travel steamer for wedding

The Best Travel Steamers to Take on the Road, Tested and Reviewed

By Erinne Magee

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Even the most seasoned travelers open their suitcase after landing and find themselves with a daunting task ahead: deciding if their wrinkled clothes can get by with a thorough shake out or if reinforcements are needed. Of course, most hotel rooms are equipped with irons, but the task of setting up the ironing board and fitting each article of clothing just right can feel overwhelming. Not to mention, some pieces are too delicate for harsh heat. But is it easy to travel with a clothing steamer instead?

When I set out to find the best travel steamer a few years ago, I admit, I was hesitant about such a practical item taking up precious carry-on space. But when traveling as a family of four, as I often do, an ironing board set-up can quickly become a catch-all for toys, shopping bags, or electronics and simply gets in the way. Since I began testing these steamers, it’s rare I leave home without one.

Of the 13 steamers I've tested, my favorite models have one thing in common: a metal soleplate, allowing you to touch the steamer to the clothing to smooth out tricky spots. While steamers are mostly celebrated for their ability to get the wrinkles out, they also kill 99 percent of bacteria. Important to note, most steamers come with the recommendation of distilled water to keep the sediment buildup at bay, which I did not use as most of us don’t have easy access to it when we travel.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

My top picks:

Best overall steamer, best lightweight steamer, best long-lasting steamer, best foldable steamer, best steamer for international travel.

• Most leakproof steamer

Best two-in-one steamer

How i tested:.

Each steamer has been tested on jeans, khakis, T-shirts , button-down shirts , linens, blouses, and jackets based on the following criteria:

• Size/packability : Does it fit into a weekender or carry-on?
• Power/efficiency: Is it faster and easier than setting up and using the hotel iron? Or at least just as good?
• Water capacity: How many times do you have to refill the reservoir to steam an entire outfit?
• Leakproof: Will you be late to dinner while waiting for the wet spots to dry?
• Durability/longevity : Is the quality going to withstand enough trips to make the steamer worth packing and purchasing?

Can I travel with a portable steamer?

Most travel steamers will fit into a carry-on and can go through TSA without any issues; just make sure any remaining liquid from the reservoir has been emptied before getting to the airport.

Is a portable steamer worth it?

If you are going to a formal event or know you’re packing clothes that are famous for wrinkling, then yes, it's worth adding to your suitcase. A new perk I’ve recently come to love about steamers is I actually pack less clothing knowing I have a way to freshen up an item I want to rewear. This makes packing a simpler capsule wardrobe all the more possible. As someone who typically only uses a carry-on, I do value my space and find the steamer to be an easy item to remove should I be running short on room. Below, the six best travel steamers to pack on your next trip.

I have a new favorite steamer. While the Nesugar handheld steamer used to be my most-used, the Proctor Silex 2-in-1 compact garment steamer has moved into the top spot for me. It’s only seven ounces heavier than the Nesugar model and steams continuously for almost 10 minutes without needing to refill the reservoir. Plus, it works effectively on every type of garment—even jeans with stubborn wrinkles. Often we don’t know where or how many outlets our hotel or Airbnb will have, so the 10-foot cord on this steamer is much appreciated, as it allows you to move around comfortably. Surprisingly, this is also the most affordable steamer at $20. If you are someone who will only travel with a steamer for special occasions, this one is a safe choice.

Weight: 1.63 lbs. Water tank capacity : 4 oz. What I like most: Affordable, de-wrinkles all fabrics, heats up in 45 seconds, effective brush attachment Where there's room for improvement: Reservoir can be hard to completely empty

I've used this steamer regularly for over a year, and very much appreciate the smart design. The Nesugar portable steamer weighs less than a pound, but produces a solid stream of steam. With a small reservoir, I was surprised the water lasted for almost 10 minutes, allowing for five items to be de-wrinkled (though it was not powerful enough for jeans). There is a button to turn the steam on, but you don’t have to hold it down, which I like. The metal soleplate allows for an ironing option, which is what I ended up using to smooth out the jeans. An adjustable head not only makes the steamer compact, but gives you the option to steam at different angles. Originally, I wondered if frequent adjusting of the head would loosen the feature, but it is still going strong after countless trips. The unit also comes with a wall mount so you always have a place to hang it at home.

Weight: 12.8 oz. What I like most: Lightweight and packable, adjustable head, comes with a wall mount Where there's room for improvement: Works best on lighter fabrics

One of the more expensive steamers I tested, the Conair is definitely the winner in terms of power and functionality—a T-shirt can be good as new in less than a minute. While the steamer can blast wrinkles from jackets, you can also lower the setting for more delicate items. The Conair turbo is the only steamer I tested that had various settings to choose from. It even has a built-in creaser, if that’s your thing. Because the steamer is more powerful, it uses more water, so refills are necessary after a few items (depending on the fabric and intensity of the wrinkles, of course). The Conair Turbo would’ve taken the top spot if it were more compact for traveling (its dimensions are 13" x 8" x 6", making it a bit bulky for carry-ons). If you find yourself using an iron a lot at home, this steamer may actually be your best bet.

Weight: 3.2 lbs. Water tank capacity : 6.6 oz. What I like most: Can de-wrinkle anything, various settings to choose from, quick heat-up Where there's room for improvement: Hard to fill with its small opening, on the larger size for travel

This is by far the most aesthetically pleasing steamer I tested and ranks number two for packability. With a 30-second warm up and automatic steam (no trigger to hold), the Seekclass was off to a good start, but it did take four minutes to steam one pair of pants and I had to utilize the metal soleplate in order to get the job done. The reservoir is tiny, so I had to refill it before I could finish the pants, too. Because the hole to refill is so small, it’s also hard to get out any remaining water when you’re ready to pack up the unit. Knowing this, it’s smart to let the steamer dry out at your earliest convenience to keep any build-up from forming.

Weight: 1.4 pounds Water tank capacity : 3.5 oz. What I like most: Its foldable handle is great for travel, metal soleplate, quick heat-up Where there's room for improvement: Leaks when on its side; has small, hard-to-fill reservoir; heavier material requires at least one refill

International travelers will be happy about the automatic dual voltage with this steamer. While the heat up is quick (about 20 seconds), the reservoir of the steamer is painfully hot—so be sure to only hold on to the handle. Unfortunately, the high temperature of the reservoir requires a pause between fill-ups, but you can get three items done with one tank. My favorite feature is the automatic steam from the get-go, which means your fingers get a rest from holding down the trigger button that comes with many other steamers. The main reason this steamer remains on the final list is for its appeal to those who frequently travel abroad.

Weight: 1.2 lbs. Water tank capacity : 3.4 oz. What I like most: Dual voltage, collapsible handle for travel, automatic heat-up (no power button), no trigger needed to release steam Where there's room for improvement: Cannot promptly refill reservoir because the tank gets so hot

Most leakproof

I tend to gravitate toward the hybrid steamers that can also be used as an iron. The large iron plate on the Steamery Cirrus 3 is almost as efficient as a full-size iron, but I could only steam three items with one tank of water. Something that stands out with this steamer is its ability to remain leak-free. This is one of the most important features for me as I tend to travel with a busy itinerary, which means I may be steaming in a hurry and the last thing I want to do is take out a hair dryer to dissolve the wet spots left behind by the steamer. I even gave it a bit of a shake test and nothing spilled. Where this steamer falls short, honestly, is the price.

Weight : 1.8 lbs. Water tank capacity : 3 oz. What I like most: Large iron plate, completely leakproof, quick heat-up Where there's room for improvement: Expensive price point, reservoir empties after three garments

Rounding out our list of the best travel steamers is this hybrid steamer/iron that comes highly recommended by senior editor Megan Spurrell . “I was drawn to the Nori steamer because of its sleek design—two-in-ones are always ideal for travel, and not needing an ironing board seemed like a plus,” Spurrell says. “I put it to the test the day of my destination wedding this past month, on both my dress and my husband's linen suit. It did get the job done, and both functions (steaming and ironing) deliver.”

The unique, compact steamer features two aluminum plates that can simultaneously iron the front and back of a garment, getting the job done in half the time. Another perk: It offers six fabric settings (polyester, silk, wool, cotton, denim, and linen)—so no matter what you pack, you can rest assured it will be wrinkle-free and free of any damage when it's time to wear.

Weight : 1.4 lbs.  Water tank capacity : 1 oz.  What I like most: Double plates, dual voltage, automatic shut-off after 10 minutes of no movement Where there's room for improvement: Its tiny reservoir means it's best reserved for smaller jobs; it can be tiring to hold while smoothing out a very crinkled shirt.

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

The 3 Best Travel Steamers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Wrinkles? We don't know them thanks to these small but mighty steamers

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• How We Tested
• What to Look For
• Why Trust The Spruce

The Spruce / Leticia Almeida

Having a travel steamer on hand means you'll be able to freshen up your clothes in minutes, whether you're comfortably at home or on a trip, with blouses, linen pants, and more packed tightly into your suitcase. We've tested more than 40 clothes steamers in The Lab and in our own homes, measuring each steamer's heat time, considering its water tank capacity, and noting its effectiveness against deep-set wrinkles on linen, cotton, and silk.

After all our testing, we can say: don't let a travel steamer's compact size fool you. These units are light enough to pack into a carry-on or duffel bag, or store in your bathroom vanity , yet they deliver powerful steam. You may need a funnel in order to fill up their water tank without making a mess—but, they'll eradicate all wrinkles from your clothes in just a few up-and-down motions and give you an average of 10 minutes of steaming time, which is plenty ahead of a day at work or night out.

Whether you're looking for crease-creating attachments or pocket-size devices, the models below are the best options to reach for when you're in a pinch—or should we say wrinkle ?

Editor's Note: This review was updated in May 2024 with new buying considerations and testing insights for our three favorite travel steamers.

Best Overall

Brookline steamer.

Pink or black design

Wide-mouthed reservoir for easy and clean filling

Good water tank capacity

One steam setting

Performs better when tank is more than halfway full

The ideal travel steamer should be lightweight, as small as possible, and able to decrease wrinkles in a matter of minutes. We saw in our testing that the Brookline Handheld Garment Steamer hits all of the above notes, and has a few extra conveniences that set it apart from the pack.

It comes in black or pink—so, depending on your choice, it would be easy to spot in your bag (pink) or subtle enough to blend in (black), if that's your priority. The reservoir is also easy to fill thanks to the wide mouth, so even if you're dealing with the limitations of a hotel sink, you'll be good to go without a funnel. The 6.1-ounce capacity is in the middle of our picks, too, which range from roughly 4 to 10 ounces.

The Spruce / Henry Wortock

It takes about two and a half minutes to heat up; this was a bit longer than our typical experience, but is still within reason in our eyes. There's one steam setting, and depending on your materials (and the severity of their wrinkles), you may need to fill up the container in between garments. This steamer does perform better when the tank is more than half full, so you'll really want to stay on top of the water level either way.

Weight:  1.57 pounds |  Water Tank Capacity:  6.1 ounces |  Heat Time:  2.5 minutes |  Steam Time:  10 minutes |  Power Level:  800 watts

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Electrolux garment steamer.

12-foot power cord

Heats up instantly

Trigger lock for continuous steam

Smaller mouth on water reservoir

Not as compact as other picks

We've raved about the Electrolux Garment Steamer before, giving it the top spot among clothes steamers of all shapes and sizes. We definitely recommend it as a travel steamer, too. It's relatively compact and heats up fairly instantly, and the handle has a trigger lock so you can have continuous steam without having to keep a finger on the button. This especially came in handy when we used it to steam a pair of jeans during our testing. Denim is a tall order for any steamer, and while it took multiple passes, it made a noticeable improvement.

Although, we do have a few caveats with this steamer, since it isn't quite as small as some of our other picks. It's perhaps the sort of steamer you could comfortably tuck in a suitcase, as opposed to squeeze into a carry-on. The water tank is 10 ounces large (our other picks are 4 and 6 ounces), and the 12-foot cord doesn't retract, so you'll need to wind it and make room for that in your bag, too.

The Spruce Home / Henry Wortock

Lastly, the smaller mouth on the water reservoir is easier to fill when you use a funnel—which could be hard to come by in a hotel room if you don't think ahead and pack one. Still, we'd call this a good steamer to have on hand. You'll be able to bring it with you when you travel, but will also want to unpack it so you can use it full-time at home, too.

Weight:  1.99 pounds |  Water Tank Capacity:  10 ounces |  Heat Time:  Immediate |  Steam Time:  18 minutes |  Power Level:  1500 watts

We Also Love

True & tidy handheld garment steamer.

Brush attachment included

Large, stainless steel soleplate

See-through water tank

Tricky to fill water reservoir

The True & Tidy Handheld Garment Steamer is a colorful unit that breaks down into two pieces, making it super easy to stash in a bag of any size. We loved that its water reservoir is completely see-through, which allowed us to monitor exactly how much water was left. And it excelled in our testing, removing tough wrinkles with just a few passes, thanks to its powerful steam and stainless steel soleplate.

This travel steamer comes with a brush attachment that can help smooth fabric as you work, and it was ready to use in around two minutes. The handle stayed cool and comfortable for the duration of our testing, and the on-off rocker switch made the steamer simple and straightforward to operate.

The Spruce / Camryn Rabideau

Our only woe when it comes to this travel steamer is that the water tank is a bit tricky to fill. You have to pour water in slowly. Otherwise, it backs up and overflows. However, beyond that one quirk, the product exceeded our expectations and is still one worth adding to your home (and suitcase!).

Weight: 1.43 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  4.6 ounces | Heat Time:  80 seconds | Steam Time:  10 minutes | Power Level: 600 watts

Final Verdict

The best travel steamer is the Brookline Handheld Garment Steamer : a compact yet powerful option that's lightweight, easy to use, and a cinch to fill thanks to the wide reservoir mouth. We also love the Electrolux Garment Steamer that heats up almost instantly and has a trigger lock that'll allow you to steam continuously, without having to press a button at the same time.

How We Tested the Travel Steamers

We've tested more than 40 clothes and travel steamers in The Lab and at home. Our tests can vary, but always include assessments of the following categories.

• Setup: To start, we unbox and set up each steamer, noting how clear the instructions are and how intuitive the design of the steamer is. We take note of the placement of buttons and how long the cord is, and jot down anything that makes the steamer particularly comfortable, or cumbersome, to use.
• Heat Time: We evaluate the heat time of each steamer by timing with a phone stopwatch how long the steamer takes to heat up. We also note if there are any indicators that the steamer is ready or not.
• Effectiveness: We then use household garments, like linen pants, cotton shirts, linen napkins, and silk tops to test the effectiveness of each steamer and try out all the settings. We also use any attachments in the box, and note how effective they are at releasing wrinkles and making desired creases.
• Portability : We rate the portability of the product, noting how easy it is to hold or carry. In some tests, we put the travel steamer in a packed carry-on bag to see if it would be practical in your suitcase and if it drastically alters the weight of the bag.
• Overall Value: Lastly, we use our hands-on experience to rate the overall value of the product, and decide if it's worth the money you'd spend on it.

What to Look for in a Travel Steamer

The heat and steam time.

When comparing different steamers, you'll want to look at their heat and steam times. The former indicates how long the unit takes to heat up and be ready for use, while the latter indicates how long the steamer runs when the tank is full. The longer the steam time, and the larger the water reservoir capacity, the more garments you can often de-wrinkle in one steaming session, without having to run to the sink to refill the tank.

"I like [a steamer] that has a decent amount of continuous run time—10 minutes, at least—so that you don't have to stop and refill several times," notes Melissa Maker of Clean My Space. While portable or travel steamers sometimes sacrifice a longer steam time for their small size (and thus, smaller water tank), all of the models in our roundup have steam times of 10 minutes or more.

The Electrolux Garment Steamer 's steam time clocks in at 18 minutes, and this steamer heats up almost instantly, too, meaning you can de-wrinkle your clothes sooner rather than later.

How Portable (and Packable) It Is

A steamer's size not only impacts its steam time, but it also determines how packable it is in your suitcase. If you're going to be packing a steamer in your suitcase, it should ideally be compact and lightweight—otherwise, it will prevent you from packing other necessities.

The unit's weight will also impact its usability and how packable it is, since you likely don't want to add to much weight to your suitcase or carry-on bag. "A steamer should be a manageable weight, comfortable to hold, and nicely balanced, so it's not too top or bottom-heavy," says Maker.

All of our selections weigh less than 2 pounds apiece, and the True & Tidy TS-10 Handheld Garment Steamer can even be separated into two pieces for easier storage in your suitcase or at home.

To produce steam, travel steamers need to generate water temperatures of more than 200 degrees Fahrenheit. That means you need to use any clothes steamer with care , to avoid accidental burns and spills. For use with heavier fabrics, temperatures can reach as high as 395 degrees Fahrenheit on many standard clothes steamers, but the less-powerful travel varieties don't often reach these temperatures.

While they may seem similar, steamers and steam irons serve different purposes in the laundry room.

Steamers use hot steam to relax fibers within a fabric, while irons are used to press and smooth fabric and create creases. Further, steamers are typically used vertically on hanging garments, while irons require a horizontal surface, such as an ironing board .

Why Trust The Spruce?

This roundup was written by  Dena Ogden , an associate editor at The Spruce focusing on home tech, appliances, cleaning, and organization. Ogden has firsthand testing experience with products from top appliance brands, testing robot vacuums, upholstery cleaners, and more in her own home. For this piece, she considered insights from  The Lab  and our home testing, looking at the effectiveness, ease of use, and features of each travel steamer.

