Hand steamer: how to choose, top best models for home

Updated: 09/12/2021 18:19:21

Expert: Vladislav Samoshkin

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

A clothes steamer is a necessary household item. They can easily replace or supplement an iron. With its help, you can remove wrinkles from even the most delicate and delicate fabric items. And if the model is manual, then it can be operated in weight, which can be useful for steaming curtains or clothes hanging on hangers. In short, let's find out which devices are the best.

Which handheld steamer is best to buy for clothes?

Hand steamers are compact, and you shouldn’t expect miracles from them. But with the right choice of device, they can easily cope with their simple tasks.

Assume that the higher the power, the faster the steamer will heat up and the more efficient its operation will be. If your wardrobe contains fabrics that are difficult to iron, such as linen, it is better to choose a steamer with a power of more than 1000 W.

The quality of steaming directly depends on the power of the jet. This indicator is measured in grams per minute (from 40 g/min is already a good request). For capricious items, choose a model with an “Eco” mode so as not to spoil silk or chiffon.

The increased volume of the water tank from 350-400 ml or more allows you to tidy up several wardrobe items. But the larger the tank, the harder it is to hold the device in your hands. It may be easier to get distracted several times and add liquid than to keep the weight at 1.5-2 kg.

The working surface of the steamer must be made of metal, since the steam is very hot. It is better if the ironing material is stainless steel. But ceramics also serve excellently, and condensation does not form on it.

1

Philips GC 8000 Series

Powerful vertical and horizontal steaming

Impressive performance and self-cleaning technology make this Philips steamer one of the best handheld steamers around.

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Reasons to buy:

• smooths outerwear, office suits, and items of complex cut;
• lightweight and ergonomic;
• large water tank;
• long cord;
• ironing function.

The Philips aesthetic steamer is universal in use. The powerful steam blast is equally effective on thin and thick textiles. The device is equipped with two feeding modes: gentle and maximum. It does not leave drops on things and does not damage delicate fabrics.

The steamer heats up in less than a minute and tidies up a man's shirt within 2 minutes. At the same time, the model has economical water consumption: a full tank is enough to iron 6 T-shirts.

For use as an iron, a mat is included in the package. The flexible cord is not subject to kink. The device is ideal for travel and business trips, as it has no restrictions on the hardness of the water you fill and takes up little space in your suitcase.

2

Tefal DT6130E0 Access Steam First

Lightning-fast heating in 15 seconds

Inexpensive and lightweight device with continuous steam supply is safe for all types of fabric.

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Reasons to buy:

• fast heating;
• road version;
• long power cable (2.6 m);
• removable water tank.

The model is designed for express clothing care. Compact, practical and easy to use, the steamer is easy to hold. The handle fits comfortably in the hand.

The device works in a vertical position, making it easier to care for shirts and jackets. Does not damage soft, delicate textiles. Steam perfectly fights bacteria and unpleasant odors. And the bristle attachment not only simplifies ironing, but also collects lint from clothes.

The only drawback is the small tank. After steaming 1-2 items you will have to add water. However, refueling does not require turning off and cooling the device. After filling the reservoir, the device is immediately ready for use.

3

Runzel VAG-150 Jatten

Convenient and powerful model

One of the best steamers in its class: beautiful, ergonomic, with an optimal tank volume and high heating speed.

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Reasons to buy:

• powerful steam jet without drips;
• spacious water tank;
• mechanical control with one button;
• heats up in 25 seconds;
• ironing steel sole.

The power of the device is 1500 W, and in a minute it is capable of producing 40 grams of steam. This quality makes it possible to iron heavily wrinkled items without much difficulty, both horizontally and vertically.

The capacious water tank holds 360 ml - such a volume reconciles with the need to turn off the device to add liquid. On one charge in maximum power mode, the steamer will work for about 15 minutes. But you can only fill it with softened or purified water, since there is no scale filter here.

4

MIE Unico

With anti-drip system

The device can steam, iron and disinfect clothes in horizontal and vertical positions - and all this without the appearance of condensation and wet spots.

