Window curtains quickly accumulate dust and require regular maintenance. Due to their large size, ironing them with a regular iron on a board is inconvenient. This is where steamers, best suited for such purposes, come to the rescue. If you don't know which curtain steam generator to choose, check out our ratings of the best models, carefully selected by our home appliance experts.
What is a steamer and how to choose one?
As the name implies, a steamer is a device that acts on textiles with a jet of steam. Unlike conventional irons, which work on a similar principle, here steam is generated using a steam generator and has a number of unique properties:
- Ironing is better and faster.
- Any textile can be processed, the shape of the products can be the most complex, and this will not affect the result.
- In addition to smoothing out wrinkles, laundry is cleaned, grease stains are removed, and fabric is disinfected.
- Curtains can be cared for without removing them from the curtain rod.
- Along with grease and dirt, unpleasant odors and causative agents of allergic reactions are eliminated.
When choosing a suitable device, you should pay attention to the following points.
- An important point is the choice of steam generator. The power and volume of the tank directly affects the intensity of steaming and ease of use. For example, with a small tank you have to repeatedly fill it with water to treat massive curtains.
- Vertical and horizontal models have different approaches to work. The latter are not so popular when caring for curtains; the whole point of the idea is lost. A vertical steamer allows you to iron and clean the curtain without removing it from the curtain rod.
- To process curtains, you can use both floor-standing and manual machines. It all depends on individual preferences, frequency of use of the machines and quality of the fabric. Floor-standing models have more power, making it more convenient to handle large things. Manual models take up minimal space, they can be used for regular cleaning of clothes, and are convenient to take with you on trips.
High-quality steamers have several modes, which allows you to adjust the steam strength for ironing thick and delicate fabrics. But, as practice shows, even at the highest power, the devices do not have any negative impact on the quality of things.
Steam cleaner attachment for steaming curtains
How to choose a curtain steamer (video)
Even if compared with the most expensive iron, the curtain steamer is sure to win on several points at the same time. Thanks to its unique qualities, steaming things is already actively entering the homes of caring modern housewives. There are fewer and fewer people who are used to simply ironing things, unlike the lucky ones who recognize the quality of the steamer’s work. And now, when the question is heard: “Please advise which iron is better to choose,” experts say that you can best iron not with an iron, but with a steamer. Environmentally friendly, convenient and easy to use, the device successfully combines several active functions. His competent approach to textile care allows you to significantly reduce the amount of labor costs and get an ideal result.
What is better to use when caring for curtains: a steamer or a steam cleaner?
Many consumers do not understand the difference between steamers and steam cleaners and which of these devices is more suitable for caring for curtains. Despite the similarity in operating principle and often the same appearance, the devices have a number of significant differences.
- Steamers were originally created for processing textiles. Steam cleaners are more versatile devices, but their action is aimed at working with hard surfaces. They can be used to care for curtains, but this is not very convenient.
- The steamer has a special smooth nozzle with several holes for steam to escape. A loop can be attached to it, which makes it easier to process narrow webs. The steam cleaner has many attachments, but none of them are suitable for cleaning delicate curtains or clothing.
- Floor-standing steamers have telescopic rods, with which clothes can be ironed while hanging. The steam power here is calculated in such a way that the curtain hanging on the eaves does not have to be held in the desired position. In the case of steam cleaners, this is not provided; you have to work in a horizontal plane.
- It is quite difficult to achieve a smoothing effect from a steam cleaner: the steam power is too high. In steamers, this figure is much lower, resulting in straightening of the fibers under the influence of high temperatures.
Advice
Even if the final choice was made in favor of a steam cleaner, it is necessary to have a separate nozzle specifically for curtains. It is desirable that there are several holes in it, and not just one. This approach will preserve the quality of the material and prevent it from damage and wear.
Difference from a steam cleaner
A steamer and a steam cleaner work on a similar principle and look approximately the same, what is their difference? And which device is best for curtains?
Steamers were introduced to the market as textile care equipment, the main functions of which are ironing, cleaning and disinfection. Steam cleaners are positioned as devices for fighting dirt and are designed more for working with hard surfaces (tables, floors, walls), although their use on things is also acceptable. For curtains - as a last resort (possible, but inconvenient).
The floor-mounted curtain steamer has a telescopic rod, making it easier to iron fabric by weight. The steam cleaner does not have such an attachment - it can only be operated in a horizontal plane. Due to the fact that steam is supplied under high pressure (to effectively remove dirt), it is not able to perfectly smooth textiles. Whereas a steamer allows you to regulate the level of steam power, which gives a good smoothing effect.
If you still prefer a steam cleaner, buy a separate attachment for it, designed specifically for ironing curtains. Ideally, there should be several holes on it (to reduce the steam power), and not just one - this will contribute to more gentle processing of the fabric.
Features of working with vertical type devices
The main advantages of a vertical steamer are the ability to iron clothes while hanging and the absence of direct contact with the item. The product is placed on a hanger (sometimes it comes with the device), after which you just need to move the nozzle at a certain distance from the surface of the object. At the same time, the degree of wear of textiles is reduced, the processing is very delicate and effective. After just a few minutes, all wrinkles are smoothed out, germs are destroyed, stains are eliminated.
It is worth considering that in cases of heavy contamination, the device will have to help. Dirt or grease cannot simply evaporate. In some cases, at the initial stage of work, not the most aesthetic stains will appear, there is no need to despair, you just need to work more actively with the steamer. When treating greasy stains, the substance may melt and come to the surface; you just need to remove it with a clean cloth and continue working until the perfect result.
When using a vertical steamer, there are a few things to consider.
- Do not add detergents to the tank unless recommended in the instructions.