Our Experts:

• Camryn Rabideau , freelance writer and product tester at The Spruce
• Melissa Maker , cleaning expert and founder of Clean My Space
• Emma Phelps , associate editor at The Spruce
• Marisa Viglione , senior editor at The Spruce

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The 8 Best Travel Steamers to Keep You Looking Stylish on the Road

A compact clothing steamer can be a lifesaver on the road — here are our favorites.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

Despite our best efforts, packing for a trip often means arriving at a destination with wrinkled and creased clothing. And although many hotel rooms come equipped with an old-school ironing board, it can be a huge pain to unfold the clunky equipment and physically iron everything on arrival. Worse still, if your room doesn’t have an ironing board, paying to have the hotel press and steam individual garments quickly adds up.

Thankfully, portable handheld steamers make it easy and affordable to ensure you'll always look your best while traveling. The compact steamers tend to weigh about a pound or two and can easily fit into a carry-on bag or suitcase. Whether you prefer straight steaming, or would like a multi-purpose tool that irons as well, our list includes plenty of standout options for travelers of all types.

Best Overall

Nesugar g3 steamer.

It's sleek and stylish, so you won't mind this sitting on your bathroom counter for frequent use.

The water reservoir is quite small, so it needs to be refilled if you're steaming multiple garments in a row.

For a sleek steamer that truly looks like a high-end travel accessory, we love the compact Nesugar G3 Steamer. It comes with a soft bag to protect it while traveling and takes up no more room than a standard hair iron; plus, it's very lightweight at less than one pound. While it may be small, this steamer is also very powerful and heats up in just about 15 seconds. We used this to steam everything from silk to linen and there was no damage to any garments and, more importantly, it’s actually powerful enough to quicky get wrinkles out of pieces that had been stored away in packing cubes for days.

The Details: 2.6 x 1.65 x 9.1 inches | 0.75 pounds | 15 seconds to heat | 70 milliliters | 900 watts

Longest Cord

Hilife steamer.

This budget-friendly steamer is portable, yet it comes with an especially large water tank for efficiency.

This option is not cordless.

Travel steamers are significantly smaller than traditional stationary steamers which can sometimes mean the water tank is inconveniently small — but that’s not the case with the Hilife Travel Steamer for Clothes. This portable steamer offers a large, 240-milliliter tank with a total run time of 15 minutes before needing to be refilled (which is likely more than enough time to steam your garments for the day ahead). And, although this option isn’t cordless, it does have a nine-foot cord that will allow you to press your items without needing to be right next to a power outlet.

The Details: 6.8 x 5.5 x 7 inches | 1.8 pounds | 240 milliliters | 700 watts

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Best Splurge

Nesugar steamer for clothes.

The steamer's nozzle can rotate 90-degrees, so you can direct the steam where you need it.

There’s only one setting, so you can't adjust temperature or steam amount.

Just slightly larger than the Nesugar G3, this steamer is another powerful choice for any traveler. Simply fill the 70-milliliter reservoir with water and 15 seconds later it's ready to steam. What sets this steamer apart is the 90-degree rotating nozzle that allows you to direct your steam in a vertical or horizontal direction without spilling water all over your garment. It also includes a wall mount bracket, so you can store it easily when not in use, and a soft bag to pack it away while traveling.

The Details: 3.1 x 1.65 x 8.9 inches | 0.8 pounds | 15 seconds to heat | 70 milliliters | 900 watts

Best Budget

Bear travel steamer.

This affordable steamer comes with a handful of attachments and features a chic, gold-rimmed design.

The cord is only six feet long.

We love the look of this steamer — the modern design and gold-rimmed finish give it a look that is much more sophisticated than any garment steamer has the right to be. But the Bear Travel Steamer’s looks aren’t the only reason we love it. The budget-friendly price point and small size make this option great for travelers who rely on a carry-on bag only.

This option heats up in 10 seconds and has a run time of about 10 minutes. The only issue is that it has a tank capacity of just 120 milliliters, which is a bit inconvenient if you’re hoping to steam multiple garments at once.

The Details: 8.31 x 5.91 x 2.99 inches | 1.45 pounds | 10 seconds to heat | 120 milliliters | 1,000 watts

Best Iron/Steamer Combo

Nori the nori press.

This high-end option allows for casual steaming and more crisp, pressed lines thanks to steaming and ironing capabilities.

It’s the most expensive option on our list.

Nope, this gadget isn’t a hair straightener. Nori’s unique iron/steamer combination makes it super simple to look put-together on the go — even after multiple days of travel. The clamp-enabled press can create sharp collars and sleeves, but instead of simply ironing, it also has a built-in steaming system that allows for quick and easy pressing on the go. It’s extremely compact and easy to pack, and although the tank is only 29 milliliters in size, the Nori Press still offers continuous steam for up to 10 minutes at a time.

The Details: 14 x 5.79 x 3.11 inches | 1.4 pounds | 3 minutes to heat | 29 milliliters

Most Compact

Polardo hand held portable travel garment steamer.

This lightweight steamer only weighs a little over a pound, which makes it great for tossing in your carry-on.

It’s extremely small and might be tedious to steam lots of garments with.

The idea of fitting a garment steamer into a tiny or already overstuffed bag might seem impossible, but the Polardo Hand Held Portable Travel Garment Steamer was truly designed to be as compact as possible. The ultra-lightweight steamer weighs a little over a pound and the compact size is about the same as a bottle of shampoo. We also love that this product heats up in just 25 seconds, effectively eliminating the waiting time that's usually associated with high-end steamers.

The Details: 7.7 x 3.4 x 3.4 inches | 1.2 pounds | 25 seconds to heat | 118 milliliters | 120 volts

Best Ergonomic

Electrolux garment steamer.

This option might be a little clunky, but the ergonomic handle makes it by far the most comfortable to use.

The large size isn’t the best for fitting in a carry-on bag.

If you prefer convenience (and tend to pack in a checked suitcase) this steamer might be the best option for you. The Electrolux Portable Handheld Garment and Fabric Steamer isn’t particularly compact or lightweight, but it does offer the best steaming action and largest tank capacity on the list. We particularly love this option because of the ergonomic design that makes it easy to both grip and manipulate while steaming all kinds of garments. We also love that the Electrolux heats up in just 30 seconds for fast and efficient steaming.

The Details: 12.4 x 7.1 x 7.1 inches | 4.02 pounds | 30 seconds to heat | 300 milliliters | 1,500 watts

Best for Thick Fabrics

Conair extremesteam hand-held fabric steamer.

This high-end steamer is ultra-efficient and powerful enough for thick fabrics like wool or denim.

The steam flow isn’t always consistent and can sometimes spit water.

The Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Hand Held Fabric Steamer is your best option if you want a product that can handle thick fabrics like wool, but also provide gentle steaming for items made of silk or chiffon. The “ExtremeSteam” technology also kills up to 99.9 percent of germs through steaming alone which makes it very appealing for getting off all the nasties that cling to your clothing after a full day of traveling or sightseeing. This option boasts a tank capacity of 215 milliliters which provides an excellent run time of 15 minutes.

The Details: 5.6 x 8 x 13.6 inches | 7.3 ounces | 40 seconds to heat | 215 milliliters | 1,875 watts

Tips for Buying a Travel Steamer

Prioritize portability.

Having a large steamer is great for efficiency, but it won’t do you much good if you aren’t able to comfortably fit it in your carry-on or checked suitcase. If you want something you can genuinely bring with you on each and every trip, you’ll want to opt for a small, handheld one that can easily fit in baggage of all sizes. Most handheld steamers should fit the bill, but make sure to read the dimensions to ensure you’re getting something compact and portable.

Look for extra features and attachments

It’s wise to purchase something with bonus features that can be used on various trips. There are some steamers that come with attachments that allow them to function as an iron for when you need a crisp press, while others allow you to steam thicker materials like wool or corduroy, too.

Steamers can be a faster and more eco-friendly alternative to ironing. According to Brian Jones, product and travel expert at Best in Edmonton, a steamer can be used instead of an iron to eliminate creases from garments, especially in delicate fabrics that cannot be ironed (such as silk, wool, and pleated goods). However, you’ll want to note that steaming your clothes may produce a smooth, casual finish rather than the crisp, pressured gloss of ironing.

Yes, it does work to clean your clothes if you're in a pinch. “Running the steamer removes odors and perspiration residue from garments, and helps to remove creases from goods that aren't best suited to laundering or dry cleanings, such as silks, vintage items, pieces with leather ornamentation, and other specific materials,” Jones explains.

The easiest steamers to use should have a large water tank, steady bursts of steam, and a comfortable grip that will allow you to get into nooks and crannies without having to strain your arm.

Yes! Portable steamers can be packed in carry-on luggage and personal items and go through airport security without issue. Just be sure to remove any remaining liquid before packing.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, T+L contributor Kaitlyn McInnis used her experience as a travel writer and lifestyle editor to curate a list of the very best portable steamers for those on the road. She also spoke with Brian Jones , product and travel expert at Best in Edmonton, for his professional insights.

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Oztoprak N, Kizilates F, Percin D. Comparison of steam technology and a two-step cleaning (Water/detergent) and disinfecting (1,000 resp. 5,000 ppm hypochlorite) method using microfiber cloth for environmental control of multidrug-resistant organisms in an intensive care unit .  GMS Hygiene and Infection Control; 14:Doc15 . Published online October 24, 2019. doi:10.3205/dgkh000330

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Tested and reviewed: the best travel steamer to pack in your suitcase

By Erinne Magee

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Even the most seasoned travellers open their suitcase after landing and find themselves with a daunting task ahead: deciding if their wrinkled clothes can get by with a thorough shake out or if reinforcements are needed.

Of course, most hotel rooms are equipped with irons, but the task of setting up the ironing board can feel overwhelming. Not to mention, some hotel irons aren't so trustworthy, while some fabrics are too delicate for harsh heat. Enter our swanky new friend, the travel steamer.

When I set out to find the best travel steamer, I admit, I was hesitant about such a practical item taking up precious carry-on space. But when travelling as a family of four, as I often do, an ironing board set-up can quickly become a catch-all for toys, shopping bags, or electronics and simply get in the way. After testing these steamers, I’ll be leaving the iron tucked away.

Of the 10 steamers tested, my favourite models had one thing in common: a metal soleplate, allowing you to touch the steamer to the clothing to smooth out tricky spots. While steamers are mostly celebrated for their ability to get wrinkles out, they also kill 99.9 per cent of bacteria. It's also important to note that most steamers come with the recommendation of distilled water to keep the sediment buildup at bay. I did not use this as most of us don’t have easy access to it when we travel.

Each steamer has been tested and reviewed on jeans, khakis, t-shirts, button-down shirts, blouses, and jackets based on the following criteria:

• Size/packability : Does it fit into a weekender or carry-on ?
• Power/efficiency: Is it faster and easier than setting up and using the hotel iron? Or at least just as good?
• Water capacity: How many times do you have to refill the reservoir to steam an entire outfit?
• Leakproof: Will you be late to dinner while waiting for the wet spots to dry?
• Durability/longevity : Is the quality going to withstand enough trips to make the steamer worth packing and purchasing?

Which is the best travel steamer?

Below, our top four models to buy now.

The design here is just smart. The steamer weighs less than 500 grams, but produces a solid stream of steam. With a small reservoir, I was surprised the water lasted for almost 10 minutes, allowing for five items to be de-wrinkled (though it was not powerful enough for jeans). There is a button to turn the steam on, but you don’t have to hold it down, which I appreciated. The metal soleplate allows for an ironing option, which is what I ended up using to smooth out the jeans. An adjustable head not only makes the seamer compact but gives you the option to steam at different angles. I did wonder if frequent adjusting of the head would loosen the feature, but the steamer seems to be quite solid and well-made. The unit also comes with a wall mount so you always have a place to hang the garment at home.

Weight: 0.3 kg

Size : 22.6 x 7.9 x 4.2cm

Pros: Lightweight and packable, adjustable head, Comes with wall mount, powerful

Cons: Works best on lighter fabrics only

This Tefal steamer comes in a very close second place and, if you’re looking for an inexpensive option, then it clinches the win – it’s nearly half the price of the model above. It’s a million times better than the cheap Amazon product I was using before, removing wrinkles in record time, with a swift 15 second heat-up time. It’s lightweight, comes with a handy bag for travel and an attachment that removes lint as it steams. Unlike my old steamer, this one can also tackle clothes on flat surfaces, which means no more worrying about burnt fingers and I can press out collars and sleeves more effectively. For travel especially, I love how slim it is – it will easily squeeze into any remaining suitcase space in even tightly packed bags. It’s a winner. Olivia Morelli

Weight: 700g

Size: H32 x W14 x D6cm

Pros: Very light, slimline, comes with travel pouch, can be used for stubborn creases

Cons: Small, so can only do two or three items at a time

I’ve been tempted to purchase a steamer in the past, but most people I’ve asked have said they’ve struggled on heavier fabrics, which has put me off – why buy something that’s only going to work on half your wardrobe? But my fears were not borne out here. I had a pair of jeans looking pressed and perfect within minutes, plus a cotton T-shirt and a button-down, all in far less time than it’d take to iron. The steamer did struggle with the creases on a very crinkle-prone dress, so I had to use the included mitt to hold the fabric more taut at the bottom, which was a little time-consuming. So I’d not ditch my iron completely at home – but for pressing out floaty summer dresses and light shirts while travelling? This is a game-changer. This is a newer, smaller and lighter model than the Steamery option we tested below, and better-designed for use on-the-go. I’d say it’s still a better match for your checked case than your carry-on but, either way, it’s coming with me on my next flight. Charley Ward

Weight: 0.75kg

Size: 31 x 14 x 9cm

Pros: Comes with mitt for doing shirt collars and cuffs, worked very effectively on jeans and heavy fabrics

Cons: Didn’t perform so well on a very creased dress

This steamer is one of the best, size-wise, for travellers – it folds up to around the same size as a shoe, making it easy to slip into the corner of your suitcase. It comes with a refill container, fabric brush and a bag to keep everything neatly together. I was impressed with how quickly it heats up, and it got most of the creases out of a thick white shirt easily. On the other hand, the cord is quite bulky, so it’s a little fiddly to get into the bag properly if not wound in perfectly. Overall though, light packers will likely find this to be a new essential for their travelling tech kit. Amber Port

Weight: 1.26 kg

Size: 28.5 x 24 x 11cm

Pros: Folding design, comes with a fabric brush

Cons: Cord makes it bulky in the bag

Can I travel with a portable steamer?

Most travel steamers will fit into your carry-on and can go through airport security without any issues; just make sure any remaining liquid from the reservoir has been emptied before getting to the airport.

Is a portable steamer worth it?

If you are going to a formal event such as a destination wedding or know you’re packing clothes that are famous for wrinkling, then yes, it's worth adding to your suitcase. As someone who typically only uses a carry-on unless travelling with family, I do value my space and find the steamer to be an easy item to remove should I be running short on room.

What is the lightest travel steamer?

The Nesugar steamer weighs less than a pound, which inched it ahead of the Steamery Cirrus 2 (750 grams and 31cm long) and the Conair Turbo (weighing in at about 900 grams and measuring 33cm long) in overall rating.

More steamers I tested

Of the 10 steamers I tested out, these are the others I would recommend, with caveats:

Leave it to Swedish brand Steamery to create not just one of the most effective hand-held steamers on the market, but also the most aesthetically pleasing. Their latest style is a slick-looking steamer and iron in one. The tool heats up quickly with just one button and the power is impressive – I was able to steam a couple of crinkled silk dresses in a matter of minutes. It also comes with a wearable heat-protecting ironing mitt so it's really easy to remove every crease. Overall it's not just great for travel, but can easily replace your iron at home. If you're hand luggage only, this one may be a little on the heavier side, but if you're travelling with check-in luggage, the minimalist design is easy to store amongst your other items. They also make a fabric spray that is brilliant for keeping clothes smelling fresh when you're travelling. Lauren Burvill

Weight: 0.86 kg

Size : 24.6 x 14 x 8cm Pros: Can de-wrinkle anything, can stand on its own, quick heat-up

Cons: On the heavier side for travel

The Conair is definitely a winner in terms of power and functionality — a t-shirt can be good as new in less than a minute. While the steamer can blast wrinkles from jackets, you can also lower the setting for more delicate items. The Conair turbo is the only steamer I tested that had various settings to choose from. It even has a built-in creaser, if that’s your thing.

Because the steamer is more powerful, it uses more water, so refills are necessary after a few items (depending on the fabric and intensity of the wrinkles, of course). The Conair Turbo would’ve taken top spot if it were more compact for travelling. If you find yourself using an iron a lot at home, this steamer may actually be your best bet.

Weight: 1.38kg

Size : 34.5 x 21.4 x 14.4 cm

Pros -Can dewrinkle anything  -Various settings to choose from -Quick heat-up

Cons -Hard to fill with small opening -On the larger side for travel

At first, I was wondering if I had a faulty unit because it took several minutes for this steamer to heat up, which felt like an eternity compared to others. Once it was ready to go, though, the steam was quite efficient as long as the material wasn’t too thick (button-down shirts worked fine, but nothing heavier). Again, the metal plate comes in handy for more stubborn wrinkles. You have the option to lock the steamer into a continuous stream or control the trigger for smaller bursts (this helps save water in between items, too).

Weight: 1.19kg

Size : 28.5 x 12.5 x 12.5 cm

Pros -Metal plate -Option for continuous steam or manual

Cons - Longer heat up time -Won't tackle jeans or heavier garments -Heavy

International travellers will be happy about the automatic dual voltage with this steamer. While the heat up is quick (about 20 seconds), the reservoir of the steamer is painfully hot so be sure to only hold on to the handle. Unfortunately, the high temperature of the reservoir requires a pause between fill-ups, but you can get three items done with one tank. My favourite feature is the automatic steam from the get-go, which means your fingers get a rest from holding down the trigger button that comes with many other steamers. The main reason this steamer remains on the final list is for its appeal to those who frequently travel abroad.