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Reasons to buy:

• high power and performance;
• versatility;
• folding handle;
• drop protection.

The device takes half a minute to get ready for use. The device handles items made of silk and other delicate fabrics with care, while at the same time effectively eliminating folds and creases on trousers and shirts. It’s just that steaming rough and dry fabric will take more time. It’s great that the aluminum sole of the iron can be pressed against textiles without fear of staining.

The device is comfortable to hold in your hand, and the two-meter cord won’t get in the way either. If you use the device correctly, it is impossible to get scalded; however, the kit includes a protective mitten, as well as a lint removal attachment.

MIE Unico is equipped with a water pump. But with its compact size, it is almost invisible in luggage, but useful on a trip.

5

Xiaomi Deerma DEM-HS007

Folding steamer in gift box

A portable device with a folding handle and powerful steam generation is suitable for ironing clothes, curtains, and bed linen.

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Reasons to buy:

• removes deep folds;
• ready for use in 10 seconds;
• does not leak;
• compact storage.

The updated Xiaomi Deerma is able to compete with a standard iron. At the same time, it saves time and reduces the labor intensity of caring for things. Continuous steam supply occurs at any angle, which explains the versatility of the equipment.

The unit is equipped with a spacious water tank located on top. The latter fact has a positive effect on weight distribution and improves the ergonomics of the device. When folded, the device fits in the palm of your hand. Deerma is designed for all types of fabrics and works in several modes.

The model is made of certified materials. The structural components are reliably protected from the negative effects of temperature and moisture. The design of this steamer has won numerous awards.

6

Kitfort KT-955-2

Foldable body made of elastic silicone

The model, equipped with a voltage switch for different electrical networks, will be useful on any trip - even abroad.

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Reasons to buy:

• small and light;
• constant steam supply;
• There is a nozzle for removing fur and hair.

The steamer heats up to operating temperature in 1.5 minutes. The device operates in electrical networks with voltages of 110 and 220 V. Kitfort steams outerwear, curtains, knitwear, and cotton items. This device is a godsend for young parents, as it smoothes out wrinkles well on children’s miniature clothes.

The device folds into a compact barrel, which makes it easy to store and transport. The tightly closing neck prevents leakage. The ergonomic handle helps to hold the device when working on weight, however, the small volume of the tank requires frequent refilling with water.

There is a power off button on the body of the steamer, so a pause in use does not require unplugging. Thus, saving water and electricity is achieved.

7

MIE Piccolo

Steamer and kettle 2-in-1

A hand-held steamer from MIE is a godsend for travelers and people whose work involves frequent business trips.

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Reasons to buy:

• high power;
• large tank volume;
• overheat protection;
• convenient topping up of water;
• Can be used as a travel electric kettle.

The hand steamer is made in a stylish black and orange color scheme – these are the manufacturer’s signature colors. The kit includes a protective glove and a special brush attachment.

The device can easily be transformed into a kettle and back. The water reservoir is large enough for any use scenario - 0.5 liters. It heats up in a minute and a half.

The cord is almost 2 meters long, allowing you to use the steamer far from an outlet, and its small dimensions will save space in your suitcase.

8

Scarlett SC-GS135S10

With lockable steam button

This powerful, budget-friendly steam ironing device is equipped with a spacious water tank. This is a great option for tidying up a large number of things or home textiles.

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Reasons to buy:

• steel sole;
• continuous steam flow;
• large capacity;
• nozzle for velor.

The steam output of 60 g/min is much higher than many expensive models. A fixed power button puts the device into automatic continuous mode so that your hand does not get tired during long ironing.

A filled tank is enough for 3 pieces of outerwear or 6 T-shirts. Steaming coats, sweaters, jackets, children's clothes is not a complete list of the device's capabilities. The device is also suitable for disinfecting bedding, carpets and steaming curtains. The smooth material of the sole ensures that there are no snags on things.

9

Kitfort KT-916

Universal device

Most housewives like the model for its low price and good performance. The steam jet is powerful enough to remove creases from difficult fabrics.

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Pros:

• three replaceable nozzles;
• good steam pressure;
• jet power adjustment;
• excellent package.

