In the world of laundry care, the debate between the clothes steamer and the conventional iron comes back again and again. So, can a steamer really replace an iron? Let's delve into the strengths and weaknesses of these two appliances to help you make an informed decision.
The benefits of a steamer:
Versatility:
The steamer has gained in popularity because of its versatility and practicality. It offers a modern alternative to an iron, removing creases from clothes without the need for an ironing board. Steamers are particularly effective on delicate fabrics, fragile materials and hanging clothes.
Ease of use:
One of the major advantages of the steamer is how easy it is to use. There’s no need to spend time setting up an ironing board or adjusting the temperature for each type of fabric. Steamers make removing creases quick and effortless, so they are an attractive choice for people looking for a practical option.
Preservation of delicate fabrics:
Steamers are renowned for being gentle on delicate fabrics. Unlike some irons, which can burn or damage sensitive fibres, steamers use steam to loosen creases without causing damage. This makes them an ideal choice for delicate clothes such as silk, wool, or synthetics.
See also: How to look after your cashmere jumpers: tips to keep them looking like new
Reducing the risk of burns:
Using a steamer eliminates the risk of burns often associated with using an iron. The steam generated by the steamer is gentler on fabrics, and considerably reduces the risk of overheating.
The advantages of an iron:
Classic reliability:
Irons are laundry care classics that have been in homes for decades. They are prized for their ability to produce clean, neat creases, perfectly suited to formal clothes such as shirts and suits.
Accurate ironing:
If precision and marked creases are essential, this iron is second to none. Its wide, heated soleplate means that creases can be ironed meticulously, making it ideal for clothes that need an impeccable finish. Irons also offer a wide range of temperature settings.
Use on an ironing board:
We usually associate using irons with an ironing board. This can be seen as a disadvantage in terms of space and convenience, especially if space is limited. However, the ironing board provides a stable surface for optimum results.
How to choose?
Ultimately, the decision between a clothes steamer and an iron depends on your specific needs. If practicality, versatility and preserving delicate fabrics are your priorities, a steamer is probably the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for maximum precision when ironing formal clothes, an iron remains the classic option.
When choosing between a steamer and an iron, consider your laundry care routine, the type of clothes you have and how much space there is at home. Some people even opt for both appliances, to benefit from the versatility of a steamer and the precision of an iron.