What can you steam? 10 handy uses for a clothes steamer

Steaming is a simple, time-saving, and gentler alternative to ironing. It’s also much more sustainable. When you steam your clothes instead of washing them, they last much longer. A steamer refreshes garments, reduces wrinkles and odors, and kills bacteria. Steaming is also better for the environment because you don’t have to wash clothes that only need freshening up.

10 garment steamer tips

The hot steam (97-99°C) from a steamer reduces odors and eliminates almost all bacteria. Make a habit of giving all your household textiles a good steam every now and then! Did you know that a steamer can also work as a steam cleaner? Use it to kill bacteria when cleaning your stovetop, kitchen or bathroom tiles, door handles, and more. Below are 8 handy tips for getting the most out of your steamer!

1. Rugs

Save money and help the environment by steaming your rugs instead of taking them to the dry cleaner. Use an extension cord if needed, and run the garment steamer over the rug. To freshen the rug even more, hold the garment steamer slightly away from it. This allows extra steam to come out of the steamer and penetrate the rug, killing all the bacteria. The rug’s textile fibers swell, making them easier to clean and stains easier to remove.

2. Curtains

Use an extension cord and climb a ladder to iron and clean your curtains without even taking them down. Super convenient! Press the garment steamer against the fabric to smooth out all the wrinkles. Want to freshen them up more? Hold the steamer a little way from the fabric.

3. Fabric sofas and armchairs

How often do you wash your sofa? For many people, it’s not exactly a favorite chore. Luckily, a garment steamer can easily freshen up your sofa. It also smooths out creases, leaving your sofa looking neat, fresh, and well cared for. Note: Do not steam leather or suede. All other fabrics can be steamed.

4. Blankets and bedding

Ironing and then making the bed is a pain. Even after you’ve ironed your sheets and duvet covers, they get wrinkled again while you make the bed. Make the bed first, then use a steamer to remove all the wrinkles from the bedding. You might not care that much about sleeping in a perfectly smooth, neatly made bed, but when you have friends or guests over, a steamed bed looks incredibly chic. The hot steam also kills bacteria in your bedding and freshens up your bed. Just make sure it dries thoroughly before you get under the covers.

5. Pillows

Freshening up your pillows is a must. Lots of bacteria build up in your pillow after a few nights of sleep. They’re easy to eliminate with a garment steamer. Make sure the pillows dry thoroughly.

6. Ovens and stovetops

When was the last time you made the outside of your stovetop bacteria-free? Cleaning the outside of ovens and stovetops is often overlooked, but it’s important for a hygienic kitchen. A steamer makes it easy to kill bacteria and remove dirt from the outside of your stovetop. Take a little time to clean your stovetop thoroughly and enjoy a clean, bacteria-free cooking environment.

7. Tiles

Give your kitchen or bathroom tiles a thorough clean. Start by removing excess dirt, then use the steamer to deep-clean the areas that need it. The hot steam will effectively remove stubborn dirt, grease, and bacteria, leaving your tiles sparkling clean. A steam cleaner makes it easy and efficient to maintain a hygienic kitchen or bathroom.

8. Mattresses

Some parts of a bed, such as mattresses, are very difficult to clean. Fortunately, you can use a steam cleaner to kill bacteria and keep your mattress fresh. The hot steam penetrates deep into the fabric, killing bacteria and mites that can build up in your mattress. Steaming your mattress regularly helps maintain a hygienic sleeping environment and extend its lifespan. Take the time to thoroughly clean your mattress with a steam cleaner and enjoy a clean, healthy sleeping surface.

9. Stuffed animals

Disinfect your children’s favorite stuffed animals and quickly and easily freshen up their plush toys with a steam cleaner. Stuffed animals can collect dust and bacteria over time, making them smell less fresh and potentially turning them into a source of germs. A steam cleaner lets you safely and effectively kill bacteria and remove odors while keeping the soft plush fabric intact. Freshen up your children’s stuffed animals with the power of steam and create a clean, healthy play environment.

10. Removing old stickers

In addition to household chores, a steamer can come in handy for removing old stickers, cleaning hard-to-reach corners, and much more, making it a versatile tool that can save the day in all kinds of situations.

These are just a few examples of how you can use a steamer. Don’t steam wood or leather, but feel free to use your imagination. Happy steaming!