Weight: 0.5kg

Size : 24.1 x 11.4 x 11.4 cm

Pros -Collapsible handle for travel -Automatic heat-up (no power button) -No trigger needed to release steam

Cons -Cannot promptly refill reservoir because the tank gets so hot

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The best travel steamers to keep your clothes wrinkle-free

You could spend hours neatly folding your clothes into packing cubes , but no level of preparation will perfectly stop your evening pants and dress shirts from developing a few creases along the way. While many hotels come with some iron or steamer, it may be easier to bring your own — especially if you are traveling for a wedding or special event — as you never know how hot an iron or steamer may get or how it will work on your clothing .

To help you find the best ones on the market, we consulted travel experts and NBC Select staffers about their favorite options.

SKIP AHEAD The best travel steamers in 2024 | How to shop for travel steamers

Selected. Our top picks

select 5 best expert-recommended travel backpacks for your upcoming trip

The best travel steamers in 2024.

To help you find the best travel steamers for your next trip, we took into consideration expert recommendations, staff picks and highly rated options that will fit in your luggage while traveling.

Steamery Cirrus 3 Iron Steamer

Steamery’s Cirrus 3 is a personal favorite, as it removes wrinkles and creases on my dresses within minutes. It's a hybrid iron and steamer that can eliminate any odors and bacteria from your clothing and can hold up to 90 milliliters of water in its tank, according to the brand. Its auto shut-off feature, which turns the steamer off after 30 minutes of inactivity, especially gives me peace of mind while traveling. I primarily use this steamer for cotton, linen and silk clothing. That said, you can also use it on fabrics like viscose and cashmere, but should avoid leather and suede as it may damage your clothing, according to the brand.

Capacity : 90 milliliters | Weight : 1.89 pounds

Urpower Steamer

This travel steamer, which has a 4.3-average star rating from over 10,000 reviews, is a favorite of travel journalist and writer, Rana Good , for how quickly it works. “It gets my clothes steamed in minutes and is especially good to use with flowy materials like silk,” she says. It heats up within two minutes and has a water tank that allows for continuous steaming for up to 10 minutes, according to the brand. You can use it on your clothing, but also on drapery and table cloths — just make sure not to tilt it more than 45 degrees to avoid any spillage, according to Urpower. Plus, it has an automatic shut-off feature that kicks in if the steamer overheats or if the water level is too low, as detailed on the product page.

Capacity : 130 milliliters | Weight : 1.2 pounds

Brynnl Mini Handheld Steamer Iron

If you're looking for a mini iron steamer, consider this Brynnl option, which comes highly recommended by travel blogger and advisor, Sally Nguyen for its compact size, which she described as similar to the iPhone 14 Pro. It has a simple one-button start feature and you can use it to ease wrinkles on cotton, silk and linen fabrics, according to the brand. The pointed curved design should help you iron out corners and hard-to-reach areas around buttons and collars, according to the brand.

Capacity : around 44 milliliters | Weight : 0.66 pounds

Hilife Steamer

This top-rated handheld steamer, which has a 4.3-star rating from more than 90,000 shoppers, can emit steam within 140 seconds and works on a variety of fabrics including chiffon, silk, wool, cotton and nylon, according to the brand. Its 240-milliliter water capacity provides up to 15 minutes of continuous steaming (the longest on our list) and its 9-foot cord provides easy access and maneuverability.

Capacity : 240 milliliters | Weight : 1.7 pounds

Perfectday Garment Steamer

PerfectDay Garment Steamer

This mini travel steamer is another favorite of Nguyen’s for its safety features including its automatic shut-off functionality that kicks in when it is overheating or short on water. It can store about 100 milliliters of water and can run continuously for about 10 minutes, according to the brand. The nozzle head, which has eight steam holes for rapid venting, is removable too, making it easy to pack. The 1-pound steamer also comes with a fabric brush to get any dust, dirt or debris off your clothes. And, while it’s great for removing wrinkles from your clothes, Nguyen also uses it for facials, as the steam moves in one uniform direction, which allows it to coat her face evenly. “It helps me take care of my skin when I travel as it clarifies my skin and unclog my pores,” she says.

Capacity : 100 milliliters | Weight : 1 pound

The Nori Press

The Nori Press is a favorite of NBC Select editor Lindsay Schneider as it doubles as an iron and steamer and functions like a flat iron for your clothes. It comes with six fabric settings, a clamping mechanism to press your clothes and a pointed tip that can iron hard-to-reach areas like collar corners. You’ll press its two aluminum plates against the front and back of each garment to minimize creases and wrinkles.

Capacity : 29 milliliters | Weight : 1.4 pounds

select Suitcase always in disarray? Save time this summer with packing cubes.

How we picked the best travel steamers.

All of our picks are expert-recommended or highly rated with an average of four stars or higher and in line with our expert guidance. We also included Select staff recommendations and kept the following in mind:

• Weight : Every travel steamer on our list weighs less than 2 pounds.
• Attachments : Some steamers come with attachments like a brush or a lint remover. For ease while traveling, we chose steamers without any additional attachments to save you space in your carry-on or checked bag.
• Capacity : This indicates how much water the steamer can hold. The more it holds, the longer it can continuously run. We recommended steamers that can hold up to 240 milliliters (which is about 15 minutes of steaming).

How to shop for travel steamers

Aside from looking for steamers with portable and lightweight designs to make travel easy, here’s what our experts recommended searching for while shopping:

• Heat-up time : The faster the steamer heats up, the better, when living life on the go, according to Nguyen. We chose steamers that do so in under three minutes.
• Size : Since every steamer weighs less than 2 pounds, it won’t add too much weight to your bags.
• Works on different materials : A quality steamer should work on a range of different materials including linen, nylon, cotton and silk, according to Good.

Meet our experts

At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

• Rana Good is a travel writer and founder of Naïra , a digital magazine for women of color.
• Sally Isabella Nguyen is an influencer and luxury travel advisor who has traveled to over 37 countries.

Why trust NBC Select?

Nishka Dhawan is an associate commerce editor at NBC Select who’s written about the best travel backpacks and the best luggage sets . For this article, she interviewed travel bloggers and journalists about their favorite travel steamers and considered staff favorites as well.

Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance , tech and tools , wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Nishka Dhawan is a former associate commerce editor at NBC Select.

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How to Steam a Wedding Dress and Other Wedding Day Attire

Wrinkles, be gone!

Cavan Images / Getty Images

Your wedding isn’t just any other day, and the attire you’ll wear isn’t just any other dress or suit. These garments were likely a serious financial commitment—per the Brides American Wedding Study , the average cost of a wedding dress was $2,439 in 2020—and, chances are, you’ve hired a top-notch wedding photographer to document your every move while wearing them so that you can share the memories with generations to come. 

With all that up-front investment , it only makes sense that you’ll want your wedding-day ensemble to look its absolute best, so getting rid of any wrinkles or creases is an absolute must. “Some garments hold up well in transport, while others don’t,” says wedding fashion expert Beth Chapman.  “A fresh steam on the wedding day will make them picture-perfect.”

Meet the Expert

Beth Chapman is the owner of bridal boutique The White Dress By the Shore and Beth Chapman Styling , which provides wedding styling and day-of wedding dressing services for couples. She is based in Connecticut. 

Still, those more accustomed to wash-and-wear fashion might be a little intimidated by the thought of steaming such a pricey—and priceless!—piece of attire ahead of such an all-eyes-on-you moment. Thankfully, it’s not a complicated process. Read on for everything you need to know about how to steam a wedding dress and other wedding-day attire, including how to best prep your steamer, and, perhaps most important, which fabrics to not use it on. 

What to Steam vs. What to Iron

“When it comes to dresses, anything that’s a synthetic fabric or a synthetic blend will steam beautifully,” says Chapman. Certain silks—particularly taffeta and silk faille—should be ironed, as they tend to get bubbly when steamed, and the effect only worsens the more you steam them. 

Many people are surprised to learn that suits and tuxedos should also be steamed. “You have to be careful with an iron, especially if you’re not a professional, because it can create a sheen on suit fabric,” Chapman adds. That said, shirts that are worn with suits should be pressed with an iron. “You can steam a shirt if an iron is not available, but you’re going to get a more crisp look when it’s ironed. Just make sure you’re using the proper setting for the fabric that you’re pressing,” she continues. (Don’t worry, there will be guidelines on the iron dial.) 

One style that should never be steamed? A soft pleated skirt. “Steaming will cause the pleats to come out of the fabric, especially if it’s silk,” says Chapman.

How to Choose a Steamer 

No need to purchase a new piece of equipment solely for your wedding day look. Per Chapman, any portable steamer you already own will work just fine for the occasion—and the same likely goes for any steamer your venue or wedding night hotel has on hand. Just know this: the smaller the steamer’s water tank, the more times you’ll need to fill it up, and the longer it will take to complete the steaming process. 

If you are looking to invest in a steamer to use beyond your wedding, Chapman prefers Jiffy Steamers . She’s in good company: many professional photo stylists and costumers swear by the brand’s stand-up J-2000 garment steamer . 

How to Prep Your Steamer 

First and foremost: fill the tank with a fresh batch of water to prevent any musty smells from transferring to your garment. While some YouTube tutorials may encourage you to next cover the steamer head in cheesecloth or another lightweight fabric to prevent dirt or grease from getting on the garment, Chapman does not recommend this approach. “It can cause moisture to gather in the head, which can cause it to spit water,” she explains. Instead, Chapman cleans the head thoroughly with an alcohol wipe, then runs a dry washcloth—or, in a pinch, a clean sock—over the surface to remove any remaining moisture. 

After the head is clean, turn the steamer on and let it run for a few minutes. “If your steamer is going to spit water, it’s most likely going to happen when you first turn it on,” Chapman adds. Once you see and feel hot air emanating from the steamer head, hang the garment on top of a door, armoire, or other high surface, then get to work.

How to Steam a Wedding Dress

“For a novice who is steaming for the first time and may be intimidated by the process, the best thing to do is steam in an up and down motion holding the steamer two to three inches away from the face of the fabric,” says Chapman. “Look for the wrinkles to fall away—it’s such a satisfying feeling!” In this process, the most important thing you can do is be patient—or designate the task to someone else. The process can take up to three hours with an especially large dress or long train. 

More experienced steamers may find more success with steaming certain garments from the inside. Chapman prefers this method with silk shantung and chiffon bridesmaid dresses because pulling the garment while moving the steamer from top to bottom inside the dress helps release wrinkles from the top down.

Mistakes to Avoid While Steaming 

If your steamer does happen to leave a water ring, don’t fret! It will dry. Need it to disappear ASAP? “The best thing to do is dab it with a washcloth, get it as dry as you can, and then steam over the spot,” says Chapman. “The additional steam will help dissipate any moisture that’s in the fabric, so it will be less likely to leave any kind of ring.” You can also use a hairdryer on its lowest warm setting to quickly dry the spot. 

If the skirt of your dress has multiple layers, steaming the top layer alone won’t guarantee a smooth look—especially if it’s a soft and flowy skirt. Instead, steam each layer individually, working from the inside out, to ensure the skirt falls as it should.

If the skirt of your princess wedding dress includes a layer of shaping crinoline, don’t waste time steaming it. (Per Chapman, it’s a “crunchy, heavy fabric with holes in it, so steam doesn’t do much for it anyways.”) Instead, manipulate the crinoline with your hands to its fullest shape.

Finally, though it should go without saying, never steam a garment while a person is wearing it. “You absolutely can get burned,” warns Chapman.

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The 5 Best Steamers For Wedding Dresses, According To The Pros

Picks that have gotten the thumbs up from pros and Amazon shoppers who’ve used them for their ceremonies.

When your wedding day comes around, the last thing you want is for your gorgeous gown to be creased and wrinkled — or to damage it with your ironing efforts. But don’t fret: The best steamers for wedding dresses will have enough power to effectively remove these nuisances while still being gentle on your gown, so long as you follow the proper technique and take precautions. As you shop, consider whether you prefer a large standing steamer with a rack or a more lightweight, compact handheld steamer. Also be on the lookout for products with certain extras (like heat time, cord length, and any helpful attachments) that may make the steaming process much easier overall.

The Experts

Kellee Khalil is the founder of Loverly , a website that helps couples simplify their wedding planning, providing everything from advice to inspiration to vendor lists and more. Khalil is also a seven-time bridesmaid and a bride-to-be.

Caitlyn Parish is the co-founder and chief digital officer of Cicinia , which is a company that sells beautiful bridesmaid dresses at a more budget-friendly price. She has over 10 years of experience in both the fashion and beauty industries.

Valentina Ring is the owner of The Stars Inside , an international wedding planning company that specializes in destination weddings and elopements.

Cacky Rivers is the owner and founder of Cacky’s Bride+Aid , which provides helpful wedding day services to the bride and bridal party, including dress steaming.

How To Shop For A Wedding Dress Steamer

To choose the best garment steamer to use on your wedding dress, consider the type of steamer, its wattage, and any other extra features you might need.

Standing Or Handheld Steamer?

Consider whether a standing steamer or a handheld model is a better fit for your wedding day. Standing steamers have a handy rack that you directly hang your garment on (no need to try and find another spot for your gown as you work). They’re large in size with a tank that can usually hold quite a bit of water which makes it a good option you won’t have to refill often if you’re steaming multiple garments. However, Cicinia co-founder Caitlyn Parish notes that “a standing steamer might be too bulky and unwieldy to use on a delicate wedding dress,” and it can also be a little more difficult to travel with should you be getting ready at a location outside of your home, though wheels help to make it more portable.

Wedding planner Valentina Ring prefers using handheld steamers for wedding dresses since they are travel-friendly and “usually give you a little bit more control, are safer for delicate fabrics, and also can be operated with more ease no matter where your dress is being hung or stored.” The downside? You may need to stop mid-steam to refill the water reservoir — but the manufacturer may give you an idea of how much continuous steam the product will provide before needing to be refilled.

The power of a steamer is typically measured in watts, indicating how forcefully it’ll put out steam. Founder of Loverly Kellee Khalil told Bustle in an email: “In general, it is recommended to get a [steamer with a] minimum of 1,500 watts but if you have a delicate fabric (lace, silk, etc.), we recommend getting a lower wattage” to avoid causing damage.

Ring adds that if the steamer has multiple steam settings, you should start on the lowest possible level and increase it “if it seems the steaming isn’t removing the creases effectively.”

Extra Features

Beyond the aforementioned factors, you’ll also want to pay attention to how long it takes for the steamer to heat up and the cord length. Ring also recommends looking for a steamer with a bonnet attachment to prevent water from dripping onto your dress, and she considers it a bonus if “the steamer could be used both vertically and horizontally, as this means that you can get to even the trickiest sections of your dress and veil.”

Shop The Best Steamers For Wedding Dresses

In a hurry? Here are the top picks for the best steamers for wedding dresses:

• An Expert-Recommended Handheld Steamer: Conair Turbo Extreme Hand Held Fabric Steamer
• A Lower Wattage Handheld Steamer With An Accessory To Prevent Drips: Rowenta Xcel DR7000 Hand-held Garment Steamer
• An Expert-Approved Standing Steamer: Conair CompleteSteam Full Size Garment Steamer
• A Handheld Steamer With A Large Tank & 18-Minute Steam Time: Electrolux Portable Handheld Garment and Fabric Steamer
• A Standing Steamer With 4 Steam Settings: PurSteam Full Size Steamer

Scroll on for five steamers that are perfect for wedding gowns — and more tips from the pros on how to steam effectively and safely.

1. An Expert-Recommended Handheld Steamer

• Direct recommendation from Kellee Khalil, founder of Loverly
• Features standard and turbo steam settings
• Comes with a 3-in-1 attachment for different fabrics

When asked for recommendations on steamers for wedding dresses , Kellee Khalil pointed to this one from Conair as her favorite handheld option, and Amazon reviewers totally dig it, too — the product has garnered a solid 4.4-star rating overall on the site after 16,000-plus reviews. So why all the love for this steamer? Well, it heats up in just 40 seconds, plus it has a 7.3-ounce water tank that’ll provide up to 15 minutes of continuous operation. Two different steam settings allow you to start on the “standard” option and work your way to the more powerful “turbo” one if needed (though remember to proceed with caution).

This pick has a quilted aluminum steamer plate, and it comes with a three-in-one attachment — the silicone band pulls fabric taut for easier steaming, the spacer helps to protect delicate materials, and the bristle brush loosens fibers for a deeper steam. Reviewers have mixed feedback about the length of the power cord; most put it anywhere from 9 and 12 feet long.

Note: The plum-colored steamer has 1,550 watts of power, while the white/champagne option is a slightly different model that puts out 1,875 watts, which may be too much for a wedding gown.

One reviewer wrote: “The most popular item I took with me to my son’s wedding. From getting wrinkles out of dresses to freeing up wrinkles on over 15 table linens last minute that were supposed to be pressed and delivered wrinkle free! It was amazing!”

Type of steamer: Handheld | Wattage: 1,550 watts | Steam settings: 2 | Water tank capacity: 7.3 ounces | Heats up in: 40 seconds | Size: 13.6 x 8.8 x 5.6 inches | Weight: Not specified | Bonnet attachment: No

2. A Lower Wattage Handheld Steamer With An Accessory To Prevent Drips

• Comes with a protective bonnet accessory to prevent water drips
• Lower wattage should be suitable for delicate fabrics

With its lower wattage, this handheld steamer from Rowenta is a good option for wedding dresses made from delicate fabrics like lace, silk, and more. Another major plus? This pick comes with three super handy accessories, most notably a bonnet attachment that can prevent any water drips from getting on your precious garment. A fabric brush is meant for heavier materials, while the door hook can be utilized to hang up your dress as you steam. Amazon reviewers have indicated that the power cord on this steamer is about 8 feet long, and the 5-ounce water tank allows for around 10 minutes of continuous steam. Rowenta also offers a 1,400-watt option should you want a steamer with a little more power.

