Win the battle against wrinkled garments by learning how to steam clothes with this step-by-step guide.

Investing in a clothes steamer makes sense if you wear a lot ofdelicate fabricsor just aren’t into ironing.

If you’ve never used a steamer before, it can be intimidating.

Pouring water into steamer tank

Credit:Brie Goldman

A steamer is the best way toget wrinkles out of clothes without an iron.

It’s a gentle, effective, space-saving strategy that doesn’t require a clunky ironing board.

Learn how to steam clothes like a pro to leave your clothes crease-free and fresh with these tips.

Close up view of clothing steamer and blouse

Credit:Brie Goldman

Fill the equipment’s water reservoir before getting started.

Don’t hang too lowa garment trailing on the floor can get dirty and wrinkle.

Heat Steamer and Test Fabric

It takes time to reach temperatures of 200 degrees plus.

Steaming brown blouse in laundry room

Credit:Brie Goldman

Once the steamer is ready, test a small area of fabric before getting started.

It also helps you establish whether the steamer is at the most appropriate temperature.

Hover Closely Over the Fabric

Getting up close and personal with the fabric works best.

Steaming brown blouse

Credit:Brie Goldman

It’s fine if the steamer touches the fabric directly, unless it is delicate silk.

Start Slowly from the Top

A slow, methodical approach from the top down works best.

Pull the garment taut (without stretching) to help relax the fibers, especially for stubborn creases.

Blouse with water spots from steamer

Credit:Brie Goldman

If the item has a lining, steam this first.

Repeat the Process for Stubborn Creases

One steam might be enough for minimally creased, light fabrics.

Don’t put your garment back in the wardrobe or on while it is still damp.

Clothing steamer and blue shirt

Credit:Brie Goldman

What Clothes Can You Steam?

Stick with steaming natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, wool, silk, etc.

Avoid steaming leather, suede, waxed fabrics, plastic, or clothes with intricate beading or other embellishments.

Even thebest clothes steamersaren’t designed to tackle these types of materials.

Clothes Steamer Safety Tips

Steamers get hot.

However, care and the right techniques are needed to prevent scorching and avoid creating unwanted creases.

Ironing is a quick and easy solution for most everyday items, like shirts and pants.