Do you need fresh, wrinkle-free clothes quickly and easily? You can’t iron everything — so there must be another option. Right?
Well, there is: handheld garment steamers! You can use these to disinfect and de-wrinkle clothes, curtains, furniture, and more.
To help you find the right one for you, we’ve created a list of the seven best handheld garment steamers on the market. After hours of researching real customer reviews and expert advice, we narrowed it down. We’ll let you know our favorite features about each product — as well as some details you should look out for, too.
- Fast and powerful
- Steams all fabrics
- Leak free in any direction
- Heats in 25 seconds
- Works on all fabrics
- Safe to use
- Great soleplate design
- Perfect for any item
- Powerful and quick to remove wrinkles
- Fast and efficient
- Leak proof design
- Extra attachments
- No leaking in any direction
- Large 280-ml water tank
- User-friendly features
- 360-degree portability
- Advanced technology included
- 3-year warranty
- Portable unit for travellers
- Smooths and freshens clothes
- Steam anything and everything
Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, we strive to provide you with the most reliable and comprehensive analysis of handheld garment steamers. Our team of professionals conducts thorough research, utilizes hands-on experience, and performs rigorous testing to evaluate products from a user’s perspective. We compare various models based on criteria such as performance, design choices, and key decision-making factors. Our assessment includes quantitative measurements, benchmark results, and first-hand evidence to identify what sets a product apart from its competitors. We also review factors like steaming power, water tank capacity, heat-up time, portability, and safety features to help you make an informed decision. Trust our expertise to guide you in finding the best handheld garment steamer for your needs.
The Best Handheld Garment Steamers of 2023
After studying advice from the experts and true customer experience, we’ve compiled a list of the best handheld garment steamers. We’re sure that one of these seven amazing steamers will grab your attention (and de-wrinkle your clothes)!
Get ready to meet the garment steamers of your dreams.
Polardo Travel Garment Steamer
Best Compact Garment Steamer
Just because you’re a free spirit always on the move doesn’t mean you need to look scruffy. Thankfully, the Polardo travel garment steamer is the finest option for de-wrinkling your clothes on the go!
This is a super compact device. It’ll easily fit into your luggage, no matter if you travel light or bring a lot of stuff! Plus, it works on all fabrics. You can rock smooth, crease-free clothes whether you’re wearing cotton or silk.
What We Like
Fast and Powerful
The compact size of the Polardo steamer doesn’t compromise its power. This handheld garment steamer heats up in only 25 seconds. The powerful device gives you 10 minutes of good steam for quick de-wrinkling.
Steam It All
No matter what you choose to wear, the Polardo steamer can be used.
Cotton, silk, linen? Yes. Polyester, wool, velvet? Sure thing!
Plus, many more fabrics work with this steamer.
You can also steam curtains and bedding since this steamer works vertically. The brush attachment helps to keep clothes in good condition.
Leak Free In Any Direction
No one likes a leaky product. Thankfully, the Polardo steamer is leak free. You can use this either horizontally or vertically for versatile steaming.
Stainless Steel Head Removes Wrinkles
Being a stainless steel head, it works to remove all wrinkles from your clothes — and fast. Stainless steel can get really hot, making it a very powerful soleplate.
What We Don't Like
Not the Best for Thick Materials
Shirts, thin dresses, and underwear — this works a charm. But it’s not the best for removing wrinkles from thicker items, like jackets or jeans.
US Travel Only
This steamer doesn’t work abroad. The manual says not to use it on anything other than 110 to 120 voltage, nor to use an adapter. If you want something for traveling across Europe or outside of the US, this will burn out.
Product Specs
| Tank Capacity | 120 ml |
| Steam Time | 10 minutes |
| Weight | 1.2 pounds |
| Compatible Fabrics | All |
| Ease of Use | Horizontal or vertical steaming, leak-proof |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
PurSteam Handheld Steamer for Clothes
Best Budget Pick
You don’t need to break the bank when buying a handheld garment steamer. The PurSteam handheld steamer is affordable and one of the best steamers on the market.
This is an extremely practical and easy-to-use garment steamer. It heats up fast and will eliminate wrinkles in seconds. In fact, customers claim this to be their ideal alternative to ironing — it’s just that good!
What We Like
Heats In 25 Seconds
The PurSteam handheld steamer heats up in 25 quick seconds! The InfaTherm system allows it to get to great heat in great time. From then, you’ll get 10 minutes of continuous steam, making this an excellent product.