One reviewer wrote: “I needed a steamer for my wedding dress (tulle) and bridesmaids dresses but was really nervous about using one. After reading what felt like every review for every steamer, I bought my ‘top two’ to test out. This one was a clear winner, and comes with a little attachment to prevent water marks. It worked perfectly on my dress and veil. Just in case it’s helpful for any future brides! I’m now using it on every day items also and love it.”

Type of steamer: Handheld | Wattage: 1,100 watts | Steam settings: 1 | Water tank capacity: 5 ounces | Heats up in: 45 seconds | Size: 10 x 5.5 x 5 inches | Weight: 2.5 pounds | Bonnet attachment: Yes

3. An Expert-Approved Standing Steamer

• Recommended by Cacky Rivers, owner of Cacky’s Bride+Aid
• Has a large water tank for over an hour of continuous steam
• The hanger rotates and is height adjustable

If you have a lot of garments to steam and want to go the full-sized steamer route, Cacky Rivers recommends this standing steamer from Conair for use on her client’s wedding days — so you know it has to be a solid choice. With its 80-ounce tank capacity, this steamer will put out 70 minutes’ worth of continuous steam. That means you should be able to steam your wedding dress and a few other garments like bridesmaid dresses or tuxes without needing to stop for a water refill. The attached rack has an adjustable height (up to 5 feet tall, according to shoppers), rotates 360 degrees, and features sturdy clips to secure garments. This steamer is on wheels for easier maneuvering — a major plus considering its bulkier size and weight.

Some Amazon reviewers indicate that the steamer’s power cord is a bit short. However, this likely isn’t as big of a deal as it would be with a handheld option since the steamer head is on a 5-foot-long hose for added reach.

One reviewer wrote: “Bought for my daughters wedding. My wife steamed wedding dress, Suits, flower girls dress etc.. very nice product.”

Type of steamer: Standing | Wattage: 1,500 | Steam settings: 1 | Water tank capacity: 80 ounces | Heats up in: 45 seconds | Size: 17.5 x 17 x 14.25 inches (base) with a detachable telescopic pole | Weight: 10.4 pounds | Bonnet attachment: No

4. A Handheld Steamer With A Large Tank & 18-Minute Steam Time

• Relatively large water tank for a handheld model
• Can use vertically or horizontally without spilling

This handheld steamer has the largest water tank capacity of all of the handheld options on this list, and it has the largest max run time — a whopping 18 minutes of continuous steam. Plus, it heats up in 30 seconds and weighs just 1 pound, so you’ll be able to maneuver it with ease. Choose from two different steam settings (remember to always start on the lower one when steaming your wedding dress), and use it vertically or horizontally without fear of water spilling due to its design. This steamer boasts a 12-foot power cord and comes with two accessories — the lint brush attachment removes pesky lint, while the fabric brush can help eliminate creases.

One reviewer wrote: “I bought this one for my wedding dress based on the high reviews and the reputation of the brand. The last thing a bride wants are spots from a cheap steamer on an expensive white gown. I used distilled water in it. It heats up quickly and runs long enough to complete the garment. I recommend running it a little away from the garment to get out the initial sputters. It works beautifully after that. Also, the attachment with the lint catcher worked great, especially when I found a little cat hair.”

Type of steamer: Handheld | Wattage: 1,500 watts | Steam settings: 2 | Water tank capacity: 10 ounces | Heats up in: 30 seconds | Size: 12.4 x 7.1 x 7.1 inches | Weight: 1 pound | Bonnet attachment: No

5. A Standing Steamer With 4 Steam Settings

• Four steam settings for extra customization
• Lightweight for a standing model
• Has wheels for better portability

With four different steam settings to choose from, this standing steamer from PurSteam is a customizable option that’s worth the investment, according to Amazon shoppers who’ve used it on their wedding days. (Just remember to start on the lowest setting and work your way up from there should you have issues getting creases or wrinkles out.) The manufacturer doesn’t specify the tank size, but one shopper reported that it “holds well over a quart,” which is “enough for about one hour of steaming.”

Despite its large size, this pick is relatively lightweight, and it’s on wheels. You can hang your garments on the 5.5-foot pole as you steam, and the anti-leak nozzle has an attached fabric brush to eliminate lint. This standing steamer has a 5.5-foot telescopic pole and a 6-foot power cord, and reviewers have estimated the hose length to be about 3 to 5 feet.

One reviewer wrote: “Love this tool. Bought it for my daughters wedding held in our home. Steamed her wedding dress, all the bridesmaids and moms dresses. I use it everyday and love it.”

Type of steamer: Standing | Wattage: 1,500 watts | Steam settings: 4 | Water tank capacity: Unspecified (but upwards of 4 cups, according to shoppers) | Heats up in: 60 seconds | Size: 16.9 x 10.9 x 9.7 inches (base) with a detachable telescopic pole | Weight: 2.2 pounds | Bonnet attachment: No

How To Steam A Wedding Dress

Khalil stresses the importance of purchasing a new steamer for your special day: “Do not rely on the hotel’s or a friend’s! You do not know when it was last used on dark fabric or cleaned.”

After you have your equipment, remember the first rule: Never place the steamer directly on the fabric. And if your dress has detailing like beads or sequins, Khalil mentions you should “try to stay away from them with steam as high heat can melt the gems. You can always steam your dress inside out to miss these details.”

In order to safely and effectively steam your wedding dress , Ring recommends that you take a gentle approach, “working your way from the bottom to the top, so that the steam from the bottom rises and start uncreasing the upper sections while you work on the lower ones.” Cacky Rivers, founder of Cacky’s Bride+Aid, also notes that she starts at the back of the dress first — just in case an issue were to occur.

When it comes to technique, Khalil recommends working in circular motions, layer by layer.

Finally, if you don’t purchase a steamer with a protective bonnet attachment, Ring notes that for a little added protection “you can place a clean white t-shirt or thin white towel over the steamer head to catch any drops of water falling on the dress - or on your arms as you steam!” Don’t forget to steam your veil, too.

Kellee Khalil , founder of Loverly

Caitlyn Parish , co-founder and chief digital officer of Cicinia

Valentina Ring , owner of The Stars Inside

Cacky Rivers , owner and founder of Cacky’s Bride+Aid

Best Steamer for Wedding Dress

You’ve got your wedding dress, the date is set, and preparations are underway – congratulations! If you’re looking for a wedding dress steamer to touch up any creases and wrinkles that have formed during storage, look no further.

In this post, I’ll cover the best steamer for wedding dresses, whether a handheld steamer, commercial steamer, or travel steamer. I’ll look at the pros and cons of each type of steamer so that you can make the best choice. Let’s jump right in:

Best Portable Steamer for Wedding Dress

Electrolux Handheld Steamer

Electrolux is a quality brand handheld steamer, and I’ve been a fan of it since its release in 2020. Steam horizontally or vertically without water dripping thanks to the built in steam pump.

• Ceramic coated soleplate
• 2 steam settings
• Includes fabric brush and lint brush
• Can get heavy
• USA and Canada only.

My choice for a portable steamer for wedding dresses is the  Electrolux Handheld Steamer .

Here’s why this is my best choice for a portable steamer for wedding dresses:

• Two steam settings – great for lower steam output and lower heat for delicate fabrics.
• 10oz water tank – allowing the steamer to run for around 15-18 minutes between refills. This is more water than the Conair and Rowenta steamers, so you won’t need to stop and refill as often.
• Ergonomically designed with a good balance between the steamer head and the water chamber.
• A ceramic sole plate holds heat much better than cheaper plastic varieties.
• It can be used horizontally and vertically, so you can get up under the dress and go sideways across the fabric if needed.
• Quality brand and appliance.

The downsides with this steamer:

• It can get heavy as you are holding the steamer and water.
• Slightly higher priced than non-branded steamers. Comparable in price to other leading brands such as Conair and Rowenta.

If you are in the UK , take a look at the Rolipo handheld steamer . It is inexpensive and has two steam settings with excellent steam output.

Canadian Buyers

The Electrolux handheld steamer is also available in Canada. Also, take a look at the CHI garment steamer with 1600 watts of power and a 10ft cord.

Why a Portable Steamer is a Good Choice for Wedding Dresses

If you are travelling for your wedding or getting ready somewhere other than home, a portable garment steamer is easily transported with you.

Portable or handheld steamers tend to heat up much faster than full-size garment steamers, and the length of the steaming hose does not restrict you.

Handheld steamers are also more affordable than full-size steamers or commercial steamers.

The downside is the small water chamber you will need to stop and refill. They can also get a little heavier in your hand than just holding the steamer nozzle with full-size garment steamers.

Best Full Size Clothes Steamer for Wedding Dress

Jiffy J-4000 Garment Steamer

The Jiffy J-4000 will steam your wedding dress, men’s suits and bridesmaid dresses with ease. This is an excellent choice if you are all getting ready in the same place.

• Commercially rated clothes steamer
• Lasts for decades
• Steams all fabrics, table linens, backdrops, chair covers etc.
• Needs 15 minutes to heat up

When looking at a standing steamer or home steamer for steaming a wedding dress, one of my absolute favorite steamers is the commercially rated Jiffy J-4000 steamer.

Not only can you steam your wedding dress, but you can also do the bridesmaid dresses, mother of the bride’s dress, all the men’s (or women’s) suits, and more with this heavy-duty machine.

The reason I suggest the J-4000 over other Jiffy models, is the wattage. The J-4000 is a 1500 watt steamer, compared to 1300 watts in the other models. The J-4000 offers superior steaming performance and steam output.

The J-4000 is designed to be set up and left in standby mode. You will need to allow around 15 minutes for the boiler to heat the water, but after that, it will only take 2 minutes to reheat back to steaming from standby mode.

The downside with the Jiffy steamer is it is built like a tank. The base unit is heavy, and although it is on castors so you can roll it around, the idea with this (and most) standing steamers is to stay in one room.

If you are getting ready at home, this steamer is ideal.

A higher price tag comes with a brand such as Jiffy and the quality of the appliance. However, worthwhile if you are in the market for a clothing steamer that you will use repeatedly.

For a cheaper option than the Jiffy steamer, look at the Anthter Steamer.

Anthter Professional Steamer

With a 3-year warranty (comparable to USA-made Jiffy Steamers) the Anthter steamer offers fast heat-up time, a removable water tank, and multiple steam settings. The 1500-watt steamer heats water to 248 degrees – hotter than most garment steamers.

This 1500 watt garment steamer by Anthter has two steam settings, so you can steam any delicate lace, silk or embellishments on your wedding dress on the lower steam setting, and use the higher steam setting for thicker fabrics or tougher wrinkles.

It is backed by a 3-year warranty, heats up in 45 seconds and steams for around 90 minutes continuously – plenty of time for a wedding dress and the bridesmaid’s dresses too!

The steamer weighs around 12 pounds when empty, so not super heavy to transport. You can also collapse down the telescopic poles, making the unit more compact.

Best Travel Steamer for Wedding Dress

Eloping, getting married overseas or if you are located outside of the USA, take a look at the dual voltage travel steamers below. These can be switched between 110V and 220V, usually at the flick of a button on the machine.

My top choice for a dual-voltage travel steamer for wedding dresses is the new Conair Power Steam.

Conair Power Steam

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• Adjust between 120 and 240V
• Adjustable head for easy storage
• 1200 watts – higher powered than other dual voltage steamers
• Small water tank
• Needs distilled water

Wedding Dress Steaming

If you’re planning on steaming your wedding dress, take a look at my  guide to wedding dress steaming. Using my wedding dress as an example, this guide includes instructions and images of how the wedding dress steaming turned out, as well as my at home simple cheat for making a steam bonnet!

How to Choose a Steamer for a Wedding Dress?

When considering a clothing steamer for your wedding dress, think about where you will be steaming the dress. If you are at home, with plenty of room, a power outlet or extension cord close by, and a good supply of distilled water, you could probably choose a larger standing garment steamer.

These are the types of steamers that sit on the floor and hold larger volumes of water, resulting in longer steaming time. The downside is the fixed length of the steam hose. You don’t have as much flexibility as a handheld clothing steamer.

Handheld clothing steamers are larger than they look online. Standing about as tall as a kettle, holding around 10oz of water. Some offer different steaming modes for different types of fabrics.

The functionality of handheld garment steamers and standing garment steamers are the same. Generally, the wattage and steam output are comparable too. The downside with handheld steamers is they hold much less water, making it necessary to refill every 10 minutes or so.

The weight of the steamer can also become heavier on your arm, compared to holding the nozzle only with a standing steamer.

Handheld steamers offer better portability, particularly if you are traveling to get married or need some quick touch-ups on the day. You still need to consider power outlets and extension cords for handheld steamers – there are no cordless steamers on the market yet.

Whatever you choose, make sure you have some distilled water handy. Created from steam, distilled water is the best choice for wedding dress steaming and avoids the build-up of minerals in your steamer. These can cause spitting, marks on your dress, and poor performance from your steamer, with the likelihood that it will stop working fairly quickly.

When looking at the performance of a steamer, I generally look for a minimum of 1500 watts to get the best steam output. If you have a silk, lace or other delicate fabric wedding dress, you can choose a lower wattage steamer for more gentle steam output.

Alternatively, consider choosing a steamer with multiple steam settings. Use the lowest for your wedding dress, and then you’ll be able to steam other articles of clothing after your big day.

If you are heading overseas, consider a dual-voltage steamer to take it abroad on your honeymoon. My article on travel steamers is helpful for other dual-voltage travel steamer options.

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The 7 Best Steamer for Wedding Dress

UPDATED July 15, 2022 by Russel Peters

One of the most important tools that you need on hand for your wedding day is the best steamer for wedding dress. The steamer will help remove all the wrinkles from your dress and give it that perfectly smooth and satiny shine. What’s more, a portable steamer means that you won’t need to keep sending clothes out to the nearest laundry shop for a quick steaming. Finally, having your own steamer on hand will also help you be on guard for other wedding day outfit mishaps, whether it’s your groom’s suit getting creased or a bride’s maid gown needing one final freshening up.

Here is a list of the best portable steamer for wedding dress and other wedding outfits.

Comparison Chart

A detailed review on the 7 best steamers for wedding dress, urpower updated 180ml steamer for clothes.

No bride wants to wear a wrinkly wedding dress on the most important day of her life, right? If you have a wedding dress with stubborn wrinkles, you need the powerful and portable URPOWER garment steamer on standby. This handy garment steamer is equipped with the latest steam technology guaranteed to remove wrinkles faster and more efficiently than a standard iron. One of the best steamer for wedding dress in the market.

Product Highlights

The UPPOWER garment steamer features a new and improved nozzle design that distributes the steam consistently along the surface of your garment to ensure that all wrinkles are removed. This garment steamer has a built-in auto-off safety feature when the unit becomes too hot or if the water level inside the reservoir is too low. It also heats up quickly and is ready to use within two minutes of being turned on. The 180ml water tank contains enough water for 7-10 minutes of continuous steaming.

The URPOWER garment steamer is light and portable and can be placed inside your bag without any problems. It comes with a free drawstring pouch and a heat-resistant mitt to help protect your hands against the heat of the steam. Finally, the company offers a 2-year warranty!

Some users have reported that the product can overboil the water and cause steam burns. The nozzle does not always produce steam, which can cause garments to get wet. It is also notable that the nozzle can get snagged on thicker fabrics.

• Portable and lightweight
• Wide steaming nozzle
• Easy to use
• 7-10 minutes continuous steaming
• Can be used for a variety of fabrics
• Auto-off safety protection
• Comes with drawstring bag and heat-resistant mitt
• 2-year warranty
• Not recommended for thick fabrics
• Water can boil over and cause steam burns
• Does not steam consistently and can get clothes wet

PERFECTDAY Garment Steamer

Imagine having your own steamer on your wedding day to deal with those stubborn and unsightly wrinkles. It’s great, right? With the PERFECTDAY garment steamer, you’ll never have to worry about a stray wrinkle on your wedding dress ruining your wedding day photos! Electrical Testing Laboratories certify this portable garment steamer for wedding dress, stating that it follows North American safety standards. One of the best steamer for wedding dress in the market.

The PERFECTDAY garment steamer is a compact yet powerful tool that you will be glad to have on your wedding day! It has eight steam nozzles that allow consistent and widespread steaming, as well as a fur brush to help remove dust or dirt from your clothes. Its travel-friendly design allows you to remove the nozzle head, making it easier to store in your luggage. It can be used on all fabric types, and its 100 ml tank allows you to use it for 10 minutes of continuous steaming. 

The PERFECTDAY garment steamer has a safety feature that will automatically turn off the unit if it becomes too hot or if the water level inside becomes too low. When the unit is turned off, it will reset and become ready for use again. You will also receive a 30-day money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the unit.

If you fill the unit even close to the max water level line, it will sputter and cause hot water to come out of the nozzle. Some users have also reported that the company that makes the product offers to send customers a $10 Amazon gift card if they leave a 5-star review on their page.

• Powerful and consistent steaming
• Fur brush helps remove stains and dirt
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• Water sputters out if the unit is filled close to max line
• Reviews might not be genuine because the company offers $10 GC in exchange for 5-star reviews on Amazon

Electrolux Portable Handheld Garment & Fabric Steamer

The SteamerMax handheld garment steamer is a complete kit for steaming your clothes on the go, making it one of the best steamers for a wedding dress. It is a complete kit because the Amazon Diamond Edition includes the steamer and a storage bag for the unit, a ling roller, and even portable hangers for your clothes! One of the best steamer for wedding dress in the market.

With its powerful 1200-watt motor, the SteamerMax is ready to use within 12 seconds of being turned on! The SteamerMax has a large water reservoir that allows you to use it for 12 minutes of continuous steaming. It also has a portable and lightweight design that allows you to tuck it away in your luggage or even handbag without any problems. The steamer also has a built-in safety mechanism that will automatically turn off the steamer if it gets too hot, if the water level is too low, or if the steamer has not been used for some time.

