The Ultimate Guide To Using A Steamer

A clothes steamer is an effective household appliance that removes wrinkles from fabrics. Irons are useful for handling sturdy fabrics like cotton or denim, but garment steamers work on a larger variety of fabrics and are less likely to cause damage. Steamers work by heating water until it becomes steam, which is then applied to the fabric through a nozzle, relaxing the fibres and removing wrinkles. There are two main types of clothes steamers: upright and handheld. Upright steamers are freestanding appliances with a large base from which a hose extends to a steamer head or nozzle, and they often include a built-in hanger. Handheld steamers are much more compact, with the water tank fitting in your hand, and they are ideal for smaller jobs or travel.

How to fill a steamer

Filling a steamer is a simple process, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you do it correctly and safely. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fill a steamer:

Step 1: Fill the Tank with Water

Use cool or cold, distilled water to fill the steamer's tank. Do not overfill the tank; fill it to the maximum fill line indicated in the steamer. If you are using tap water, ensure it is soft water, as hard water can cause mineral buildup that clogs the steam nozzles. If you live in an area with hard water, consider using distilled water or a water softener.

Step 2: Secure All Parts

Make sure all parts of the steamer are securely connected and that the water tank is properly sealed. This will prevent water leaks and spills when you start steaming.

Step 3: Plug In and Heat

Once the steamer is filled and secured, plug it into a power outlet and turn it on. Allow the steamer to heat up until steam begins to form. This usually takes around 2-3 minutes. Make sure the steamer is heating up in an upright position to prevent spills.

Step 4: Test the Steamer

Before using the steamer on your garments, test it to ensure it is producing a steady stream of steam. Pull the trigger on the handle or press the steam button to check. If there is no sputtering and a steady stream of steam is released, your steamer is ready to use.

Step 5: Refill and Reheat as Needed

If you need to refill the water tank during a long steaming session, be sure to allow the water to heat up completely before resuming steaming. Do not let the tank run dry while the steamer is in use, as this can damage the heating element.

Tips:

• Always read the user manual and safety instructions before using your steamer for the first time.
• Regularly clean your steamer to remove limescale and mineral buildup, especially if you use tap water.
• Allow your garments to dry completely after steaming and before wearing or storing them.

How to use a steamer on clothes

Using a steamer is a great way to remove wrinkles from clothes, and it's easier than ironing. Steamers use hot steam to smooth out fabric, and they're less likely to scorch your clothes. They're also more versatile than irons and can be used on curtains, upholstery, and other household items.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use a steamer on clothes:

• Prepare the steamer: Fill the water tank with cool, distilled water. Do not overfill it. Make sure all components are connected correctly, then plug the steamer in and turn it on. Allow the steamer to heat up completely before use.
• Hang your clothes: Gather the clothes you want to steam and place them on hangers. Hang them on a rack, shower curtain rod, or a hook. Hanging clothes gives you 360-degree access, and the weight of freshly steamed clothes will help pull out wrinkles.
• Steam the clothes: Hold the steamer nozzle upright to prevent spills. For cotton, wool, synthetics, and mixed-fiber fabrics, you can steam from the right side of the garment. Lightly brush the material with the nozzle as the steam escapes. For delicate fabrics like silk, chiffon, and velvet, steam from the underside (inside out) to prevent watermarks. Hold the steamer about one inch away from the fabric to avoid touching it.
• Allow fabrics to dry: After steaming, allow the clothes to dry completely. Leave them hanging until they are fully dry. You can use a rotating fan to speed up the drying process.
• Clean and store the steamer: After each use, let the steamer cool down, empty the water reservoir, and allow it to dry before storing. Clean your steamer regularly, especially if you use tap water, to remove limescale and mineral buildup. Use distilled white vinegar and follow the same process as steaming, then rinse with distilled water.