Works On All Fabrics
This steamer works with anything. Any fabric, even delicates. It also is ideal for curtains and some furniture. Just be sure not to tilt the steamer, or water will pour from it!
Designed With Safety In Mind
Safety was a priority during the design process of this steamer. When the water tank is empty, the steamer automatically shuts off. This stops the unit from overheating.
Eight-Foot Long Power Cord
We also love that this handheld steamer comes with a long power cord. It allows you to move freely while steaming.
What We Don't Like
Water Leaks
The main drawback to this unit is that it leaks water when tilted. You must be alert while using this steamer because even tilting at a 10-degree angle can cause water to spit and spurt out. This is definitely not convenient.
Removes Wrinkles Slowly
The power of the steam is enough to remove wrinkles, but it does its job slowly. If you’re in a hurry, then this might cause more frustration than you want on a hectic morning!
Product Specs
| Tank Capacity | 130 ml |
| Steam Time | 10 minutes |
| Weight | 1.5 pounds |
| Compatible Fabrics | All |
| Ease of Use | Auto shut-off when empty, vertical steaming only |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Conair CNRGS59 Turbo ExtremeSteam
Best Professional Steamer
If you do laundry professionally, you might want to invest in the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam. This is our top choice for a professional handheld garment steamer for a few reasons.
First, it kills 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria. Your customers will be so thankful that their clothes are both smooth and clean! It can also eradicate bedbugs and dust mites.
This product provides extreme steam. You’ll get better and faster results with this steamer than with other steamers.
Lastly, this is a professional choice because it can steam for up to 20 minutes. When working, time is money. Fewer trips to the tap with the Conair steamer!
What We Like
Great Soleplate Design
With this handheld steamer, you get more steam and hotter steam. The dual-slotted ceramic soleplate gives you a smoother glide for faster results. It also has a built-in creaser for pleats and folds.
This is a pro choice with five heat settings, 1875 watts of power, and a 40-second heat-up time.
Perfect for Any Item
The Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam works for any fabric. It comes with three removable attachments. A silicone band pulls the fabric taut for better results.
The bristle brush removes dust and lint so the steam can penetrate the fabric deeper.
The unit also has five settings, so you can steam anything from delicates to thick sweaters. Finally, the delicate fabric spacer protects fragile items and trims.
Removes Wrinkles Quickly
This hand-held steamer is mighty and powerful! Customers rave about it de-wrinkling anything from curtains to work clothes in just a few passes. Within seconds, you’ll have professional results with this choice.
Removes 99.9 Percent of Bacteria
With all kinds of bugs and viruses flying around, it’s a good idea to disinfect your clothes from time to time. This garment steamer can kill 99.9 percent of bacteria, leaving you with super fresh clothing.
What We Don't Like
Requires Distilled Water
This steamer doesn’t have an anti-calc system, so use distilled water. Otherwise, it will get clogged or dirty and start sputtering unpleasant minerals onto your clothes.
It Weighs Over Three Pounds
While this might not sound like a lot, it’s pretty heavy when you’re steaming all day long! Customers found their arms tired quickly when using this for curtains, drapes, and other upholstery.
Product Specs
| Tank Capacity | 215 ml |
| Steam Time | 20 minutes |
| Weight | 3.6 pounds |
| Compatible Fabrics | All |
| Ease of Use | Doesn’t leak, vertical and horizontal steaming |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Beautural Steamer for Clothes
Easiest to Use
Sometimes we avoid buying new products because we don’t want to learn a new skill. Thankfully, the Beautural steamer is easy to use!
First, it’s easy to set up, and the water tank is removable. Fill it with water at the tap before connecting it to the steamer. Then simply plug it in and turn it on.
You don’t have to do any guesswork with this steamer because it’s safe for any fabric! It’s also easy to use horizontally or vertically without any spills.
What We Like
Fast and Efficient
This steamer heats up in a quick 30 seconds. From there, it vanishes wrinkles quickly and easily. Just glide the device over any fabric to de-wrinkle and smooth out your clothes.
Leak Proof Design
The Beautural steamer was designed to be leakproof. The pump steam technology means you can use it vertically or horizontally without leaks or spills.
Extra Attachments
A big perk to this handheld steamer is that it comes with three extra attachments. The lint brush clicks onto the soleplate to remove lint and dust. The creaser helps to create pleats and folds on your shirts or dress pants.
