Best Handheld Steamers
Gema Salgado Cruz 
Neatly pressed clothes enhance your look regardless of whether you are trying to land a job, close a deal, or trying to attract someone. However, getting perfectly pressed clothing takes effort and time. The common solution to some is to bring their clothes to a dry cleaner or a laundry store but it will cost you some cash. Others simply do the ironing themselves, which could take up so much time.
With the breakthrough in technology, people have discovered a better way to press clothes and linen and that is through steaming. Way back, steamers are bulky and could not cater to travelers who would like their clothes neatly pressed for events, business meeting, and conventions abroad. Fortunately, things have changed and consumers can now pick the best handheld steamer that they can use at home or they can bring when traveling. These lightweight and portable devices are ergonomically designed to meet the needs of those who cannot spend so much time pressing their clothes or those who cannot spare some cash bringing their suits all the time to laundry stores.
Compared to ironing steaming is a less complicated process that gets the job perfectly done. It is the top choice of many industries like fashion, garments, and broadcast where things may require to be packed and moves most of the time. There are a plethora of choices available in the market these days and to most consumers, finding the best product could be a time consuming and a very confusing task.
This buying guide aims to help you in solving this problem. We have filtered the wide assortment of brands and models and trimmed them down to ten. In the product review section below, you can see each product with their respective pros and cons. This way you can easily pick the best handheld steamer that matches your needs.
In a Hurry? The test winner after 4 hrs of research
Powerful product
Multifunctional
Lightweight
Comes with nano Polymer filter on the water tank to prevent calcification
Free attachments
Can be used in steaming all types of fabric
One-year warranty
Easy to use
Security features
Filter for super dry steaming
Fast heat-up that only takes 25 seconds
Best Handheld Steamer
1. iSteam 360
Powerful product
Multifunctional
Lightweight
Comes with nano Polymer filter on the water tank to prevent calcification
Free attachments
Can be used in steaming all types of fabric
One-year warranty
Easy to use
Security features
Filter for super dry steaming
Fast heat-up that only takes 25 seconds
Not dual voltage
Need a voltage adapter to work on 220v electrical outlet
This is an ideal choice if you are looking for a product that can heat up in as fast as 25 seconds can and can do eight functions in addition to steaming clothes.
Read moreProduct Features
This is the latest model from iSteam that features a continuous steaming for ten minutes. It features an innovative electric pump technology that prevents water from spilling or spitting. It has a fast heat up time that starts 25 seconds after it is turned on. This product has a security feature called Automatic Safety Shutdown. It also uses Spill-Proof technology to prevent your clothes from getting wet. Moreover, it has an on and off light indicator to notify you if the product is functioning.
Overall Design
This product has an ergonomic design and has a heated stainless steel plate. It has a 120 ml water tank that can give you ten uninterrupted minutes of steaming. It has an easy on and off switch and a detach reservoir button to secure that the tank will not fall off when filled with water. The tank is equipped with Nano polymer Filter that shields the product from calcification. Its nozzle outlet has a Nano Polymer filter to secure that the steaming process is extremely dry.
Components
This latest product from iSteam comes with free accessories that allow you to steam, clean, sanitize, treat, and refresh any type of fabric. You can also treat fragile fabric such as lace, and silk to name a few, using these free accessories. It comes with a one-year warranty.
Product Specification
It has a product dimension 9 -inches x 7.2 -inches x 4.4 –inches. It has an item and shipping weight of 1.65 –pounds. This product has a 120 ml water tank and uses 110 to 120 volts. Its electric pump system has a wattage rating of 100-watts.
2. PurSteam
Lightweight product
Easy to use
Made of durable materials
Fast heat-up time
Offers continuous steaming for 5 to 6 minutes
With a 30-day satisfaction guarantee
It comes with a full 3-year warranty
With automatic shutdown feature
Can steam delicate fabrics
Comes with free storage bag
Only runs on 110V so you need a voltage adapter if your electrical source runs on 220v
This is a perfect choice if you are looking for a durable product that utilizes BPA-free material that heats up in just 90 seconds.
Read moreProduct Features
This model features an automatic shutoff to prevent overheating in case you left it on. It has a fast heat up that allows you to use the product 90 seconds after you turned it on. This appliance is capable of five to seven minutes of continuous steaming. This is very convenient in case you are in a hurry and have a lot of steaming to do. While it produces a powerful steam, it is still gentle on any type of fabrics. You can use it on nylon, satin, wool, cotton, linen, embroidery, sequins, and many others. You can use this product in sanitizing and steaming draperies, clothing, and more.
