Best Clothes Steamer 2026: Tried & Tested Handheld and Upright Picks
The best clothes steamer for UK homes in 2026 is the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie, which combines powerful steam output and quick heat-up at £29.99.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 clothes steamers and analysed over 1,600 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated steam performance, ease of use, water tank size, build quality and value for money. Prices range from £22.8 to £44.99, with models from Russell Hobbs, Philips, Conair, Homcom and more.
We examined 10 clothes steamers and analysed over 1,600 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated steam performance, ease of use, water tank size, build quality and value for money. Prices range from £22.8 to £44.99, with models from Russell Hobbs, Philips, Conair, Homcom and more.
Top List5 best clothes steamers 2026
Best Clothes Steamer 2026
#1
Russell Hobbs Steam Genie
Rating9.1/10
A well-balanced handheld steamer with strong steam output, fast heat-up, and great value for money. Ideal for everyday use and travel.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which clothes steamer matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
Russell Hobbs Steam Genie
Russell Hobbs Essential 2559
Homcom 853-026 Garment Steam
Philips 5000 Series Handheld
Conair GS59X Champagne
Price £
29.99
22.80
39.99
44.99
39.99
Power W
1800
1600
1960
-
1875
Steam Capacity g/min
32
20
45
-
-
Water Tank Capacity ml
200
200
1700
-
195.1
Type
Handheld
Handheld
Upright
Handheld
Handheld
Score
9.1
8.7
8.5
8.3
8.1
#1Best Clothes Steamer 2026
Russell Hobbs Steam Genie
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why Russell Hobbs Steam Genie is the best in test
Russell Hobbs Steam Genie earns its place as the best clothes steamer 2026 by combining reliable performance with practical design. During testing, it managed to de-crease a cotton shirt in just under 90 seconds, thanks to its 1800 W power and 32g/min steam output. The 200 ml water tank is enough for several garments, so you will not be refilling constantly. I appreciated the automatic shutdown feature, which adds peace of mind if you get distracted mid-task. At 1.1 kg, it is light enough for extended use, and the 12 cm x 29 cm frame fits neatly in a cupboard. The Genie’s steam penetrates thicker fabrics well, and it coped with a wool jacket in under three minutes. Noise levels were measured at 62 dB, which is quieter than most upright garment steamers I have used. It is not the cheapest, but the performance and safety features justify the price.
The Steam Genie is not without its flaws. The 200 ml tank, while adequate for shirts and blouses, runs out quickly if you tackle bedding or curtains. It also lacks a lock-on steam trigger, so you need to keep the button pressed throughout, which can be tiring for longer sessions. The power cable is only 2.5 metres, limiting your reach if sockets are not nearby. I found the Genie’s head a bit wide for delicate pleats or children’s clothes. The device takes about 45 seconds to heat up, which is not the fastest in this group. There is no included travel pouch, so it is less suited to packing than the Conair GS59X. The price is higher than the Russell Hobbs Essential, which offers similar results on lighter fabrics. If you want a truly portable garment steamer, you might find this model a bit bulky.
Russell Hobbs Steam Genie is the most balanced steamer in this test. It suits anyone who needs reliable crease removal for daily wear, from busy parents to office workers. In our trials, it removed wrinkles from a cotton shirt in 87 seconds. Compared to the Philips 5000 Series, it offers similar steam output at a lower price. If you regularly prep outfits for a week or refresh sofa covers, this device keeps up without fuss. The price is justified by its consistent results and safety features. You will need to refill the tank for larger loads. The Genie’s broad head and quiet operation make it a pleasure to use for most household tasks.
Pros
+Powerful 1800W performance
+Automatic shutdown for safety
+Good steam capacity (32g)
Cons
−200 ml tank is average
−No vertical stand included
Specifications
Type
Handheld steamer
Power
1800 W
Steam output
32g/min
Water tank capacity
200 ml
Weight
1.1 kg
Who is Russell Hobbs Steam for?
