How to use a steam generator for ironing linen and clothes: the principle of operation and rating of the best

Rating of the best home steam generators according to reviews

Based on the reviews, there are several manufacturers that produce the highest quality and most efficient steam generators:

1. Philips. For many years it remains the sales leader in the market. The cost of their models is high, but they are distinguished by a long service life, high power, good steam intensity;
2. MIE. The brand is not well known, but at the same time it successfully produces modern ironing equipment. In their arsenal there are high-quality models of steam generators that will not cost a pretty penny;
3. Tefal. The models of this brand are reliable. An excellent combination of the cost of the product and its quality characteristics;
4. Bosch. The high cost of the models does not make them affordable for everyone, but the characteristics of the products are excellent;
5. Braun. The main advantage of their products is the production of high-quality steam, which allows you to iron things efficiently.

The steam generator can be used as an assistant on the road, traveling or as a full-fledged ironing unit at home. Convenience lies in the fact that you can use it when cleaning premises.

It is only important to choose the right model that will cope with the tasks

If you do not want to spend a lot of time on ironing, then you should think about buying a steam generator, as it copes with its functions very efficiently.

Types of irons

If we consider modern models, then they differ not only in design, but also in a set of functions. Iron classification:

• road-type models;
• for home use.

If you are planning a trip on vacation or a business trip, it is better to prefer a compact model, lightweight, equipped with a folding handle. They have all the necessary modes for a comfortable ironing. As for the home appliance, it is usually more powerful, larger and has many additional functions.

Another difference:

• devices powered by a power cord;
• cordless irons.

For the home, cord models are most often chosen, but the length of the cord should be at least 2 m. It is inconvenient to work with a shorter cord, since it is “tied” to an outlet, and an extension cord may be required. It is good if the cord has a strong and flexible fabric cover. The most convenient models in work are those where the wire can rotate 360 ​​degrees, with the possibility of winding. Wireless devices can boast of their mobility, but you need to get used to them - for recharging, such irons are placed on a special base.

Steam generator: what is it for

The essence of the operation of such a device is that it heats water to very high temperatures, converting it into steam. Then, hot steam is dispensed under pressure to the desired surface.

The steamers are easy-to-use multifunctional appliances designed for the care of textiles.

The steam generator has comprehensive functionality in terms of curtains care. He is able to cope with all basic tasks.

• Smoothing the fabric with steam. As simple and quick as possible, it removes the curtains from jams, while they do not need to be removed.
• Elimination of contamination. Easily liquefies dirt, grease stains, effectively cleaning fabric.
• Removing odors. Textiles actively absorb any aromas, hot steam will help get rid of them.
• Antibacterial treatment. Both harmful microorganisms and dust mites can accumulate in the curtains. Steam generator treatment will get rid of them due to high temperatures.

The steamer is a device designed to work with textiles. The impact on the fabric is carried out with a jet of steam.

Depending on the main task, steam generators are divided into steamers and steam cleaners. The difference between these devices is that they serve different purposes.

The steam cleaner for curtains works on the basis of dry steam. It is used to get rid of stains, germs, and kill dust mites. This method of cleaning curtains has advantages. Firstly, this method is the most gentle. The device does not exert any mechanical effect on them, which excludes damage to the tissue structure, leaving puffs. Secondly, the curtain steam cleaner eliminates the need for chemicals.

This method of cleaning is the safest for health, which is especially important if there are small children or allergy sufferers in the house.

The steamer, in turn, works on the basis of dispensing wet steam. Its task is to smooth out the curtains, give them a presentable look. It is mainly used on those types of fabrics that are difficult or contraindicated to iron.

Attention! Before starting work, be sure to read the markings on the fabric label. If there is such an icon, then steaming is prohibited.

There are two main types of steamers: manual and stationary (vertical), but only one of them is suitable for curtains.

Ironing curtains with such a device is carried out quickly and with better quality.

This is because the handheld steamer is too low-powered to handle items as large as curtains. It is only suitable for clothing. And his water tank is very small - from 40 to 90 ml, which is extremely inconvenient.

The steam generator for curtains is vertical, i.e. stationary, will become an indispensable assistant in this matter

True, there are some nuances here that you need to pay attention to.

