We know that ironing is right up there amongst the most unpopular household chores. Navigating pleated, ruffled or intricate and delicate textiles with a regular iron is complicated and time-consuming. So it might be time to step away from the faithful iron and into the future.
Garment steamers have been around for a while, but now they've become a popular household item thanks to the emergence of the hand-held mini steamer, especially recently due to their germ-busting capabilities. Compared to a regular iron, clothes steamers are speedy - you don’t need to battle the ironing board or endlessly turn the clothes around to achieve perfection. If you’d like to get your chores done quicker, let's help you find the right steamer from our picks, available in the UK, from Amazon, Argos, John Lewis and eBay.
Quick List - Top Clothes Steamers
Morphy Richards
A Fantastic All-Rounder With the Best Selection of Steam Modes
Tefal
A Compact and Stylish, High Price-Point Hybrid Steamer, Which Can be an Iron Too!
Fridja
A Powerful Upright Steamer With Wheels for Portability
Russell Hobbs
Easy and Comfortable to Use With Bonus Lint and Upholstery Brushes
A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.
Table of Contents
Firstly decide if you want your steamer to be handheld or upright - consider portability, storage, quantity of clothing and fabric type. Also think about whether you want to replace your regular iron, or if you intend to use your steamer for touch-ups alongside it.
Handheld steamers generally have a lower power wattage and lower continuous steam rate (CSR), so they struggle when it comes to tackling heavy wrinkles. However, they’re small and compact, making them perfect for those who have limited storage space or who travel a lot.
Upright steamers are considerably bigger and bulkier, although no more so than an ironing board. They’ll often have a power that exceeds 1500 W and a large enough water tank capacity to see that you breeze through a full pile of washing.
If you'd like to broaden your laundry options even further, check out our suggestions covering steam irons, steam generator irons and the very best ironing boards.
If you’ve never before heard of the continuous steam rate (CSR), the clue is in the name. This measurement refers to how much steam is continuously released by the garment steamer - so it's an accurate indicator of how strong and quick your chosen device will be. For handhelds, you can expect between 20-25 g/min, whereas if you opt for an upright, you can see the CSR increase to 30+ g/min. Unfortunately, not all handheld steamers give this rating.
As you’d assume, the lower the measurement, the longer the steaming process will take and the more your steamer will struggle with robust fabrics - so you need to consider what you plan to use your steamer for. If it’s to touch up little creases on a shirt from the wardrobe, 25 g/min should be enough. If you want to tackle denim jeans or heavy curtains, you will need a stronger model.
If, as we mentioned, your steamer doesn’t mention its CSR, then you can look at the wattage as an indicator of how powerful it will be. Again, there will be a divide between handheld and upright models, so set your expectations accordingly.
Generally speaking, the smaller steamers will range from 800-1500 W, whereas the uprights will be labelled 1500+ W. Again, the greater the power, the faster the job will be to finish. However, a mightier steamer is also likely to be bigger and bulkier to handle and store.
The tank capacity (how much water the steamer holds) determines how long you will be able to enjoy your powerful steam. If the tank is bigger, then the steam will be delivered for much longer, saving you the hassle of repeatedly re-filling with water. However, this is only a vital consideration if you’re planning to take on big piles of washing or tough fabrics.
If you’re sharpening up a dress or fixing up your suit trousers, then you shouldn’t need too much water. The handheld models vary in capacity greatly from 70-260 ml, so even if you’re only freshening up your clothes, it makes sense to buy one that will last longer.
When it comes to upright steamers, these range from 1 to 2+ litres. The top end of this range means you’ll have more than enough to do all of everyone’s wardrobe, if you feel up to it. But, even 1 L should be enough for your average pile of washing.
We know that different fabrics require different treatments, so if you’re going to be working on several types of textiles, then it’s worth taking time to pick a steamer that comes with multiple heat and steam settings or modes.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Morphy Richards Handheld Garment Steamer|361000 | ![]() | A Fantastic All-Rounder With the Best Selection of Steam Modes | |
2 | Tefal Cube High Pressure Garment Steamer|UT2020 | ![]() | A Compact and Stylish, High Price-Point Hybrid Steamer, Which Can be an Iron Too! | |
3 | Fridja Professional Vertical Garment Clothes Steamer|F1000 | ![]() | A Powerful Upright Steamer With Wheels for Portability | |
4 | Russell Hobbs Steam Genie|25600 | ![]() | Easy and Comfortable to Use With Bonus Lint and Upholstery Brushes | |
5 | Tefal IXEO Power All-In-One Iron and Clothes Steamer Solution|QT2020 | ![]() | An Adaptable Board and Steamer That'll Sail Through Piles of Laundry and Replace Your Existing Kit | |
6 | Philips Steam and Go Plus|GC362/86 | ![]() | Great for Quick Refreshes Thanks to a 45-Second Heat-Up Time | |
7 | Swan Handheld Garment Steamer|SI12020N | ![]() | Affordable, Effective and Able to Steam Horizontally Too | |
8 | Tefal Pro Style Steam|IT3440 | ![]() | A High-CSR Steamer From the Experts at Tefal | |
9 | Cosicosy Portable Clothes Steamer | ![]() | A Really Tiny Travel Steamer Which Doubles Up as a Dry Iron | |
10 | Pro Breeze Garment Steamer | ![]() | A Compact Option Perfect for Travel |
We love it when a company that we know and trust delivers, as it reaffirms our faith in them all over again, and this is what Morphy Richards have done here. This handheld is a brilliant appliance that is also well-priced, which is surely what most of us hope to find in a purchase.