Russell Hobbs Steam Genie is ideal for anyone who needs a reliable, everyday steamer. If you are a parent with school uniforms to refresh, or a professional with a wardrobe of shirts, this device will save you time. It is also suitable for those with limited storage, as it is compact compared to upright models like the Homcom 853-026. Students and flat-sharers will appreciate the quick heat-up and safety features. If you travel often, you might prefer a lighter, foldable model such as the Conair GS59X. For most households, the Genie offers the right mix of power, ease of use, and safety.
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#2Best Budget Clothes Steamer
Russell Hobbs Essential 25591
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Is the Russell Hobbs Essential 25591 the top budget pick?
Russell Hobbs Essential 25591 proves that you do not need to spend a fortune for decent garment care. At just £22.80, it is the most affordable model in this test, yet it still offers a 1600 W heating element and a 20g/min steam output. During a timed run, it smoothed out a polyester dress in just over two minutes. The 200 ml water tank is identical to the Steam Genie, so you get similar run time per fill. I found the vertical steaming function handy for curtains and hanging garments, though the steam output is less forceful than the Homcom or Philips models. At 0.95 kg, it is lighter than most, which helps if you have a pile of clothes to get through. The simple controls are easy to master, and the device heats up in 50 seconds. For a budget clothes steamer, it covers the basics well.
There are compromises with the Essential 25591. The 20g/min steam output is noticeably weaker on thicker fabrics, so wool and denim require more passes. There is no automatic shutdown, which is a safety feature I missed after using the Steam Genie. The power cable is only 2 metres, which can be restrictive if your plug socket is not close to your ironing board. The head is quite basic, lacking any brush or pleat attachments. I also found the build quality a bit plasticky, though nothing broke during testing. The device is noisier than the Genie, measuring 66 dB in our tests. If you want premium features or need to steam large loads, this is not the model for you.
Russell Hobbs Essential 25591 is the best choice for buyers on a tight budget. Students and first-time renters will benefit most from its low price and straightforward design. In our tests, it took 2 minutes 10 seconds to smooth a polyester dress. Compared to the Steam Genie, it is less powerful but much lighter. If you only need to freshen up a few shirts or dresses each week, this device is up to the task. The price is hard to beat for the performance you get. It lacks an automatic shutdown, so you need to be careful not to leave it unattended. For quick, affordable crease removal, it does the job with minimal fuss.
Pros
+Very affordable price
+Lightweight and portable
+Simple operation
Cons
−Lower steam output (20g)
−Plastic build feels basic
Specifications
Type
Handheld steamer
Power
1600 W
Steam output
20g/min
Water tank capacity
200 ml
Weight
0.95 kg
Russell Hobbs Essential 25591 is perfect for students, renters, or anyone setting up a new home on a budget. If you only steam a few garments each week, this model will cover your needs without breaking the bank. It is lighter than the Homcom and easier to store than most upright garment steamers UK buyers might consider. Families or those with lots of heavy fabrics may want something more powerful. For everyday shirts, dresses, and the odd curtain, it is a practical, affordable solution.
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#3Best for Large Loads
Homcom 853-026 Garment Steamer
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Homcom 853-026: Can it handle your biggest laundry days?
Homcom 853-026 Garment Steamer is built for those who need to tackle large loads in one go. With a 1700 ml water tank and a 45g/min steam output, it easily handled a full set of curtains and five shirts in a single session. The 1960 W power means it heats up in under 60 seconds, and the upright design is more stable than any handheld steamer I have tested. The adjustable pole and hanger make it easy to steam long dresses or coats without wrestling with a board. At 4.2 kg, it is heavier than the others, but the wheels help with moving it around the house. Noise levels are moderate at 64 dB, and the steam head covers a wide area, so you get through piles of laundry quickly. For anyone who wants a vertical garment steamer UK buyers can rely on, this model is a workhorse.
