What's The Difference Between an Iron and a Steamer?
People are probably more familiar with a clothes iron than a clothes steamer. Both appliances can take care or your clothes, but each has its own distinct way of achieving that goal.
Irons and steam irons transfer heat through a large, smooth anodized soleplate with a triangular shape. Depending on the fabric type, wrinkles and creases are pressed away via direct heat or by heat and steam.
Steamers turn water into steam vapor to help loosen fibers and reduce wrinkles. Steamers are easy to use with distilled water and no need for an ironing board.
When Should I Use an Iron?
A clothes iron is used to flatten and remove wrinkles from clothes via heat and pressure. They are designed to manage a wide range of cloth and clothing types, with a heat scale from 250 to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. Irons are also rated by wattage, with most models in the 1200 to 1800 range. The higher the wattage, the more heat and steam that can be produced. Most irons today also have a steam function to help with troublesome wrinkles along with a sprayer to dampen clothes as you iron them.
Using an iron can give you better management to remove wrinkles, smooth out seams, and get a sharp crease. It is important however to use the proper heat setting and not try to iron with one that is too hot. This can scorch white fabrics and possibly even melt polyester or rayon materials. Always refer to the care instructions on the garment tag and match the recommendations with the heat setting on your iron. Heavy fabrics like denim and wool do better with ironing than with a steamer. Also, you can use spray starch with an iron for a lasting pressed finish.
For the best results when ironing, it is preferable to use an ironing board. The hard flat surface will allow you to maneuver your clothing to be able to press out any wrinkles over the entire piece. Ironing boards are available in freestanding, wall-mounted or built-in, and countertop versions. You should also use an ironing board cover to help the fabric slide easier while ironing. If you don’t have room for a large ironing board, an ironing blanket can be used to get a fresh-pressed look. Paired with a travel iron, you can still look good while on the go.
Use caution when using both irons and steamers. It can only take an instant of contact with the hot sole plate or steam vapor to cause a serious burn to fingers and skin. Make sure your appliance has completely cooled before storing them away.
When Should I Use a Steamer?
Clothes steamers use heated distilled water to create steam that will loosen up the garment fibers and ease away wrinkles. The steamer doesn’t come into direct contact with the fabric like an iron does, relying on the vapor to do the work instead. This enables steamers to work on more delicate fabrics that an iron may damage.
Steamers have a couple of advantages over irons. The first is the ability to be used almost anywhere. Steamers can range in size from standing professional size models that can handle everything from dresses to drapes to models about the size of a curling iron that can be a perfect travel companion. There are also corded and cordless models for easy maneuvering. You only need a hangar to be able to steam clothing vs. the need for an ironing board or larger flat surface.
The second advantage is that steamers can manage a wide variety of fabrics without risking potential damage. The lower settings can take care of more delicate fabrics like silk, satin, cashmere and polyester. Higher settings will work on wool and cotton with ease.
A newcomer to home clothing care are the standing fabric steamers. Looking like a narrow refrigerator, these appliances can steam and refresh your clothes inside and out, removing wrinkles along with household odors from pets, food, smoke and sweat. Some units can also sanitize fabrics by removing allergens, viruses and bacteria. These units are easy to use, simply hang your clothes inside, close the door and run one of the programs for fresh clothing without work.
Use care when steaming clothes. The hot vapor can go through clothing and burn you quickly. Keep the steam head ahead of your hand and watch out when steaming sleeves and collars.
Frequently Asked Questions About Clothes Irons and Steamers
Answers to some common questions about irons and steamers can help you decide which tool you need for your laundry care — or whether you might want to have one of each.
Do Steamers Work Better Than Irons?
Steamers can be quicker and easier to use for removing wrinkles and refreshing a wide variety of clothing and fabrics. Clothes can be hung on a hanger for steaming rather than having to use an ironing board or finding a flat space to iron on. Irons are better suited for heavier fabrics and laying down a sharp crease or pressing out pleats.
When Would a Designer Use a Steamer Instead of an Iron?
A designer would use a steamer when dealing with delicate fabrics like silk, satin, cashmere, and polyester. Since steamers are not in direct contact with these fabrics, they can care for them without the risk of burning or damage.
Do I Need a Steamer if I Have an Iron (And Vice Versa)?
Many irons today have built-in steamers that can add to the iron’s capabilities. However irons can be heavier than a steamer or steam wand, making longer use potentially more tiring. Steamers cannot make a neat crisp crease in pants or press out pleats. Steamers do not need an ironing board to remove wrinkles from clothing.