Overall Design
It is made of high-quality ABS and PP material that makes it very durable. This model utilizes an aluminum heating ball as its heating element. It has an ergonomic design for ease of use and convenience.
Components
This model comes with a free travel pouch so you can store it there for easy carrying especially when you are traveling. It comes with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee and a 3-year full warranty.
Product Specification
This nifty device is very lightweight and only weighs 1.1 pounds. It has a product dimension of 3.7 –inches x 8.6 –inches x 7 –inches. Its water tank can hold up to 6 ounces of water or equivalent to six to seven minutes of continuous steaming. It can be used with 110 to 120v electrical outlet. The water reservoir of this product can store up to 6 ounces of water.
3. iSteam Exagora
High-quality product
12-months warranty
Lightweight
Portable
Automatic shutdown feature
Fast heat up rate of 60 seconds
With power on/off button
It comes with a modern steam nozzle
Long cord
Runs on 110V AC and requires voltage adapter if used in 220V AC
this could be the perfect choice if you are looking for a product that utilizes high-speed steaming technology to let you do your steaming task with ease and convenience.
Read moreProduct Features
Unlike its successor, this model has a heat up rate of 60 seconds, which is still quite fast compared to other brands. It features settings that can be easily personalized and advanced functions to let you steam, iron, clean, humidify, and sterilize fabrics in just minutes. It comes with an automatic shutdown feature to make sure that the product does not overheat in case you forgot to turn it off or it runs out of the water.
Overall Design
This model is designed with a modern steam nozzle and water injection head to efficiently produce a uniform and consistent flow of steam. It also has a switch power button that you can use to turn on/off the product. This is ideal to remove wrinkles from clothing quickly and for treating other fabrics. Using its steam, you can easily erase wrinkles in suits, beddings, and other delicate fabrics. It is designed to be an ideal portable steamer that you can bring with you when you are traveling. It is lightweight and compact in size that can easily fit in your luggage.
Components
This product comes with a free user manual. The manufacturer also offers a 12 months warranty to the product and a reliable customer service for fast and efficient support.
Product Specification
It has a product dimension of 8 –inches x 5.5 –inches x 3.2 –inches and only weighs 1.1 –pounds. It runs on 120V or 60 Hz electrical source. It has a wattage rating of 700W
4. GLAMFIELDS
High-quality product
Fast heat up rate of 30 seconds
Uses 900W power
Lightweight with nano polymer filter to prevent scaling and water spitting
Made of high-temperature resistant material
With auto shut-off feature
Comes with a 60-day money back guarantee
With a one-year warranty
Runs on 110V and requires a voltage adaptor to function on 220V AC source
This could be the ideal choice if you are looking for a product that is perfect to bring during travels, does not spit any water, and produces even steaming.
Read moreProduct Features
This model features a fast heat up rate of 25 to 30 seconds. You can use it continuously for 10 to 13 minutes. It features an auto shut-off system that shuts the unit down to prevent overheating when the unit runs out of water or when it gets too hot. It also offers even distribution of steam perfect for all types of fabrics. It also features a 360-degree anti-drip system and its nozzle is equipped with a nano polymer filter for dry steaming.
Overall Design
This product has a lightweight design that allows you to carry it easily. It has a removable water reservoir that enables you to save more space in your home or in your luggage. The detachable reservoir also allows you to clean it easily. It is also transparent so you can clearly see if it is running low on water. The unit is made of high-quality materials that are resistant to extreme temperatures.
Components
The makers of this product offer a one-year warranty and a 60-day money back guarantee. They also have a customer service hotline that can provide professional support anytime you need it. It comes with a 135ml water tank
Product Specification
This product uses 110-120V/60Hz of AC. It has a wattage rating of 900W. This lightweight product only weighs 1.4 pounds. It has a product dimension of 115 –mm x 96 –mm x 225 –mm.
5. Beautural
Good quality product
With auto shut-off feature
Fast preheat rate of 30 seconds
15 minutes continuous steaming
90-day money back guarantee
Large and removable water reservoir
Uses stainless steel soleplate
2-years warranty
Lightweight
Comes with a long cord
This product runs on 110V and might not function in other countries
This could be the perfect choice if you are looking for a product that can continuously steam for 15 minutes while powerfully cleaning and steaming your clothes.
Read moreProduct Features
This model features a fast preheat rate of 30 seconds. It comes with a large water reservoir that allows you to continuously steam for 15 minutes. It also features a leak-free design that enables you to apply steam on clothes even if it is lying flat and not hanged. It is equipped with an auto-shut off feature that turns the unit off after eight minutes of inactivity to prevent the unit from overheating. This unit also comes with a one-time steam burst that produces even steam to fabrics. It also has a steam-lock button that is very useful when cleaning larger fabrics.