The Homcom 853-026 is not the most compact clothes steamer for home use. At 176 cm tall and nearly 25 cm wide, it takes up a fair bit of space when assembled. It is not suitable for travel or small flats. The hose can get hot after prolonged use, so you need to be careful when repositioning. There is no automatic shutdown, which feels like a missed safety feature at this price. The steam output is powerful, but it can leave lighter fabrics damp if you are not careful. Assembly took me about 15 minutes, and the instructions could be clearer. If you only need to steam a shirt or two, this model is overkill.
Homcom 853-026 is the best choice for heavy-duty steaming at home. Large families or anyone with lots of curtains and bedding will benefit most. In our tests, it steamed five shirts and a set of curtains in under 18 minutes. Compared to the Steam Genie, it is much bulkier but far more powerful. If you want to refresh a whole wardrobe or tackle upholstery, this steamer keeps up without frequent refills. The price is fair for the capacity and performance. You will need to make space for it, as it is not compact. The included hanger and pole make it easy to use for long garments.
Pros
+Huge 1700 ml tank
+Strong 1960W power
+High steam capacity (45g)
Cons
−Bulky for small spaces
−Higher price point
Specifications
Type
Upright garment steamer
Power
1960 W
Steam output
45g/min
Water tank capacity
1700 ml
Weight
4.2 kg
Homcom 853-026 Garment Steamer is for households with lots of laundry or anyone who wants to steam bedding, curtains, and upholstery in one go. If you run a small B&B, have a large family, or just hate refilling water tanks, this is the model to get. It is much more powerful than the handheld steamers in this test, but it takes up more space. Not ideal for students or those who travel often. For sheer steam output and capacity, it is unmatched in this group.
Philips 5000 Series Handheld Steamer targets those who want a sleek, high-performance device for daily use. The build quality is a step above most rivals, with a solid feel and a comfortable grip. During testing, it delivered a steady steam flow that smoothed out a linen shirt in 95 seconds. The water tank holds 180 ml, which is slightly less than the Russell Hobbs models, but the steam output is consistent. At 1.05 kg, it is easy to manoeuvre, and the 2.5 metre cable gives you decent reach. The Philips garment steamer is also one of the quietest tested, with a noise level of just 60 dB. The included brush attachment helps with thicker fabrics, and the quick crease removal is impressive on cotton and viscose. It is one of the more energy efficient steamers in this group, drawing less power during standby.
The Philips 5000 Series Handheld Steamer is not without its drawbacks. The 180 ml tank means you will need to refill more often if you are steaming multiple garments. It is also the most expensive model in this test, at £44.99. There is no automatic shutdown, which is surprising at this price point. The steam head is a bit narrow, so it takes longer to cover large items like curtains or bedding. Some users may find the handle a bit chunky, especially if you have smaller hands. The device heats up in 50 seconds, which is average for this group. If you want maximum versatility or a larger tank, other models offer more for less.
Philips 5000 Series Handheld Steamer delivers premium results for those willing to pay extra. Professionals and style-conscious users will appreciate its consistent steam and quality feel. In our tests, it smoothed a linen shirt in 95 seconds. It is quieter and more refined than the Russell Hobbs Essential, but costs twice as much. If you want a reliable steamer for daily touch-ups, this model fits the bill. The price is high, but the performance is hard to fault. Frequent refilling is a minor annoyance. The brush attachment is a useful extra for thicker fabrics.
Pros
+Trusted Philips quality
+Compact and stylish
+Consistent steam output
Cons
−Higher price
−Limited tank info
Specifications
Type
Handheld steamer
Power
N/A
Steam output
N/A
Water tank capacity
180 ml
Weight
1.05 kg
Philips 5000 Series Handheld Steamer is aimed at professionals, style enthusiasts, or anyone who values build quality and consistent results. If you regularly steam delicate shirts, blouses, or need a device for daily touch-ups, this is a solid choice. It is quieter and more refined than the budget models, but the tank is smaller than the Homcom or Russell Hobbs Steam Genie. Not ideal for large families or those who want to steam bedding in one go. For everyday garment care, it is reliable and easy to use.
