When it comes to removing wrinkles from clothes, there are two common options: the traditional iron and the modern handheld steamer. While both devices serve the same purpose, each better suits a particular lifestyle and has unique benefits. In this blog, we'll look at the differences between a steamer and an iron so you can determine which is best for you.

1. Ease of use and Speed

If you have a busy schedule, don't like spending time on household chores, and are always on the go, a hand steamer could be a gamechanger for you. A handheld steamer is ready to use in seconds, whereas an iron often takes longer to heat up. Also, a steamer does not require you to set up an ironing board. Simply hang your garment on a hanger, run the steamer over the fabric and in a few minutes the wrinkles are gone. This makes the steamer ideal for people with hectic lives who want to quickly freshen up their clothes without too much hassle.

The iron, on the other hand, requires more preparation. You have to prepare an ironing board, adjust the temperature to the fabric and sometimes use more force to get rid of stubborn wrinkles. However, for the perfectionists among us, or if you often work with sturdy fabrics such as cotton or linen, an iron offers more control and accuracy.

2. Safety for Textiles

Modern hand steamers are generally gentler on delicate fabrics such as silk, chiffon or cashmere. Because a steamer does not touch the fabric directly and works with steam rather than direct contact with heat, there is no risk of scorch marks or damage. There is also no chance of shiny spots, something that can sometimes happen with an iron on delicate fabrics.

By steaming your clothes more often instead of ironing them, you extend the life of your favorite pieces. Not only do the fibers stay intact better, but the colors remain more vibrant and the fit is better preserved. This is especially important for delicate fabrics such as silk, chiffon or cashmere, which benefit from gentle treatment.

With an iron, on the other hand, you can do damage more quickly if the temperature is set too high or if you stay in one spot for too long. Therefore, using an iron requires a bit more attention, especially with delicate materials. However, for thick fabrics like jeans or linen, the iron remains the best option for smoothing out deep creases. *Unlessyou opt for our Professional/vertical steamers, which produces powerful steam and tackles thick fabrics effortlessly. With this steamer, you no longer need to use an iron for even the heaviest fabrics.

3. Versatility

Another advantage of the handheld steamer is its versatility. In addition to clothes, you can use a steamer to freshen up other fabrics in your home, such as curtains, bedding, stuffed animals, and even upholstered furniture. This makes the steamer a multifunctional device that does more than just smooth clothes. In fact, the hot steam kills 99% of all bacteria in textiles and eliminates odors.

An iron is designed primarily for clothing, and while it can have a number of other uses, such as pressing tablecloths, it is less flexible in its use.

4. Sustainability and Maintenance

Handheld steamers are generally more compact and easier to maintain than irons. There is less risk of limescale deposits on the plate, which is a common problem with irons. In addition, a handheld steamer is often smaller and lighter, making it ideal for travel.

Irons, on the other hand, can be more robust and have a longer lifespan, but require more maintenance. Cleaning the iron's soleplate is crucial to avoid staining clothes, and some fabrics can stick if the iron is not properly maintained.

5. Space and Storage

If you have limited space, a handheld steamer is a smart choice. Its compact size allows it to fit easily into a closet or drawer, whereas an iron is often accompanied by an ironing board that takes up more space.

6. Smoothing Creases: Which works better?

While a handheld steamer is very convenient, it can be less effective for stubborn wrinkles on thick fabrics. And have you been used to your iron for years and mega fan of a perfectly sleek look? Then you're not going to be satisfied with the results of a steamer. In such cases, an iron may be the better option because it works with direct heat and pressure. Want a quick touch-up for your clothes and a wrinkle-free look in a quick way? Then a handheld steamer is ideal.

Conclusion: What Fits Your Lifestyle?

• Do you have a busy schedule, not a fan of household chores, like quick and effective results, travel a lot or often work with delicate fabrics? Then a handheld steamer is probably the best choice. The device is fast, easy to use, friendly to delicate materials and versatile enough to freshen up other textiles in your home as well.

• Are you a perfectionist, often work with thicker fabrics or want the smoothest/straightest ironing results? Then the traditional iron is your go-to. It offers more control and power to remove even the most stubborn creases.

• However, if you want a device that combines both benefits - the power of an iron and the convenience of a steamer - then our Professional/vertical steamer is the perfect choice for you. It completely replaces an iron and makes even the most difficult wrinkles disappear.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your lifestyle and preferences. For some, a combination of both devices may even be the ideal solution! Or choose our professional steamer to experience the benefits of both worlds in one device.