Steam is an effective way of removing wrinkles from clothing, and a clothes steamer is an efficient, convenient and cost effective alternative to ironing. There are many manufacturers of clothes steamers, and each of them offers a variety of models to choose from.

The basic premise of a clothes steamer is that it heats water, and then releases the resulting steam through a nozzle that you direct at wrinkled clothing. The steam releases the wrinkles without the wear that ironing can cause, and since steam releases wrinkles faster than the direct heat of an iron, the process is also quicker to complete. Clothes steamers also come in a variety of shapes and sizes--some are more appropriate for travel, while others should be left at home. Common manufacturers of clothes steamers include Jiffy Steamer, Conair, SteamFast, and Rowenta.

Clothes steamers typically come with the following features:

• Fast heating: Many steamers can heat up in less than two minutes, and some in as little as 30 to 45 seconds
• Compact storage: Clothes steamers that are not designed for travel can still fold up or collapse for more convenient storage
• Run time: The length of time a steamer runs before needing more water varies, depending on the size of the tank, but can range from 30 minutes to two hours or more
• Attachments: The type of clothing or fabric will dictate the type of attachment required, and most steamers come with a variety of attachments

Other important factors to consider when selecting a steamer include the length of the warranty, the amount of energy the steamer uses, and, of course, price.

Unlike when ironing, when using a clothes steamer you hang the clothes in an upright position, such as on a hanger. Hold the article of clothing at the bottom, and simply run the steamer head from the top of the garment to the bottom. As the steam is released, the wrinkles will literally disappear. For especially wrinkled areas, it maybe necessary to repeat the process more than once.

Because the steam may leave the clothing slightly damp, as well as to ensure no new wrinkles make their way back in, leave the garment hanging after steaming is complete.

• Clothes

• How to Do Laundry

• How to Iron a Shirt

• Steam Iron

• How to Iron