Steam Dryers: Pan Or No Pan?

Steam dryers are a great alternative to permanent press cycles, using water vapour to relax wrinkled textiles. They also offer regular, non-steam tumble dry cycles such as delicate, permanent press and air dry. Steam dryers do not require additional plumbing and can be connected to a water source using a Y hose connector. However, the question remains: do steam dryers need a pan? The answer is that it depends on the user's preference and their level of comfort with the possibility of leaks. While a drain pan is not required, some people may opt for added protection, especially if their dryer is located above living space.

Steam dryers may not need a drain pan

The decision to use a drain pan depends on the likelihood of leaks and the potential damage they could cause. If your steam dryer is located above living space in a single-family residence, the decision is yours and depends on how comfortable you are with the possibility of a leak. However, if the dryer is in an apartment building or multi-family dwelling, it is recommended to install a drain pan as a precaution.

Additionally, if you choose not to install a drain pan, you will need to remember to pour a quart of water (with a little bleach) into the pan periodically to prevent sewer gases from escaping. This is an important consideration, as water damage and mould can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars in repairs.

Ultimately, the decision to use a drain pan for your steam dryer depends on your specific circumstances and comfort level with the risk of leaks.

Steam dryers don't eliminate the need for ironing

Steam dryers are a great alternative to permanent press cycles in washing machines. They use water vapour to relax wrinkles in textiles, reducing the need for ironing. However, they don't eliminate the need for ironing altogether.

Steam dryer manufacturers claim that their products relax wrinkles, but getting that crisp, pressed look still requires ironing. For fabrics that are naturally less likely to wrinkle, the results are somewhat better. However, independent testing labs like Consumer Reports haven't found steam dryers to be significantly better than conventional dryers when it comes to removing visible wrinkles from clothing.

Even though steam doesn't get tough wrinkles out, it may relax them, making them easier to iron out later. If you've ever scorched a cotton shirt trying to iron out the area around the cuffs or collar, a steam dryer may leave a fainter wrinkle that could be better than a tight, pesky one.

Steam dryers are also better at deodorising laundry. Because they use high-temperature steam, they kill more bacteria and can banish that smoky, musty smell on clothes that sometimes lingers through multiple washings. If you're looking to kill germs in your laundry, look for dryer features like "sanitising" or "antibacterial" cycles.

Steam drying can also make fabric feel softer. This could make your blankets, sheets, cotton underwear and pyjamas feel more fluffy and cozy. Steam dryers also do a good job of refreshing clothes. If you usually opt for the dry cleaner every time you wear "good" garments, a 10-minute tumble in a steam dryer could relax and renew silk, wool and other fine fabrics enough to save on dry cleaning bills.

So, while steam dryers offer many benefits, they don't completely eliminate the need for ironing.

Steam dryers are good for sanitising

Steam dryers are a great option for sanitising items that cannot be washed in water but can withstand high temperatures. The steam sanitary cycle on your dryer can be used to sanitise items such as stuffed toys and pillows (not down pillows).

The steam sanitary cycle is also a good option for sanitising items that cannot be washed with bleach or other laundry sanitizers. The high temperatures of the steam clean setting kill germs and bacteria.

The steam sanitary cycle is not suitable for all fabrics. It should not be used for regular laundry items such as t-shirts and pants as the extreme heat can shrink or damage these items. Instead, it is best suited for thicker fabrics such as bedding and curtains.

If you are looking to sanitise items that cannot withstand high temperatures, you may want to consider using a laundry sanitizer or bleach for bleach-safe items.

It is worth noting that some sources suggest that a steam dryer does not require a drain pan, as it does not use a lot of water. However, others recommend using a drain pan to catch any potential leaks, especially if the dryer is located above living space in an apartment building or multi-family dwelling.

Steam dryers are useful for refreshing clothes

Steam dryers are a great addition to your home appliances, offering a quick and efficient way to refresh your clothes. They are especially useful for those with busy lifestyles, providing a convenient solution for last-minute plans or rushed mornings. Here are some reasons why steam dryers are a worthwhile investment:

Reduce Wrinkles

Steam dryers use hot steam to relax fabric fibres, effectively removing wrinkles without adding moisture to your clothes. This feature is perfect for garments that have been stored away for a while or need a quick refresh before wearing again. The steam cycle can also help smooth out wrinkles from dry items left in the dryer for too long.

Odor Neutralization

Steam dryers are excellent for reducing unwanted odours. The steam cycle, combined with the dryer's heat, helps absorb and eliminate odours from your clothes. This feature is particularly useful for refreshing lightly worn clothes or items that cannot be washed frequently, such as pillows, jackets, and stuffed toys.

Save Time and Energy

With a steam dryer, you can skip the wash and opt for a quick steam refresh instead. This not only saves you time but also reduces water and energy consumption. The shorter drying time also leads to lower electricity usage, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.

Reduce Static

The introduction of steam into the drying cycle helps to reduce static cling by adding humidity to the dryer. This is especially useful for wrinkle-prone fabrics, as the steam option can be added to various cycles for extra wrinkle and static protection.

Extend the Life of Your Garments

The gentle steam treatment is less harsh on fabrics compared to a full wash, helping to extend the lifespan of your clothes. It is also suitable for delicate fabrics when used with lower heat settings, as recommended by the garment's care instructions.

Eliminate Allergens

The high temperatures reached during the steam cycle can help eliminate common household allergens such as dust mites and pet dander. This makes steam dryers an ideal choice for individuals with allergies or sensitive skin, providing a cleaner and healthier laundry experience.

Steam dryers can be used as an alternative to dryer sheets

Steam dryers are an excellent alternative to dryer sheets. They offer a steam drying option, which works similarly to a traditional garment steamer to remove wrinkles and static from clothes, and keep them fresh. Steam dryers also offer regular, non-steam tumble dry cycles such as delicate, permanent press and air dry.

Steam dryers use hot air to dry clothes, but they can also use a steam cycle, which uses hot, moist air to penetrate fabrics. This helps to reduce wrinkles from clothing, towels and other items. Steam dryers have options that can help reduce wrinkles in fabrics, cutting down on ironing time. This is especially useful for fabrics that need to be ironed but aren't stained enough to be washed.

Steam dryers can also save water and energy because you do not have to re-wash and dry clothes. They are a more sustainable option than dryer sheets, which are typically constructed from a "nonwoven polyester material coated with a softening agent". Dryer sheets add a chemical coating to your clothes, which can build up over time and be harmful to your health and the environment.

Dryer sheets are also shown to reduce the absorbency of towels and break down the fire-resistant materials in children's pyjamas. They create unnecessary waste and emit potentially harmful chemicals. In contrast, steam dryers can be connected to your washer's water source using a "Y" hose connector, so no extra pipes are required.

If you are looking for an alternative to dryer sheets, steam dryers are a great option. They can help you save money on laundry, be more sustainable at home, and prevent dangerous home hazards.

Frequently asked questions