A steamer is a modern household appliance that allows you to quickly tidy up clothes, iron curtains directly in the air or clean small stains from furniture upholstery. The operation of this device is based on the supply of steam. Under its influence, the fibers of the material are straightened. Let's look at how to use it correctly, what this device can do and how to choose the best steamer.
Content:
Read also: The best storage water heaters | TOP-15 Rating + Reviews
Steamer, iron or steam generator
The main task of this device, as the name implies, is steaming. It enables:
- Treat the fabric with steam without deforming the fibers;
- The device can be used for almost any type of fabric, including complex cuts, the steamer can easily cope with a variety of ruffles and frills.
- Steam is supplied at a high temperature, which contributes to the disinfection of the material.
Which is better steamer or iron? The fact is that these devices are not interchangeable. It is difficult to iron curtains or numerous frills with an iron, while it is extremely difficult to make creases on trousers with a steamer.
Another type of device is a steam generator. Many buyers believe that a steamer and a steam generator are one and the same. However, it is not. The steam generator is characterized by greater power and high steam supply temperature. This figure can reach 150-260 degrees. The steam generator is a more multifunctional device. It is able to remove stains, steam gets into the deep layers of the fabric, which allows you to work even with thick and rough materials. In addition, steam generators are available in several versions. They can be made in the form of a floor structure with hangers, an iron with a built-in tank or a device with a nozzle for cleaning various surfaces.
What is better steamer or steam generator? It all depends on the purpose of the devices. If the machine is required for ironing clothes, choose a steamer, its power will be enough.
Read also: The best washing machines | TOP-25: Rating + Reviews Types of steamers
There are two types of steamers:
- manual;
- Stationary.
Handheld steamers are shaped like an electric kettle or a brush. They differ in small weight and dimensions. However, the volume of the water tank and the power of such models are also small. Such devices are convenient to take with you on the road, they allow you to quickly put in order a shirt or trousers. Handheld steamers can't handle coarse fabrics.
Stationary or floor steamers are used for both domestic and professional purposes. Such devices are often used in shops or ateliers to quickly smooth things out. Stationary models can be self-flowing or with forced steam. In the latter case, the design of the apparatus provides for a valve that creates pressure. However, the steamer is usually able to work in this mode for a short time, then the steam is also supplied by gravity. Floor-standing units differ from manual ones in increased power, productivity, and water tank capacity.
Read also: The best washing vacuum cleaners | TOP-22 Rating + Reviews
How to choose a garment steamer?
When choosing steamers, you need to pay attention to a number of characteristics:
- Power. The higher this indicator, the greater the performance of the device. However, power also directly affects the price of the device.
- Performance. Some brands in the instructions call this characteristic the intensity of the steam supply. This indicator is measured in grams per minute. The more steam the device produces, the wider the scope of its application. When buying a steamer, it is worth considering that models with a capacity of less than 30 g / min will not please you during use.
- Tank volume. The larger the water tank, the longer the steamer can work without interruption. However, models with a large tank are heavy, mainly floor-standing devices. For domestic purposes, 3 bar is sufficient.
- Steam pressure indicator. This characteristic is only for floor steamers, a pressure level of 3 bar is considered sufficient.
- Number of modes. They differ from each other in the amount of steam produced, however, in practice, the device is mainly used at maximum power.
- Additional functions. The steamer can be equipped with the possibility of adding water during operation, an anti-drop system, and an auto-shutoff function when the tank is empty.
When buying, pay attention to the scope of delivery. The set can include a variety of brushes for steaming, a clip for creating arrows on trousers, a coat hanger for hanging and much more.
Read also: The best microwave ovens | TOP-15 Rating + Reviews Top 15 Steamers of 2020
We offer a rating of the best steamers, as well as reviews of the most popular models. When compiling the rating, the characteristics of devices, their price, and user reviews were taken into account.
Read also: Best laptops | TOP-20 Rating + Reviews
The best models in terms of price-quality ratio
Philips GC361/20
Specifications:
- Price - 3,400 rubles;
- User rating - 4.6;
- Power - 1200 W;
- Productivity - up to 22 g / min;
- Capacity - 70 ml.
It is equipped with a metal heated soleplate, which allows it to be used for vertical and horizontal smoothing. The pump with the function of automatic constant steam supply makes it easier to use the device.
Polaris PGS 1518CA
Specifications:
- Price - 2,600 rubles;
- User rating - 4.4;
- Power - 1500 W;
- Productivity - up to 26 g / min;
- Capacity - 260 ml
The device at rest turns off after eight minutes. The nozzle is made of stainless steel. Additionally, a brush attachment is included in the kit. A filter is included for use with hard water.
Bort Comfort +
Specifications:
- Price - 5 80 rubles;
- User rating - 4.4;
- Power - 2 350 W;
- Productivity - up to 70 g / min;
- Capacity - 2000 ml
The model belongs to the middle price category. For ease of movement, the device is equipped with wheels. High power and productivity allow you to cope even with dense fabrics. Steam is supplied at a pressure of 1 bar. The device can operate continuously for up to 30 minutes. The device is equipped with a folding hanger and a vertical ironing board. The shirt steamer is easy to use.
Read also: The best electric kettles | TOP-20 Rating + Reviews Rating of the best floor steamers for the home
Polaris PGS 2200VA
Specifications:
- Price - 5,400 rubles;
- User rating - 4.8;
- Power - 2 200 W;
- Productivity - up to 50 g / min;
- Capacity - 2000 ml
The steamer has two modes of operation, the manufacturer has provided two options for using the device in a capacious tank: an ironing board or a hanger. The telescopic pole is adjustable from 80 cm to 1.5 m.
