The Best Garment Steamers for 2024: Tried & Tested in NZ

Garment steamers have become a popular choice for those looking to effortlessly remove wrinkles and creases from their clothes. Whether it's for everyday use or for travel convenience, a good garment steamer can make a significant difference in maintaining a neat and presentable appearance. In this article, we'll explore the key features to consider when choosing a clothes steamer, how they work, their effectiveness compared to traditional irons, and the best options available in 2024 in NZ.

What to Look for in a Clothes Steamer

When shopping for a garment steamer, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure you get the best value for your money. One important consideration is the type of clothes suitable for steaming. While most fabrics respond well to steaming, delicate fabrics may require extra care.

Another decision to make is whether to opt for a handheld or standing garment steamer. Handheld steamers are more portable and convenient for travel, while standing steamers typically offer more features and larger water tanks for home use. The best travel steamer should be lightweight and compact without compromising on performance.

How Do Clothes Steamers Work?

To understand how clothes steamers work, it's essential to differentiate them from steam irons. While irons press wrinkles flat, steamers release wrinkles using hot steam, making them ideal for fabrics that can be damaged by direct heat contact. Different fabrics may require varying steam levels, so it's crucial to use the appropriate setting on your steamer.

Continuous steam is a key feature to look for in a garment steamer, as it ensures a consistent flow of steam for efficient wrinkle removal. This feature, along with the steamer's heat-up time, can significantly affect the overall performance of the device.

Choosing the Best Garment Steamer for Your Needs

When choosing a garment steamer, it's essential to consider factors such as the size of the water tank, ease of use, and overall performance. Handheld clothes steamers are popular for their portability and convenience, making them suitable for quick touch-ups and travel.

For travel purposes, a steamer with quick heat-up time and easy refill options is essential. The performance of models like the Philips 3000 Series Handheld Steamer offers powerful steam output for effective wrinkle removal on the go.

Effectiveness of Steamer vs. Traditional Iron

Using a garment steamer offers several benefits compared to a traditional iron. Steamers are gentle on fabrics, making them ideal for delicate materials that may be prone to damage from high heat. They provide efficient wrinkle removal even on stubborn creases.

When comparing a steamer and an iron on different fabrics, the steamer usually comes out on top for its ease of use and convenience. While an ironing board may be necessary for ironing, a clothes steamer can be used without one, offering greater versatility.

Features to Look for in the Best Travel Steamer

The best travel steamer should prioritize quick heat-up time and being ready to use within seconds. It should offer a sufficient amount of steam for effective wrinkle removal and have convenient refill options for extended use.

Furthermore, delicate fabric care is crucial for a travel steamer to ensure that your clothes remain in good condition while on the go. Ease of use, portability, and performance are key factors to consider when selecting the best travel steamer for your needs.

The Top 6 Garment Steamers for 2024 in New Zealand

To help you choose, we’ve tested and rounded up the top 5 garment steamers that stand out in the New Zealand market:

1. Garment Steamer E8 

Perfect for retail shops and commercial use, this robust model offers excellent performance and durability for frequent, heavy-duty use.

2. Jiffy Garment Steamer J2000

Known for its reliability and powerful steaming capability, the Jiffy J2000 is ideal for both commercial settings and home use.

3. Battistella Atena Garment Pressure Steamer

This high-pressure steamer is designed for professional environments, offering quick and effective steaming with a durable build.

4. Philips Handheld Travel Steamer STH3000/20

Compact and efficient, this steamer is perfect for travelers needing quick wrinkle removal without the bulk of larger units.

5. Philips Handheld Garment Steamer, 7000 Series

This advanced handheld model provides powerful steaming in a portable form, making it suitable for home and travel use.

6. Philips Deluxe Complete Iron & Steamer Solution

A comprehensive solution that combines an iron and a steamer, this product offers versatility and high performance for all fabric care needs.

Advanced Features in Modern Garment Steamers

Innovation in garment care continues to advance, with newer models offering features like:

• Digital interfaces for more precise control over heat and steam settings.
• Eco modes that conserve energy while still providing effective steaming.
• Faster heat-up times that make steamers ready to use in less than a minute.
• Greater water tank capacity for longer steaming sessions without interruptions.

These features not only enhance convenience but also ensure that your clothes are cared for in the most efficient and gentle manner possible.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right garment steamer involves considering your specific needs, whether it’s for home use or travel. By understanding how steamers work and what features are most beneficial, you can select a model that offers the best combination of performance, convenience, and care for your garments. With the right tool, you can keep your wardrobe looking sharp and pristine with minimal effort.

This comprehensive guide is designed to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when purchasing a garment steamer, ensuring that your clothes always look their best. Whether you opt for a compact, travel-friendly model or a more robust home version, a good quality steamer is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to keep their clothing in top condition.

Click here to view all our favourite irons, presses and garment steamers.