A handheld garment steamer is a handy addition to your home, especially if you've got delicate items that you'd rather not iron. Quicker and gentler on clothing than an iron, a steamer uses a user-controlled jet of steam to relax creases in clothing, as well as minimising odours and killing bacteria.
Plus, they're fantastic for when you're on the go - you certainly don't want to be getting your ironing board out when you're on holiday!
If a clothes steamer sounds like something you need in your grooming repertoire, you're in luck! We've gathered up some of the best models on the market, so you're bound to find the right one for your needs. We even managed to grab a couple to test out ourselves - read on to see what we thought!
Best clothes steamers to buy in 2024
Philips STH3020/16 clothes steamer
Philips' handheld compact steamer is optimised for use on the go, with a fold-down handle making it easy to tuck into your luggage.
The 120ml reservoir holds enough water to steam multiple items, with a speedy heat-up time of around 30 seconds. Simply press the 'steam' button to get going - this steamer is suitable for use with any kind of ironable fabric, including delicate materials like silk. In our extensive testing, it was especially effective on cotton, cotton-blend and synthetic everdaywear. Click here to read our full review.
Steamery Cirrus No.3 clothes steamer
With its grippy matte finish, braided cord and sleek Scandi aesthetics, Steamery’s Cirrus No.3 feels like a premium bit of kit. It heats up in under 30 seconds and has one universal steaming mode for minimal faffing. It’s quiet too - perfect for early-morning starts.
Having been put through its paces with some creased linen dresses and cotton shirts, the Cirrus No.3 managed well. The large, flat plate is useful for pressing clothes, especially when combined with the wearable ironing mitt to smooth stubborn creases from behind or on top of the fabric.
Although the 90ml water tray is fairly small, giving around eight minutes of steaming, it’s easy to refill and slides into its magnetic slot with a satisfying click. The pop-on silicone plate cover is also useful for avoiding burns when you’ve finished.
The power cord may be a little short to reach your preferred steaming spot from the nearest socket, but the compact design makes it perfect for travel.
Complement your Cirrus No.3 with the stylish Steamery fabric shaver for de-bobbling your knitwear.
Steamworks handheld garment steamer
If you're keen to get a clothes steamer, but your budget is tight, you'll be pleased to know there are several well-reviewed models at the lower end of the market, such as the Steamworks handheld steamer.
It comes with a generous 230ml detachable water tank in the base and a three-metre power cord, longer than many of its rivals.
Some customers claimed their device emitted chalky white particles on first use, but most found that it provided an effective steam.
Tefal DT9530G0 Pure Tex Garment Steamer
Tefal's DT9530G0 clothes steamer is at the premium end of the market, so what does it offer beyond the usual functions? Well, it uses a multi-pad system with varying attachments to maximise effectiveness for different tasks. Use the microfibre pad for removing lint and hair, the velvet attachment for gliding over material, and the steam bonnet to catch any water drips - great for peace of mind when steaming delicate fabrics. There's even a fragrance diffuser for giving your garments a fresh scent as you steam!
Russell Hobbs 28370 Steam Genie 2-in-1 Garment Steamer
If you're intrigued by the idea of a clothes steamer but still loyal to your iron, Russell Hobbs' 2-in-1 steam genie is the perfect solution! Easily switches between vertical handheld steaming for relaxing creases and instant freshness and traditional ironing for straightening out deeply wrinkled garments. The device comes with a trigger lock for an instant steam blast, as well as attachments designed for use with delicate fabrics and upholstery.
Morphy Richards Express Steam 361000 Handheld Garment Steamer
Give your clothes the TLC they deserve with this lightweight 1750W model that boasts a 270ml water tank and a heat-up time of 35 seconds. It comes with a lint brush to separate fibres while you’re steaming; it will pick up hair as well so you can ensure your outfit is flawless for those special nights out. We particularly love the dual steam modes - use the eco one to save water, and turbo mode for more stubborn creases.
Fridja F10 Raf Handheld Travel Clothes Steamer
A great alternative to an old-fashioned travel iron, this neat 1500W steamer is surprisingly powerful, and the ideal crease-busting companion both at home and while travelling. It’s lightweight and easy to use, with a detachable 260ml water tank holding enough for up to 14 minutes of continuous steam. Our favourite feature, however, has to be the adaptor that allows you to use a regular water bottle as the water tank. It's super handy!
Rose Gold 1000W Garment Steamer
At under £30, this nifty gadget is a fantastic budget buy that’s suitable for clothing, curtains and more. It heats up in just 35 seconds and has a 200ml water tank providing up to five minutes of continuous steam. Use the brush head that’s included for even more efficient steaming and the long 2.5m power cord if you need added flexibility.