Some additional tips to keep in mind:

• Always read the fabric care label before steaming. Most cotton, silk, wool, polyester, and nylon fabrics are safe for steaming.
• For stubborn wrinkles, try steaming the garment inside out.
• Be careful not to tilt the steamer too far forward to avoid spilling hot water.
• Avoid steaming materials like suede, leather, and waxed jackets, as steam can damage them.

How to steam different fabrics

Steaming is a great way to remove creases and wrinkles from your clothes. It is also a safer alternative to ironing, as it is gentler on fabrics and does not run the risk of scorching or burning them. Here is a guide to steaming different types of fabrics:

Cotton

Cotton is a natural fibre that is comfortable, breathable, and durable. It is susceptible to creasing, but it can be easily steamed using most clothes steamers. For stiffer cotton materials, such as dress shirts, it is recommended to use a steamer with a hot ironing plate. When steaming, it is helpful to press the fabric against something like an ironing mat or a flexible ironing board to get the best results.

Wool

Wool is a textile material derived primarily from sheep but can also include rabbit, bison, and goats. It has great bulk and retains heat, making it ideal for warm clothing. Wool is generally straightforward to steam, but some wool fabrics can be delicate, like suits. When using a steamer with a hot plate, always use a delicate fabric guard to prevent the wool from becoming shiny. Vertical clothes steamers are a good option for wool suits as they do not have a heated plate and work solely using steam.

Silk

Silk is a delicate fabric commonly found in blouses, shirts, ties, formal dresses, and lingerie. Clothes steamers are very effective on silk, but it is important to use them correctly to avoid damage. If using a steamer with a heated metal plate, ensure you use a delicate fabric guard to prevent exposing the fabric to too much heat. When steaming silk, it is recommended to set the steamer at a low temperature and keep the nozzle at a short distance from the fabric.

Polyester

Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is easy to care for and can be safely steamed. Most clothes steamers have special settings for synthetic fabrics like polyester. When steaming polyester, follow the instructions on the clothes steamer for the best results.

Chiffon

Chiffon is a very delicate and vulnerable fabric. Some manufacturers recommend steaming chiffon, while others advise against it. It is best to test on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric first to see how it reacts to the steam. When steaming chiffon, hold the steamer at least one inch away from the fabric to prevent watermarks, streaking, and crushing.

Velvet

Opinions are divided on steaming velvet. Some people say that it can flatten the fibres and leave permanent impressions, while others recommend steaming. It is generally recommended to be cautious when steaming velvet and to test on a small area first. Steaming velvet from behind may be a better option to remove creases, freshen the fabric, and remove mild odours without exposing it to excessive moisture.

Denim

Denim and thick cotton are suitable for steaming, but it can be tricky to get the desired results without a steam board or steam blanket. Investing in a good-quality steamer with the right accessories is recommended for steaming these fabrics.

How to clean and care for a steamer

The frequency of cleaning your steamer depends on how often you use it. If you use your steamer daily, it is recommended to clean it monthly. If you use it less frequently, clean it after each use. You should also clean it more often if you use tap water instead of distilled water, as tap water contains minerals that can build up in the steamer over time.

Signs Your Steamer Needs Cleaning:

• White residue around the vents in the nozzle
• Reduced levels of steam
• Sputtering and spitting water

Safety Precautions:

• Keep your face away from the nozzle to avoid strong vinegar fumes.
• Avoid pointing the nozzle at painted surfaces or wood to prevent potential damage.
• Avoid tipping the steamer.
• Keep your fingers and face away from the steam to prevent burns.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Steamer:

• Unplug and empty the water tank.
• Fill the tank with distilled white vinegar or cleaning vinegar. Avoid other types of vinegar as they may contain sediment.
• Allow the vinegar to sit in the tank for 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the level of buildup.
• Plug in the steamer, turn it on, and set it to the highest setting.
• Point the nozzle into a sink or bucket and press the ON button until all the vinegar is expelled.
• Pour any remaining vinegar down the sink drain.
• Refill the tank with distilled water.
• With the steamer still on high, point the nozzle into the sink or bucket and expel all the water.
• Allow the steamer to cool completely, then check that the water tank is empty.
• For a hand steamer, dry it with a clean lint-free cloth.
• For a standing steamer, disconnect the nozzle and hoses, then dry them with a microfiber towel or allow them to air-dry.