The device not only iron, but also cleans and disinfects the fabric.

Rating of the best steam irons for the home

Philips GC 9682/80

The iron with a great design has a power of 2700 W, a steam pressure of 8 bar and a water tank of 1800 ml. It is equipped with a special technology that allows you to put the device on the fabric without the risk of burning. When steaming vertically, the powerful jet escaping from the iron will quickly smooth out creases and the toughest creases on any item.

Advantages:

• ease of use;
• high performance;
• powerful transformation;
• multifunctionality;
• chic design.

There were no drawbacks to this model.

Philips GC 9670/50

The compact and beautiful device has a low weight, a powerful steam generator and a voluminous container for water, which includes 1800 ml. It has a slippery sole, several modes of vaporization and a power of 2700 watts. The iron is well fixed in a special niche and is equipped with a water filter.

Advantages:

• easy to use;
• good build quality;
• excellent power;
• multifunctionality;
• compact and beautiful.

The model has no minuses.

Mie Stiro 1100

Made in Italy, the steam generator features a stainless steel sole, 2,150 watts, excellent quality and a large water tank. It is equipped with a steam boost function that can be used to smooth rough fabrics. The strength of the case is increased by the metal inserts located on it.

Advantages:

• high power and performance;
• there is a mode regulator for controlling the steam supply;
• durable body;
• large fluid reservoir;
• the presence of a constant supply of steam.

The disadvantages of the model include only the large weight of the device.

Tefal GV6732

The French steam generator with a power of 2200 W is equipped with a sintered sole, which has a special coating that protects it from damage. The iron has a steam boost function, a 1,500 ml reservoir and a limescale protection that prevents tap water deposits from building up on the internal elements.

Advantages:

• the presence of an ECO mode;
• the possibility of adding water;
• heats up quickly;
• made of quality materials;
• high power.

The only downside is the absence of an anti-drip system and a spray function.

Bosch TDS 38311 RU

A German iron with a ceramic sole is quite expensive as it belongs to the premium class technique. It has a power of 3100 watts, due to which it can cope with any fabrics and folds. The quality of ironing is significantly increased by the constant steam supply, and the ECO mode allows you to work with natural delicate fabrics.

Advantages:

• steam is supplied under good pressure;
• the presence of temperature control;
• light weight;
• special attachment for ironing fine fabrics;
• branded work surface coating.

The disadvantage of the device is the tank volume of only 1400 ml and the absence of a spray nozzle.

Braun IS 5043 WH

The steam generator from Germany has a power of 2400 W, an aluminum base, a steam pressure of 6 bar and a steam boost function. It is equipped with an automatic device that turns off the iron when a certain temperature is exceeded. The capabilities of the device are expanded by the function of vertical steaming. A built-in filter protects it from limescale formation. The iron's power cord has a length of 1800 cm, which allows you to install the ironing board anywhere and not depend on the presence of a power outlet nearby.

Advantages:

• low water consumption;
• powerful steam supply;
• good sliding;
• long power cord;
• the presence of a filter;
• multifunctionality.

The disadvantages of the model include overpriced and rustic design.

Not all housewives like to iron their clothes and clean the house. To make your homework faster and easier, you can buy yourself an assistant in the form of a steam generator.

How to use the steam generator

Thanks to the hot steam escaping under pressure, the unit can perform the following functions:

• clean blankets, mattresses, pillows from dust and mites;
• disinfect surfaces with hot air;
• clean the tile joints from dirt and mold;
• rid floors, walls and plumbing in the bathroom from soap and limescale;
• clean hoods, ovens, furniture, walls in the kitchen from grease and food contamination;
• remove dirt from carpets and upholstered furniture;
• clean fabrics and remove stains from them;
• steam things in an upright position.

To iron, steam and clean things effectively, you need to use the steam iron correctly:

1. Pour the amount of water specified in the instructions into the tank and select the desired operating mode on the panel (economy, steam generation or powerful steam).
2. Select an ironing temperature that depends on the type of fabric being processed.
3. Connect the equipment to the network and wait for a special signal that will inform you that the device is ready for use.
4. Bring the iron to the surface to be treated and press the steam button. Steam will be discharged as long as the button is pressed.
5. If you need to steam heavily wrinkled items, you can use the steam boost function, the button of which is located at the top of the handle.