Minuses:

• difficult to clean the tank.

In this device, the steam power can be adjusted, which makes Kitfort KT-916 universal. It will help you tidy up delicate fabrics or thick suits and linen items.

To clean things, the kit includes three replaceable attachments: an antistatic agent with a stripe for removing pellets, a brush for removing fur and hair, and a clamp attachment. For a budget model, such variety is very rare.

A full tank is enough to steam 2-3 pieces of clothing for an adult. Alas, removing it for refueling is not so easy - especially at first. It is also inconvenient to thoroughly wash the tank. To avoid scale formation, it is better to immediately use purified water: boiled, filtered or special for irons.

10

BBK EGS-1204

Lightweight and powerful

Despite some compromises, this is a completely suitable device for summer travel, when there are no clothes made of thick materials in the wardrobe, and shirts and dresses are constantly wrinkled in luggage or in transport.

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Reasons to buy:

• convenient cord 1.8 m long;
• overheat protection system;
• readiness indicator;
• valve for complete drainage of water;
• light weight.

Perhaps the lightest of the inexpensive hand steamers weighs only 700 grams. The power of the device is not bad (1200 W), but the steam output is only 20 g/min. It will iron light, weightless fabrics without hassle, but with denser fabrics you will have to tinker.

The water tank holds 250 ml. The heating indicator will inform the user that it is ready for use. For safety reasons, the model has a built-in shutdown system.

The set includes a trouser clip and a brush for dirty clothes. The steamer is packaged in a convenient reusable case.

Rating of the best clothes steamers

What is the difference between a steamer and an iron

Two devices perform the same task, but work on different principles:

• In an iron, the main work is done by a heated metal plate. Under the influence of its heat and - most importantly - weight, the fibers of the fabric are compressed and the folds are smoothed out.
• The steamer does not put pressure on the material. Hot, humid air blows across the fabric, slightly lifting the fibers and straightening out creases.

People sometimes think that any steamer turns wrinkled clothes into ironed ones in a matter of seconds. This is not entirely true. About 50% of devices only refresh things and cannot iron them thoroughly. Their use is justified, for example, when a shirt was worn and wrinkles appeared on it. It’s too early to wash, I don’t want to iron. A reasonable solution is to hang it on hangers and remove creases with hot steam, and at the same time destroy bacteria and foreign odors.

High-quality smoothing is carried out only by high-power units with the release of steam under pressure. But even in this case, they are used only as an auxiliary tool for ironing.

Advantages and disadvantages

The steamer will not replace a classic iron, but it is convenient to use for thin, delicate items with frills, ruffles and flounces.

Advantages of portable steamers:

• fast water heating;
• vertical steaming;
• different nozzles;
• elimination of thermal deformation of fibers;
• destruction of dust mites and bacteria;
• elimination of unpleasant odors;
• simple controls;
• compact size.

A significant disadvantage is that the treated items remain damp. You can't put them on right away - you need to wait until the fabric dries.

Also, hand-held accessories are not designed for long-term continuous operation. The small water tank will need to be refilled every 5-30 minutes, depending on its volume.

No. 6 – Philips GC360/30 Steam&Go

Price: 4,500 rubles

A steamer from a world-famous brand stopped at the equator of the selection. It deserves this title due to its attention to users and the GC360/30 Steam&Go perfectly emphasizes this feature. The steamer comes with a comfortable glove that provides additional protection and reduces the chance of getting burned to zero. Another trump card of the model is the ability to add water directly during operation.

The device quickly turns water into steam, it takes about a minute. Other features include horizontal steaming, a brush attachment and a 2.5-meter power cord. The most significant disadvantage is the 0.07 liter water tank.

Philips GC360/30 Steam&Go

How to choose a hand steamer

Not all things can be ironed in the traditional way - with an iron. Even a small hand-held steamer will do a much better job of tidying up delicate fabrics, smoothing out blouses and shirts, richly decorated evening dresses and intricately cut clothes.

