible to find optimal models. You can focus on the leaders of our ratings in various categories.
Prices do not always depend on quality and power: sometimes the buyer pays for the brand. This usually guarantees the durability and reliability of the device. It is always safer to purchase branded equipment. We hope you found our review useful. Enjoy the shopping!
Best Budget Handheld Steamers
RUNZEL VAG-160 Plantag
The manufacturer positions it as a device that is convenient to take with you on a business trip.
A powerful heating element is capable of ensuring quick readiness for work: according to the manufacturer, you can straighten wrinkles on clothes and refresh textiles within twenty-five seconds after switching on. At the same time, the device creates a steam pressure of 3.5 bar, which corresponds to mid-level steam cleaners. The manual model is capable of working non-stop for up to twelve minutes, while the tank, which holds 360 ml of water, will have to be filled more often, since the steam supply power is 40 g per minute. Other features of the device include an anti-drip system, locking the trigger in constant supply mode, as well as the presence of a safety system, which is represented by overheating protection and automatically turns off if there is no water in it. Specifications:
Type: manual;
Steamer power: 1500 W;
Tank volume: 0.36 l;
Heating time: 25s;
Uptime: 12 min;
Advantages
- Convenient to use
- Not heavy
- Large tank volume
Flaws
- Gets very hot around the handle area
- Weak stream of steam
RUNZEL VAG-150 Jatten
A handheld compact steamer with a power of 1500 W generates steam at a temperature of 100°C and a pressure of 3.5 bar. Steam consumption – 40 ml/min. The container holds 360 ml of water. The device is controlled mechanically, with a single steam button. Works in any position: horizontal and vertical. The homeland of the brand is Sweden, the warranty is one year (25 months when registering on the official website).
Advantages
- Fixed press and hold function
- Anti-drop function
- Steel heater
- Removable water tank
- Automatic shutdown when not in use (Auto-AllOff) and protective shutdown when there is no water
- Compactness
- Heating to working condition – 25 seconds
Flaws
- No steam adjustment
- Short continuous operation time – 15 minutes
- Use only distilled, soft water
- Adding water only when the device is completely disconnected from the network
- Cleaning the device from scale, according to the instructions, is possible only at a service center
Polaris PGS 1518CA
A device that will help you easily steam clothes from any type of fabric in a matter of seconds.
A steamer with a brush attachment included for cleaning clothes from wool, lint and other contaminants. A stable steam flow is achieved thanks to high power, which means you can get rid of wrinkles in less than a minute. The device is able to eliminate wrinkles in vertical steam mode, so the owner can forget about a bulky ironing board and a regular iron. Specifications:
Power: 1500 W;
Maximum steam supply: 26 g/min;
Tank volume: 0.26 l;
Water heating time: 35 s;
Working time: 8 min.
Advantages
- a unique system that prevents the appearance of plaque
- hot steam supply adjustment
- Convenient filling of the tank with liquid
- ergonomic handle
- device for using bottled water
Flaws
- small water tank
- slight heating of the handle
- need to wind the cord manually
Xiaomi GT-301W
The handheld steamer has a dual heating panel, intelligent steam supply and is suitable for fabrics such as silk, cotton and wool.
The portable device is compact in size and equipped with a long cord, allowing you to use it when you hang clothes on a hanger or lay them on the ironing board, and at the same time you can move freely. The steam device is equipped with a plastic water container with a capacity of 150 ml. Thanks to the transparent design of the tank, you can control the water level in the model. Despite its light weight, the steam iron has a power of 1200 W for faster ironing. At the moment of ironing the clothes, steam is sprayed in a straight line and penetrates the fibers of the fabric, smoothing out absolutely any wrinkles. The peculiarity of the iron is that it automatically switches off when its temperature rises above one hundred and forty degrees or when high voltage is supplied to the network. Such thoughtful protection allows you to avoid damage to products and electrical systems in your apartment. Specifications:
Type: hand steamer;
Steamer power: 1200 W;
Tank volume: 0.15 l;
Steam intensity: 22 g/min.
Advantages
- Adequate cost
- Heats up quickly
- Works with a button
Flaws
- Small water tank
- No gloves included
Philips GC351/20 Steam&Go
A handheld steamer is an indispensable device when traveling and at home.
With a power of 1000 W, the device provides a constant automatic steam supply of 20 ml/min. Under the influence of high temperature, all things are smoothed, unpleasant odors and more than 90 percent of bacteria are removed. The removable water tank measures 0.7 liters, which is enough to easily steam several items. The model perfectly smoothes all types of fabrics and is indispensable for complexly cut items with a lot of decor, and for dense fabrics it comes with a brush. The manual model is small in size, which allows it to be used for trips and travel. The cord, three meters long, allows you to expand the range of action and does not need to use an extension cord. The rich blue color and stylish design will not leave anyone indifferent. For safety of use, a protective mitten is included with the model. Specifications:
Type: hand steamer;
Steamer power: 1000 W;
Ready: 60 sec;
Tank volume: 0.07 l;
Number of modes: 1.
