The war on wrinkles: steamers vs irons
It’s time to straighten this out! Discover the difference between a steamer and an iron and pick up some tips on getting those creases out.
What’s the difference between an iron and a steamer?
A dry iron presses your clothes with a hot plate against an ironing board. In contrast, a garment or clothes steamer typically does not require a board and is used on hanging fabrics. It straightens out clothing by shooting a continuous jet of steam, while held at a distance from the fabric.
There are also steam irons, which incorporate the best of both methods. The steam iron presses flat against your clothes, while using little jets of steam to really iron out those wrinkles.
When to use: steamer vs iron
Clothes steamers are ideal for taking the creases out of delicate fabrics like wools, silk or satin, which do not require heavy pressing.
But you need a steam iron for ironing creases like pleats or seams.
Tips on buying and using your iron
• Look for an iron with a non-stick plate surface with many holes for more steam to pass through.
• Ironing delicates while your iron is not at its hottest will help to protect them.
• Empty your clothes iron of any water after use, to prevent leaks and mineral build-up that can damage the iron.