Manual models are designed simply: a water tank, a steam generator and a filter to retain scale particles are located inside an ergonomic body with a handle or “waist”. There is no dimensional stand and hose (as in floor-standing models), so the compact device can easily fit in a bag. Thanks to this, it is convenient to use not only at home, but also while traveling.

When going to the store, determine the tasks that ironing equipment should handle. The hand steamer is designed for:

• smoothing delicate fabrics;
• steaming clothes with sequins, appliqués, small buttons, ruffles;
• processing of drapes and curtains on the cornice;
• cleaning and disinfection of upholstered furniture, mattresses, pillows, children's toys.

Pay attention to the technical characteristics, weight of the device, cable length.

There are basic products on sale for quickly steaming several items of clothing, and premium ones with advanced functionality.

Principle of operation

A hand-held steamer operates on the principle of a kettle and has a similar design.

Water is poured into a small reservoir, and after turning on, the heating element brings it to a boil. A special sensor maintains the temperature required for steam formation.

The hot jet is released and the intensity of its supply is adjusted by pressing a certain button. The steam smoothes out fabric and unwanted wrinkles - the more it comes out, the more effective the device is.

gravity-fed models and steamers operating under pressure on sale . In the first case, hot steam flows from the spout by gravity, in the second, it is supplied under a pressure of 3-4.5 bar, which allows you to work even with dense fabrics.

Steam output is calculated in grams per minute (g/min). The approximate productivity of a hand-held device is 20-40 g/min . This is enough for quick and efficient ironing.

A device with a pump and a small steam output steams things better than a gravity feeder with a high output.

Power

Energy consumption is an important parameter for a handheld steamer, indicating the energy consumption and heating power of the device. Data is determined in Watts (W).

The higher the power of the steamer, the larger the list of available tasks. In the table we looked at the purposes for which devices with different powers are suitable:

Please note that there are products on sale with adjustable steam supply. In our opinion, this is the best choice for home use. Intensive supply increases energy consumption, low supply saves resources. A device with this function will easily iron thick and thin clothes, using water and electricity wisely.

Tank capacity

To produce steam, the evaporator tank needs to be refilled regularly. The larger the tank, the more laundry you can process in one fill (or add water less often).

• 100 ml is the minimum tank size. Operating time without adding water is 5 minutes.
• 200-300 ml - average volume. Treatment duration is 10-15 minutes.
• 500 ml is the maximum size without losing ergonomics. Steaming 30 minutes.

To make adding liquid convenient, make sure that the water tank is removable. If the steamer has an anti-scale filter, you can fill it with regular water. However, in regions where the water is very hard, even a filter will not help much - you will have to use purified or distilled water.

Ease of use

This factor is determined by two things: the weight of the device and the length of the network cable. The portable steamer is not released from your hands throughout the entire ironing process, so its weight matters.

A device that is too heavy loses maneuverability and is difficult to hold in your hands. The permissible weight of the device is 1-1.3 kg , just keep in mind that after filling the tank with water, the total weight of the device will increase.

A short power cord ties the user to the outlet and prevents steaming hanging curtains, drapery on furniture or evening dresses without an extension cord. For the work to be fruitful, you need a cable about 2 meters long (more is possible).

Manufacturing materials

The body of a handheld steamer is most often made of plastic, resistant to scratches and shocks. The lightness of this material allows the production of devices that are not too heavy.

But the nozzle of a steam iron is made from various materials:

• plastic;
• of stainless steel;
• metal alloys;
• ceramics.

Irons made of metal or ceramic are considered the most durable.

Ceramic is preferable as it eliminates the appearance of condensation drops and stains on clothes. The plastic iron is the least reliable.

Additional features and accessories

A good garment steamer has options that increase comfort and performance. The more there are, the higher the price of the device. Therefore, decide in advance whether you need such broad functionality.

The steamer may or may not come with various accessories that make work easier:

• Plastic board - for steaming shirt collars and pockets.
• The brush attachment simultaneously cleans clothes from pellets, lint and dirt.
• Clip for creases on trousers - fits onto an iron.
• Thermal mitt - protects your palm from hot steam if you support the fabric on the back side with your hand.