One of the best features of the SteamerMax is the patented steam plate design. It allows for both vertical and horizontal steaming while still giving out a consistent and powerful steam stream. No matter the angle you use, the garment steamer will not spray, leak, or spit hot water.

The SteamerMax is not cordless, so you need to be close to an electrical outlet to be able to use it. What’s more, some users have reported that the steamer does not heat up as quickly as advertised.

• Patented steam plate design allows any angle for steaming
• Lightweight and easy to store
• Large water reservoir
• Quick heating up time
• 12 minutes of continuous use
• Automatic off safety feature
• Not cordless, which requires a nearby outlet
• Heating up time longer than advertised

Polardo Hand Held Portable Travel Garment Steamer

If you’re in the market for a powerful garment steamer in a portable size, then the Polardo handheld garment steamer is the best steamer for wedding dress for you. Its compact and ergonomic design makes it comfortable to use, and the grip always remains cool and safe to the touch. One of the best steamer for wedding dress in the market.

The Polardo is one of the fastest to power up portable garment steamer for wedding dress on this list. It is ready to use in less than 25 seconds from turning on, and it can be used for 10 minutes continuously. What’s more, unlike other steamers, this product can be used immediately after being paused and turned back on. It can be used for any fabric type, and the package comes with a bonus brush that you can use to help scrub away dirt and grime. The bonus brush is gentle and can be even be used for delicate fabric such as lace and silk.

The SteamerMax has the company’s innovative electric pump and steam channeling design. This system prevents any hot water from spilling or leaking out the steamer, no matter what angle you use it in. You can even use the steamer upside down without worrying about burns!

Users have complained that the product is falsely advertised. The steamer is not cordless, which means that you need to be close to a power outlet to use it. Some users have reported that it emits a loud sound when it is heating up.

• Innovative design prevents spills and leaks
• Compact design
• Easy to use and ergonomic design
• Heats up quickly
• Can be used for 10 minutes continuously
• Falsely advertised as it is not cordless
• Emits a loud sound when it is heating up

Hilife Steamer for Clothes Steamer

For your special day, you need the best portable steamer for wedding dress ready. The HILIFE steamer for clothes will be your best friend! This innovative and lightweight handheld garment steamer is perfect for those sudden wrinkle emergencies. With the HILIFE steamer, you’ll have perfectly ironed garments for that picture-perfect wedding photo. One of the best steamer for wedding dress in the market.

The HILIFE steamer has a powerful 700-watt motor that produces a consistent stream of steam. With its 9-foot power cord, you can easily move around without worrying about the power cord coming up short. However, you can detach the unit’s power cord, ensuring that you can easily store the HILIFE steamer and take it with you anywhere you need. 

The HILIFE steamer has the second-largest water capacity out of all of the steamers on this list of the best steamer for wedding dress. It has a huge 240ml water reservoir, and it can be used for 15 minutes of continuous steaming.

The HILIFE can only be used in an upright position. If you use it at any other angle, the hot water inside can spill or leak. What’s more, this product is not recommended for thick fabrics. Finally, some users have reported that it is not durable.

• Powerful 700-watt motor
• Large 240 ml water reservoir
• Can be used for 15 minutes continuously
• Long 9-foot cord
• Not durable
• Can only be used in upright position

BEAUTURAL Steamer for Clothes with Pump Steam Technology

The BEAUTURAL Steamer is your all-in-one garment steamer on the go! It is lightweight and portable, and safe to use with all fabrics. With the BEAUTURAL steamer in your luggage, you’ll swear you have a full-service laundry shop in there. One of the best steamer for wedding dress in the market.

The BEAUTURAL steamer has a quick preheating time of 30 seconds, as well as an automatic shut-off safety feature. The product features an innovative pump steam technology, which prevents leaking or spilling even if you are using the steamer horizontally. It also has the largest water reservoir of all the steamers on this list as it has a capacity of 260 ml of water. The water tank is also removable, making it easy to refill.

When you purchase the BEAUTURAL garment steamer, you will also avail of three attachments that will make your steaming job easier! You will have a fabric brush, a creaser, and a lint remover to make that wedding dress of yours perfect.

Some users have reported that this steamer does not work on horizontal surfaces as well as advertised. Also, it not durable and can break within months of purchase.

• Comes with three nozzle attachments
• 240 ml water tank
• Can be used on all fabrics
• Not as leak-proof as advertised

iSteam Steamer for Clothes

The iSteam garment steamer is advertised as the “Ferrari of garment steamers”, and with its features, you’ll understand why! It is ready to use in less than 20 seconds, and it can be used for 10 minutes continuously. With the iSteam garment steamer, you’ll iron out even the most stubborn wrinkle and crease and be ready to look your best on your special day! One of the best steamer for wedding dress in the market.

The iSteam comes with innovative pump steam technology, which means that you won’t need to worry about your garments getting wet spots! The system will ensure that the nozzle head produces steam only. The iSteam has a 120 ml water tank and an automatic shutdown feature.

The company stands by its products and offers a 3-year warranty on the iSteam garment steamer.

The water reservoir is difficult to fill, and the steamer does not work well on thick fabrics. The steam output is not steady as well.

• Innovative pump steam technology
• 120 ml water tank
• Automatic shutdown feature
• 3-year warranty
• Water tank is hard to fill
• Not suitable for thick fabrics
• Steam output is not steady

Weddings can be unpredictable, which is why you need the best steamer for wedding dress ready! If you want everything you need in a steamer, the SteamerMax garment steamer is the best choice. However, if you want something powerful that can handle your wedding dress as well as your groom’s tuxedo and every garment at your wedding party, then the BEAUTURAL garment steamer is the best choice for you.  Find out more about wedding dresses . 

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Best Travel Steamer for Wrinkle-Free Clothes

The best travel steamer will tackle tough wrinkles, fit into a small package, and have diverse features. This list will help you find one that meets your needs!

You might be considering picking up a travel steamer for plenty of reasons. Maybe you're taking a long flight to a wedding, wear lots of wrinkle-prone fabrics like cotton or linen, or like to be prepared for any possible situation. Regardless of your reasoning, we're here to help!

Before diving in, let's chat about the three kinds of products we will feature on this list.

A travel steamer is what you came here for. It plugs into the wall, heats water, and shoots steam onto your clothing to get wrinkles out. Steamers can have a few unique features, but we'll get into that later.

A travel iron is like an iron you'd have at home, but—you guessed it—smaller. These often take up less space than a steamer, which is ideal for those who pack light; however, they can be tricky to use if you don't have a large flat surface. Plus, some accommodations come with an iron, so it may be redundant.

The last thing we'll discuss on this list are sprays that get wrinkles out. These are the least effective, but they're the smallest. For easy-to-work-with materials and those who are okay with a few wrinkles here or there, this is a good shout.

Regarding travel steamers, it’s essential to understand voltage. Some models are dual voltage, so they can work for different kinds of power grids worldwide, and you’ll only need an outlet adapter. However, if your steamer isn’t dual-voltage, you’ll need an outlet adapter and a power converter to ensure you don’t fry your steamer.

Now that we've gone over the product types we'll chat about let's dive into the list!

• Hilife Garment Steamer
• Bear Travel Steamer for Clothes
• Kexi H2 Handheld Portable Garment Steamer
• Nesugar Handheld Portable Garment Steamer
• seekclass Handheld Steamer for Clothes
• PurSteam Garment Steamer
• iSteam Steamer for Clothes
• MASTEAM Steamer for Clothes
• Conair Travel Smart Handheld Steamer
• Brynnl Mini Iron
• BEAUTURAL Mini Steam Iron
• Downy Wrinkle Releaser

Finding something smaller is typically the goal when looking for a piece of travel gear. The Hilife Steamer combines features you're used to working with at home and a small package conducive to travel purposes. Whether you need the best travel steamer for your brother's wedding or are crossing the country for work, you can count on this model from Hilife.

As you were probably expecting, for something smaller, there's probably a downside. We've found that this model can't tackle thicker materials like denim. It can't put out enough steam or penetrate far enough into those fabrics to get the wrinkles out. However, for most clothing you'd take on a trip, it works great!

When it comes to your hunt for a travel steamer for clothing, the Hilife Steamer is a great bet.

• It’s small and quick to warm up
• The design is similar to what you’re used to at home
• Not powerful enough for thick fabrics
• Design isn’t particularly sleek

Regardless of the cause of the trip, you want your gear to get the job done while you’re traveling. The Bear Travel Steamer is simple enough to work quickly and effectively while you're away from home. Plus, it has a unique style that doesn't look cheap while coming in at a budget-friendly price point.

Because this travel clothes steamer is so tiny, it isn't very powerful. It can tackle most of your daily clothing but struggles with jeans or heavier fabrics. We've found that it'll work after a while, but by then, the clothing is pretty wet and takes a bit to dry.

The Bear Travel Steamer for clothes comes at a budget price point, so you don't have to worry if it breaks while crossing the globe. However, we've found it rugged enough to handle most adventures!

• It’s easy to use
• We dig the design
• You’ll need to go over bad wrinkles multiple times
• Not the widest spray length, so it takes longer to cover the surface area

When you think best travel steamer, you probably don't think stylish. If you do, that's great! You'll like this next one even more. The Kexi Travel Garment Steamer is a product you want people to see because it has a sleek and minimalistic styling. Plus, it comes in two colorways, which is rare for a travel clothes steamer. If you want a model that's as unique as you are, look no further!

For its size, we feel that the Kexi steamer is heavier than some of the other models on this list. However, relatively speaking, it isn't a huge difference. It packs a punch, which enables you to get wrinkles out faster and get out exploring your destination again quicker.

The Kexi Travel Garment Steamer is one of the pricier options on this list; however, the ability to choose a colorway, the unique style, and how well it performs make it a contender to be the best travel streamer for your next trip!

• We dig the look and feel
• It comes in two colorways
• More expensive than most steamers
• It’s fairly heavy

If you're big on saving space in your back, the Nesugar Steamer was designed with you in mind. It has a broad head so you can get a lot of coverage while steaming your clothing once you arrive, but it rotates to run parallel with the handle so that it doesn't take up more room in your pack. The steamer's lowercase “t” shape would be hard to pack, but the straight bodyfits just about anywhere after you rotate it, no matter what travel backpack or daypack you're using.

We did notice that this model leaks a smidge more water than we'd like; however, it was a manageable amount and didn't ruin the experience of using it. It's powerful enough to handle most fabrics and worked for nearly 10 minutes on a single fill-up. You can go with green or red, which aren't the sleekest colorways, but having the option to choose is nice. Even if you hate those colors, saving space might still be worth it!

• Unique design saves space
• Reasonably powerful for its size
• It occasionally leaks water
• The design takes some getting used to

Have you ever been to the grocery store, gone to the self-checkout, and they had the hand scanner that you can remove from the dock? If not, you're missing out. If yes, did you ever think that this was the perfect design for a travel steamer? No? Well, here we are.

The Seekclass Foldable Steamer is shaped like a scanner and folds into itself to save space in your pack. It's fun to use and will fit inside most packs and even large toiletry bags.

The width of the head isn't very long, so it can take some back and forth to get larger wrinkles out. Parts of the head are metal and can get hot quickly, so it's best to exercise caution and not touch the area where the steam comes out. That's a good idea for all the models on this list. If you love the self-checkout lane and want to save space on your next trip, this might be the best travel steamer for you!

• Feels comfortable in your hand
• Folds up very small when not in use
• Not great for thicker items like jeans or coats
• Water on the exterior takes longer to evaporate when folded

For some travel gear, simplicity is key. The PurSteam Garment Steamer For Clothes keeps things easy to use but works hard to ensure your clothing is wrinkle-free. It's a bit larger than some travel streamers for clothes on this list; however, it'll still fit in most packs, and the extra size packs a punch.

We've noticed that the PurSteam gets the fabric a bit more wet than we'd like for certain clothing. However, once you get used to it, you can adjust how long you steam each garment. With this model's extra enthusiasm, you can penetrate deep wrinkles that other steamers might not be able to handle.

The PurSteam Garment Steamer For Clothes comes at a budget-friendly price, too, which we dig!

• Simple and easy to use
• Similar to the steamer you’ve likely used at home
• Can get clothing wetter than expected
• Not the smallest steamer on this list

Sometimes you want to push a button and go—the iSteam Steamer for Clothes works just like that. It features a simple design that's easy to use no matter where you are so that you can stay stress and wrinkle-free. Plus, there are four colorways to choose from, which we love to see.

Overall, the build quality of the iSteam isn't as great as some of the other models on this list. However, it hasn't broken and can handle trips that aren't rugged in nature.

It comes with a brush accessory, which is meant to help dust off clothing, but we don't find that very useful, so we'd leave it at home. It may come in handy for specific kinds of clothing, though!

• Simple but effective functions
• Four colorways available
• Durability isn’t top-notch
• Not our favorite design

If you're easily distracted and have found your hand a little too close to the hot vaporized water on your steamer at home, we've got the model for you. The MASTEAM Steamer for Clothes comes with a little mitt so that you don't burn your hand, which is perfect for people who get off task quickly or will be using the steamer a lot.

The MASTEAM isn't the smallest model on this list; however, it'll fit in a travel backpack or rolling luggage bag. This may not be a great fit in a daypack, though.

This steamer has no special features or bells and whistles, but we're here for it. The simple design gets the job done when it matters, and if you're bringing a steamer on vacation, you'll need it.

• It comes with a mitt to protect your hand
• Puts out a lot of steam
• Larger than we’d like for travel
• Colorways aren’t very exciting

The Conair Travel Steamer was recommended to us by Pack Hacker Pro Members, and we're amped to share it with you all. It's lightweight, only takes up a little room, is fairly durable, and won't break the bank. When looking for the best travel steamer for you, this one checks a lot of boxes.

The only major gripe we have with this steamer is that it can be hard to use for extended periods because of its size, especially if you have large hands. However, as you'll be traveling with this thing, that should not deter you from purchasing it. We'd rather have a smaller steamer that doesn't take up as much room in our pack than one that's more comfortable and makes it so we can't bring as many stroopwafels home.

This might be the best option for those looking for a travel steamer for clothes that doesn't weigh you down or break the bank.

• Lightweight, small, and effective
• Pack Hacker Pro Member-Approved
• It can be hard to use with larger hands
• Isn’t likely a model you’d enjoy using at home

You might be thinking—enough with all these steamers! What about a travel iron? Welp, we've got you covered for that, too.

Brynnl Mini Iron for Clothes is a small but mighty device that'll leave your clothing looking as wrinkle-free as it would look if it hadn't accompanied you on a 13-hour flight. It utilizes a simple design—fill it up, plug it in, wait for it to warm up, push the button, and go! It's as quick as that.

A downside of an iron like this instead of a travel steamer for clothes is that you need a flat surface to work quickly. Without it, you can't press down on the garment as easily. Without a flat table, it isn't easy to use. After all, who doesn't try to get wrinkles out of the drapes at their hotel or Airbnb?

A travel iron for clothes is a great and simple way to ensure your clothing stays wrinkle-free.

• Small but mighty travel iron
• Easy to use
• Hard to use without a large flat surface
• Takes time for large garments

If you're on the travel iron train, we're one step ahead of you. The BEAUTURAL Mini Steam Iron is a solid option for those looking for a compact option that they can use globally. This model is dual-voltage, so you can use it with 110-120V and 220-240V outlets, which we dig.

Similar to other travel iron models, you can only use this easily if you have a table or counter to set your clothing on. However, we had okay results using it on most surfaces. If you know what your accommodation will be like before you go, you should be all set.

The BEAUTURAL Mini Steam Iron takes up less space than most of the steamers on this list, works hard to get out tough wrinkles, and won't cost you an arm or a leg. What else can you ask for?

• One of the smallest wrinkle fighters on this list
• More features compared to some travel irons
• Small size takes some getting used to
• Can’t be used for many things other than clothing

Okay, we know what you might be wondering. How can you put this on the best travel steamer list? We hear you—but hear us out.

Downy Wrinkle Release is a handy little spray bottle that can handle mild wrinkles in clothing and other fabrics. If you aren't going to a wedding where you need to be picture-perfect or don't wear fabrics that tend to wrinkle badly, this spray will be more than enough for your next trip!

It won't be able to tackle bad cases of creases or heavier fabrics like denim, so be sure to bring along a travel steamer for those kinds of materials. However, for most users, this spray will be more than enough! Plus, it’ll fit into your sling . It’s also worth noting that this must go in a 3-1-1 bag if you’re flying because it’s a liquid.

• It fits just about anywhere
• It smells good
• Can’t tackle bad wrinkles
• The fragrance isn’t for everyone

So there you have it; some of the best travel steamer, iron, and spray products on the market. Hopefully, you’re ready to take on that wedding, cross-country trip, or a vacation with a winkle-free attitude. Enjoy the trip!

July 25, 2023

Author: Eric Hergenreder

Eric has been across the globe, but his favorite place to explore is his home state of Michigan. His love for photography has taken him all around the Great Lake State, often writing about his travels so that others can enjoy them, too. Eric loves messing around with analog photography, watching soccer, and searching for the world’s best burger in his spare time.

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The 12 Best Portable Travel Steamers for Wrinkle-free Clothes [2023]

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Table of Contents

Travel steamer vs. regular steamer, things to look for in travel steamers, how to use a travel steamer, the 12 best clothes steamers for travel, final thoughts.

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Need to look your best while you are away? Crinkled and creased clothing will not impress if you are headed to a business meeting, conference, wedding, or other occasion. A travel steamer will help you to breathe new life into rumpled clothing, while still being compact and lightweight enough to take everywhere with you.

Steaming your clothes is an excellent alternative to ironing, both on vacation and at home. Conventional ironing flattens the fibers of the fabric, while steaming allows the same fibers to gently relax so that the creases drop away more naturally.