Additional Steps for Heavily Calcified Steamers:

• After cleaning, cooling, and drying the steamer, disassemble it and inspect the components for any damage.
• Look for cracks in the gaskets or hoses, which can interfere with steam production and pose a risk of burns.
• If there is white, chalky residue on the nozzle, pour some warm distilled white vinegar into a small bowl and submerge the nozzle. Soak for at least four hours or overnight, then rinse well.
• If any deposits remain, use a toothpick to gently remove them, then rinse and dry the nozzle.
• Reassemble the steamer.

Tips for Maintaining Your Steamer:

• Always use distilled water to fill your steamer and avoid overfilling the tank.
• Empty the water reservoir between steaming sessions, especially for travel and handheld steamers.
• Keep water in the tank during use, but don't let the tank run dry to avoid burning any remaining mineral deposits.
• Always store the steamer upright and ensure the reservoir is empty.
• Clean the steamer as soon as you notice sputtering or diminished steam output.

How to steam food

Steaming is a versatile cooking method that can be used to cook a variety of dishes, from vegetables and proteins to buns, dumplings, and desserts. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to steam food using different setups:

Steamer Setup #1: A Pot or Wok with a Lid and a Heat-proof Dish

This method uses basic kitchen equipment and is suitable for reheating food. Here's what you need to do:

• Find a pot or wok with a lid that can accommodate a heat-proof dish, such as an oven-safe dish or a glass pie plate.
• Place a metal steam rack or a clean metal can in the pot to prop up the dish above the water. Ensure there is enough space between the dish and the pot for steam to circulate.
• Fill the pot with about 2 inches of water, making sure the water level is at least 1 inch below the rack to prevent boiling water from touching the dish.
• Place the heat-proof dish of food on the rack and cover the pot with a lid.
• Turn on the heat to bring the water to a simmer, and your food will steam.

Steamer Setup #2: A Stainless Steel Steamer

A stainless steel steamer is a user-friendly option that allows you to steam multiple dishes simultaneously. Here's how to use it:

• Fill the bottom of the steamer with at least 2 inches of water, adding more for longer steaming times.
• Place heat-proof dishes of food on the tiers or line the tiers with cabbage leaves, cheesecloth, or perforated parchment paper if steaming buns or dumplings directly on the racks.
• Bring the water to a simmer, cover the steamer, and start steaming.
• To prevent condensation from dripping onto the food, tie a thin kitchen towel or tea towel around the lid, ensuring any loose ends are secured.

Steamer Setup #3: A Bamboo Steamer

Bamboo steamers are excellent for preventing condensation and are ideal for delicate dishes. Here's how to use one:

• Place the bamboo steamer in a wok with enough water to reach about halfway up the bottom rim of the steamer, ensuring the water doesn't touch the food.
• Place shallow heat-proof dishes inside the steamer racks or line the racks with cabbage leaves, cheesecloth, or paper steamer liners if steaming buns or dumplings.
• Bring the water to a simmer, cover the bamboo steamer with its lid, and start steaming.
• Keep an eye on the water level and add boiling water as needed to ensure the bamboo steamer doesn't scorch.

General Tips for Steaming Food:

• Don't add too much water to the steamer to avoid ruining your meal.
• It is recommended to boil the water first before adding your food to the steamer.
• Avoid steaming for too long to prevent overcooking. Steaming vegetables usually takes just a few minutes.
• Enhance the steam by using stock or adding herbs, salt, or lemon to the water for extra flavor.
• Ensure the lid has a tight seal to allow the steam to cook the food effectively.
• Prepare your food before steaming by adding herbs, spices, or garlic, or marinating meat beforehand.

Frequently asked questions