Kitfort KT-938
Specifications:
- Price - 8,300 rubles;
- User rating - 4.7;
- Power - 2 350 W;
- Productivity - up to 50 g / min;
- Capacity - 2000 ml
The device is equipped with a removable ironing board, a telescopic bar with hangers. There are 4 steam settings.
Tefal IT3440 Pro style
Specifications:
- Price - 7,500 rubles;
- User rating - 4.5;
- Power - 1 850 W;
- Productivity - up to 30 g / min;
- Capacity - 1500 ml
The body has a power regulator. This model heats up quickly. It is ready to work already 45 seconds after switching on. The steamer is equipped with tanks with a capacity of 1.5 liters with the possibility of topping up during operation. The device is equipped with a metal nozzle.
Read also: The best sewing machines | TOP-10 Rating + Reviews Rating of professional steamers
RUNZEL PRO-270 Omstart
Specifications:
- Price - 11,500;
- User rating - 4.9;
- Power - 2 300 W;
- Productivity - up to 50 g / min;
- Capacity - 3500 ml.
Steam in the amount of 50 ml per minute is supplied at a pressure of 3.5 bar. The device is ready for operation already 45 seconds after switching on. The reliable heater is made of stainless steel.
MIE Deluxe
Specifications:
- Price - 17,100 rubles;
- User rating - 4.3;
- Power - 2 600 W;
- Productivity - up to 85 g / min;
- Capacity - 2500 ml.
The device allows you to quickly remove wrinkles and creases, it can also be used for steaming curtains in the air, processing upholstery of upholstered furniture. The presence of a telescopic bar with a hanger allows you to conveniently hang clothes for processing. During operation of the device, not only the water in the tank is heated, but also the iron itself with a metal surface. On the body there is a small information display, which reflects data on the volume of water in the tank, the readiness of steam. An auto-shutoff function is provided. It works 5 minutes after the warning of a small amount of water in the tank.
PROFFI PH9063
Specifications:
- Price - 7,400 rubles;
- User rating - 4.5;
- Power - 2 400 W;
- Productivity - up to 45 g / min;
- Capacity - 1000 ml.
The device is equipped not only with a telescopic stand, but also with a full-fledged folding ironing board. The model is equipped with an iron with a ceramic sole. The design allows you to iron things not only in a vertical, but also in a horizontal position.
Read also: The best thermoses | TOP-20 Rating + Reviews Rating of hand steamers
RUNZEL VAG-160 Plantag
Specifications:
- Price - 4,500 rubles;
- User rating - 4.5;
- Power 1 500 W;
- Productivity - up to 40 g / min;
- Capacity - 360 ml.
Steam at a temperature of 100 degrees is supplied in a volume of 40 ml per minute with a pressure of 3.5 bar. The device has a convenient control system, regulators two positions: for constant steam or supply when pressed. The anti-drip function with heated steam iron prevents drips on clothes.
Scarlett SC-GS135S10
Specifications:
- Price - 1,900 rubles;
- User rating - 4.6;
- Power 1 500 W;
- Productivity - up to 60 g / min;
- Capacity - 280 ml.
It has a built-in reservoir with a capacity of 280 ml. The device has an auto-shutoff function, which works when there is no water in the tank. The kit includes a velveteen attachment and a brush.
M.I.E Sofia
Specifications:
- Price - 6,700 rubles;
- User rating - 4.5;
- Power 1 300 W;
- Productivity - up to 20 g / min;
- Capacity - 150 ml.
Its power is 1300 watts. Steam output 420 g per minute. These devices can be used in a vertical or horizontal position. The manufacturer has included a holder with which the steamer can be mounted on the wall. Also included in the package is a brush attachment, a heat-resistant mitt, a measuring cup, and an ironing mat.
Read also: Best epilators | TOP-10 Rating + Reviews Rating of inexpensive steamers
VLK Sorento 6200
Specifications:
- Price - 900 rubles;
- User rating - 4.3;
- Power 1300 W;
- Productivity - up to 25 g / min;
- Capacity - 400 ml.
The device has a lightweight plastic case. The power of the device is 1300 watts. The set includes two brushes with different bristle lengths and a measuring cup.
ENDEVER Odyssey Q-410
Specifications:
- Price - 900 rubles;
- User rating - 4.3;
- Power 800 W;
- Productivity - up to 18 g / min;
- Capacity - 200 ml.
The power of the device yesterday is 800 W, which allows you to supply steam with an intensity of 18 grams per minute. The device is ready for operation in 120 seconds after switching on. The package includes a brush attachment, a clip, a measuring cup, a special device for steaming cuffs and collars.
Xiaomi GT-301W
Specifications:
- Price - 1 900;
- User rating - 4.5;
- Power 1 200 W;
- Productivity - up to 22 g / min;
- Capacity - 140 ml.
One of these models yesterday is the Xiaomi GT-301W steamer. It is a compact, ergonomic device with fast heating and 22g/minute water delivery.
Read also: The best electric shavers | TOP-16 Rating + Reviews Conclusion
A variety of steamers allows the buyer to choose a model based on their own goals. If you need a professional device, you should pay attention to the brands RUNZEL, Philips, MIE. When choosing compact and budget models, take a closer look at devices from the brands Polaris, Endever, VLK.
