Best Handheld Garment Steamers in New Zealand
Handheld steamers have become a must-have for busy households and travellers alike. They’re quick to use, gentle on fabrics, and ideal for freshening up clothes or removing wrinkles without dragging out the ironing board.
At Direct Sewing Machines & Supplies, we’ve hand-picked some of the best options available in New Zealand — whether you want a compact travel steamer or a more powerful model for everyday use.
1. TRA Hand Steamer – Great Water Capacity, Simple to Use
The TRA Hand Steamer is a practical, no-fuss option with a decent-sized water tank that gives you longer steaming time between refills. It’s ideal for home users who need a reliable tool for quick garment touch-ups.
Highlights:
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Decent water capacity for longer sessions
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Steady steam output suitable for shirts, dresses, and upholstery
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Simple operation and easy to clean
Best for: Anyone who wants an affordable, dependable steamer with fewer interruptions and a good balance of size and power.
2. Jiffy E-Steam Handheld Steamer – Made in the USA, Built to Last
A true favourite among professionals, the Jiffy E-Steam is made in the USA and built for longevity. It’s the handheld version of Jiffy’s famous commercial steamers, giving you powerful steam output and solid reliability in a compact form.
Highlights:
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Strong continuous steam for up to 15 minutes per fill
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Simple design with minimal moving parts — less to clog or fail
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Trusted brand with decades of garment-care experience
Best for: Regular users who value quality construction and performance. Great for steaming delicate fabrics, uniforms, or garments between wears.
3. Philips 3000 Series Foldable Handheld Steamer – Compact & Travel-Ready
View the Philips foldable hand steamer
For those short on space or always on the go, the Philips 3000 Series offers the perfect portable solution. Its foldable design makes it easy to pack and store, while still offering reliable steam output for quick refreshes.
Highlights:
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Foldable, lightweight design
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Fast heat-up for quick wrinkle removal
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Safe for use on most fabrics
Best for: Travellers and apartment dwellers who want a compact, easy-to-store steamer for quick touch-ups.
4. Philips 7000 Series Handheld Steamer – Premium with Style Mat Included
View Philips 7000 Series Hand Steamer
The Philips 7000 Series is a high-end handheld steamer designed for convenience and performance. With dual water tanks, a style mat, and up to 28 g/min of continuous steam, it makes garment care quick and effortless.
Highlights:
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Heats up in just 30 seconds
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Horizontal and vertical steaming options
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Comes with style mat and accessories
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“OptimalTemp” technology ensures no burns on any ironable fabric
Best for: Those who want a premium handheld steamer with professional-quality results at home.
Can a Hand Steamer Replace an Iron?
Not entirely. Handheld steamers are designed for finishing and crease removal, not creating crisp, pressed lines. They’re ideal for refreshing clothes, removing wrinkles, and sanitising fabrics — but if you prefer sharp pleats or perfectly flat seams, an iron is still essential.
In short:
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Use a steamer to smooth, refresh, and sanitise garments quickly.
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Use an iron for structured fabrics and professional-looking creases.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
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Always let your steamer fully heat before use to prevent water spitting.
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Steam vertically where possible for smoother results.
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Use filtered water to reduce mineral build-up.
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Hang garments and pull fabric taut while steaming.
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Let clothes cool and dry for a few minutes after steaming before wearing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What fabrics can I steam?
A: Most fabrics including cotton, linen, wool, silk, and synthetics can be safely steamed. Always test on a hidden area first.
Q: Why is my steamer spitting water?
A: It’s often because it hasn’t fully heated yet or is overfilled. Wait for the ready light and don’t tilt it too far while using.
Q: How often should I clean my steamer?
A: If you use it frequently, clean and descale it every few weeks — especially if you live in a hard-water area.
Q: Can I travel overseas with a handheld steamer?
A: Yes, but check the voltage. Some models are dual-voltage, while others need an adapter or converter.
Q: How long do handheld steamers last?
A: Quality models like Jiffy or Philips can last many years with regular cleaning and care.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re freshening up clothes before a meeting, removing wrinkles from curtains, or prepping garments for sale, a quality handheld steamer makes all the difference.
From the budget-friendly TRA steamer to the premium Philips 7000 Series, each option offers unique benefits — but all will save you time and simplify your fabric care routine.
Explore the full range of garment steamers online at Direct Sewing Machines & Supplies and find the perfect fit for your needs.