The steamer has everything, from a respectable CSR and wattage, to a decent water tank for its size and even an additional brush. Where it stands apart from the other smaller steamers is its inclusion of two different heat/steam modes, which is impressive compared to most other handheld models. For these reasons, this quality product takes our number 1 spot.
This uniquely-designed steamer from trusted-brand Tefal is a hybrid of a standalone and a handheld steamer, with yet another added bonus of acting as a regular iron too! The price point makes it an investment item, but we are certain you won't be disappointed.
The appliance also has a 1.1 L tank capacity and runs at an amazing 90 g/min - with an optional boost taking it to 200 g/min for short periods. Wow! Furthermore, its compact cuboid shape makes it much easier to store neatly away when not in use - or you could leave it out on display, as it looks stylish enough!
The ample tank holds 2.2 litres and allows this steamer to run continuously for over 65 minutes, at an impressive 30 g/min steam output. It is on wheels, making it perfect for those who like to frequently clean and straighten not only clothes, but other fabrics around the home.
This steamer also comes with a wonderful array of different accessories to ensure that whatever you like to clean will be done so with the utmost ease. It's an excellent price for an impressive piece of kit.
While this Russell Hobbs number won't win any awards for its looks, it functions well, and that's arguably the most important thing. We particularly love the design as it utilises a steam lock system, so you don't have to continue pressing and risk injuring your trigger finger.
Moreover, there is a decent-length cord and a good-sized water tank. Unusually, for a handheld device, it also comes with an array of different accessories - upholstery, lint and fabric brushes. These inclusions make it an excellent choice for those who like to keep on top of all their textiles.
If you're someone who plans to (or already does) take their steaming seriously, then you're going to love the IXEO from Tefal. Its wheels allow it to be easily manoeuvred around the home and its board can be positioned upright, at a 30-degree angle or horizontally, depending on which is best for you.
Allowing you to ditch your regular iron and ironing board, this appliance has three different heat settings, 1600 W of power and an impressive 35 g/min of steam. Even larger loads will be finished and looking fresh before you know it.
With a rapid 45 second heat-up time, this steamer from Philips means business. As well as firing up quickly, it's also great against a range of fabrics thanks to its CSR and power. Plus, the long cord length and low weight make it very comfortable to use.
It does have a far-below-average size of water tank, although we think this indicates what the steamer was designed for – quick touch-ups rather than extended use. The device can be used in both vertical and horizontal positions, making it a versatile piece of kit whether at home or away.
While it might be small, this handheld steamer from Swan packs enough of a punch to ensure you keep on top of your clothing maintenance. The device will quickly and effectively remove crinkles, wrinkles and odours and can even be used in both upright and horizontal positions.
Furthermore, it's ergonomic, easy to use and has a 250 ml tank capacity. Some buyers found the tank to be a little leaky though, which is something you might find frustrating if you want to steam at awkward angles.
While Tefal might be better known for creating good-quality cooking equipment, they've also branched out and are making other useful goodies for the home. Thankfully, they've maintained their high standards and reasonable prices with the Pro Style Steam.
Its standout features are its impressive 30 g/min continuous steam rate, followed by the three different heat settings - allowing you to tackle any fabric type. It comes with only one accessory brush, however and some reviews report dripping, making clothes wetter than expected.
This tiny travel steamer packs down small enough to fit in any overnight bag - so it's perfect for when you need to look your best for a morning meeting or event. Despite its small stature, it provides 10 minutes of continuous steaming, thanks to the 150 ml tank.
You can also use this gadget as a traditional dry iron - by not activating the steam setting. This 'ironing' option is one of 5 settings, also including a 'sterilisation' option to quickly sanitise items. Obviously it isn't designed for steaming numerous outfits / fabrics, but it's a great, miniature take-along piece of kit.
While it may not have the stylish looks of the other appliances in our ranking, this offering from Pro Breeze is a great portable-yet-sturdy option; it even comes with a travel pouch. The long nozzle design helps you target areas more precisely.
However, due to the compact size and the travel concept, there are some flaws, such as the low wattage and the lack of any additional settings or brushes. Still, for something fuss-free and robust enough to chuck into your suitcase, it'll still ensure you look sharp for your evening meal out.
Yes, steaming bedding, duvets, pillows and mattresses will kill off bed bugs at any stage of their lifecycle! Bedbugs cannot withstand temperatures above 50 C (for steam to be produced you know that the temperature is at least 100 C), but you do need to keep the steam powering on the same area for 20 minutes. Remember to hoover up any deceased bed bugs after treating them with steam.
Yes, when so many people are concerned about sanitising coats, toys and other hard-to-clean fabric items, clothes steamers come out on top. Steamers are also better than irons if you have limited space and hate wrestling with an ironing board. However, if you are regularly tackling denim jeans or heavy curtains, your best bet is a more traditional steam iron or a steam-generating iron.
Written and researched by Lewis Clark
No. 1: Morphy Richards|Handheld Garment Steamer|361000
No. 2: Tefal|Cube High Pressure Garment Steamer|UT2020
No. 3: Fridja|Professional Vertical Garment Clothes Steamer|F1000
No. 4: Russell Hobbs |Steam Genie|25600
No. 5: Tefal|IXEO Power All-In-One Iron and Clothes Steamer Solution|QT2020
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Automotive
Baby Products
Beauty
Books
Business, Industry & Science
Computers & Accessories
DIY, Garden & Tools
Electronics & Photo
Fashion
Grocery
Health & Personal Care
Home & Kitchen
Large Appliances
Musical Instruments & DJ
PC & Video Games
Pet Supplies
Sports & Outdoors
Stationery & Office Products
Toys & Games