Advantages
- Comfortable in using
- Compact dimensions
- Decent appearance
Flaws
- Low power
- Small water container
Kelli KL-317
A stylish and functional steamer for quickly removing wrinkles from clothes made of any fabric.
Can only be used in a vertical position. This is one of the highest quality models for 2021. For convenience, a light indication is provided during operation. The device not only eliminates wrinkles, but also destroys germs and unpleasant odors. Automatic shutdown when inactive makes the model as safe as possible. The volume of water is enough to work for 23 minutes. Specifications:
Power: 1500 W;
Steam supply: 30 g/min;
Tank volume: 0.35 l;
Water heating: 60 s.
Advantages
- compactness
- bright color
- gentle smoothing of delicate fabrics
- rapid boiling of water
Flaws
- not suitable for thick fabrics
- water splashes when boiling
Rating of the TOP 15 best steamers of 2020-2021
| Place | Name | Price |
| TOP 5 best hand steamers | ||
| 1 | Kitfort KT-929 | 2 600 ₽ |
| 2 | Philips GC351/20 Steam&Go | 2 600 ₽ |
| 3 | MIE Piccolo | 2 600 ₽ |
| 4 | Polaris PGS 1518CA | 3 000 ₽ |
| 5 | Philips GC361/20 Steam&Go | 2 700 ₽ |
| TOP 5 best floor steamers | ||
| 1 | RUNZEL PRO-300 TurboSteam | 13 600 ₽ |
| 2 | Grand Master GM-S-18 | 12 500 ₽ |
| 3 | Scarlett SC-GS130S19 | 10 000 ₽ |
| 4 | Philips GC514/40 EazyTouch Plus | 4 500 ₽ |
| 5 | Kitfort KT-913 | 6 000 ₽ |
| TOP 5 best powerful hand steamers | ||
| 1 | RUNZEL VAG-160 Plantag | 4 000 ₽ |
| 2 | Philips GC440/20 StyleTouch Pure | 6 000 ₽ |
| 3 | Kelli KL-317 | 800 ₽ |
| 4 | Tefal DT8100 Access Steam+ | 5 000 ₽ |
| 5 | Monster MB-10748 | 2 000 ₽ |
The best budget vertical steamers
ENDEVER Odyssey Q-9
A steamer that captivates with its high technical characteristics and ease of use.
A universal model that combines two devices: a steam cleaner and a steamer. A special feature of the electrical appliance is the intensive supply of hot steam, which allows you to remove not only hard folds, but also cope with pathogens, thoroughly cleaning and refreshing clothes. The user can also use the device to steam curtains, mattresses or blankets - with a long handle this will be as convenient as possible. Specifications:
Power: 2500 W;
Maximum steam supply: 90 g/min;
Tank volume: 2.3 l;
Water heating time: 120 s;
Working time: 40 min.
Advantages
- stable telescopic stand
- effective elimination of unpleasant odors
- steam iron with temperature control
- simple controls
- stylish design
Flaws
- manual cord winding
- long water heating
- size
Monster MB-10035
The steamer with a power of 1500 W is positioned by the instructions as a device for “successful people” and even for “VIP hotels and restaurants.” The tank capacity is 1.5 liters. The device is equipped with a one-legged telescopic stand and hanger, a trouser holder, a brush attachment, and a mitten. Manufactured in China, warranty period is one year.
Advantages
- Steamer with mechanical steam regulator
- Quick readiness of the unit - 45 seconds from turning on the mode to the start of steam supply
- Mobile wheelbase
- Funny intuitive instructions in the spirit of “Aliexpress”: “Screw the lock ring into the socket pipe”
- Nice "homey" appearance
Flaws
- The only telescopic stand is not very stable
- According to customer reviews, the plastic is rather flimsy, the steam generated is insufficient
Endever Odyssey Q-5
An optimal device that combines the advantage of low cost with power that can cope even with thick and dense fabric. For this price range, 2200 W is a rare find. The reservoir holds 1.8 liters of water. The maximum temperature for heating the steam jet is 95 degrees. The device supplies steam at a volumetric rate of up to 50 g/min. The disadvantages include fairly noisy operation (50 dB). The unit is equipped with a telescopic tube, a durable stand, and is also equipped with protection against overheating and power surges.
Advantages
- different nozzles
- protection against overheating and voltage surges
- spacious capacity
- power
Flaws
- Quite noisy operation
Philips GC514/40 EasyTouch Plus
The 1600 W floor steamer generates steam at 32 g/min, with three steam generation modes depending on the type of fabric being steamed. The device kit includes: an adjustable single stand, a clothes hanger, and a special mitten for steam protection. Ready for work – a minute after switching on. The homeland of the brand is the Netherlands, the manufacturer is China, the warranty is 2 years.
