Steamer vs. Iron: Which Is Better for Your Clothes?
In the steamer vs. iron debate, the decision comes down to fabric. Here is everything you need to know about how to remove wrinkles from your clothing and textiles.Get more news about sweater ironing machine,you can vist our website!
Silk, linen, chiffon, and cotton are some of the most gorgeous fabrics. But unlike synthetics—think polyester, spandex, nylon, and rayon—they are prone to wrinkling and generally require a little TLC when it comes to laundering. That’s why it’s so important to pay attention to the fine print on clothing tags, not only the instructions pertaining to how to do laundry but also those that explain how to get wrinkles out of clothes. Then the debate comes down to steamer vs. iron.
Many clothing items can sustain the heat of an iron, but delicate pieces may require the use of a clothing steamer. The difference has to do with the type of heat and whether there’s pressure on the fabric, says Mary Gagliardi, aka “Dr. Laundry,” Clorox’s in-house scientist and cleaning expert.
A steamer is a device that uses heat and moisture (from the hot water vapor) to remove wrinkles and smooth the surface of the fabric. An iron, on the other hand, is a device that uses heat and pressure (from the weight of the iron and applied pressure) to remove wrinkles from fabric. That’s why it’s sometimes called “pressing.” It can also aid in forming sharp fold lines, such as cuffs, pleats, and creases. Here’s where it’s a little confusing: Modern irons include a water reservoir, which allows users to introduce steam to the process. But there’s always pressure involved as well. So, when should you use a steamer vs. iron? Read on to find out.
When to use a clothes steamer
Generally speaking, fabric type will guide your use of a steamer vs. iron. Gagliardi explains that fabrics with a nap or pile (like corduroy or velvet) have always been tricky to iron because the pressure can crush the pile and distort the fabric’s appearance. A steamer will allow the fabric to fall as intended.
A few other fabrics are prime candidates for steaming as well. “Synthetics respond well to gentle steam and are less likely to melt,” she says. Delicate fabrics, such as silk or chiffon, also are less likely to be damaged with a steamer. And trust us: Once you learn how to wash silk the right way, you’re going to want to remove wrinkles without risking damage.
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