During operation, water may run out, which will be indicated by a light indicator located on the control panel. You can add water to the tank without turning off the device. Open the tank carefully so that the steam emanating from it does not harm.

Curtain steamer - rating of the best

As part of the rating, we will consider 5 household models according to three criteria: customer reviews, technical capabilities and convenience when working with different types of fabrics.

1st place. Galaxy GL 6206

Probably the most popular vertical steamer model.

The steamer Galaxy GL 6206 is a modern, unique and multifunctional electrical appliance.

Pros:

• Very powerful, 1800 W
• With a large 2.3L water tank
• Good steam output - up to 40 mg / min
• The heating time is also pleasing - only 35 seconds
• At the same time, he is able to work without interruption for more than an hour - 65 minutes
• There is a steam supply adjustment and 8 different modes for different fabrics. Due to the high power
• Has a huge number of positive reviews, due to the affordable price and good quality of work.

It combines the functions of ironing, cleaning and disinfection.

Minuses:

The owners point out the main drawback - a short cord, which badly affects the convenience of steaming.

2nd place. Kitfort KT-913

Slightly inferior in its characteristics to the leader of the rating, but also has high ratings from the owners.

With its help, you can not only steam clothes, but also iron the curtains without removing them from the curtains.

Pros:

• The most powerful of all in the rating, 2000 W
• Sufficient steam flow rate - 35 mg / min, although it could be more
• A good indicator of water heating time - 1.5 minutes
• There is a four-mode adjustment of the steam supply
• Handles thick fabrics well
• Attractive design
• A large number of components

In addition to ironing and steaming, the steamer processes things with a powerful jet of hot steam, thus carrying out cleaning and disinfection.

Minuses:

• Not too large water tank, only 1.3 liters
• Short power cord for curtains

3rd place. MIE Steam Master

Deservedly included in the top three, thanks to customer reviews, compactness and versatility.

It can be used in three modes: vertical steaming, horizontal ironing and portable steaming.

Pros:

• Good power at 1800W
• Rapid water heating in 30 seconds
• Very high steam flow rate - 80 mg / min
• Perfectly smoothes even very dense fabrics
• Multifunctionality thanks to various accessories: ironing, steaming, cleaning.
• 4.8m long cord helps with curtains

The compact, powerful and versatile MIE Steam Master steamer will become a reliable and irreplaceable assistant in your household.

Minuses:

• There is no button to rewind such a long cord
• Very small water tank - only 0.9 l, it is inconvenient to pour water into it

4th place. Philips GC527 / 20 Easy Touch Plus

Owners like it for its compactness and delicate work.

It has good ergonomics and performance and does not take up much space in the apartment.

Pros:

• Average power with an indicator of 1600 W
• Convenient size of the water tank - 1.6 liters.
• Five different modes for different types of fabrics
• Perfectly steams all types of curtains, tulle
• There is a descaling system
• The cord is not too short, medium length - 2 m.

The Philips EasyTouch Plus steamer is designed for daily use and quick wrinkle removal.

Minuses:

• The handle and hose of the appliance become noticeably hot during operation
• Not impressive steam flow of 32 g / min.

5th place. Polaris PGS 1806VA

Customers liked it due to its budget and ease of use.

The steamer Polaris PGS 1806VA is suitable for ironing all types of fabrics.

Pros:

• Good power - 1800W
• Produces steam at 40 g / min
• Heats up quickly in 35 seconds
• There is a function of adjusting the steam supply
• Very budget
• Not heavy, weighs less than 3 kg

The hot steam treatment, thanks to the non-contact method, treats even delicate fabrics with care.

Minuses:

• Tank volume too small at 0.6 l
• Difficulty putting on the steaming nozzle
• The hose is kinked in some places

ATTENTION! Whichever steam generator for curtains you choose, remember the safety precautions. Always direct the first jet of steam to the side - it is too strong and too long

During operation, hold the device carefully so that the hot steam does not accidentally burn you!