Overall Design
This model has an ergonomic design for ease of use. It is lightweight and compact in size so you can place it in your baggage or bring it with you on your travels. It comes with a big water reservoir that can hold up to 260 ml of water. It has a detachable water tank so you can clean and refill it quickly and easily. It utilizes a stainless steel soleplate for its heating element that enables the unit to cater to all types of fabrics.
Components
This product comes with free attachments for a more versatile functionality. Aside from the unit, you will also get a lint brush, a fabric brush, a measuring cup, a creaser, and a user manual. This unit comes with a 90-day money back guarantee and a 2-years full warranty.
Product Specification
This product has a product dimension of 6 –inches x 4.3 –inches x 10.7 –inches. It has an item weight of 2.09 –pounds and a shipping weight of 2.51 –pounds. It runs on 120V or 60Hz AC source and has a wattage rating of 1200W.
6. Secura
Lightweight product
Has a high wattage rating of 1000W
Fast heat up rate of only 15 seconds
Can continuously steam for 15 minutes
Comes with a 2-years limited warranty
Some users complain that it does not function well after six months of use
This could be the best choice if you are looking for a powerful product that allows you to continuously steam clothes for 15 minutes.
Read moreProduct Features
This model has an Instant Fabric feature that allows can provide steam in as fast as 15 seconds just after you turned it on. It utilizes 1000W of power that enables you to use it to any type of fabric.
Overall Design
This unit has an ergonomic design for easy use. It comes with a rotating non-binding power cord for convenience and portability. It has a large water reservoir that allows you to use it continuously for 15 minutes. It utilizes a stainless steel faceplate as a heating element for optimum power.
Components
This product comes with a removable cleaning brush, a user manual, and a rotating power cord. The makers of this product offer a 2-years limited warranty.
Product Specification
This has a product dimension of 12 –inches x 6.2 –inches x 5 –inches. It has an item and shipping weight of 1.85 –pounds.
7. BIZOND
Leak-free, no-spill product
Has fast heat up rate of 25 seconds
With a wattage rating of 900w
Comes with a 3-years warranty
100 percent risk-free satisfaction guarantee
Nano Polymer filter
Lightweight
Portable
100ml water reservoir
Extra-long cord
Cannot run on 220v AC without a voltage adaptor
This could be the perfect choice if you are looking for a product that does not spit, spill, or create puddles and works at all angles.
Read moreProduct Features
This model offers a leak-free no-spitting feature. You can place this unit on any surface without the fear of damaging it. This product comes with an automatic shutdown feature that automatically turns the unit off after five minutes of inactivity. The water reservoir is equipped with a Nano Polymer filter that purifies the water and prevents the mineral from getting clogged in the nozzle. It has a fast heat up rate of 25 seconds.
Overall Design
It has a compact and portable design that allows you to bring it wherever you go. It is very comfortable to hold and can be used at any angles. It is also lightweight so you will not have a hard time bringing it with you during your travels.
Components
This product comes with a 9.8 feet power cord for optimum reach. It also comes with a free brush attachment. Buyers can return the product without any questions asked. This product comes with a 3-years warranty.
Product Specification
It has a product dimension of 8.5 -inches x 6 -inches x 4.1 –inches. It has an item weight of 1.26 –pounds and a shipping weight of 1.55 –pounds. It runs on 110V ~ 120V. It has a wattage rating of 900 Watts. The water reservoir can hold up to 100 ml of distilled water.
8. Beautiplove Travel
Produces super strong steam
Lightweight product
Large water reservoir
Heat up time is 90 seconds
Continuous steaming for 8 to 10 minutes
Free travel pouch
Comes with a 1-year satisfaction guarantee
Wide range of voltage ranging between 110 and 240 volts
Some users claim that there are times when the water flushes out
This could be the perfect choice if you are looking for a durable product that produces super strong steam.
Read moreProduct Features
This model has a fast heat up rate of 90 seconds and produces super strong stream continuously for eight to ten minutes. It can be used for any type of fabric. This unit is equipped with a distinct PTC technology that protects it from overheating. It is a temperature controller that goes off when the unit goes extremely hot and instantly shuts the unit down. This model is made for global travel and business engagements. It has a wide range of voltage ranging between 100 and 230 volts. This means that you can use this anywhere in the world. Also, you do not have to bring an adaptor with you to be able to use this product.
Overall Design
This product has a slim nozzle shape that prevents the water from spilling or the unit from spitting water. It is also designed to have a space between the outer shell and the water tank to isolate heat.
