Recently steamer appeared in people's everyday lives and became a competitor to the iron. To decide which device is best for ironing things, you need to understand the functionality of each and compare them.
Iron
Irons work by bringing the surface of the device into contact with the fabric. New models are divided into several main types:
- steam;
- with sprinkler;
- mini irons (travel);
- steam stations.
The devices quickly and effectively smooth materials by heating the iron sole and applying pressure to the fabric. Both the speed and quality of ironing depend on the ironing surface.
For example, modern irons, equipped with an aluminum surface, have a number of conveniences: lightness, fast heating speed. An alternative to this material is titanium coating. It is more durable and glides smoothly across the fabric.
The irons are also portable and compact. Mini travel irons (with plenty of space and regular ones) fit comfortably into suitcases without taking up much space.
If you need to iron a large number of things, for example, at work or with a large family, steam stations are ideal. Thanks to the dual effect of steam to soften creases and ironing to straighten them, an iron with extra water and fast heating can handle any amount of ironing.
Steamer
More recently, steamers have appeared in people's everyday life. At the moment they are classified by type:
- vertical;
- ironing systems;
- manual.
Steaming devices combine the functions of ironing and “softening” fabric. Moreover, steamers are ideal for working with complex fabrics: linen, pile, corduroy or even fur.
The basic operating principle of the device is the release of water steam under strong pressure. This allows you not only to effectively remove wrinkles, but also to disinfect pieces of furniture covered with fabric, soft toys, curtains, without removing them, etc.
Also, for example, hand-held steamers can combine all these functions and fit in your hand. However, the volume of water in this type of housing is designed for 1-2 things. Therefore, a handheld steamer cannot be used for large amounts of work.
Comparison
When choosing between an iron and a steamer, it is important to consider the purpose of use, the amount of ironing, types of fabrics and other nuances.
If the main factor of choice is speed, then an iron is best suited. However, if you use the device incorrectly or with great effort, white streaks may form on fabrics, which will ruin the appearance of your clothes.
Also, the iron has no equal when working with rough and heavily wrinkled items in large volumes. He will be able to iron things 2-3 times faster and make them look fresh.
In cases where it is important not to spoil delicate fabrics by ironing them without additional steps (remove and place on an ironing board), it is better to choose a steamer. It is convenient, mobile and prevents tissue damage during mechanical work.
Also, unlike irons, steamers are multifunctional.They remove dust, kill harmful organisms, ticks, fleas and make the fabric softer and more elastic.
The only thing that can put a sender off is its price. These devices are much more expensive than irons and are purchased mainly for specialized enterprises: studios, shops, dry cleaners.
Thus, despite the fact that irons have been a part of family life for a long time, steamers are more convenient to use and much more efficient. However, they can be 1.5-3 times more expensive and cannot handle a lot of ironing.