Many models are sold with a bag or case for transportation and storage. Such an element definitely won’t be superfluous, especially if the device comes with a large range of attachments and accessories.

Top best steamer models

Kitfort KT-948

A popular option that is functional and can quickly remove creases from shirts, shirts, blouses, etc. Yes, the capacity here is only 80 ml, but this drawback is offset by its small dimensions (21x10.5 cm) and the weight of the equipment is 800 grams. The length of the power cord is 1.85 meters. In addition, Kitfort KT-948 has a folding mechanism, which will take up even less space in your luggage.

The kit includes a power switch for various networks, this makes it possible to use the steamer anywhere. In the production of the case, plastic was used, which emits a slight odor after unpacking, but it quickly dissipates, which is an advantage. Heating is carried out within 15-20 seconds, so you won’t have to wait long.

Sold at a price: from 1,500 rubles.

Kitfort KT-948

Advantages:

• Convenience;
• Folding mechanism;
• High-quality assembly;
• Fits nicely in the hand;
• Works anywhere there is an outlet;
• Equipment.

Flaws:

• The volume may not be enough.

LUMME LU-4001

A reliable and durable option that features fast heating and good performance. The device copes with almost any crease, which makes it an indispensable companion on long trips. The operating time under normal conditions can reach 20 minutes, which is quite enough to quickly prepare a work suit or several T-shirts.

Water heating time is 30 seconds. The kit includes a brush attachment that will allow you to remove various contaminants. Steam supply – 20 g/min. The maximum temperature is 98 degrees. Water tank volume – 200 ml. Equipment power – 800 W. Small dimensions make it possible to take the product anywhere.

The average cost is 850 rubles.

LUMME LU-4001

Advantages:

• Low price;
• Light weight;
• Good steam supply;
• Power;
• Doesn't take up space;
• Convenience.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Akira GS-108

A high-quality device that has good capacity and a long service life. The steamer is suitable for every person. There are no technical features here, this is just good equipment that will quickly make your clothes look beautiful. Despite its low power, the device copes equally well with various materials and does not spoil anything.

Operating time 15 minutes. Together with the device, it comes with two attachments, where one has a brush, and the second has special pads that quickly and safely clean the surface without leaving any marks. The appearance of the product is pleasant, there is no incomprehensible design, everything is ergonomic and as convenient as possible.

Sold at a price: from 900 rubles.

Akira GS-108

Advantages:

• Low price;
• Attractive appearance;
• High-quality assembly;
• Reliability;
• Power indicator;
• Tank capacity.

Flaws:

• There are no significant ones.

Irit IR-2313

Another good budget device that will help you iron clothes anywhere, but only in a vertical position. The volume of the tank is 200 ml, which is quite enough for one person. The power is standard and equal to 800 W, despite this the steam supply speed is 25 g/min, which is a good indicator. The maximum temperature is 98 degrees. The brush attachment thoroughly removes various contaminants.

The body is made of cheap plastic, which has a feel to it, but this is practically not reflected in the build quality. Thanks to its low weight, the product is easy to use. The dimensions are standard, so the steamer fits into a bag or backpack without taking up much space.

Sold at a price: from 740 rubles.

Irit IR-2313

Advantages:

• Strength;
• Long service life;
• Efficiency;
• Reliability;
• High-quality assembly;
• Attractive execution.

Flaws:

• Not found.

MIE Graze New

An expensive model that is distinguished by high-quality workmanship and small size. Capacity – 300 ml. The power of the device is 1500 W, while the steam supply speed is 40 g/min. Another advantage of the product is the presence of an anti-drip system, as well as full protection against scale. The latter makes it possible to use almost any liquid. Heating does not take time, as it occurs in 40 seconds.

When producing the handle, the anatomical features of the structure of the hand were taken into account. Therefore, every person will be equally comfortable using the product. The set includes a Teflon mitten that will prevent burns from water droplets.

The average price is 4,500 rubles.

MIE Graze New

Advantages:

• Powerful jet;
• Reliability;
• Good build;
• Marriage is rare;
• Efficiency;
• Fast heating.

Flaws:

• High price.