Regular size steamers offer plenty of power to let you de-crease with ease at home. They can, however, be bulky and cumbersome, making them less than practical to pack in your carry-on, and they may even need additional attachments to ensure your clothes are perfectly presented at all times.

Regular steamers have the power and capacity to steam whole outfits, but to do this, they need large water tanks that can produce a lot of steam. In contrast, travel steamers are incredibly compact and feature smaller tanks , meaning that they can be held in just 1 hand for easy de-creasing when you travel.

Of course, smaller tanks call for regular refills and a limited amount of steam power, but this is a small price to pay for easy to use, portable steam power that can be used on a variety of fabrics, for a wide range of occasions.

The other main difference between travel-size steamers and regular ones is the amount of power they can produce. A large steamer can kick out as much as 1800 watts of power, whereas travel-sized appliances might only offer between 750 to 850 watts of power.

Bottom Line: The lower the wattage, the slower the steamer, meaning that while travel appliances are super useful, they may not have the physical power to get rid of every single crease.

A steamer with a short cord is of little use to anybody. Likewise, cords that are too long can get in the way and hinder your steaming capabilities. Before you invest, read up on your preferred model to ensure that the cord is long enough to be useful without you risking getting caught up in it along the way.

Remember, a steamer is supposed to help you not hinder your ability to get out the door looking pristine. Somewhere around 5 to 10 feet in length should see you right .

Water Capacity

Travel steamers will likely have a smaller capacity than larger, regular units. That said, they will still need to hold enough water to create enough steam to finish the job. Look for a model that has a reservoir that can hold enough for about 10 minutes of quality steaming , which should be enough to get you through a full outfit.

Size and Weight

Your portable steamer will need to be just that — portable. With this in mind, look for models that are compact enough to fit easily into your suitcase or carry-on without taking up too much of your valuable clothes storage space.

Hot Tip: A travel steamer should also be as light as possible without being flimsy, so aim for models that weigh in at 2 pounds or lighter.

Fabric Types

Some fabrics respond better to steaming than others, and some steamers are not suitable for all types of fabric. Before you buy, check that the models you are looking at can steam the creases out of your outfits and that they are also able to cope with delicate fabrics without damaging them.

Assuming that you don’t want to spend all day hiding out in your hotel room waiting for your steamer to work, the heat-up time is an important factor. Generally speaking, the faster the water heats up, the more efficient the device is. Do your research and opt for a model that heats in 2 minutes or less.

Ease of Use

The easier your steamer is to use, the less time you will need to spend steaming. With this in mind, look for models that have clear instructions that are also easy to clean and fill. You should also consider paying extra for a portable steamer that comes complete with a filter to purify the water. This will help prevent damage to your delicates and reduce water spots or sediment.

Attachments

A fabric brush is also a useful addition to a travel steamer, as it will open up the fabric to make the steaming process more even and efficient. Other attachments to consider could be a lint brush, a creaser, or even a softening attachment, but be aware that extra attachments take up space to carry with you, and could cost extra.

Watts and Voltage

A dual-voltage steamer will be suitable for use all over the world and will offer the option to switch between 110 to 120 volts for the U.S. and 220 to 240 volts for use in Europe . If you are unable to find one that offers this feature, you will need to take a converter with you.

The wattage of the appliance relates to the amount of power it can produce. Most travel steamers have a power output of around 750 to 850 watts , which, while still useful, may not be enough to remove some of the most stubborn of creases.

Travel steamers should be super easy to use. They are more convenient than traditional steam irons, and you won’t need a flat surface to use them. How you steam your garment will depend on the exact design of your travel steamer, the type of garment you are steaming, and the amount of space available.

Here are some general tips on how to use a steamer:

• Start by hanging your garment up , ideally against a solid surface that can add resistance. Hang it at a height that is comfortable for you and one that won’t mean you have to hurt your back or bend and twist while you are steaming.
• Before you start steaming, be sure to check the labels in the garment. Some fabrics do not respond well to steam, and trying to remove creases could result in you ruining them. Check before you begin as those that can’t be steamed may need to be taken to the dry cleaner instead.
• Pull and stretch the garment with your free hand , taking care not to let the steam burn you as you hold it.
• When it comes to steaming, start by moving the appliance in a downward motion, keeping the steamer upright  and aligned at all times. Hold the plate close to the garment to maximize the power of the steam.
• For more delicate fabrics, you may want to keep the steamer at least an inch away from the fabric, while thicker, heavier items may need to be steamed from both sides.
• If you are having trouble with stubborn collars or cuffs, you may want to use your hand to give them extra shape and support.
• When you have finished steaming, be sure to tip out any remaining water in the tank and let your steamer cool down before packing it away again.

1. A Great Little Steamer for All of the Family

Lemontec portable travel garment steamer .

Carefully designed to evenly distribute steam effectively to remove wrinkles fast, this mini steamer is great for taking with you on a trip. Lightweight and compact, it also comes complete with a long built-in 2 point cable, removing the need for an extension cable.

With a 6-ounce tank capacity and a heat-up time of approximately 70 seconds, you can expect to achieve around 9 minutes of steaming time from this little beauty. For your safety, it also features an automatic shut-off function that kicks in when the water gets too hot or the water level drops too low.

What We Like

• Heats up quickly

What We Don’t Like

• Can spit water as well as steam

2. Hi-tech Heating and Steaming on the Go

• iSteam Steamer For Clothes

Featuring upgraded technology and a super high-tech heating panel, the iSteam is a superior wrinkle remover that is perfect for travel. With a heat-up time of just 25 seconds and a good-size reservoir, you can steam an entire outfit quickly and easily, even when you are away from home. The innovative 360-degree technology means that you can use this steamer from any angle without leaks — even upside down.

Suitable for use on a wide variety of materials, this model is light and compact enough to take away with you. It comes with a specially-designed nozzle to speed up ironing time, and also features an automatic shut-down feature if the water level falls too low. One thing to be aware of, though, is if you are looking to use this model with 220v outlets, you must use a voltage converter and adapter plug.

• It can be used upside down
• Requires a voltage converter with 220v outlets

3. Efficient Steaming Both at Home and Away

Hilife portable travel garment steamer.

Exclusively designed with a unique type of nozzle, this handy little device is designed to distribute steam evenly to ensure wrinkle-free clothing, every time. Suitable for use on all kinds of fabrics , the Hilife Portable Steamer can be used for steaming, sanitizing, cleaning, and removing wrinkles.

Small enough to go everywhere with you, this model is also competent enough to be used at home. With an 8-ounce reservoir, this steamer provides up to 15 minutes of steam to eliminate wrinkles from an array of materials, including cotton, linen, silk, and chiffon.

• Provides 15 minutes of steam
• No auto shut-off safety feature

4. Superfast Heat-up for Easy Steaming

Magicpro portable garment steamer.

With a superfast 25-second heat-up time , this is an impressive steamer that can be used on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, silk, linen, polyester, wool, and velvet, as well as other common fabric blends.

It also features unique leakproof technology that uses an electronic pump to prevent water from spitting and spilling, meaning you can steam your clothes either horizontally or vertically. There is an automatic shutdown system that activates whenever the steamer is too hot, or the water level is too low, and the 2-in-1 fabric and lint brush included in the box gives you more versatility at home or on the go.

• Heats up super quick
• The water tank is quite small

5. NANO Water Technology for Softer Steaming

Polardo handheld travel steamer.

Featuring 360-degree, anti-spill technology, this high-grade travel steamer uses an electronic pump system to deliver steam from any angle. You can even use this steamer upside down — without the risk of spills or burns — to ensure that you never miss a single crease.

With a tank that heats up in less than 25 seconds and delivers 10 continuous minutes of steam power, this model is a little more costly than some others on the market, but its superior steaming capabilities make the extra few dollars well worth it.

Offering seriously useful features for those who like to stay wrinkle-free on the go, you can steam, sanitize, sterilize, soften, and clean any type of fabric including cotton, satin, linen, nylon blends, sequins, embroidery, beads, and much more. Gentle and safe to use, it also comes complete with an ultramodern NANO water filter . This softens tap water to prevent calcification and keeps your clothes feeling softer for longer.

• Can be turned and used from any angle
• Falls over easily when standing upright

6. Compact Steaming With a Carry Bag

• PERFECTDAY Portable Garment Steamer

Powered by 800 watts of steam and with 8 steam nozzles , this is a good quality garment steamer that provides rapid venting for even steaming. It also comes with a fur brush to help remove dust, dirt, or debris from your clothes. With a compact design and a removable nozzle head, this model is small enough to tuck in your carry-on bag, while still being powerful enough to keep you looking fresh on the go.

The 3.4-ounce tank capacity will provide enough steam for around 10 minutes of steaming power, and the dual safety protection system will shut off the device if it gets too hot or the water gets too low.

• Doesn’t leak when using
• Has a 1-year warranty

Hot Tip: Protect your purchases by using a credit card with extended warranty coverage !

7. Commercial Grade Steaming in a Handheld

• ESTEAM Personal Hand Held Steamer

This high-end steamer comes complete with a multitude of functions, including a selection of voltage plugs that will ensure your steamer works wherever in the world you are headed. Offering all the power of a full-size steamer in a smaller, portable package, the Jiffy ESTEAM uses many of the same components used in commercial-grade steamers for wrinkle-free clothing.

Measuring just 10.5 x 5 inches, this compact model can easily slip into your suitcase or carry-on. The built-in reservoir can hold up to 8 ounces of plain tap water, and the 600-watt heating element heats up in less than 60 seconds. Incredibly easy to use, this machine will transform your clothes from a wrinkled mess to laundered perfection in minutes.

• Available in black or pink
• Can leak if not used upright

8. Fast and Powerful Portable Steaming

• Rowenta DR8120 Powerful Handheld Garment and Fabric Steamer

This superfast and super-powerful handheld steamer is perfect for looking good on the go. Offering 1,600 watts of power and a removable 6.76-ounce tank, this model can create 10 minutes’ worth of steam in just 40 seconds. It is also super hygienic, killing 99.9% of germs, dust mites, and more , and can also be used on household items like curtains and furniture back at home.

Compact and lightweight, this steamer also comes with a selection of accessories, including a fabric brush to brush out wrinkles, a lint pad, and a steam bonnet to prevent water from dripping on your garments. Weighing in at just 3 pounds, this model is light enough to not make a dent in your luggage allowance , while still being powerful enough to handle a wide variety of fabrics and garment types.

• Comes with a fabric brush and steam bonnet
• Quite a large steamer

9. Dual-voltage Steaming for Use Worldwide

• Conair Travel Smart 450 Watt Dual Voltage Garment Steamer

This impressive and affordable garment steamer from Conair is a 450-watt, dual-voltage garment steamer that will remove wrinkles in minutes. It comes complete with an 8-foot cord and detachable lint and bristle brush, a folding handle, and a compact and lightweight design , making it perfect for travel.

This device works great on a wide variety of fabrics and can handle suitcase-creased clothing with ease. It is also useful for quick touch-ups on the go, and with a tank that heats up in less than a minute, you will never be waiting too long to be wrinkle-free and ready to go.

• Has a collapsible handle for easy transportation
• The unit takes a while to cool down

10. A Lightweight and Compact Travel Steamer

• MASTEAM Steamer for Clothes

Using the latest technology wrapped up in a small and portable design, this is a great little travel steamer for those on the go. Weighing in at just 1.5 lbs, and offering spill-proof technology and an automatic safety system , this is a compact but powerful little steamer.

The spacious tank can hold up to 6-ounces of tap water and will heat up in 2 minutes to provide up to 10 minutes of steam power. Suitable for use across a wide range of fabrics, this is a handy little tool for travel.

• Small and lightweight
• Only suitable for lightweight fabrics

11. Dual-voltage, Superfast Steaming

• Steam & Go Handheld Travel Steamer

This dual-voltage steamer is perfect for use anywhere in the world to ensure your clothes remain wrinkle-free on the go. Lightweight and portable, and weighing only 2.5 pounds, it will fit into your carry-on or checked luggage easily. With a 5-ounce tank, this portable steamer heats up in 2 minutes to create enough steam for 11 minutes of use .

Packed full of safety features, this steamer can be used both horizontally or vertically without dripping or leaking and has an auto shut-off feature should the steamer run short on water or become too hot.

• Works with dual voltage
• Doesn’t work on thicker materials

12. Leakproof Technology for Vertical and Horizontal Steaming

• HHSUC  Portable Garment Steamer for Clothes

This powerful little handheld garment steamer measures 10.9 inches high, meaning it is compact enough to go anywhere with you. With 1,200 watts of power, wrinkles can be easily removed with 2 different steam settings, and the tank takes just 15 seconds or so to produce 20 minutes’ worth of steam.

Leakproof technology means you can use this little beauty both vertically and horizontally without leaking, and the 7.8-foot long cable makes it easy to steam clothes hanging up, wherever you are.

• Has a choice of 2 steam settings depending on the fabric
• The cord could be longer

A travel steamer can be the difference between feeling crumpled and jet-lagged to fresh and well-presented. Compact, affordable, and easy to use, a travel steamer may not offer the power of a regular garment steamer, but it will have enough oomph to de-crease, refresh and de-wrinkle your clothes when looking presentable is really important.

Looking for more travel products? Explore all of our best travel products reviews — all in one place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do handheld steamers really work.

In general, yes, they do work, but how well depends on the state of the garment, the material it is made from, and how good your steamer is. Travel steamers will usually be able to steam 1 outfit within 10 minutes.

Can you take a travel steamer in carry-on?

Provided you make sure that the steamer is free of any liquid, you can take a steamer in your carry-on.

Can I use tap water in my steamer?

Ideally, distilled water should be used in your steamer to reduce the need for constant cleaning and increase the lifespan of your product. Some steamers come with built-in water purifiers so you can use tap water.

What is the best portable clothes steamer?

These are some of the best portable travel steamers:

• Lemontec Portable Travel Garment Steamer
• Magictec Portable Travel Garment Steamer
• MagicPro Portable Garment Steamer
• Polardo Handheld Travel Steamer

What is the smallest travel steamer?

The iSteam Steamer For Clothes is just 9 inches high, meaning it is compact enough to go anywhere with you. The tank takes just 25 seconds or so to produce 10 minutes’ worth of steam.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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Wondering what’s the best travel steamer to take with you on your next journey? We’ve rounded up the most popular options available. These are the top 10!

Spoiler alert : Can’t wait to find out our top two travel steamers? These are the fave two brands according to our readers (and we agree)!

• PurSteam Mini Clothing Steamer
• Polardo Hand Held Portable Travel Garment Steamer

Best Travel Steamer

Table of contents.

Nothing is more unflattering than wrinkles and creases in your travel outfits, especially if you’re attending an important business meeting or going out for the evening. While there are many ways to pack clothes without wrinkles , there are certain occasions you just can’t take the risk.

If you’re traveling for business, attending a conference or formal event, or want to look Insta-worthy anywhere you go, here is a list of travel clothing steamers that can help you remain presentable and perky for your itinerary!

Still not sure about packing a steamer? Keep your clothes looking fresh and neat with these wrinkle release sprays instead!

What is the Best Travel Steamer?

850W PurSteam Garment Steamer

PurSteam Portable Travel Steamer

PurSteam  is the best handheld travel steamer according to our readers. It’s also the one my friend uses as her everyday steamer at home (instead of owning an iron).

At 1.13 pounds it’s quite lightweight and similar in size to the majority of small portable clothes steamer brands out there. It’s adept enough to smooth out most garments and heats up quickly, which is a plus when you wish to get ready on time to go sightseeing. And, it also includes a bonus travel pouch, for easy storage. 

This portable steamer is 850 watts, which means it’s powerful enough to do whatever you need.

This mini clothing steamer gets the readers’ vote so it gets my vote as well.

Here’s a list of top travel accessories that you can also add on your packing list aside from the steamer!

700W Hilife Garment Steamer

Hilife Travel Garment Steamer

The Hilife travel streamer is a massive favorite with travelers as it’s an extremely small and lightweight travel steamer for clothes which allows you to pack light while also putting less strain on your arms, too! 

At 700 watts, it gets the job done. While it doesn’t iron out deep creases, it easily removes the wrinkles from the majority of clothing. 

The downside is that neither of the top travel steamers shown above is dual voltage. But the Hilife is still a solid choice to use along your travels.

Thinking of where to store your steamer? Here’s a list of the best packing organizers !

1000W Jack ＆ Rose Dual Voltage Travel Steamer

Jack ＆ Rose Dual Voltage Portable Steamer

Finding a dual-voltage portable steamer is very rare, so readers were excited to discover this Jack & Rose travel steamer that works all around the world! While compact and incredibly lightweight, it releases high-speed steam that removes wrinkles quickly and easily and warms up in only 15 seconds. It also has a rotating steam head for ease of use and convenient packability.

One reader shares that she took this on a trip to Mexico for a wedding, and it worked like a charm for all the dresses and shirts she needed to steam!

400W Conair Garment Steamer

Conair Garment Steamer

Conair doesn’t just make amazing curling irons and blow dryers; they also make a comparable handheld fabric steamer. This Conair steamer is the ONLY dual voltage steamer we could find. Do you have any other suggestions?

Unlike the previous steamers, this includes a detachable bristle and lint brush to remove debris and have more hand control. It claims to have an impressive 10-minute steam time and a convenient 8-foot cord.

Incredibly light at just 1.2 pounds this could easily be the best travel steamer for clothes available. One traveler noted that she took this on a trip to France and reported how it worked beautifully. 

Aside from a garment steamer, you might also need business travel essentials on a work trip!

Polardo Handheld Mini Steamer

Polardo Mini Steamer

A downside of portable travel steamers is that they are often oddly shaped which creates a challenge to have a neatly packed suitcase. But the Polardo Mini has a unique shape that uses the body as a handle, making it one of the smallest travel steamer products that are fuss-free to store or pack.  