Finally, the fabric brush removes visible dust from deep within the fabric, giving you fresh and clean results.
Steam-Lock Option
You can emit individual steam bursts with this item. Or you can lock the steam button down and have up to 15 minutes of continuous steam, which is pretty generous for a handheld device!
What We Don't Like
Not as Effective on Thick Garments
While this steamer is safe for all garments, it’s not as effective on thick garments like jumpers, dress pants, or scarves. You shouldn’t use this steamer to replace your iron, but as an aid for touch-ups and thinner fabrics.
Won’t Last Forever
This isn’t the most durable garment steamer out there, which is disappointing considering it’s neither the cheapest. After a few months, customers noted that it didn’t heat up properly and sometimes spat water out.
While a 24-month warranty is advertised, some customers had trouble contacting the company or accessing a refund.
Product Specs
| Tank Capacity | 260 ml |
| Steam Time | 15 minutes |
| Weight | 2.09 pounds |
| Compatible Fabrics | All |
| Ease of Use | Leak-proof, vertical steaming, removable attachments |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
HHSUC Pink Handheld Garment Steamer
Largest Capacity
This handheld steamer has one of the largest water tanks on the market for handheld garment steamers. At 280ml, you can get 20 minutes of continuous steaming from this product.
The water tank is detachable, too. This makes it super easy to refill between uses. You can also set the desired speed depending on the fabric and stubbornness of creases.
What We Like
No Leaking In Any Direction
Hate steamers that leak? Then choose the HHSUC steamer!
The leak-proof design is efficient in preventing water from spitting out. So you can steam vertically or horizontally.
Large 280-Ml Water Tank
This steamer can accommodate up to 280 ml of water for continuous steaming of up to 20 minutes which is more than enough for a quick touch-up.
User-Friendly Features
This steamer also cleans and sterilizes so you can ensure germs and bacteria fade away.
The steamer also has two speed settings depending on what kind of garment you are steaming.
Finally, it has a light indicator telling you when it’s time to refill the water in the unit. A great detail!
Compact Enough for Travelling
Just because this has a large water tank doesn’t mean you can’t take it traveling. The water tank is detachable. Then the steamer weighs 2.31 pounds to ensure it doesn’t add loads to your luggage weight capacity.
What We Don't Like
Strong Smell
Some customers mentioned a noticeable plastic smell when using the item for the first time. Although the smell goes away after a few usages, it is worth noting.
More Expensive Than Others
This steamer is more expensive than others, almost double the budget-friendly picks. If you want something a bit more affordable, you might want to skip this one.
Product Specs
| Tank Capacity | 280 ml |
| Steam Time | 20 minutes |
| Weight | 2.31 pounds |
| Compatible Fabrics | Most (not fabrics that can’t be ironed) |
| Ease of Use | Leak-proof design |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
iSteam Steamer for Clothes
Safest Handheld Garment Steamer
If safety is your top priority, consider the iSteam clothes steamer. This portable steamer has an easy on/off switch and light indicator, so you know when it’s definitely turned on. It also has a removable water tank, so you won’t burn yourself when handling the hot steamer.
Regarding safety, the iSteam has spill-proof technology, so you won’t get squirts and sputters of hot water on you. It also automatically shuts off when the device is too hot or low on water.
What We Like
360-Degree Portability
The iSteam has a super amazing 360-degree portability function so that you can use this steamer at all angles. Even upside down!
This ensures easy and flexible steaming. But also — no spills!
Unlike some other steamers, this one won’t spill when tilted. If you have kids or pets nearby, this one is a good choice to use in the house. (Just don’t let them use it, obviously).
Advanced Technology Included
This handheld steamer is a luxurious and advanced bit of kit! It heats up in 25 quick seconds to provide 10 minutes of steam.
Not only is it useful, but it’s also glamorous. This is definitely one of the best-looking steamers on the market.
3-Year Warranty Included
What makes this garment steamer even better is that it comes with a three-year warranty, so you can be sure this will last a while.
Gentle on All Types of Clothing
The iSteam claims to be better than conventional irons. It’s much more gentle on fabrics.
It relaxes and treats the fibers, which are great for all types of clothing. Plus, it sanitizes and deodorizes clothes.
What We Don't Like
Takes a While
Keep in mind that this steamer takes a while to de-wrinkle clothes. Many users state that they can only steam one garment per fill with this steamer. It’s slow and also not as hot as desired.