The steamer is suitable for efficient processing of fabrics at home.

It should be understood that all steam generators listed in the rating are domestic, i.e. for household use! If you need more power and efficiency, then a professional steam generator is suitable for you.

Selection criteria for steam generators

Home appliance stores offer a large selection of steam generators, among which you need to choose the most suitable device for certain purposes.Therefore, first of all, you need to decide why you need a steam generator and what functions it should perform in the house.

Power and steam

The power indicator is very important, since it determines what kind of work the unit can handle. For daily cleaning and frequent ironing, you can purchase equipment with low power, which is not very expensive. In order for the device to quickly heat up and cope with many tasks, it is recommended to select a power from 2700 to 3000 W.

Steam can be supplied at different pressures depending on the model. The device works most effectively with a steam pressure of 6 bar. With the help of such a device, suits and outerwear hanging on a hanger can be steamed without any problems. In addition to high pressure, the steam generator must be equipped with:

• vertical steaming, which supplies steam in the vertical position of the unit;
• steam boost with an indicator from 95 to 260 g / min, with which you can cope even with very wrinkled and overdried dense fabrics;
• steam jet productivity, the indicator of which should be in the range of 90-140 g / min.

Tank volume

The volume of the water tank can be from 700 to 2200 ml. Units with a large capacity are needed only for cleaning large houses or ironing many things at once. But so that the device can be hidden in a closet or other secluded place, it is recommended to choose steam generators with small reservoirs. The fluid reservoir should be transparent so that you can monitor the water level.

Working hours

All steam generating devices are divided into the following types:

• without a regulator;
• with a steam power regulator;
• devices with automatic regulators that adjust themselves to the type of fabric.

It is better to choose a unit that has a regulator with which it will be possible to adjust the device to a certain temperature.

Outsole material

Steam irons can have different sole coverings:

1. Sintered metal heats up and cools down quickly, is scratch resistant and glides on freely. The downside is the fragility of cermet.
2. The aluminum coating cools and heats up quickly, but it often gets scratched. Also, after using aluminum soles, puffs and shiny marks may remain on the fabrics.
3. The steel coating is durable, not susceptible to scratches, glides well on fabrics and cleans quickly. However, the steel is quite heavy and takes a long time to heat up.
4. Titanium soles are durable and reliable. But they have poor conductivity, so they heat up for a long time.
5. Aluminum with stainless steel is a tough coating that does not leave marks on fabrics, is easy to clean and glides on perfectly.
6. Ceramic coated aluminum has good sliding properties and high thermal conductivity, but this combination is not very strong.
7. Aluminum paired with Teflon will glide perfectly, but scratches often remain on such a coating.

When choosing the material of the soleplate of the iron, you should also pay attention to the location of the steam vents. For good steaming, it is recommended to choose a sole on which the holes are located along the entire length and even on the toe

Extra options

In addition to power and other basic parameters, when choosing a steam generator, it is important to pay attention to additional functions and equipment:

Security

It is very important that the fasteners are reliable, especially in a home where small children live.
Adding detergent. It is recommended to select appliances that can work with detergents

With their help, you can disinfect the house and clean various stains.
Aspiration. Cleaning will take place faster and better if the vacuum cleaner-steam generator is equipped with a dust suction function.
Hose length. This is a very important parameter as it is not very convenient to work with short hoses.
The weight. The iron should be chosen so that the hand does not get tired of working with it.Therefore, you need to think over the volume of the tank, since the larger the tank, the heavier the device is.

How to use

The home steam generator is an easy-to-use device. Most models only require a few simple steps:

1. Fill the reservoir with water. Watch the restraints carefully so you don't pour too little or too much.
2. Connect the device to the mains and wait for a sound signal informing that the steam generator is ready to work.
3. Aim the device at the surface to be steamed and press the button.

Remember that this is not an ordinary household iron and must be handled with care. Make sure that steam does not come into contact with the skin, otherwise serious burns cannot be avoided.

Open the steam station carefully, as hot steam can escape from it and burn you.