The 25-second heat-up mode is one of the fastest around and our favorite feature is the auto-protection that turns off after five minutes in standby. One reader says, “I never have to take a hotel ironing board out again. Even in carry-on, this is something I won’t go without.”

Its compact size, quick heat-up, and the fact it doesn’t spit water places this lightweight travel steamer as a sure bet! 

900W iSteam Handheld Fabric Steamer

iSteam Portable Steamer

The iSteam Steamer is considered one of the best steamer for clothes with its spiral nozzle designed to evenly distributes steam for a put-together outfit in no time and prevent spits of boiling water from spoiling your clothes. It is also super lightweight and  easy to store in any suitcase or carry on luggage

The water tank lasts up to 15 minutes off continuous steaming to bust out those deep creases. This travel size clothes steamer is certainly popular, one traveler calls it a “lifesaver” to business professionals and says that it “steams like a pro.” Plus, it’s safe to use with the built-in automatic shut-off if it gets too hot or too low. 

1200W BEAUTRUAL Handheld Garment Steamer

BEAUTRUAL Garment Steamer

While the Beautural portable travel clothes steamer might not be as compact as some of the products we’ve featured, it is definitely more powerful. More watts equals more power, which equals better ability to tackle some ornery creases!

It generates about 14 minutes of continuous steam and preheats in 35 seconds or less, removing wrinkles fast and efficiently. One reader says, “Without reservation, this is the best hand held steamer I’ve ever used.”

It’s safe to use on all kinds of fabric, from cotton and polyester, silk, and wool. Bonus too, it has three attachments, including a fabric brush, creaser, and a lint brush. This mini steamer clearly has the tools to achieve a wrinkle-free look! 

1200W Conair Extreme Steam Hand Held Fabric Steamer

Conair Handheld Steamer

Thanks to 1200 watts of power and an easy to fill water tank, Conair  makes some of the best travel garment steamers in terms of power. Yet somehow it’s quite compact. 

It’s adored by TFG readers and as one says, “I love this! So portable and easy to put into a suitcase.”

This lightweight travel hand steamer is less than 2 pounds and has a slender design for convenient storage. It also heats up fast—in 40 seconds you can start de-wrinkling your clothes! 

600W Jiffy Esteam Handheld Travel Steamer

Jiffy Esteam Handheld Travel Steamer

The priciest steamer on our list is the Jiffy Esteam handheld travel steamer . What makes this item stand out are the converter/adapter plugs which are included. It can run for 15 minutes per water tank fill, which makes it beneficial when you have a few outfits to de-wrinkle.

Don’t let the fact that it’s bigger put you off. What makes it one of the best travel clothing steamer selections is how it performs. One reader feels “It’s a little larger and heavier than I’d like, but still fits in my carry-on and doesn’t weigh me down.” 

It has a 600-watt heating element (120-volts in North America) and it’s a durable choice, made with high-impact plastic. Perfect for carting along to your next vacation! 

1600W Rowenta DR8120 Handheld Garment Steamer

Rowenta DR8120 Garment Steamer

Rowenta makes one of the best steamers and this round-up wouldn’t be complete without including their travel-size version. This portable handheld brand is a bit larger than the travel steamers previously listed.

However, we’d class this as the luxury option because of its 1600-watt power and the higher price tag, too. Surprisingly, the Amazon price tag is less expensive than the Jiffy, while being much more powerful.

The downside? It weighs in at 3 pounds so it may be best for professional jobs that require a steamer on the go. 

350W Sharper Image Mini Steam Iron with Dual Voltage for Travel

Sharper Image Dual Voltage Steamer Iron

If you want a little more, the best travel steamer iron is the Sharper Image  as shown above. It’s versatile because it can press clothes and take out creases or wrinkles simultaneously.

As a pro, it’s a dual voltage garment steamer but as a con, with only 350 watts it offers the least amount of power as some of the other models listed.

A word of warning, though, try to get continuous steam as opposed to spurts of steam as this can burn the fabric—unfortunately, I speak from experience. But this is a great travel size steamer iron if you want both functions. Buy it here !

Best Travel Steamer Comparison Chart

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”10″ class=”center-table-align”]

Travel Steamer vs. Regular Steamer?

If you’re used to the power of a full-size, quality garment one, you’ll find a notable difference with a small portable steamer.

The main difference is a travel size garment steamer ranges from 750-850 watts whereas a regular one is around 1700-1800 watts. This means that it will take longer to steam out wrinkles and you may not be able to remove the most stubborn of creases.

If you plan to travel with clothing items that wrinkle easily, you may want to consider one of the best small steamer models instead of a travel-size one, which may offer up to 1500 watts of power. They’ll take a little more room in your suitcase but will ease the frustrations of a slow steamer experience.

A full-size steamer may perform well, but the best mini travel steamer brands are more portable, packable, and quality enough to help you look suitable for whatever you have planned.

Note: I personally own a travel steamer for home use and I don’t use it often enough for it to cause me frustration!

Should I Buy a Travel Steamer?

It’s not easy to find a decent clothes travel steamer but I still own one and use it on trips when necessary. It’s better than nothing!

To determine the best travel steamers you have to weigh the pros and cons. I know someone who was so meticulous with their clothing that they packed a FULL-SIZE steamer on a vacation! In this case, a small clothing steamer or even a travel size steam iron makes more sense.

Some people (me included) even prefer to own a mini garment steamer instead of a full-size one for daily use at home. They’re less bulky and more affordable so this is an ideal option if you only need to steam the occasional clothing item.

It’s important to remember that it can also be a challenge to find the best dual voltage travel steamer model.

How to Choose a Travel Steamer

There are a few things to know before purchasing a travel fabric steamer:

• They’re not as small as you might like
• They’re not as powerful as a regular steamer (800 vs. 1800 watts)
• They can only steam one garment per fill
• They’re rarely dual voltage

The truth is that even the best mini clothes steamer does not compare to its full-size counterpart. While they do offer the convenience of removing wrinkles on the go, they will not be as powerful. It’s important to be realistic about your expectations before deciding to buy one.

The list of travel clothes steamers we’ve provided lays out several options that could work for you! 

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

Best International Travel Adapter

Traveling Abroad With a Travel Steamer

Dual voltage electronics have two voltage options: 110-120 volts (US) and 220-240 volts (Europe). They are ideal for travel because they are safe to use at home and abroad, too. 

Right now, travel steamers can be somewhat difficult to source. If you do not buy an international travel steamer dual voltage model you’ll need to bring BOTH a travel adapter and a converter . While there are some travel-friendly converters, they’re usually only good for products up to 200 watts—a compact travel steamer is higher than this—so choose one that can handle the voltage.

If you plan to buy a dual voltage clothes steamer then a universal travel adapter is all you’d need and it will work in various outlets abroad, such as the international adapter  pictured above. 

Tip: It’s important to understand that an adaptor and converter are NOT the same thing. An adapter fits the outlets and a converter changes the electrical current so your electronics down blow a fuse!

Here’s our voltage converter vs. travel adapter post to give you more information!

After choosing from our round-up of the best travel steamers, please read our guide or watch the video above to learn about the difference between travel adapters, converters, and voltage!

What Is the Best Dual Voltage Travel Steamer? 

Unfortunately, there are not many dual voltage travel steamers in the market—the Conair is the best travel clothes steamer product we are aware of. Though a steamer travel iron, the PurSteam is also dual voltage. They’re both listed above, so please take a look and compare. If you know of other travel garment steamer dual voltage brands, let us know!

Tip: Remember to switch your clothing steamer to 220V/240V when you arrive at your destination !

What do you think is the best travel steamer? Share and comment below!

For more ideas on travel clothing and packing tips, please read:

• How to Pack Clothes Without Wrinkles
• Top Wrinkle Free Dresses for Travel
• Best Wrinkle Free Pants for Travel: Casual to Dressy Picks 
• These Wrinkle Free Shirts Will Make Packing A Breeze 

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We hope you liked this post on the best travel steamer. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Great post! I’m always on the lookout for new travel gadgets to make my trips more comfortable and convenient, so this was really helpful. Thanks for sharing your top picks!

I use a steamer at home and like it. Good to know that a Small travel steamer takes longer to heat. I’ll have to consider this when choosing, but I definitely need one that takes up less space.

This post was so helpful!

My next travel purchase will be a portable steamer. Friend had one on our recent trip to New Zealand and it was well worth her bringing it!! She has the PurSteam handheld travel steamer.

I have the Conair Extreme Steam Turbo handheld steamer and it works almost as well as a professional steamer. A lot faster to start. Downside is that its bulkier than your average handheld steamer.

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The Travel Steamer That Lives in One Stylist’s Carry-On

It is a well-known fact among my friends and family that I have an obsession (or borderline compulsion) with smoothing out wrinkles. I can’t stand a crinkled dress, sweater, or even a T-shirt . Sometimes, when no one is home, I even press my sheets (one day I will own a rotary iron ).

An obsession with pressed clothes is an occupational concern, too — I work as a fashion editor and stylist — and this summer, after becoming fed up with travel steamers that never fully cleared wrinkles to my exacting standards on photo shoots, I decided to spring for a more serious version while prepping for a job on location at Bonnaroo.

After doing some research, I bought the Rowenta X-Cel Steamer DR8080 and have never looked back. It weighs a mere 2.2 pounds and has all the functions a versatile steam tool requires. Unlike wimpy versions that puff more than steam, the X-Cel sports a wide stainless steel head that blasts powerful bursts of hot mist. It’s got a fabric brush for releasing wrinkles from delicates like silk and cashmere , plus a lint pad to clear wool sweaters and suits of travel fuzzies. And on long shoots, you really appreciate its thumb-saving ergonomic design (unlike overhead triggers on flimsier models, the trigger on the X-Cel is positioned under the steam head for you to pull with your index and middle fingers). In the end, we had a full-size steamer at Bonnaroo but didn’t even need it. Now, I don’t travel without the X-Cel, though I do wish it came with its own travel pouch (I’ve been keeping it in a shoe bag). I’ve used it on everything from suits and silks for destination weddings to slipcovers and sheets at home — I’ve even broken it out to give jeans a little polish.

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Today’s Top Clicked

The Ultimate Guide to Using a Wedding Dress Steamer

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It’s incredibly likely you’ll want to steam your wedding gown before your special day. It’s by far the safest way of smoothing any unwanted creases and wrinkles after you’ve transported your dress.

So we thought we’d create a blog post full of handy tips on how to steam your bridal outfit. After all, you don’t want any nasty mishaps on your special day, so take heed of this advice!

Let’s dive in!

Prepare Properly

Fill the steamer with clean water and snap the lid shut. Make sure it’s firmly closed. No water should seep from the machine. Before using the steamer, ensure the hose attachments are entirely secure.

Now, hang the dress either on a door or from the ceiling (somewhere you can efficiently get to work), and turn the steamer on. Not only will this prevent a nasty backache but it’ll make it easier for you to steam every inch of your gown.

Most steamers will have an indicator light to tell you when it’s ready to use. When it’s time, you should hold the hose approximately 10 inches away from the dress.

Allow Your Steamer at Least 30 Seconds to Warm Up

When you first turn on your steamer, it’s cold, so there’s a good chance there’ll be a few drops of water on the nozzle. Our best advice is to give it at least 30 seconds to warm up and reach its optimum temperature.

Before you point it anywhere near your dress,  flick the nozzle toward the ground a few times. This will get rid of any rogue droplets of condensation. The last thing you want is for these drops to dribble onto your dress. This could stain the pristine fabric!

Steam Through a Clean Sheet

Never apply steam directly to your gown. Even if you keep the nozzle a good ten inches away from your dress, still run the risk of water accidentally splattering onto your outfit. Therefore, we suggest steaming your dress through a clean white sheet. You’ll still be able to eradicate the creases without risking any damage.

Start at the top of your dress and gradually make your way down to the bottom. Repeat this motion (front and back of the dress) until you’re happy with the result.

Always Keep the Nozzle Horizontal

Once the steamers warmed up and you’ve made sure the nozzles clean, you’re ready to get to work. Chances are the hose on your steamer looks like a funnel.

So, while you’re using it, condensation will naturally form around the edges. It’s imperative you hold the nozzle horizontally. This will allow any droplets to roll back into the hose, rather than dripping on your dress.

Do NOT turn the nozzle to its side. This encourages condensation to form within the hose and drops of water are more likely to seep out of the bottom of the steam hole, and onto your bridal gown- which is the last thing you want to happen!

Hang Your Dress Properly

Sometimes, you won’t even need to steam your dress if you hang it up properly while you transport it  (however, we understand that sometimes that’s not possible).

We suggest using a padded hanger; this often helps keep the creases at bay. Be sure to consult with your tailor and get their advice on how best to store and transport your gown.

Get Rid of Any Tough Creases

If you’re struggling with an unusually harsh crease, then use your hand to add a little tension to the fabric and steam over it. This is by far the most straightforward technique for tackling a particularly stubborn crease.

Top Tip: As tempting as it is to keep going over the same piece of fabric to get it perfect, don’t. All you’ll do is make it damp, which not only affects the appearance of the delicate fabric but it’ll make even more prone to creasing, hence diminishing all your hard work and effort!

  Does Your Wedding Dress Have Layers?

If your underskirt has plenty of layers, it can be tricky to know where to begin. However, we recommend starting from the bottom layer and gradually working your way out.

Not only will this get rid of any wrinkles but it’ll also accentuate the layers and help your dress hold its beautiful shape.

Alternatively, if your dress features gather or ruches, we suggest steaming them from the inside of the dress. This technique is less abrasive and will stop any unwanted creases forming in these tricky areas.

Stay Away from Any Detailing

If your gown boasts delicate detailing, then we suggest keeping steam away. By detailing we mean embellishments like beads, sequins, diamontes, etc.

Just like ruches and gathers, it’s far safer to steam these areas from inside the dress. This ensures that the steam doesn’t weaken the stitches so that every inch of your beautiful dress stays intact before you walk down the aisle.

Don’t Forget the Veil!

Depending on your style of dress and the kind of material you’ve opted for, you might not even need to steam it. If you can get away without doing anything to your gown, we thoroughly recommend doing that.

As the age-old saying goes; ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.’ By not steaming your dress you automatically reduce the likelihood of accidentally damaging it.  Plus, it’s one less thing you need to worry about on the lead up to your special day.

However, veils are way more likely to wrinkle, so you’ll probably need to fix that. Especially, if your dress is looking beautifully crisp, it’ll only make the creases in your veil stand out all the more.

Luckily for you, steaming a veil is even easier than steaming a dress and the results are worth the effort.

Top Tip: we always suggest setting your steamer to its lowest temperature. This is especially important if your veil’s vintage. You want to avoid melting any delicate designs or fabrics!

Top Product Recommendations

Hilife steamer for clothes steamer.

With nearly 55,000 ratings and plenty of acclaims, this handy steamer is priced at just $25 and has some excellent features. The 240 ML capacity is suited for up to 15 minutes of continuous steaming to eliminate any last-minute creases or wrinkles. The 700W power provides long-lasting power but is soft enough so you won’t ruin delicate fabric. The lightweight steamer comes with a 9ft power cord, a brush, and an instruction manual.

This portable garment steamer is lightweight making it an ideal travel companion. 700W steamer produces powerful steam and not only a steamer for clothes, but a smart assistant for healthy living.

isteam Steamer for Clothes

This steamer is an Amazon Choice pick and comes with a generous 3-year warranty. Its innovative, multipurpose design means you can use it for a wedding dress, bridesmaid dresses, and even decorations like tablecloths and curtains. Weighing in at just 1 pound, the 900W power is more powerful than you’d expect for a small steamer. Steam flows for up to 10 minutes at a time, with a heat-up time of just 60 seconds. I also love the automatic shutdown feature so you don’t have to worry about being stressed and leaving it on.

Brookline Steamer for Clothes

For a steamer priced under $20, you might not expect much– but this small steamer delivers. Backed up with a 1-year warranty, the steamer features a smaller capacity (80 ML) but a respectable 800 W of power. The steamer can run continuously for 10 minutes and is designed to work on even the most delicate fabric. Other notable features include an automatic shut down system and a 9-foot cord.

This handheld steamer is easy to move around with 9ft extra-long cord. Light-weight and small size makes it ideal for travel. With an innovative nozzle design is powered by 800 W produces 10 minutes of continuous desired temperature steaming.

Steamer for Clothes Travel and Home

If you hate steamers that drip, spill, or leak, look no further than this Amazon Choice steamer. Covered by an impressive 3-year warranty, this steamer ensures a wrinkle-free wedding dress. You can use this steamer at any angle without worrying about spilling. A special nano filter means you can use tap water without calcification. The steamer heats up in a mere 25 seconds– perfect for a last-minute touch.

The Bizond clothing steamer will fit in your suitcase and give your clothes that glamorous look in no time! In addition, it comes with a practical bag. Not only will you look great, but you’ll also smell fresh.

Electrolux Portable Handheld Garment & Fabric Steamer

Looking for a more powerful steamer? If you have a wedding dress fabric that you expect to wrinkle quite a bit– or even just a wedding dress with plenty of fabric–you may want to consider upgrading to a higher power steamer. This steamer removes creases seamlessly with up to 1500 W of power. Opt for extreme to lower steam levels, suited for any fabric type. The steamer reheats in a mere 30 seconds and provides an impressive 18 minutes of continuous steaming. This versatile steamer will be useful long after your wedding day, complete with a fabric brush, lint brush, and steam nozzle, plus a handy8-foot cord.

Remove wrinkles from clothing, refresh fabrics in no time with the Electrolux handheld steamer. Quick heat-up time of just 30 seconds with 1500W power 300ml tank provides 18 minutes of continuous steam to ensure quick and efficient steaming for you to look the best in under 5 minutes.