Noisy To Use
When steaming clothes, the last thing you expect is a loud unit. But customers complain that this one is on the louder side. If you want to quickly steam clothes before your kids wake up, this might not be the best option.
Product Specs
| Tank Capacity | 120 ml |
| Steam Time | 10 minutes |
| Weight | 1.55 pounds |
| Compatible Fabrics | All |
| Ease of Use | 360°, and auto shut-off |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Hilife Handheld Garment
Crowd Favorite Steamer
Not only does this steamer easy to use, but it also steams pretty fast, getting your job done in no time. Handheld garment steamers are all relatively light, and this one is a stellar example at 1.7 pounds before being filled with water and has 700 wattages of power.
Even though it’s light, it still has a good steam time. You can get approximately fifteen minutes of continuous vapor with this product, which accommodates up to 240 ml of water. You can see through the transparent window how much water is left in the tank, too.
What We Like
Portable Unit for Travellers
This is another steamer that is useful for travelers. You can slot it into your luggage without a problem. Plus, it’s easy to use, perfect when you’re away on holiday and need a break from domestic life!
Smooths and Freshens Clothes
No one likes wrinkly and smelly clothes. This steamer can eliminate both of these issues!
This product can eliminate wrinkles, germs, and foul odors. The steam freshens up any garment in one touch.
Steam Anything and Everything
This portable garment steamer can be used on any fabric. This includes cotton, polyester, wool, plush, and ramie. Super useful, especially for things that can’t be ironed, like stuffed animals and curtains!
Easy to Use
You don’t want something that is complicated to use or causes frustration. This ergonomic unit is comfortable to hold, easy to operate, and move around with. Thanks to the 9-foot power cord, you have excellent steaming range.
What We Don't Like
Water Spews Out
Some customers complain of the water boiling so much that it starts bubbling out the top. Be careful when using this product.
It needs to be used vertically only, limited to a max of a 45-degree angle. So do not tilt this to steam furniture, car seats, and other items.
You Need to Hang Clothes
Since you can’t tilt the steamer, you need to hang your clothes. This might involve buying a specific hanger if you don’t have curtain rails or other safe places to steam your clothes.
Product Specs
| Tank Capacity | 240 ml |
| Steam Time | 15 minutes |
| Weight | 1.25 pounds |
| Compatible Fabrics | All |
| Ease of Use | Vertical steaming only |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
| Product | Best | Tank Capacity | Steam Time | Weight | Compatible Fabrics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polardo Travel Garment Steamer | Compact Garment Steamer | 120 ml | 10 min | 1.2 lbs | All |
| PurSteam Handheld Clothes Steamer | Budget Pick | 130 ml | 10 min | 1.5 lbs | All |
| Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam | Professional Steamer | 215 ml | 20 min | 3.6 lbs | All |
| Beautural Clothes Steamer | Easiest to Use | 260 ml | 15 min | 2.09 lbs | All |
| HHSUC Handheld Steamer | Large-Capacity | 280 ml | 20 min | 2.31 lbs | Most |
| iSteam Clothes Steamer | Safest Handheld Garment Steamer | 120 ml | 10 min | 1.55 lbs | All |
| Hilife Handheld Steamer | Crowd Favorite Steamer | 240 ml | 15 min | 1.25 lbs | All |
What Is a Handheld Garment Steamer?
Portable garment steamers are simple devices. You fill them with water, turn them on, aim them at your clothes.
A steady flow of steam flows out to de-wrinkle and sanitize your laundry! They come in various designs, shapes, and sizes, but they all essentially function the same.
Are Handheld Garment Steamers Any Good?
We absolutely think so! They eliminate wrinkles without much effort. Plus, they’re easy to use. They are much lighter, easier to maneuver, and more affordable than upright steamers.
The main difference, though, is the steam time. Upright garment steamers have bigger water tanks, so their steam time is longer, averaging around an hour. Handheld garment steamers average around 10 minutes of steam before the tank needs refilling.
On the other hand, you might wonder if handheld garment steamers are any good compared to steam irons. While they have similar purposes, an iron will give you crisper results.
You can’t get set creases or eliminate 100 percent of wrinkles with a handheld garment steamer. They’re not as powerful as steam irons.
If you’re after perfect results, we suggest getting a steam iron as well as a garment steamer. Handheld garment steamers are great for vertical steaming, which not every steam iron can do. So you can use steamers on your curtains, furniture, or hanging outfits!
How to Choose the Best Handheld Garment Steamers?