Advantages
- Can use hard tap water
- Removable transparent tank
- Adding water during operation
- Descaling (Easy de-calc)
- Cord length – 2 m, hose length – 1.5 m
- Height-adjustable stand
- Cord compartment
Flaws
- A rather “flimsy” stand on one leg (according to customer reviews)
- Inconvenient instructions
ENDEVER Odyssey Q-6
A good powerful steamer (2200 W) heats up in 35 seconds, and thanks to a large 1.8 liter tank, it can work for 55 minutes, which is enough to iron a mountain of clothes, because the maximum steam output of this device is 50 g/min. It is difficult to achieve perfectly ironed clothes with its help, but it is excellent for daily work. A convenient hanger on a double stand securely holds the item in one position. The device has several steaming modes for different fabrics, and even copes with linen and cotton items. One of the disadvantages is the easily bent hose, which in this position stops transmitting steam, so you need to keep it straight. The quality of the plastic from which the steamer is made is average, but quite consistent with the price.
Advantages
- Power
- Fast heating
- Long working time
- Spacious capacity
- Convenient stand
- Different steaming modes
- Price
Flaws
- Plastic quality
MARTA MT-1171
Steam steamer MARTA MT-1171 is a multifunctional device for comprehensive care of items made of any type of fabric.
Its features are truly impressive. With it, you can easily steam clothes and linen, restore fabric or any other coating, carry out routine care of any fur products, or perform deep disinfection, which is important for the health of children. You no longer need an iron, you will save time and electricity, since the station irons several times faster than this device. With it, you can easily steam clothes of any type, restore their appearance, shape, and even disinfect children's toys. You can do all this easily and comfortably due to the large set of accessories that are included with the station. Steam heated in the device kills viruses, bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. Steam can easily penetrate into folds and destroy pathogens along with dust. Specifications:
Type: steamer;
Capacity volume: 1.5 liters;
Continuous operation time: 40 minutes;
Heating time: 35 s.
Advantages
- Good power
- Low cost
- Adjusting the steam supply
Flaws
- Short cord
- Heavy
The best budget vertical/horizontal steamers 2in1
Universal steamers that can work both vertically and horizontally are great for home use.
Kitfort KT-919
One of the most popular floor steamers on the market. It quickly heats water in a tank (decent in size), is compact and economical. In most cases, it can replace an iron, since it steams almost any fabric, and much faster. Well suited for delicate fabrics: corduroy, silk, linen, etc. However, it is also quite applicable for thick fabrics - users iron bed linen directly on the bed. The included hanger allows you to start working with the device immediately. The price of the steamer is quite reasonable - it is worth the money and even more.
Advantages
- excellent steaming quality
- efficiency
- ideal for delicate fabrics
- fairly large water tank (1.5 liters)
- quick start of work
- serious design
- clear instructions
Flaws
- If you have no experience with such equipment, it will take some time to get used to using it.
- The handle gets hot
Scarlett SC-GS130S09
The Scarlett SC-GS130S09 model is a convenient device that allows you to put any clothes in perfect order.
This device allows you to care for things at a professional level right at home: the set includes a brush designed for delicate and woolen items and a protective mitt. Due to the stepwise adjustment of steam strength, you can choose the appropriate mode with maximum ease. Using the device, it is possible to smooth out ruffles and frills, jackets and coats that cannot be smoothed with an iron. In addition, you can eliminate unpleasant odors, disinfect clothes and work with complex types of fabrics such as velvet, corduroy, various laces and silk. A large tank with a volume of two liters does not require frequent topping up of water. In addition, you will be pleased with the included ironing board, which can be installed in a vertical or horizontal position. The model has eleven steaming modes and a stable telescopic stand on two supports. Specifications:
Type: steamer;
Steamer power: 1900 W;
Tank volume: 2 l;
Heating time: 45 s.
Advantages
- Smoothes things out well
- Excellent price/quality ratio
- Stable double stand
Flaws
- No normal adjustment
- There is no switch on the handle
MIE Piccolo
The MIE Piccolo hand steamer is a small, universal 2-in-1 device designed for both vertical steaming of various types of fabrics and for simple boiling of water for household needs. In fact, this is a nice electric mini-kettle of bright orange color with a volume of 0.5 l with a powerful 1200 W heating element. And the use of the device in one capacity or another depends on the installed attachment. The black top element with a steam iron allows you to use the steamer mode. It becomes possible to effectively deal with wrinkles and wrinkles on clothes, refresh things, and neutralize odors. As additional accessories, the kit includes: a fluffy brush, a heat-resistant board for steaming hard-to-reach places (collars, cuffs, pockets, various ruffles and frills), a special mitten with Teflon coating to protect against burns. Continuous operation time – 15 minutes. A simple transformation into a compact and convenient kettle consists of installing a transparent lid with a “spout” for pouring water into the cup instead of the steamer nozzle.
Advantages
- Steam output – 40 g/min
- Overheat protection, auto shut off without water
- Affordable price
Flaws
- Short power cord
- Fast water consumption
