Iron or garment steamer? Look at what you wear in a week

Three tools, different routines

What needs setting up?

Criterion	Steam iron with ceramic soleplate 44.82 €	Handheld garment steamer, 220 ml 52.09 €	Foldable garment steamer with travel bag 48.45 €
Use	Ironing board and a laid-out garment	Hanging clothes or a suitable horizontal surface	Similar steaming tasks with a more compact packed shape
Water tank	280 ml	220 ml, removable	100 ml, removable
Useful detail	Separate heat and steam controls	Lockable steam button	Folding design and bag

Which one to pick?

Tank capacity helps compare the tools; it does not promise a fixed running time. Refilling depends on use.

Try the decision against your own clothes

1. Pick a shirt, trousers and a lightweight top from your weekly wardrobe. Read their care labels.
2. Decide whether you want a crease or simply fewer wrinkles. A neat cuff is a different task from a flowing dress.
3. Prepare a stable working area suited to heat and moisture. Never steam clothes while wearing them.
4. Use the water and settings specified in the instructions, then let the garment dry before putting it away.

For travel, check the destination’s mains voltage as well as the packed size. A folding handle alone does not mean an appliance works in every country.