Components
This model comes with a free travel pouch for easy and convenient carrying or storing. It also comes with a one-year satisfaction guarantee.
Product Specification
It has a product dimension of 4 –inches x 6 –inches x 8 –inches. This product has an item and shipping weight of 1.8 –pounds. Its water reservoir can hold water up to 150ml.
9. HoneyBull
Lifetime warranty
Large water reservoir that can hold 180 ml of water
Auto shut off feature
Free traveling bag
Comes with a warning card
Requires a voltage adapter since it only works on 110v AC source
This could be the best choice if you are looking for a durable product that has a large water reservoir.
Read moreProduct Features
This easy to use product features an on/off switch that allows you to easily turn on and shut down the unit. Equipped with safety features, this unit automatically shuts down if it gets too hot. This secures the user and the unit from overheating and eventual damage.
Overall Design
This body of this model is made of high-quality plastics that are resistant to extreme heat. It is small, lightweight, and compact to allow you to easily and conveniently carry it with you wherever you go.
Components
This product comes with a free travel bag, warning or safety card, foldable clothes hanger, and a user manual. It comes with a lifetime warranty.
Product Specification
It has a product dimension of 6.7 –inches x 6.2-inches x 5.7 –inches. This product has an item and shipping weight of 1.62 –pounds. It has a large water reservoir that can hold up to 180 ml of water.
10. Dodocool
Fast heat up time of 60 seconds
Continuous steam for 12 minutes
Detachable for easy storage
One-year warranty
Comes with a 90-day money back guarantee
Unique nozzle design
5-in-1 product
Runs on 110v AC source that cannot work on other parts of the world
This could be the ideal choice if you are looking for a 5-in-1 product that has an automatic shut off feature that secures the safety of the user.
Read moreProduct Features
This model comes with a safety feature that automatically shuts the unit down when it gets too hot. It has a fast heat up time of 60 seconds and can continuously steam for 12 uninterrupted minutes.
Overall Design
This product has a unique nozzle design that enables it to disperse the steam evenly on the fabric. It is lightweight and compact that allows you to carry it with you wherever you go. Most importantly, it can be detached so that you can easily put it in your baggage saving you more space.
Components
This model is backed by a 90-day money back guarantee without any questions being asked. It also comes with a one-year warranty.
Product Specification
It has a product dimension of 5.3 –inches x 5.1-inches x 6.2 –inches. This product has an item and shipping weight of 1.5 –pounds. It runs on 110v AC source. It has a large water reservoir of 180 ml.
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Capacity
One of the most criteria that you should a careful consideration when choosing the best steamer is its wattage and voltage.
In contrast with standing steamers, handheld types are also powerful but not as much. A cheaply made product is underpowered and would cost you so much time steaming your clothes because it will take time to heat up and longer time to heat the water. Go for the model that has greater wattage since a higher wattage level connotes much stronger steam.
Voltage is another important factor that you should consider. If you plan to bring the device in your travels, it is crucial that it can run on voltage available in other countries. To be safe, choose a dual voltage model or if buy a voltage adapter so you could use the device wherever place in the world you go.
Use
In addition to the voltage and the wattage of the product, another vital factor that you should give consideration is its heating time.
. One of the main reasons you are getting yourself the best one is because you want to press your clothes quickly. Getting a brand that will keep you waiting for a long time before it finally heats up just defeats your main purpose. Heating time is the length of time it takes for the steamer to heat up. Usually, the heating time of the product is affected by its size.
In other words, a steamer with a bigger size tends to have a longer heat-up time. However, products have improved over time and this becomes less of an issue nowadays. Most steamers take a minute or two to heat up. There are also other brands that can heat-up in as fast as 25 seconds. This is best for those who want to speed up their steaming routine. But a model that can heat up in a minute would do just fine.
Durability
Most consumers are particular in the power and performance of the product. It is for this reason that we included this criterion in this buying guide.
Many believe that the greater the power the steamer has the more stain it can remove and the easier it is to cut through greases and stains. Performance is more of the summary of all the features that the product offers. By this, we mean that it heats up fast and has a standard size reservoir. It is important to note, however, that the size of the water reservoir affects the heat up time. The bigger its size the more steam time you will get. Aside from the tank, it should not spit water at your clothes but offer even steam.
Water Capacity
Aside from those mentioned above, another vital consideration is the capacity or the size of the water tank.
The more volume the reservoir can hold, the greater the number of clothes you can remove wrinkles. However, as a major part of the product, it contributes to the total weight. A bigger water tank could also mean a more bulky product, which can occupy more rooms in your baggage when traveling. In addition, a heavy steamer will easily strain your muscles and could cause fatigue in your arm.