Manufacturers and prices

Many manufacturers producing ironing equipment for the home also have hand-held steamers in their range. We have selected 5 brands that, according to experts and buyers, can be trusted. Their models meet high technological requirements and are popular:

Tefal (France)

Features of the models: stylish minimalistic design, excellent quality, possibility of vertical and horizontal steaming.

MIE (Italy)

Semi-professional equipment. As a rule, it has additional attachments, good performance, overheating protection and advanced functionality.

Kitfort (Russia)

Budget equipment, which is distinguished by its technological effectiveness, optimal functionality, good warranty and post-warranty support.

Runzel (Sweden)

This is a reliable assembly, high power, a spacious tank and instant water heating.

Polaris (Russia)

Advanced technology offering built-in filters, several steam modes and brush attachments included.

As for the price, we do not recommend hand steamers that cost less than 1000 rubles even for the first time. They do not have enough power and quickly fail.

The optimal choice is the average price category ( 1000-5000 rubles ). For premium equipment you will have to pay from 5 to 12 thousand. But most often the markup is for the brand and some more expensive manufacturing materials - the technical characteristics of mid- and high-level products do not differ too much.

Tips and recommendations when choosing a hand steamer

If you want to buy a steamer, it is important to answer the following questions:

• how you plan to use it;
• how intensive the work with the device will be;
• what additional functions are needed;
• Do you have any preferences regarding the brand?
• what is the budget?

Based on this, you can choose the optimal model.

It is not necessary to buy steamers that are listed in this rating. If you know what to look for when choosing, you can purchase a good model that will meet your needs. This is very relevant, given that every year many new models appear that are much better than the previous ones.

Terms of use

First of all, hang the item you will steam on a hanger. Fill the tank with water, plug in the device and press the “Start” button. Wait 30-50 seconds. As soon as steam comes out of the nozzles, get to work:

• Place the vaporizer over the dented area and gently move from bottom to top, smoothing the surface.
• To process the bottom of a blouse, hold it by the edge and run the steam over the stretched material.
• Smooth out the collar and sleeves using a heat-resistant stand, and make creases with a clip attachment.
• When finished, turn off the steamer, drain the remaining water, wait until the device has cooled down, and store the device.

When ironing bulky fabrics, use the highest evaporation intensity and ensure that the nozzle is in close contact with the clothing.

To process delicate items, adjust the steam supply to minimum and leave a gap of 1-2 cm between the material and the nozzle.

Safety

Hot steam on contact with skin causes burns, so take care of your safety. Below we have listed the main recommendations.

• Do not steam an item you or another person is wearing . Be sure to use a hanger or a horizontal surface if the configuration of the equipment allows it.
• Add water to the tank carefully as it may be hot.
• Use thermal gloves to support the fabric when steaming . Do not touch hot nozzles or pass your hand over the nozzle.
• Do not leave the device switched on within the reach of children and pets.
• Always direct the steam jet away from you and ensure that the power cord does not come into contact with hot parts of the steam generator.

Do not use the device if it shows signs of damage.

FAQ

What water should I use for the steamer?

+
Almost all modern steamers have a built-in filter that allows you to use tap water. But in some regions the water is so hard that a simple mechanical filter will not help. Lime will very soon appear in the tank, and the efficiency of the device will deteriorate.

At the same time, it is not recommended to use distilled water, despite the absence of impurities and minerals in it. It is believed that it leads to equipment breakdowns. The best option is to mix tap and distilled water in a 50:50 ratio.

Is it possible to remove odors from clothes using steaming?

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Yes, this way you can remove even the persistent smell of tobacco. But the water in steamers must be fresh and clean.

Is a steamer better than an iron?

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This is subjective. Each device has its own advantages and disadvantages, which we discussed above. The steamer is much safer for delicate fabrics. It makes it easier to work around buttons, peplums, lace and frills. You can even iron woolen items that are not friendly with irons using steam. But it is impossible to say that a steamer will cope with smoothing out wrinkles faster and more efficiently.

What fabrics should not be steamed?

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It is not recommended to steam leather, suede and impregnated jackets.