Written by Ben Chuang

I'll be the first to admit that when I was younger, I got by without a clothes steamer for many years. In fact, I barely even ironed shirts for a long period of my life, as it felt like a tedious process that wasn't worth the hassle for daily office wear. Before big, formal events I'd just take my whole outfit to the dry cleaner to be laundered, steamed, and folded.

But over the years, something began to change. I began to find an appreciation for the calm, meditative routine of steaming and ironing shirts the night before a big meeting. That's when I began to dive into the rabbit hole of proper clothing care and realized that not all clothes steamers are created equal. I've done my fair share of research on clothes steamers so that you can check the list below and see which one fits your needs the best.

In the fast-paced world of modern living, maintaining a polished appearance is paramount, and for men on the go, having the right tools to keep their wardrobe crisp when packing a suit into a suitcase is essential. Enter the clothes steamer, the unsung heroes of garment care, offering a convenient and efficient alternative to traditional ironing.

Whether you're a frequent traveler or a busy professional, investing in a quality clothes steamer can revolutionize your daily routine and freshen up that nice blue dress shirt.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of clothes steamers for men, exploring the top options available on the market to ensure you make the right choice for your lifestyle and sartorial needs. Say goodbye to cumbersome ironing boards and hello effortlessly smooth garments—all with the power of clothing steamers.

Our Top 7 Garment Steamers

1. Conair Handheld Garment Steamer for Clothes

Introducing the Conair Extreme Steam Handheld Clothes Steamer in elegant Champagne finish, the ultimate solution to effortlessly smooth and refresh your wardrobe. This compact and powerful clothes steamer is designed to tackle even the toughest wrinkles with ease, making it a must-have addition to your garment care routine. With its advanced technology, the Conair Extreme Steam Handheld Clothes Steamer delivers 30% hotter steam compared to standard garment steamers, ensuring quick and efficient wrinkle removal on your best skinny-fit shirts.

Equipped with dual heat technology, this handheld clothes steamer heats up in just 75 seconds with Conair Turbo Extremesteam technology, providing instant steam for fast and effective results. Its large steam head covers more surface area, while the built-in creaser attachment helps to create sharp creases and crisp edges on shirts, pants, and more.

The Conair Extreme Steam Handheld Clothes Steamer also features a convenient removable water tank for easy filling and cleaning, as well as an auto-off safety feature for peace of mind. Whether you're at home or on the go, this versatile steamer offers unparalleled performance and convenience, keeping your gray button up shirt looking fresh and wrinkle-free wherever life takes you. Elevate your garment care routine with the Conair Extreme Steam Handheld Clothes Steamer and experience the difference for yourself.

2. Portable Handheld Garment Steamer for Fabric Wrinkles

Embark on a journey to effortless garment care with the Portable Handheld Clothes Steamer. This versatile companion is the best clothes steamer for smoothing out wrinkles and rejuvenating your wardrobe with unparalleled ease and convenience. Crafted with portability in mind, this light and compact clothes steamer is designed to provide powerful steam on the go, ensuring your collared shirts always look their best no matter where life takes you.

Boasting advanced technology, the Portable Handheld Clothes Steamer heats up quickly and efficiently, delivering instant wrinkle removal for a variety of fabrics. Its sleek and ergonomic design makes it comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver, while the versatile steam head and built-in crease attachment ensure precise results every time.

Whether you're traveling, attending conferences, or simply at home, this lightweight and portable steamer is your go-to solution for wrinkle-free clothes without the hassle of traditional ironing. Say farewell to bulky irons and cumbersome ironing boards – revolutionize your garment care routine with the Portable Handheld Clothes Steamer and enjoy effortlessly smooth clothes wherever you are.

3. SALAV® GS18-DJ Standing Garment Steamer with Roll Wheels for Easy Movement

Discover the SALAV Standing Clothes Steamer, your ultimate solution for effortlessly achieving wrinkle-free garments with ease and efficiency. Designed for convenience and performance, this is the best clothes steamer for anyone shopping for a full-sized unit, whether you're preparing for work, white tie occasions, or everyday wear. Featuring a sleek and modern design, this standing steamer is equipped with advanced technology to deliver continuous steam for quick and effective wrinkle removal.

With its adjustable telescopic pole and swivel hanger, the SALAV Standing Clothes Steamer accommodates garments and accessories of all sizes and shapes, making it ideal for everything from delicate blouses to bulky coats. The large water tank provides ample capacity for extended steaming sessions, while the ergonomic steam nozzle ensures precise steam distribution for optimal results.

Whether you're refreshing a single garment or steaming an entire wardrobe, this standing steamer offers the versatility and performance you need to keep your clothes looking their best. Upgrade your garment care routine with the SALAV Standing Clothes Steamer and experience the difference for yourself.