Size
While there are many handheld types that no longer have cords, there are still other models that use electricity to function.
While many value the portability of this type of steamer, a short cord will limit your movement and reach. There are places especially hotels that have limited electrical outlets that would require you to use a longer power cord. A long power cord will make you feel less aggravated.
Ease of Use
Another important criterion that you should give careful consideration is the ease of use. You do not want to use a product that you have a hard time understanding how to make it work. if you plan to use this type of product in streaming clothes that are on the clothes hanger, a model without a long power cord would not be necessary. Look for a model that offers accessories and attachments especially if you plan to use it for cleaning drapes and for steaming clothing with awkward shapes.
Easy to clean
Most consumers prefer a product that is easy to clean. This means that if you want to enjoy this feature you have to look for a product that has a removable water reservoir that is dishwasher friendly. It is also great if the product comes with a clear cleaning and storing instructions so you could properly care for it and prolong its lifespan.
Accessories
Most brands and models are packaged with free accessories or attachments for a more convenient and easy job.
There are brushes, squeegees, and scrubbing pads that could help you remove stains, grease, or dirt. The more accessories there is less complicated and more convenient your usage. Other brands come with interchangeable steam heads, nozzles, and clips.
Value
The best steamer does not necessarily mean that it is the most expensive product.
However, it is important that you choose an economical unit that could also help you save energy. There are cheap products that are easily damaged after several uses and could cause your electric bill to spike. Always check if the price of the product is tantamount to its functionality, efficiency, and features. Usually, the price of the product is determined by the brand, the performance, and its general features. Paying more for a less performing unit could make you regret your choice.
Expert Interviews & Opinions
Capacity Use Durability
Water Capacity Size
This is a must-have feature for those who are suffering from joint pain. A continuous steam does not require the user to keep on pressing the steam button that could cause fatigue in the long run. Look for a model that offers an on/off switch rather than a steam trigger. There are also models that offer different temperature control. This is very helpful so you can set the amount of temperature to the type of fabric that you will be steaming. This also prevents the possibility of using the wrong temperature level and damaging your favorite silk shirt.
Frequently Asked Questions
q: What can I benefit from using handheld steamer for my clothes?
Like iron, steamers can also remove wrinkles out of your clothes but that is their similarity. The iron has a flat hot plate that presses the fabric while a steamer produces uniform steam to remove the wrinkles even without coming into contact with the fabric. A handheld steamer offers many advantages compared to the traditional flat iron. It includes cost and usability and other benefits such as the following:
• Cost-Effective
In a report released by a dry-cleaning industry, people spend approximately $1500 annually on dry cleaning. Using clothes’ steamer, you can save more money and cut this expense. Aside from this, you do not have to spend money buying chemicals for your clothes. In addition, steaming preserves the fabric of your clothes and prevents you from prematurely buying replacements.
• Chemical Free
Ironing clothes entail fabric refreshers and starch but you will no longer need these when you use a steamer. This type utilizes water and some brands require distilled preventing the nozzle from becoming clogged because of residue build-up.
• Easy
Compared to other electronic equipment and devices, handheld steamers are very easy to use. You do not need to read the user’s manual in full length to be able to operate the unit. While there are several models that come with two or three heat settings, the majority of the models have a switch that contains the on and off. To use this type of steamer, all you have to do is put water on its water tank then plug it to an electrical source. In as fast a couple of minutes, your unit is hot and is ready to do the job. You are not even required to touch the fabric to steam it, it is really that easy.
• Versatile
The main reasons why people buy this type of steamer are because it can steam their clothes fast and easy and because it can fit in their luggage and they can carry it with them wherever they go. However, this type of steamer is also versatile and it can do more than just smoothing your clothes. This is capable of restoring the shape of the clothes by loosening the fibers of the fabric through its power steam. This is ideal especially if you want sweaters and other knitted clothing to look good as new. Aside from clothing, you can also use this type in refreshing curtains, upholstery, and linens. There are several others that use this nifty appliance to deodorize and sanitize their mattresses as the steam can kill bed bugs and mites.
q: What kind of maintenance should I do with my steamer?
The most important thing that you should do as the owner of this appliance is to take care of it to prolong its lifespan. While it is recommended that you use distilled water in this product, there are several others that use tap water. If this is the case, you will need to descale the water reservoir often. This is very easy to do. Simply fill the water reservoir up with two parts water and one part vinegar. After that, run the steamer until the water reservoir is empty. If the steamer has a removable reservoir, you can wipe it down or you can use a small bottle brush with a soft cloth covering the brush.
