How does a clothes steamer work: operating principle

In recent years, steamers—household appliances that smooth clothes and household items—have become increasingly popular among housewives.

Features of the operation of different types of clothing steamers

How does a steamer work? Its main difference from an iron is the ability to process items in a vertical position. The remaining features of the device depend on its type. Currently there are:

• Floor-standing (vertical) steamer;
• Hand steamer;
• Iron with steam function or steam generator;
• Steam cleaner.

Floor steamer

Its configuration usually makes the ironing process very comfortable for the consumer. In addition to a water broiler, a hose with a nozzle and a stand, the kit includes a clothes hanger, a mitten, brushes for cleaning textiles, heat-resistant boards for ironing trouser creases, shirt collars and other hard-to-reach places.

You should work the handle from top to bottom, slightly pulling the fabric. Storing the device is also not difficult - vertical steamers can be easily disassembled.

Hand steamer

It is very compact in size and looks like a small electric kettle with a small container for water.It is not very roomy, so usually its continuous operation time is limited to 15 minutes (but it is very convenient to take it with you on a trip).

Important! Despite its size, this steamer can only be used vertically! Therefore, you should take care about where you hang the item.

Iron with steam generator or steam function

Depending on the model, the water tank is located either in the body of the iron itself or in a separate broiler. In the first case, the steam comes out directly from the holes on the sole of the iron, in the second it is first supplied through the hose.

The inconvenience of this option is that ironing can only be done on a board in a horizontal position. It is also important not to burn the item, as strong jets of steam are combined with pressure from the hot surface of the iron.

How the device works

It is known from physics lessons that steam is formed as a result of boiling water. This is the essence of the steamer’s operation. Each device is equipped with a heat-resistant water container. Its boiling occurs thanks to special heating elements. Most devices are powered by electricity, but portable options can be powered by batteries or rechargeable batteries.

After the water is completely heated to 98–100 °C, as evidenced by a light or sound signal from the device, steam molecules are supplied through a metal tube or durable hose to the outside.

How to prepare for ironing

You can see how a clothes steamer works in the video. You just bought a new device. Don’t neglect to read the instructions: it will take 10–15 minutes, but it will prevent you from unpleasant situations.

The operating principle of a clothes steamer is simple. In general, to carry out activities with the device you need to prepare the following:

1. If this is a floor-standing steamer, place a stand and secure it in height. Prepare a hanger and other items you need.
2. The hose must be connected to the body, and the required nozzle must be put on the other end. Hang the handle on a hook (usually located on top of the rack).
3. Fill the broiler with clean water and connect the heating device. Never add detergents or hard, untreated water to the container, as this may damage the steamer!
4. After the light signal about heating, carefully check the operation of the device.

Working with a hand steamer or steam iron is even easier: just add water to the maximum level. Such devices usually operate by pressing a button.

Compliance with safety regulations

How does a clothes steamer work? To avoid hazardous situations, follow these simple rules:

• You should add water before connecting the device to the network;
• Never point the steamer at yourself and try not to use it in the presence of small children or pets;
• Do not leave the device turned on unattended;
• If necessary, wear a heat-resistant mitten;
• If you need to add water during ironing, disconnect the steamer from the power supply.

Attention! The device produces hot steam under pressure! Always follow safety precautions when working with high temperatures!

Additional features

In everyday life, a steamer can significantly make life easier even if it is not used for its intended purpose. For example, you can:

• Remove adhesive labels from glass or ceramics - to do this, just hold the item under a stream of steam for a couple of seconds;
• Destroy moths and their larvae (just treat the back surface of the closet and clothes);
• Boil water for tea;
• Refresh the appearance of fur products and household items;
• Disinfect the premises.