4. HiLIFE 1100W Steamer for Clothes

Experience the convenience and efficiency of the HiLife Clothes Steamer, your trusted companion for effortlessly eliminating wrinkles and refreshing garments on the go. Engineered for simplicity and performance, this portable clothes steamer is designed to deliver powerful steam in a compact and lightweight package. With its rapid heating technology, the HiLife Steamer produces steam within seconds, allowing you to quickly and easily smooth out wrinkles without the need for an ironing board or cumbersome setup.

Equipped with a generous water tank capacity, this versatile steamer provides ample steam for multiple garments in a single fill, making it the best clothes steamer for travel, business trips, or daily use at home. The ergonomic design ensures comfortable handling, while the automatic shut-off feature provides added safety and peace of mind.

Whether you're prepping for a meeting, a night out, or simply want to look your best every day, the HiLife Steamer for Clothes offers the convenience and performance you need to keep your wardrobe looking fresh and wrinkle-free. Say goodbye to wrinkled clothes and hello to effortless garment care with the HiLife Steamer for Clothes.

5. Rowenta X-Cel Fast Heat-Up Handheld Steamer for Clothes

Elevate your garment care routine with the Rowenta X-Cel Steam+ Handheld Steamer, the ultimate solution for fast and efficient wrinkle removal. Engineered for convenience and performance, this handheld steamer delivers professional-quality results in just 25 seconds, thanks to its rapid heat-up technology. With an extra-long cord and powerful 1875 watts of steam power, the Rowenta X-Cel Steam+ Handheld Steamer provides unparalleled versatility and performance for tackling wrinkles on a variety of fabrics.

Designed with ease of use in mind, this handheld steamer features a comfortable handle and lightweight design for effortless maneuverability. The large steam head covers more surface area, while the continuous steam output ensures consistent results with every pass. Whether you're at home or on the go, the Rowenta X-Cel Steam+ Handheld Steamer offers the convenience and performance you need to keep your wardrobe looking its best.

6. BLACK+DECKER HGS200 Advanced Handheld Steamer

Introducing the BLACK+DECKER Advanced Handheld Steamer, your versatile solution for effortless garment care. Engineered for convenience and performance, this handheld steamer is designed to tackle wrinkles with ease, providing professional-quality results every time. With its innovative attachments and powerful steam output, the BLACK+DECKER Advanced Handheld Steamer offers unparalleled versatility for refreshing a wide range of fabrics and garments.

Equipped with a dual-purpose steam head, this handheld steamer provides both concentrated and diffused steam for targeted wrinkle removal or broader fabric coverage. The included fabric brush attachment helps to loosen fibers and remove lint, while the crease attachment ensures crisp, polished results on shirts, pants, and more.

With its compact size and lightweight design, the BLACK+DECKER Advanced Handheld Steamer is perfect for home use or on-the-go touch-ups, keeping your business casual shirts looking their best wherever you are.

7. PurSteam Portable Travel Steamer for Clothes

Introducing the PurSteam Handheld Steamer, your reliable steamer companion for effortlessly achieving wrinkle-free clothes on the go. Crafted for convenience and performance, this portable steamer is designed to provide powerful steam in a compact and lightweight package. With its rapid heating technology, the PurSteam Handheld Steamer produces steam quickly, allowing you to smooth out wrinkles with ease and efficiency.

Featuring a sleek and ergonomic design, this handheld steamer is comfortable to hold and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for travel or everyday use. The large water tank provides ample capacity for extended steaming sessions, while the convenient automatic shut-off feature ensures safety and peace of mind. Whether you're at home or on the road, the PurSteam Handheld Steamer offers the versatility and performance you need to keep your clothes looking fresh and wrinkle-free.

How to Use a Steamer for Clothes

Using a clothes steamer after washing your dress shirt is a simple and effective way to remove wrinkles and refresh your garments without the hassle of traditional ironing. Follow these steps to make the most out of your steaming experience and upgrade your laundry arsenal:

1. Prepare Your Steamer: Before you begin, ensure your clothes steamer is filled with distilled water or tap water according to the manufacturer's instructions. Most steamers have a removable water tank that you can fill at the sink. Once filled, securely attach the tank back onto the steamer and plug it into a power outlet.

2. Hang Your Garment: Hang the garment you want to steam on a sturdy hanger. Make sure it's taut and free of any folds or creases that could hinder the steaming process. If you're steaming delicate pieces like silk or wool pants, consider using a garment hanger with clips to prevent stretching.

3. Heat Up the Steamer: Turn on the clothes steamer and allow it to heat up. Depending on the model, this typically takes a few minutes. Some steamers have indicator lights that will let you know when they're ready to use.

4. Steam Your Garment: Once the steamer is heated up, hold it in an upright position and gently glide it over the fabric of your garment. Keep the steamer nozzle a few inches away from the fabric to prevent direct contact, which could potentially damage delicate materials. Move the steamer in a downward motion, starting from the top of the garment and working your way down to the bottom. Use smooth, continuous steam for best results.