You should consider some factors when shopping for the best portable garment steamer.
Portability
You’re probably going for a handheld version over a standing version because of portability. So check out how easy the garment steamer is to transport.
We recommend considering the size and weight to ensure it fits nicely into your bag. On average, handheld steamers are around 1.5 pounds heavy, making them easy to bring with you.
It’s also worth checking out the design. You’ll want one with a comfortable and practical handle — make sure it’s easy to use and maneuver.
Capacity
Take note of how big the water tank is. This will determine how long you can use the garment steamer before refilling the tank.
The smaller the capacity, the less practical the steamer is for bigger loads of laundry or steaming tasks. But for the odd item here and there, a small water tank is fine!
We recommend getting one with a water tank of at least 100 milliliters. If you need something larger, we have recommendations spanning up to 280 milliliters!
Ease of Use
How easy is your portable clothes steamer going to be to use? Have a look at the settings on the steamer. Some have very basic settings, while others might require trial and error before really getting the hang of the steamer.
Also, check if the handheld steamer can be used vertically, horizontally, and upside down without leaking. If you’re anything like us, you’ll want one that can be used at all angles for hard-to-reach places, furniture, and even carpets.
Lastly, check how spill-proof the handheld garment steamer is. It’s never a good idea to mix clumsiness with a leaky product! This will make it much harder to use, and you’ll be more prone to water stains on your clothes.
Time to Steam
Arguably one of the most essential details of a portable garment steamer is the time to steam. If you have a large load of laundry that needs steaming, you’ll want one with a longer steam time.
Handheld garment steamers tend not to exceed 20 minutes of steam time. But anything less than 10 minutes will be frustrating to use.
Safety
We don’t recommend leaving your portable steamer out around your kids and pets. But if you do have babies (and fur babies) in the house, you should consider safety.
Make sure the steamer you choose doesn’t tend to bubble, spill, or leak. Some also might have auto shut-off times which is great for forgetful people.
Tips for Using a Handheld Garment Steamer
If you are about to be the proud owner of a brand new garment steamer, here are a few tips on how to use the device.
- Pull the clothes tight: Pull the garment taut and tight to ensure the steamer doesn’t set the wrinkles in place. In one hand, hold the clothes. In the other, pass the steamer over the clothes to zap out wrinkles.
- Take your time: Go slowly, and don’t rush when you’re steaming. Some creases are stubborn. Don’t expect instant results right away. Keep going until the wrinkles are gone.
- Hang the clothes: Hang your clothes up for the best results. The gravity will help pull out wrinkles. Keep your clothes on the hanger as they dry to prevent the fabric from wrinkling again.
- Steam the right way: The best way to steam your clothes is to travel in small short strokes over the garment. Don’t hold the steamer over one area for too long, as this could ruin the fabric.
- Clean your steamer: Your steamer might have an anti-calc or self-clean system. But if it doesn’t, you should clean your steamer regularly! To do this, unplug the steamer, let it cool and empty the water tank. Refill with one part water, and one part distilled white vinegar. Allow the steamer to get hot and leave for one minute. Unplug and let it cool down before washing the water tank with fresh water. Repeat as necessary.
FAQs
Is a Handheld Steamer Better Than an Iron?
A handheld steamer is better than an iron at removing odors because the steam penetrates deep into the garment’s fibers. A steam iron is better for pressing clothes and removing wrinkles.
What Is the Most Powerful Handheld Steamer?
In our opinion, the most powerful handheld steamer is the Conair Turbo Extreme. It is the ideal choice for professionals, has a powerful steaming action, and is easy to use.
What Fabrics Can Be Steamed?
The fabrics that can be steamed include cotton, wool, silk, and polyester. Linen is also another hard-wearing material and is suitable for steaming.
Can You Steam Clothes Instead of Washing Them?
Steaming your clothes does not replace washing them. While steam can effectively remove some stains and many odors, it will not deep clean the fabric as a washing machine and detergent will. Plus, can you imagine how long it would take to steam all your clothes manually?
Hello Steamer, Goodbye Wrinkles
The best handheld garment steamers can help you get out wrinkles and creases. These are easy-to-use products.
While they don’t necessarily replace irons, they’re handy things to have in the house. Especially the ones that can be used on all fabrics!
When shopping for a steamer, make sure to look at the water tank capacity, steam time, weight, and how easy the steamer is to use. Once your little steamer has arrived, you’ll be asking yourself why you didn’t get one sooner!