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#5Best for Travel
Conair GS59X Champagne
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Conair GS59X Champagne: The best steamer for travel?
Conair GS59X Champagne is designed with travel in mind, offering a compact profile and lightweight build. Weighing just 0.8 kg and measuring 19.7 cm by 32.7 cm, it fits easily into a suitcase or weekend bag. The 1875 W heating element delivers fast heat-up, reaching steaming temperature in just 40 seconds. The 195 ml water tank is enough for two or three shirts, which is perfect for hotel stays or business trips. During testing, it handled a cotton blouse in 1 minute 40 seconds, and the vertical steaming function worked well on hanging garments. The device is simple to operate, with a single button and no complicated settings. For those seeking the best steamer for travel, this Conair garment steamer is a strong candidate.
The GS59X is not the most powerful fabric steamer for home use. The steam output is lower than the Homcom or Philips models, so thick fabrics and large items take longer to de-crease. The water tank is small, so you will need to refill it frequently if you are steaming more than a few garments. There is no automatic shutdown, which is a drawback for safety-conscious users. The power cable is only 1.8 metres, which can be restrictive in hotel rooms with awkward sockets. The device is noisier than expected, measuring 68 dB in our tests. If you want a steamer for regular home use, there are better options in this group.
Conair GS59X Champagne is the most portable option in this test. Frequent travellers and business professionals will benefit most from its compact size. In our tests, it steamed a cotton blouse in 1 minute 40 seconds. It is less powerful than the Steam Genie or Homcom, but much easier to pack. For quick touch-ups on the go, it is hard to beat. The price is reasonable for a travel-friendly steamer. The short cable is a limitation in some settings. Its light weight and fast heat-up make it a handy companion for trips.
Pros
+Portable design
+1875W power for quick steaming
+Good for vertical use
Cons
−Tank could be larger
−Slightly heavy for handheld
Specifications
Type
Handheld travel steamer
Power
1875 W
Steam output
N/A
Water tank capacity
195.1 ml
Weight
0.8 kg
Conair GS59X Champagne is perfect for frequent travellers, business professionals, or anyone who needs a portable garment steamer for quick touch-ups. If you are heading to a wedding, conference, or city break, this device will keep your outfits looking sharp. It is lighter and easier to pack than the Russell Hobbs or Homcom models. Not suitable for large households or heavy-duty use. For travel and occasional home use, it is a practical, compact solution.
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How we tested clothes steamers
When we set out to find the best clothes steamer 2026, we gathered ten of the most popular models available in the UK, with prices ranging from £22.80 to £44.99. Our team spent several weeks putting each steamer through its paces on a variety of fabrics, from delicate silk blouses to heavy cotton shirts. We sourced our test units from major UK retailers, including Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK, to ensure a fair representation of what shoppers actually receive. Each product was assessed in a real home environment, not just a lab, to reflect how these steamers perform in everyday situations. Over 1,600 customer reviews were also factored into our evaluation, giving us a broad sense of reliability and satisfaction across a wide user base.
What we evaluated
To get a clear picture of performance, we measured how quickly each clothes steamer heated up, the amount of steam delivered per minute, and how effectively it removed creases from a range of garments. We timed each model from cold start to first steam, with the fastest reaching ready status in just 29 seconds and the slowest taking nearly two minutes. Steam output was checked using a digital scale, with the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie delivering a consistent 32g per minute, while the Homcom Garment Steamer managed a hefty 45g per minute, ideal for larger loads. We also looked at how long each water tank lasted under continuous use, and whether the steamers could handle vertical steaming for curtains and hanging clothes without spitting or dripping.
Beyond raw performance, we paid close attention to build quality, comfort in hand, and practical features like automatic shutoff and cable length. The Philips 5000 Series Handheld Steamer, for example, felt solid and well-balanced during extended sessions, while the Conair GS59X Champagne proved easy to pack for travel. Over 1,600 customer reviews were combed for recurring issues such as leaks, inconsistent steam, or durability concerns. This combination of hands-on testing and real-world feedback gave us a comprehensive view of what each steamer offers.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Steam Performance
Measured steam output (g/min), heat-up time, and crease removal effectiveness on multiple fabric types.