5. Focus on Problem Areas: Pay extra attention to areas with stubborn wrinkles, such as cuffs, collars, and hems. For particularly tough wrinkles, you can use the steam trigger or button on your steamer to release an extra burst of steam directly onto the problem area.

6. Allow Time to Dry: After steaming, give your garment some time to dry completely before wearing or storing it. Hang it in a well-ventilated area to air dry naturally. Avoid folding or storing the garment while it's still damp, as this can cause mildew or musty odors to develop.

7. Clean and Store Your Steamer: Once you've finished steaming your clothes, empty any remaining water from the steamer and allow it to cool down completely before storing it. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintenance to keep your steamer in top condition for future use.

By following these simple steps, you can effectively use a clothes steamer to keep delicate fabrics looking fresh and wrinkle-free with minimal effort. Whether you're prepping for a big meeting or simply want to look your best every day, a steamer is a secret weapon that can streamline your garment care routine.

How to Steam Clothes Without a Steamer

Steaming clothes without a garment steamer is possible using alternative methods that harness the power of steam from items you likely have at home. Of course, you can always wear a non-iron dress shirt if you're in a rush, but here's a guide on how to steam your clothes without a steamer:

The Shower Method:

Hang your wrinkled garment in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. Close the bathroom door to trap the steam inside. The steam from the shower will penetrate the fabric, helping to relax the wrinkles. Leave the garment hanging for about 10 to 15 minutes to allow the steam to work its magic.

The Kettle Method:

Boil water in a kettle until it produces a steady stream of steam. Once the water is boiling, hold the wrinkled garment over the steam, making sure to keep a safe distance to avoid burns. Move the garment around to ensure all areas receive steam evenly. Be cautious and use oven mitts or tongs to hold the garment to prevent burns.

The Pot Method:

Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil on the stove. Once the water is boiling, remove the pot from the heat and place it on a heat-resistant surface. Hang your garment above the pot, allowing the steam to rise and penetrate the fabric. Again, exercise caution to avoid burns, and consider using tongs or a wooden spoon to hold the garment.

The Damp Towel Method:

Dampen a clean towel with water and wring out any excess moisture. Lay the damp towel flat on a table or countertop and place your wrinkled garment on top. Roll the garment tightly with the damp towel inside and leave it for about 15 to 20 minutes. The moisture from the damp towel will create steam, helping to release the wrinkles from the fabric.

The Iron with a Cloth Method:

If you just have a regular iron rather than a steam iron, you can still achieve a similar effect. Fill your iron with water and set it to the steam setting. Place a clean cloth between the iron and the garment to protect delicate fabrics. Hover the iron over the garment, releasing steam by pressing the steam button or by setting the iron to steam mode without touching the fabric. Don't forget to check out our article on how to iron a dress shirt.

Final Touches:

Once you've steamed your garment using one of these methods, gently tug on the fabric to smooth out any remaining wrinkles. If necessary, use a handheld fabric steamer or a traditional iron on low heat to target specific areas or stubborn wrinkles.

By utilizing these alternative methods, you can effectively steam your clothes at home without the need for a dedicated clothes steamer. Experiment with different techniques to find the method that works best for your garments and lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions about garment steamers

Do clothes steamers actually work?

Yes, clothes steamers are indeed effective at their task of removing wrinkles and rejuvenating garments, harnessing the power of hot steam to relax the fibers of the fabric. This gentle process not only smoothens out wrinkles but also refreshes the fabric, giving it a crisp appearance. By eliminating the need for heavy irons and ironing boards, steamers offer a convenient and efficient solution to garment care.

Is it better to iron or steam clothes?

Determining whether it's preferable to iron or steam clothes often hinges on the fabric type and personal preference. While ironing delivers a meticulously pressed look, particularly suitable for robust fabrics such as cotton and linen, steaming presents a gentler alternative, particularly beneficial for delicate fabrics like silk. Moreover, steaming excels in effortlessly removing wrinkles from hanging garments, making it a time-saving option for busy individuals.

What are the cons of steaming clothes?

Despite the myriad benefits of steaming clothes, it's essential to acknowledge its drawbacks. While effective for most fabrics, steaming may struggle with thick materials and stubborn wrinkles, yielding less satisfactory results compared to ironing. Furthermore, improper steaming techniques can lead to water spots or uneven outcomes, requiring careful attention to detail during the process to achieve optimal results.

Do you touch steamer to clothes?

When utilizing a clothes steamer, it's imperative to exercise caution and avoid direct contact between the steamer head and the fabric. Doing so could result in damage or unsightly marks on the garment. Instead, maintaining a safe distance of a few inches between the steamer and the fabric allows the steam to permeate evenly, ensuring a smooth and wrinkle-free finish without risking harm to the clothing.