Two popular methods come to mind when it comes to smoothing out wrinkles and keeping your clothes looking fresh: using a garment steamer or ironing. While both achieve the goal of removing wrinkles, they work fundamentally differently and are suited for various fabrics. Here, we will explore the differences between these two methods, their advantages, and which is better for specific fabrics.
How Garment Steamers Work
Garment Steamers utilize steam to soften fabric fibres, effortlessly removing wrinkles without direct contact with the fabric. This makes it an ideal tool for delicate fabrics like silk, chiffon, and wool, which the heat and pressure of an iron can easily damage. Steamers are also great for vertical steaming, allowing you to quickly smooth out curtains, upholstery, and hanging clothes.
How Ironing Works
Conversely, ironing involves using a hot plate to press clothes against an ironing board. This method provides heat and pressure to achieve a smooth, crisp finish, especially on heavier fabrics like cotton, denim, and linen. Irons are also better at creating sharp creases, making them perfect for formal wear like dress shirts and trousers.
Garment Steamer vs. Iron
- Wattage
Wattage determines the heating speed and performance of garment steamers and irons. Handheld garment steamers usually operate between 800W to 2000W. Higher wattage provides more powerful steam output, making wrinkle removal easier, especially on thick fabrics.
Irons generally have a higher wattage range, from 1200W to 3000W, allowing them to heat up quickly and maintain high temperatures for deep wrinkle removal. For heavy fabrics like linen and denim, irons with 1800W or more are recommended.
For quick touch-ups and travel, a lightweight garment steamer (1000W-1500W) is ideal. However, if you need precise creases and professional ironing results, an iron with at least 2000W is a better choice.
- Which is Better for Which Fabric?
Delicate Fabrics: For fabrics like silk, satin, or polyester, a garment steamer is the better choice. Its gentle steam does not scorch or damage the fabric making it safe for even the most sensitive materials.
Heavier Fabrics: For fabrics such as cotton, denim, or linen, which are heavy, an iron box provides the necessary heat and pressure to achieve a smooth finish. It’s also better for creating sharp creases, essential for formal wear.
- Ease of Use
Garment steamers are generally easier to use, especially for quick touch-ups. They heat up quickly, and clothes can be steamed directly on a hanger without needing an ironing board. This makes the process much faster and more convenient, especially for those with busy lifestyles.
On the other hand, irons require setting up an ironing board and can be more labour-intensive, especially when dealing with larger items like bed sheets or curtains. However, irons offer more control over the fabric, allowing for precise creases and a crisp finish.
- Which is easier to maintain?
Garment steamers require minimal maintenance compared to irons. Since steamers do not have a soleplate that touches fabric directly, they do not accumulate burn marks or fabric residue. However, mineral deposits from hard water can build up over time, so regular descaling is necessary. Using distilled water and cleaning the water tank periodically can help prevent clogging.
Irons, on the other hand, need more frequent cleaning. The soleplate can collect starch, burnt fabric, and mineral deposits, which can affect performance and even stain clothes. Regular wiping, descaling, and using a clean water source are essential for keeping an iron in top condition.
In terms of storage, handheld garment steamers are compact and require no ironing board, making them space-efficient. Irons, however, need proper storage along with an ironing board. Overall, steamers are easier to maintain, while irons require regular upkeep for smooth performance.
The Wipro Handheld Garment Steamer
The Wipro Handheld Garment Steamer is a great option for anyone seeking a handy and effective solution for smoothing out wrinkles in clothing. This home appliance is not just lightweight but has adjustable features that make it easy to tailor the steam output to different fabrics. Additionally, it is perfect for travel due to its portability and is ideal for casual wear and delicate fabrics. Its modern design and ease of use make it a great addition to any home, providing a quick and efficient way to keep your clothes looking their best.
Conclusion
While both garment steamers and irons have advantages, they serve different purposes and are suited for various fabrics. Choosing the right garment care appliance is essential for maintaining your wardrobe, whether you need a gentle touch for delicate fabrics or a crisp finish for formal wear.