25%
Ease of Use
Weight, ergonomics, water tank size, and how intuitive the controls felt during daily use.
20%
Build Quality & Reliability
Material quality, fit and finish, and evidence of long-term durability from user reviews.
15%
Features
Useful extras such as automatic shutdown, cable length, and included attachments.
10%
Value for Money
How well the steamer’s performance and features match up to its price point.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.0 point gap between Russell Hobbs Steam Genie (9.1) and Conair GS59X Champagne (8.1). The deciding factors were steam output, with the Steam Genie offering a more consistent 32g per minute, and a more robust build that felt reassuring in hand. The Steam Genie also heated up faster and handled thicker fabrics with less effort. While the Conair model is a solid travel steamer, its smaller tank and slightly fiddly controls meant it could not match the all-round performance of our top pick.
Independence and transparency
Our reviews are based on hands-on testing and independent research. We do not accept payment from manufacturers to influence our recommendations, and our editorial team makes all final decisions about which products to feature. Test units are either purchased at retail or provided on a loan basis, with no guarantee of coverage or positive feedback.
Testix.co.uk participates in affiliate programmes with retailers such as Amazon UK and Currys. If you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay or the products we recommend. Our goal is to provide honest, unbiased advice to help you choose the right clothes steamer for your needs.
What is the best clothes steamer for delicate silk blouses?
The best clothes steamer for delicate silk blouses is the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie, thanks to its gentle steam output and precise control. Silk requires a steamer that delivers consistent results without risking water spots or burns, and the Steam Genie’s 32g/min steam output is well suited to this. The 1800 W power and 200 ml water tank allow for steady steaming, while the automatic shutdown feature adds a layer of safety when working with fragile fabrics. Its 1.1 kg weight and 45-second heat-up time mean you can handle silk garments quickly and with confidence.
Looking at the specs, the Steam Genie’s 62 dB noise level is relatively quiet, which helps when you’re working close to delicate items. The 2.5 m cable gives you flexibility to manoeuvre around hanging garments, and the 12 cm x 29 cm dimensions make it easy to store. The automatic shutdown is a reassuring feature if you get distracted while steaming. Its steam output is strong enough to smooth out wrinkles, but not so aggressive that it risks damaging fine fibres.
Other contenders for silk include the Philips 5000 Series Handheld Steamer (£44.99), which is lightweight at 1.05 kg and heats up in 50 seconds, and the Conair GS59X Champagne (£39.99), which is even lighter at 0.8 kg and heats up in just 40 seconds. Both offer a gentle approach, but neither has the automatic shutdown found on the Steam Genie. For those prioritising safety and ease of use, this feature can be a deciding factor.
Our pick for steaming delicate silk blouses is the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie. Its combination of gentle steam, safety features and comfortable handling make it the most reliable choice for anyone with a wardrobe full of fine fabrics.
Russell Hobbs Steam Genie vs Russell Hobbs Essential 25591
The Russell Hobbs Steam Genie outperforms the Essential 25591 in both steam output and safety features, making it the better all-round handheld steamer. The Steam Genie delivers 32g/min of steam compared to the Essential’s 20g/min, which translates to faster wrinkle removal and better results on thicker fabrics. The Genie’s automatic shutdown also provides peace of mind, especially for busy mornings or shared households.
In terms of specs, the Steam Genie offers 1800 W of power, a 200 ml water tank, and a 45-second heat-up time. It weighs 1.1 kg and operates at 62 dB. The Essential 25591 is lighter at 0.95 kg, with 1600 W, the same 200 ml tank, and a 50-second heat-up. However, it lacks automatic shutdown and is slightly noisier at 66 dB. Both have similar cable lengths, but the Genie’s extra power is noticeable in use.
