Fabric steamers were invented in the early 1900s, but compact models were created in the 1940s due to the popularity of men’s hats. Today, there are three sizes of fabric steamers, including portable models for travel. Steamers are gentler on clothing than irons and can be used on delicate materials. They are also useful for freshening up curtains, upholstery, and even wigs.
Commercial fabric steamers have been around since the early 1900s, but the compact models are a fairly modern invention. The idea for a small machine is said to have arisen due to the popularity of men’s hats during the 1940s. At that time, many people used a kettle to remove wrinkles from their favorite hats. But the invention of the fabric steamer changed all that. People no longer had to slave over a hot iron or kettle to remove wrinkles.
Today’s fabric steamer comes in three basic sizes: the commercial floor-standing models used in dry cleaners and manufacturing plants; the medium models for the home or small businesses such as tailors or seamstresses; and the newest evolution of the fabric streamer: mini steamers used for quick touch-ups and travel.
This device uses steam instead of heat to remove wrinkles. The steam, and the slight pressure from the steamer’s surface, relaxes the fibers instead of flattening them. Due to this process, it is gentler on clothing, faster than using an iron, and eliminates burns.
The fabric steamer is ideal for use on fabrics with a nap, such as velvets and velours. A traditional iron will flatten the nap, unless used with a needle board, but the steamer does not apply pressure, preserving the luxurious look of any material. Even very delicate materials, such as satin and silk, benefit from the careful care of this tool.
The new portable size fabric steamer is a must have for the savvy traveler. Eliminate the hassle of requesting an ironing board or sending clothes to the valet to be pressed. The device is lightweight and easily fits in luggage. Keeping it on hand will ensure that the traveler looks good at any business meeting they attend.
Most steamers are easy to use. The user simply hangs up their garment, fills the steamer’s water tank, plugs it in, waits a few minutes, and proceeds to go over the item in a sweeping motion, allowing the steam to smooth out wrinkles.
In addition to clothes, a fabric steamer can be extremely useful for other tasks around the house. It can be used to freshen curtains, upholstered furniture, fabric shower curtains, auto upholstery, and even wigs. Once people recognize the ease and value of using this tool, they will undoubtedly find countless uses for it.
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