Clothes steamers: handy for travel?
When you travel for work (or personal), you want to look good and neatly dressed. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to keep your clothes wrinkle-free in your suitcase while traveling.
A clothes steamer is ideal for travel because it is easy to use anywhere and compact enough to carry in your luggage. A travel steamer is compact and portable. Plus, you can use a clothes steamer without the need for an ironing board! You just pluck a wrinkled garment from your suitcase, steam it for a moment and you're ready to shine!
1. Can I carry a clothes steamer in my carry-on luggage on a flight?
Yes, it is always allowed to carry a clothes steamer in your carry-on baggage during a flight. However, it is always advisable to check the airline's specific guidelines, as some airlines may have restrictions. All Dutch, Belgian and French airlines allow you to carry a clothes steamer in your hand luggage.
2. Can I use a garment steamer on different voltages abroad?
This depends on the specific model of clothes steamer you have. Some garment steamers have a universal voltage feature, meaning they can operate at different voltages. This is almost only the case with luxury clothes steamers. So too with the STEAMRS clothes steamer. Be sure to check the specifications of your clothes steamer and purchase a travel plug or voltage converter if needed.
3. Can I use a clothes steamer for all types of fabrics?
Yes, a clothes steamer is suitable for almost all types of fabrics, including delicate fabrics such as silk. However, do not use a clothes steamer on fabrics made from animal products, such as leather and suede, although it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging your clothes.
4. Can I use a clothes steamer to disinfect my clothes?
Yes, a clothes steamer can be used to disinfect your clothes. The heat from the steam can kill bacteria and germs that are on your clothes. However, it is important to remember that a clothes steamer is not a substitute for washing your clothes, rather it is an intermediate solution. It is therefore ideal for travel! This way you can quickly and easily freshen up your clothes and just wear them again. There is no need for a washing machine this way.
5. What should I look for when buying a clothes steamer for travel?
If you want to purchase a garment steamer for travel, there are a few things to consider. First, the device should be compact and lightweight so that you can easily carry it in your luggage. In addition, the device should heat up quickly and have a powerful steam output to treat your clothes quickly and efficiently. It is also convenient if the device has a removable water tank so you can easily fill and clean it. Also, check the voltage specifications to make sure the device is compatible with the outlets at your travel destination.
6. Are there any special rules or guidelines for taking a garment steamer on a trip?
There are no special rules or guidelines for taking a clothes steamer with you when traveling. The device can be carried in your carry-on or checked luggage, depending on the size of the device and the airline's rules. Do check your airline's specific rules before traveling.
7. Can I use tap water in a clothes steamer while traveling?
In most cases, it is safe to use tap water in a clothes steamer while traveling, unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer. However, it is wise to check the water quality at your destination, as hard water or water high in minerals can affect the life of the clothes steamer.
8. Can I bring a clothes steamer on a cruise or in a hotel?
Yes, it is always allowed to bring a clothes steamer on a cruise or in a hotel.
9. Maintenance and cleaning
Pay attention to garment steamer maintenance and cleaning. Some models have self-cleaning features, while others require regular descaling or cleaning. Make sure you are prepared to perform the necessary maintenance to maintain the life and performance of your clothes steamer.
10. Fast warm-up time
Pay attention to the heat-up time of the clothes steamer. A fast heat-up time means you can get started faster and not waste precious time. With quality garment steamers, the warm-up time is always under 50 seconds. 20 seconds is the fastest possible warm-up time available.
11. Price of the steamer
Determine your budget before looking for a clothes steamer. Prices vary depending on the brand, features and quality of the device. Difference in price will mainly have to do with the material used. Cheaper garment steamers have a cheap heater compartment used, which breaks down faster and limescale also forms more quickly. More expensive garment steamers have a copper, solid boiler and are much less likely to develop limescale. A cheaper clothes steamer will have a shorter lifespan.
Make a trade-off between your needs and available budget to find a clothes steamer that meets your needs without overburdening your wallet.