- For cheap models, it is necessary to use the purest possible drinking water, otherwise streaks may appear. High-quality and expensive models can also work on tap water.
- The power of the device must correspond to the quality and density of the fabric. Don't try to get quick results by increasing the steam supply.
- You should not send new curtains to the wash; it is better to treat them with a steamer. This will eliminate all specific odors and smooth the surface of the products.
All of the above points apply equally to both floor-standing and hand-held appliances, the only difference is in their power.
How to choose?
There are household and stationary steamers. According to their design, they are divided into manual and floor-mounted. Let's take a closer look at what characteristics to focus on when choosing a device for the home, and what characteristics to use for work in enterprises. We will also make a rating of the best models of 2021 and describe them in detail.
Manual
When choosing a manual steamer, be guided by the following technical parameters:
- power - at least 1000 W;
- number of modes - from 2 to 3;
- the length of the power cord is at least 2 m;
- Steam iron material: metal;
To choose a professional-type curtain steamer, adhere to the characteristics:
- water tank volume is at least 1 liter;
- hose length from 1.2 m or more;
- steam intensity from 30 g/min;
- presence of supply pressure;
- at least 3 steam supply modes;
- steam hose length - from 1.2 m and more;
- Availability of scale protection systems and automatic shutdown;
- lint brushes included.
Hand models are varied, they differ from each other both in size and in appearance. Some resemble electric kettles, others resemble clothes brushes, and others resemble mini irons. Portable hand-held models are valuable due to their compactness. You can take them with you on a trip. Please note that a model with a long cord of 2m or more is always preferable. This gives it mobility and independence from the extension cord. Let's turn to the list of reliable, proven models and consider their advantages and disadvantages.
Philips GC361/20 Steam&Go
pros
- stylish design;
- ergonomics;
- fits comfortably in the hand;
- steams from any angle.
Minuses
- a bit heavy;
- small water tank;
- no loop for hanging;
- After work you need time to cool down.
From 5590 ₽
ON GOODS FOR PURCHASES YANDEX.MARKET
The device is equipped with a removable water tank of 0.7 l. Cord length 3 meters. With a power of 1200 W, the device can easily cope with fabrics of any density. Has a horizontal steam function. A device with a metal brush attachment and a steam supply of 22 g/min will smooth out thick and delicate fabrics equally well. Clothes with delicate voluminous decor, any daytime curtain and nighttime curtain will be properly brought into a perfectly neat appearance.
MIE Piccolo
pros
- powerful jet of steam;
- easy to use;
- can be used as an electric kettle.
Minuses
- takes a long time to warm up;
- When steaming, you can tilt it no more than 30-45 degrees;
- not for travel.
From 2490 ₽
ON GOODS FOR PURCHASES YANDEX.MARKET
The powerful 1200 W model is nevertheless convenient and easy to use. Cute design with a comfortable handle. There is an auto shut-off function. Steam supply reaches 40 g/min. An ideal compact option for small apartments. Using the vertical steaming method, the device will easily straighten folds and creases on clothes, regardless of the thickness of the fabric and the shape of the sewing. A transparent window on the device allows you to monitor the water level. The kit includes a Teflon-coated mitten. Cord length 2.1 m.
Polaris PGS 1412C
pros
- easy;
- compact, you can take it with you on the road;
- powerful;
- small price.
Minuses
- small tank;
- low steam temperature.
From 1990 ₽
ON GOODS FOR PURCHASES YANDEX.MARKET
Portable, lightweight and convenient model with a power of 1400 W. The device gives things a fresh and neat look. Smoothes all types of fabrics, including synthetic ones. Cord length 2 m. Water tank 0.09 l. This handheld device is ideal to take with you on trips. The model generates an intense steam flow well. Includes a cleaning fluffy brush and a carrying case. To avoid wet marks on clothes and fabrics, allow time for the device to warm up to maximum temperature.
Kitfort KT-916
pros
- stylish design;
- during operation, the steam button is fixed;
- nice price;
- instant heating;
- high quality plastic.
Minuses
- cord less than 2m;
- difficult to remove water tank.
From 1590 ₽
ON GOODS FOR PURCHASES YANDEX.MARKET
Convenient model with a 0.22 l water tank. It has a vertical steam function with adjustable steam supply of 20 g/min. Power 900-1100 W. Despite the fact that the cord length is 1.7 m, it is nevertheless a very good option for the home. Its weight is 0.9 kg. The kit includes a fluffy brush attachment. Excellent for smoothing thick outerwear and delicate items with any complex elements, ruffles and other decorative elements.
Unique qualities of professional models
Professional models have become increasingly popular lately. Now they are used not only in dry cleaners, hotels and restaurants, but also at home. Such devices allow you to spend a minimum of time on household chores processing textiles, which is appreciated by modern housewives.
Main advantages of a professional approach
- High power, which allows you to significantly reduce the processing time of one product. At the same time, there are also delicate modes, which allows you not to worry about the quality of the fabric.
- Large reservoir for long-lasting operation without the need to add fluid.
- The location of the switches on the body allows for foot control, so there is no need to break away from the ironing process.
- Such models come with reinforced racks that can support even heavy, bulky items.
- The design is made of more durable materials, which minimizes the risk of damage to individual elements during operation.
The cost and dimensions of such devices increase significantly compared to home options, but in some cases this approach pays off.
Conclusion
Judging by the reviews of women who already use steamers, every family should have such a device. Efficiency and convenience are obvious; you just need to choose a model that meets all the stated requirements. As practice shows, manual options are more common. They are convenient to use not only for caring for curtains, but also for processing clothes and small textiles. In this case, you will have to spend a little more time, but you will not have to adapt to the size of the product and experience discomfort from it.
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