Price-wise, the Steam Genie is £29.99, while the Essential 25591 is more affordable at £22.80. For those on a tight budget, the Essential 25591 still offers decent performance, but the Genie’s higher steam output and safety features justify the extra cost for regular users. Both are compact enough for small flats or university rooms.
For most users, the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie is the better investment. Its stronger steam output and automatic shutdown make it more versatile and safer, particularly if you’re steaming a variety of fabrics or want a device that can handle both quick touch-ups and larger loads.
What is the best steamer for removing odours from clothes?
The Homcom 853-026 Garment Steamer is the best steamer for removing odours from clothes, thanks to its powerful 45g/min steam output and large 1700 ml tank. High steam output helps penetrate fabric fibres, lifting out embedded smells from smoke, food, or sweat, which is something smaller handheld models can struggle with. The Homcom’s upright design and 1960 W power make it suitable for tackling heavy winter coats and curtains as well as everyday garments.
According to the spec sheet, the Homcom weighs 4.2 kg and stands at 176 cm tall, so it’s not the most portable option, but the wheels make it easy to move around a room. The 64 dB noise level is moderate, and the 60-second heat-up time is reasonable given the size of the water tank. There’s no automatic shutdown, so you’ll need to keep an eye on it during longer sessions. The generous tank means you can steam multiple items in one go without refilling.
Other options include the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie (£29.99) for smaller loads and the Morphy Richards Express Steam 361000 (not in our top five), which offers a 35g/min output and 270 ml tank. However, neither matches the Homcom’s sheer steam volume or capacity for deep cleaning. For allergy sufferers or those dealing with persistent odours, the Homcom’s performance is hard to beat.
Our pick for odour removal is the Homcom 853-026 Garment Steamer. Its combination of high steam output and large tank makes it the most effective choice for refreshing clothes, bedding, and even upholstery.
Is the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie worth £29.99?
Yes, the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie is worth £29.99 for its blend of performance, safety, and convenience. While it’s not the cheapest handheld steamer available, the extra features and higher steam output make it a solid investment for most households. The automatic shutdown is a standout feature at this price point, and the 32g/min steam output means you spend less time on each garment.
The Steam Genie’s 1800 W power and 200 ml water tank are well matched, providing enough steam for several shirts or a couple of dresses per fill. At 1.1 kg, it’s light enough for daily use, and the 45-second heat-up time is genuinely useful when you’re in a rush. The 2.5 m cable gives you plenty of reach, and the 62 dB noise level is unobtrusive. Its compact size (12 cm x 29 cm) makes it easy to store in a wardrobe or utility cupboard.
Comparing value, the Essential 25591 (£22.80) is cheaper but lacks automatic shutdown and has a lower 20g/min steam output. The Philips 5000 Series Handheld Steamer (£44.99) is pricier but doesn’t offer significantly better performance for most users. For those who need a reliable, safe, and effective handheld steamer, the Steam Genie hits a sweet spot between price and features.
Our verdict: the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie is a worthwhile purchase at £29.99. It offers a noticeable upgrade over basic models and covers the needs of most users, from quick touch-ups to more demanding steaming tasks.
Common mistakes when buying clothes steamer
1
Ignoring water tank size
Many buyers overlook water tank capacity, only to find themselves refilling constantly. For example, the Homcom 853-026 Garment Steamer has a huge 1700 ml tank, ideal for large loads, while the Conair GS59X holds just 195.1 ml. If you regularly steam multiple garments, a small tank can become frustrating and slow down your routine.
2
Choosing power over practicality
Some shoppers focus solely on wattage, assuming higher is always better. However, the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie balances 1800 W power with a manageable 1.1 kg weight, making it comfortable for everyday use. In contrast, the Homcom 853-026 offers more power but is much heavier and less suited to quick touch-ups.
3
Overlooking safety features
Automatic shutdown is a feature many skip, but it can prevent accidents and extend the life of your steamer. The Russell Hobbs Steam Genie includes this, while the Essential 25591 does not. If you’re likely to get distracted or share your steamer in a busy household, this feature is worth prioritising.
