Having a steam generator iron or clothes steamer is essential for preventing creases and wrinkled clothes. But distinguishing between the two remains an issue.
Most people understand that both steam generator irons and steamers use a hot steam system to smooth wrinkles out of clothes.
However, we don't all fully understand the differences in terms of use. As a matter of fact, the two machines are not equally effective in meeting your laundry needs.
In this article, we'll answer the question: what's the difference between a steam generator iron and a steamer? And which one will get rid of creases in the smallest amount of time (and with the least effort)?
When should I use a steam generator iron?
A steam generator iron, often referred to simply as an iron, is a tool that uses heat to smooth (or iron) a garment, which is usually placed on an ironing board. The soleplate of the iron is a flat, roughly triangular surface. With or without steam, the heated surface of the iron flattens and adapts to all types of fabric under its heating plate. Irons are very effective for ironing dresses, trousers and any other garment that needs to get rid of unsightly creases.
The benefits of a steam generator iron
Effectiveness on thick fabrics:
Heavier fabrics (such as twill or pima cotton) respond well to the steam generator iron's hot plate.
Precision:
Ironing with a steam generator iron gives you deliberate creases and neat cuffs and hems.
Dry-cleaning mode:
In addition, some steam generator irons are equipped with a pressing function that temporarily increases the steam output from 180g/min to 500g/min, thereby improving how well moisture penetrates into the fabric.
The disadvantages of a steam generator iron
Requires a certain degree of effort to learn:
It's not easy to learn how to iron clothes properly. It takes practice, and sometimes a few damaged clothes, to get the hang of it.
Ironing accessories are required:
You need a few extra accessories when you buy an iron. These include an ironing board and maintenance brushes. Additionally, steam generator irons with unlimited autonomy come with an additional water tank that you also need to be able to store.
Tidying the ironing board away:
It sounds like a small task, but it can be a real headache finding somewhere to store your ironing board.
When should I use a steamer?
An iron won't work well on a jumper or jacket. It won't be ideal for bringing them back to life, smoothing them out and getting rid of any odours and dust on them. To do all that, you'll need a steamer, which is perfect for treating particular clothes and fabrics.
A steamer is an appliance that uses hot steam to relax the fibres of clothes. A jet of steam is directed at the clothes you are hanging on a hanger. The main feature of this appliance is that it removes unwanted creases without coming into direct contact with the fabric.
The steam head, located at the end of the hose, is kept at a short distance from the fabric, allowing you to smooth creases out of clothes vertically, without the application of scalding heat. Small and portable, you can hold the steamer in one hand.
Also known as a vertical steamer, the steamer is ideal for soft, delicate fabrics such as silk, satin, polyester and jersey. There's very little risk of burning a garment, as the steamer doesn't actually touch the clothes. The steam can also smooth out sleeves and creases that can be difficult to treat with irons.
The benefits of a steamer
No need for an ironing board:
One of the great advantages of a steamer is that you don't need to get out your ironing board (or manage a big tank of water). It offers a quick solution for creased clothes. The bottom line is you'll save a lot of time with a steamer.
Practical information:
Because it's so small, you can carry your portable steamer right in your luggage – a model with a 200ml water tank is more than enough.
Steamers are easy to use:
If you don't like or find it difficult to use an iron, a steamer is an excellent choice. You don't have to worry about turning clothes over, keeping them in a certain order or damaging delicate fabrics.
Steamers are faster than convention irons:
A vertical steamer is generally quicker than an iron to set up and use, with an average heat-up time of 45 seconds. If you notice that a shirt or a pair of dress trousers is creased, you don't even need to take them off the hanger to get it back in perfect shape with a steamer.
Other uses of steamers:
A steamer doesn't just smooth wrinkles from your clothes. A high steam output (around 30g/min) can also get rid of dust mites, bacteria and bed bugs, so you can use it on your mattress or duvet.
The disadvantages of a steamer
The removal of unsightly creases is not perfect with cotton:
You won't find these clothes as crisp and clean as with an iron.
It is difficult to obtain a deep fold:
If you like deep pleats and hems, an iron will do a better job.
Your arms can get tired:
This tool may have its limitations when it comes to large quantities of laundry.
The difference between a steam generator iron and a steamer: Conclusion
| Features | Steam generator | Steam defroster |
| Heating time | 2 to 3 minutes | 30 to 45 seconds |
| Effective on thick fabrics | Very effective | Less efficient |
| Precision (folds, hems) | Creates neat folds | Does not create marked folds |
| Use on delicate fabrics | Can burn or leave shiny marks | Ideal for delicate fabrics |
| Easy storage | Bulky, requires accessories | Compact, easy to store |
| Portable? | No, too bulky | Yes, ideal for travelling |
Steamers are portable, practical for travelling and easier to use than an iron, but they don't give a perfect finish. Steam generator irons will give you cleaner, more precise results, especially on thicker cottons.
However, it takes a bit of practice to master them. You might even ruin a few clothes in the process.