How to take care of the appliance

Steam generators for ironing linen and clothes must be descaled regularly to prolong their service life. The procedure consists of two stages:

1. Descaling the iron.
2. Steam generator tank cleaning.

To properly descale the iron, fill the boiler with water and heat the appliance to maximum. If the model provides for the inclusion of the "Cleaning" mode, if not, take the device in your hands and, continuously pressing the steam supply lever, empty the tank above the sink.

To descale the tank, disconnect the device from the mains and let it cool completely (this will take about two hours). The removable boiler is filled with water (about 300 ml), shaken well, then emptied over the sink. The non-removable tank is cleaned in the same way, only the base is not shaken, but carefully turned over the sink 3-4 times.

It is not recommended to use acid solutions, vinegar, descaling agents.

Most models are equipped with a warning system that reminds you of the need for cleaning. If there is no such system, it is recommended to descale after every 10th use.

Important recommendations for selection

Every buyer wants to buy a good and high-quality product, so there are a few important rules to consider before buying. They will help you choose a comfortable and functional ironing board for clothes and linen.

So, here are some important tips for choosing an ironing board:

The material from which the ironing board is made. It should be borne in mind that if the structure is made of wood, then it will last little and will quickly become unusable.

If the tabletop is made of metal with a mesh, then you should pay attention to the density indicator of the cover, if the material is very thin, then a trace of the mesh will remain on it during ironing. Thermoplastic products are considered the best.

During ironing, heat and steam are reflected on them, while things are ironed evenly and efficiently;
Height adjustment. You should not choose structures with a large number of height positions, they will not last long. The best option would be products with 2-3 height positions;
Availability of additional accessories. Modern models of ironing boards are often complemented by an outlet, cord, shelves for linen, removable sleeves, hangers, supports for installing appliances;
Additional functions. Ironing boards can have several functions that can make ironing easier - pressurization, countertop heating and vacuum.

If you take into account all the important recommendations when choosing, then you can purchase a good ironing board for a steam generator that will meet your wishes. It is advisable to first study the models that are sold in stores, it is worth considering their characteristics, features and positive qualities. There is no need to look for cheap options with a lot of features. It is worth remembering that when choosing, the main condition should be taken into account - the optimal ratio of quality and price.

You can also find out from our article on the website about folding and built-in ironing boards.

Elite premium devices

If you set maximum tasks for the device, and the price does not matter much, check out the elite-level steam generators.

Braun IS 5043WH

A top-level device from the Brown brand. This is a versatile ironing system. Works in an upright position. The model offers the functions of steam boost up to 340 g / min, eco, spray, steam release through the spout. The model provides LCD display, 360-degree rotation of the cord, heating indicator.

Volume 1400 ml. Power 2400 W. Price RUB 26,990

Pros:

• Multifunctionality
• Automatic temperature setting
• Easy lock system
• Eloxal 3D BackGlide outsole - perfect 360-degree glide
• Auto power off function
• CalcClean descaling system

The downside is the high price.

Philips FC7012 / 01

The Philips handheld steam generator is made of plastic and comes with four microfiber nozzles. The device is easy to disinfect and remove stubborn stains. The strengths of the model include self-cleaning, anti-drip system, low weight and small dimensions.

Capacity 600 ml. Power 1400 W. Price RUB 7489

pros

• triangular shape of the sole;
• long cord for 2.5 meters;
• compact and lightweight body;
• no detergents needed;
• alert about readiness.

Minus - steam boost is rather weak.

Tefal IS 8380

Another Tefal product found its place in the 2018 steam generator ranking. The IS 8380 is a vertical model. It has a regulator of the intensity of steam cleaning. There are 5 modes available for different types of fabric. The reservoir allows you to work without water filling up to 60 minutes, it can be removed.

The power cannot be called high, but it is enough for a pressure of 35 g / min. Steam boost - 170 g / min. The model has an LED control panel, a removable vertical ironing board, clothes hangers and attachments.

Volume 1700 ml. Power 1700 W. The price is about 17,000 rubles.

Pros:

• good equipment;
• functionality;
• works efficiently;
• easy to use;
• the capacity of the tank.

The downside is the high cost.

Steam generators have made ironing an easy process. Appliances will not replace irons, but their purchase is justified when it comes to cleaning and cleaning. They outperform their more familiar competitors in terms of functionality.