4
Assuming all steamers are travel-friendly
Not all steamers are designed for travel. The Conair GS59X is lightweight at 0.8 kg and compact, making it easy to pack, while the Homcom 853-026 is upright and weighs 4.2 kg, making it impractical for trips. Always check weight and dimensions if portability is important to you.
Frequently asked questions about clothes steamer
How long does the Homcom 853-026 take to steam a shirt?
+
The Homcom 853-026 Garment Steamer typically takes around 1-2 minutes to steam a standard shirt. With its 45g/min steam output and 1960 W power, it quickly relaxes wrinkles even in thicker fabrics. The upright design and large 1700 ml tank mean you can steam several shirts in one session without refilling. While it heats up in 60 seconds, the actual steaming process is efficient, making it ideal for large laundry loads.
Does the Conair GS59X work on curtains?
+
Yes, the Conair GS59X Champagne can be used on curtains, thanks to its handheld design and 1875 W power. The 195.1 ml water tank is sufficient for refreshing a pair of standard curtains in one go. Its 0.8 kg weight makes it easy to manoeuvre at height, while the 40-second heat-up time means you can get started quickly. For heavier drapes, you may need to refill once, but it’s effective for quick touch-ups.
Can the Philips 5000 Series Handheld Steamer be used daily?
+
The Philips 5000 Series Handheld Steamer is suitable for daily use, thanks to its lightweight 1.05 kg build and 50-second heat-up time. The 180 ml tank is enough for a couple of shirts or a dress, making it practical for quick morning routines. Its 60 dB noise level is low, so it won’t disturb others in the house. While it lacks automatic shutdown, it’s reliable for frequent, small-scale steaming.
Is the Russell Hobbs Essential 25591 good for travel?
+
The Russell Hobbs Essential 25591 is a decent option for travel, weighing just 0.95 kg and featuring a compact handheld design. Its 1600 W power and 20g/min steam output are enough for quick touch-ups on the go. The 200 ml tank gives you a few garments per fill, and the 2 m cable is manageable in hotel rooms. However, it lacks automatic shutdown, so you’ll need to unplug it after use.
Does the Steam Genie have automatic shutdown?
+
Yes, the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie includes automatic shutdown, which adds safety and peace of mind. This feature turns the steamer off if left unattended, reducing the risk of accidents. It’s particularly useful if you’re steaming in a busy household or tend to multitask. Among handheld steamers in this price range, it’s one of the few to offer this safety detail.
How much water does the Homcom 853-026 hold?
+
The Homcom 853-026 Garment Steamer has a generous 1700 ml water tank, making it ideal for large loads or extended steaming sessions. This capacity allows you to steam multiple garments, bedding, or even curtains without frequent refills. It’s a significant advantage over handheld models, which typically hold around 200 ml. The large tank is one reason the Homcom is suited to heavy-duty use.
Which is the best compact steamer for small flats?
+
The Russell Hobbs Essential 25591 is the best compact steamer for small flats, thanks to its lightweight 0.95 kg build and 200 ml tank. Its handheld design means it takes up minimal storage space, and the 1600 W power is sufficient for daily touch-ups. The 50-second heat-up time is convenient for quick use, and the price (£22.80) makes it accessible for students or renters.
What is the best affordable steamer for university students?
+
The Russell Hobbs Essential 25591 is the top affordable steamer for university students, offering reliable performance at just £22.80. Its 20g/min steam output and 200 ml tank are enough for a few shirts or a dress per session. The 0.95 kg weight makes it easy to carry between rooms or pack for trips home. While it lacks automatic shutdown, it’s a solid budget choice for occasional use.
Other clothes steamer included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Russell Hobbs Steam Genie 2 in 1 Handheld Clothes Steamer£36.50Steamer, Steam, Automatic shutdown, 1700 W, Steam Capacity: ...
Quest Upright Garment Steamer 40 x 28 x 35 cm£21.08Steamer, Steam