Now that we’ve covered some handy hints and tips let’s turn our attention to some of the most frequently asked questions on how to use a steamer.

What Do I Do If I Drip on the Dress?

In the unfortunate event that you accidentally drip on your dress, never fear. All you have to do is carefully reverse the nozzle and use the back to dry it. Alternatively, you could use a hairdryer (on a cool setting) and gently blow it dry. Use whatever method you’re more confident doing.

Is There a Chance I’ll Damage the Dress?

In short, yes, but realistically probably not. If you get a good quality steamer, you should be fine. Steamers are different to irons in so much that they use a much lower temperature. Therefore, the chances of burning or melting any of the fabrics are way less in comparison to using a bog standard iron. However, we always suggest consulting with your dressmaker and the manufacturer of the steamer to make sure you’re treating your gown properly. Then, test a small patch of the dress in an area that won’t be seen, just to make doubly sure before you steam your entire outfit.

Can I Use My Steamer for Anything Else?

Brides can use steamers for all sorts of things. For example, you might want to utilize this piece of kit to do any of the following:

• Shaping silk flowers
• Removing bruises from satin shoes
• Ironing out chair covers
• Removing wrinkles from marquee linings

You get the idea. The bottom line is that steamers come in pretty handy when you’re planning a wedding!

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• Closet and laundry

The Best Clothing Steamers

By Jackie Reeve and Zoe Vanderweide

A good clothing steamer can have your garments looking polished and wrinkle-free in mere minutes. It’s often a more appealing option than pulling out the iron, and because a steamer smooths without scorching, it’s a better tool for delicate fabrics like silk and wool.

We’ve tested dozens of steamers since 2016, and our current favorite for regular home use is the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer . Its powerful blasts of steam, comfortable grip, and smart features make it the one we grab over and over. We also recommend an inexpensive compact steamer that’s ideally suited for travel, plus a heavy-duty steamer with a larger water tank for folks who frequently tackle bigger jobs.

Everything we recommend

Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer (GS38R)

A powerful steamer with clever features.

This steamer melted wrinkles without spitting water on our fabrics—rare among the models we tested. It’s also comfortable to hold and has standout features, like an aluminum steamer plate and dual steam settings.

Buying Options

Budget pick.

Conair CompleteSteam Hand Held Fabric Steamer (GS2X)

For occasional use.

This small, inexpensive steamer is best suited for travel and occasional home use. It does leave some wet spots on fabrics, but it’s better built and more efficient than the other portable steamers we tried.

Upgrade pick

Reliable Vivio 500 GC Professional Garment Steamer

For marathon steaming sessions.

For serious steamers, this pricey, supersized floor-standing model will make getting the job done a lot more pleasant. Its steam head is the comfiest to use for extended periods, and it holds the most water—just be careful when rolling it across the floor with a full tank, because it can splash.

Like most of the midsize handheld steamers we tested, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer (GS38R) produced ample steam for the job, and it was easier to hold and more thoughtfully designed than the competition. It was also one of the only handheld steamers that didn’t leave wet spots on test fabrics. The Conair Turbo steamer weighs just under 2.75 pounds with a full water tank (other midsize steamers we tested weighed between 2.5 and 5 pounds), making it among the lightest and most comfortable to maneuver. The heat-up aluminum steamer plate glides over fabric, helping to smooth wrinkles nearly as effectively as a traditional iron. It also comes with several accessories, including a silicone band attachment for pulling fabrics taut, a mesh bonnet for protecting extra-delicate items, and a bristle brush for loosening fibers to allow for better steam penetration. Plus, with two settings, the Conair Turbo steamer was one of the only models we tested that allowed us to control the heat and force of the steam: We used the “steam” setting for smoothing delicate silks, while the more powerful “turbo” setting was effective for tackling heavier cotton shirts. It has a one-year limited warranty.

If you want a steamer on hand to occasionally freshen up a garment, or to pack in your suitcase, you probably don’t need anything fancier than the Conair CompleteSteam Hand Held Fabric Steamer (GS2X) . It’s around half the price of the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer , and it was more effective at smoothing wrinkles than any other steamer we tried in its price range (most of which were junky). It was also one of the only steamers of this size (often called “portable” or “travel” steamers) we tested that didn’t pour water out of the spout when tipped over. It has a relatively small water tank (5 ounces; the portables we tried ranged from 5 to 8 ounces), and it did spit some water when in use, but it left fewer wet spots on clothes than the other portables we tried. If you think you’ll use a steamer regularly, invest in the well-made Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam, but if you just need to smooth a wrinkle now and then—at home or while traveling—the Conair CompleteSteam fabric steamer is a solid choice. It has a one-year limited warranty, which is typical for small, inexpensive steamers.

If you do a lot of steaming, or if you find handheld steamers too heavy or uncomfortable, the Reliable Vivio 500 GC Professional Garment Steamer is a pleasure to use, and it may be worth the (considerable) investment. It’s nearly 6 feet tall, with a base about the size of a canister vacuum; despite its cumbersome size, it was our favorite steamer to use in testing. The tank holds a gallon of water (the most of any steamer we tried), it heats up quickly, and its steam head was much more comfortable for extended use than the handheld steamers that we tested. Be careful rolling the Vivio across the floor when the tank is full—it can splash water. This steamer comes with a three-year limited warranty, which was average for the ones we tested.

The research

Our favorite steamer: conair turbo extremesteam garment steamer, a budget pick for occasional use: conair completesteam hand held fabric steamer (gs2x), an upgrade pick for steaming marathons: reliable vivio 500 gc professional garment steamer, why you should trust us, who this is for, how we picked and tested, the competition.

They say the devil is in the details, but with the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Garment Steamer , the details were downright heavenly. The Conair Turbo steamer checked every box on our list: It was effective at vanquishing wrinkles, didn’t leave wet spots on test fabrics, and felt comfortable to hold. It heated up in under a minute and provided more than 15 minutes of continuous steam, and we found its long, 10-foot cord convenient. But the smart details—like the aluminum-quilted steam plate and the two steam settings—pushed the Conair Turbo steamer above its competitors to make steaming an enjoyable chore.

The bursts of steam from the Conair Turbo steamer smoothed out a silk dress in seconds and a rumpled cotton pillowcase in under a minute. Several steamers we’ve considered have multiple holes for the steam to escape, but the Conair Turbo has a thin, long slit, which results in a more targeted sheet of steam. It took more wrinkles out of crumpled button-down shirts than the other handheld steamers we tested (although the most stubborn wrinkles, on the sleeves and the bottom hems, still needed an iron). Also, many steamers we tested spit droplets of water along with the steam, leaving wet marks on test fabrics. The Conair Turbo steamer didn’t; out of eight handheld steamers we tried, only the Conair Turbo and the (now discontinued) Sunbeam Power Steam Fabric Steamer left clothes completely dry.

Handheld (aka midsize) steamers can be uncomfortable to use after a few minutes—of the three steamer types we tested, they were the heaviest to hold. The Conair Turbo is among the lightest and most comfortable handheld models, for both vertical and horizontal use. It weighs about 2.75 pounds with a full tank (the handhelds we tested ranged from 2.5 to 5 pounds), so while it can still feel heavy after prolonged use, it’s lighter than most in its category. It wasn’t as comfortable to use as the floor-standing Reliable Vivio 500 GC Professional Garment Steamer , but it’s about a quarter of the price and far, far easier to store.

Its 7.3-ounce water tank is one of the smaller water tanks among our handheld test group. Nevertheless, in testing it produced more than 15 minutes of continuous steam, and we were able to smooth a dress, a jacket, a pair of slacks, and three heavily wrinkled cotton button-downs with water left to spare. The Conair Turbo steamer’s water tank is also easy to remove and replace—simply slide up the release switch to unlock the tank, then click it back into place—which is handy if you do need to refill it in the middle of a big job. And it stands up on its own, meaning it can be filled while resting on the counter.

The Conair Turbo steamer has a heat-up aluminum head that glides smoothly and helps to push steam into the fabric’s fibers (similar to what an iron does). This feature was enormously helpful for unwrinkling heavier fabrics, especially when used horizontally against a flat surface. It also comes with three snap-on attachments: a bristle brush to ensure steam penetrates fibers for a perfect press, a silicone bar for pulling fabrics taut, and a mesh bonnet to protect your most delicate textiles. But for quickly removing heavy wrinkles, this steamer performs best all on its own. The Conair Turbo steamer also gave us more control over the amount of steam than most other handheld steamers, with two settings: “steam,” for freshening up lighter items, and “turbo,” for blasting the wrinkles out of weightier fabrics.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The relatively small water tank makes the Conair Turbo steamer weigh less than the competition when full, but it also means you’ll need to refill it if you’re doing a lot of steaming. And because of the tank’s small opening, it was challenging to fill from a gallon-jug of distilled water. (This is pretty common with handheld steamers, and can be easily remedied by using a funnel.) Plus, the small opening means it takes a long time for the tank to dry fully after use. Finally, we found the built-in creaser tool fiddly and awkward to use. If you want to make sharp pleats, use an iron.

Portable (aka travel-size) steamers are not the most impressive examples of modern engineering—most of them leak, and they’re not that powerful—but the Conair CompleteSteam Hand Held Fabric Steamer (GS2X) is the best one we’ve found, and it even outperformed some bigger, pricier models. If you need to use a steamer only occasionally, for an outfit or for a trip, the small CompleteSteam is effective, affordable, and lightweight.

In our testing the Conair CompleteSteam not only beat all of the cheap portable steamers, it also was easier to fill and left fewer wet marks on clothes than midsize handhelds from Rowenta and Black+Decker . The Conair CompleteSteam didn’t produce as much steam as our main pick, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam, so it needed more passes over the fabric to flatten wrinkles, and it wasn’t as effective on tough creases—but it’s also less than half the price. The Conair CompleteSteam is just right for light jobs and travel, and it’s more comfortable to use than a heavier midsized steamer if you don’t have much to steam. It did leave some water spots when used too close to fabrics. But the CompleteSteam can also be used horizontally (not a given in this category); it dribbled only a few droplets, which was a win compared with others that poured water everywhere.

The Conair CompleteSteam (like most of the five portable steamers we tried) looks like a small watering can, and it weighs about 2.5 pounds when full. It was the heaviest of the portable steamers we tested, yet it has one of the smallest water tanks. Empty it’s just over 2 pounds, and the tank holds 5 ounces of water. By comparison, the Hilife Steamer weighs 1.5 pounds when empty and has an 8-ounce water tank. You can steam two, maybe three, outfits with the Conair CompleteSteam before you’ll need to refill.

Conair’s one-year warranty is comparable to those of most of the other inexpensive portable steamers we considered. The price and quality of portable steamers indicate to us that these are not meant to last forever.

If you have a lot of steaming to do (like helping a wedding party get dressed or tackling a mountain of laundry), if you prefer to steam clothes spread out on a table or bed instead of hanging upright, or if you don’t find heavy handheld steamers comfortable to use, the floor-standing Reliable Vivio 500 GC Professional Garment Steamer is a solid alternative that left its four competitors in the dust. A flexible hose makes this steamer the most comfortable of our picks to use. It releases a steady, effective flow of steam; it’s smartly designed; and its 1-gallon tank was still steaming long after we ran out of fabric to smooth. It does, however, cost nearly four times as much as the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam .

For big jobs, the handheld Conair Turbo steamer will build up your biceps but test your patience; the Reliable Vivio, on the other hand, has a lightweight hose (like all floor-standing steamers) that was more flexible than others we tried and easier to glide across fabrics. (It’s like using a vacuum-cleaner hose.) This also made the Reliable steamer the best of our picks for steaming horizontally, if that’s what you prefer. It was as effective as other full-size steamers at smoothing wrinkles (and also similar to the handheld Conair Turbo in this regard), but it was the only one that didn’t spit any water.

All floor-standing steamers have an attached pole to hold the steamer head and a garment. The Reliable Vivio comes with its own hanger, which keeps your clothes steadier while you steam than models like the PurSteam and the Jiffy , neither of which included one. The Reliable Vivio’s design sets it apart, but it did require more setup than other floor-standing steamers we tested—we had to get out a screwdriver. Another standing steamer we tried, the Pure Enrichment Pure Steam , also came with a snap-on hanger, but it was harder to move around (an important consideration when you’re trying to steam the front and back of a shirt).

Like those of all floor-standing steamers we tried, the Reliable Vivio’s removable tank was easy to fill, with a screw-on cap and a wide opening that fit under a faucet. It held more water (a gallon) than any other steamer we tested, but it still heated up in about two minutes. You don’t have to empty the tank after each use, so once it’s set up, it’s a breeze to wheel out and start using. The Reliable Vivio’s wheels were better on hardwood floors than those of any other full-size steamer we tried, but be careful when storing the steamer or moving it around. If the base tips backward, some water will dribble out of the tank. Leaking is a common issue, and this wasn’t the worst offender during testing. It comes with a three-year limited warranty.

Wirecutter senior staff writer Jackie Reeve has spent the majority of her waking life working with textiles, and that means dealing with wrinkles. She has written our guides to cotton sheets , flannel sheets , bed blankets , throw blankets , pajamas , robes , bath towels , and duvet covers , among others. In the course of doing the research for those pieces, she has done so much laundry that she must hold the company record by now. Jackie also wrote our guides to irons and ironing boards . For this guide she also built on the research of Camille Perri and Tim Heffernan.

Zoe Vanderweide is a Wirecutter senior staff writer covering style, so she’s constantly wearing, washing, styling and generally fussing over clothes. At any given time, she has between 30 and 40 garments in her testing queue to keep clean and wrinkle-free. In her off-hours, she’s also a type-A neatnik who considers a marathon garment-steaming session the ideal way to spend an evening in.

If you own a lot of delicate fabrics, or if you just need to freshen up the occasional piece of clothing or linen, a steamer will be a solid addition to your laundry arsenal, and it might even be a replacement for an iron . Over time, a steamer can also save you money normally spent at the dry cleaner. If you choose to hand-wash your delicate items at home ( we have guidelines on what can and can’t skip the dry cleaner ), a steamer can smooth out wrinkles and help everything look professionally cleaned and pressed. Steamers generally heat up in a couple of minutes, and the top ones we’ve tested melt away wrinkles with very little effort. They work best—and fastest—on thinner fabrics like silk and polyester, which you probably don’t want to iron anyway for fear of scorching them. Steamers are also a convenient way to smooth wrinkled curtains or drapes without having to take them down. We tested three basic types of steamers for this guide: midsize handheld models, which look like small dumbbells and are a good choice if you steam semi-regularly; small portable models (shaped like a pitcher), which hold a few ounces of water and are best for light use; and full-size, floor-standing models (similar in size to a vacuum cleaner), which have a rod to hang your garments on and the biggest tanks, so you can steam for long stretches without refilling.

Don’t rely on a steamer to create sharp pleats or creases, or to flatten seams. Some we tried came with special tools for that purpose, but they were time-consuming and fiddly, and they made us wonder why we hadn’t just gotten out the iron. In testing we also found that steamers were less effective than irons on stubborn folds and wrinkles, particularly on the hems of heavily creased shirts, jeans, and cotton sheets. If you wash and dry dress shirts—or any button-down shirts—at home, an iron is a better tool for keeping them crisp. A steamer can be helpful if you want to avoid storing a big ironing board in a small apartment, but that’s only realistic if your laundry isn’t that wrinkled. (We recommend options for small-space living in our ironing boards guide .)

We used these criteria to choose the best steamers:

Effective: The steamers with the strongest bursts of hot steam flattened wrinkles the fastest. We wanted to be able to steam an outfit in minutes and get out the door.

Non-leaking: A water stain can ruin a delicate, expensive fabric, and dribbling water can also be a safety hazard with a plugged-in appliance. We looked for steamers that didn’t drip, spit, or leak.

Big water tanks: The bigger the tank, the longer you can use your steamer before having to refill it. We looked at three different size categories and prioritized roomy water tanks for all of them.

Comfortable to use: Midsize handheld steamers can be especially top-heavy and awkward to hold. Since steaming involves a fair amount of arm lifting, we looked for steamers that were comfortable enough to use for several minutes at a time. We also favored steamers that could be used both vertically and horizontally, for people who are more comfortable using a steamer on a flat surface. And we looked for longer cords, which are helpful if you’re tall, or if your outlets aren’t in a convenient spot.

Protected by a warranty: Over the years, we’ve learned that irons and steamers can break easily. For one person, a steamer might last for years, and for someone else, the same model might conk out after two months. We considered only models with solid warranties, in case they give up the ghost too soon.

In addition to relying on our own deep knowledge of steamers (gained from a long history of testing them), we considered opinions from The Strategist and Good Housekeeping , and checked star ratings on Amazon, Bed Bath & Beyond, Target, and other retailers to compile a list of 28 candidates. We narrowed the list by reading user reviews from those same retailers, checking for things like customer service concerns and for reports of steamers that didn’t last long, and we looked at each steamer’s specifications—warranty, water-tank size, and useful features. We included well-reviewed steamers, favored brands that have proved to be reliable in the past, and covered household names that are easy to find. In the end, we decided to test 17 steamers in three categories: portable, handheld (aka midsize), and floor-standing.

We tried each steamer on a variety of items, including cotton sheets, button-down shirts, and silks, noting which models met the above criteria. We used them vertically (on clothes hung from hangers) and horizontally (spread out on an ironing board), and we measured the length of the steamers’ extension cords and the size of their water tanks.

This is not a comprehensive list of everything we tested in previous iterations of this guide, just what’s still available.

Handheld (aka midsize)

The   Beautural 1200-Watt Steamer for Clothes  smoothed wrinkles on thin silk but struggled with thicker cotton, and it spit some water onto fabrics.

The Black+Decker Advanced Handheld Steamer (HGS200) was a dud. We had to push the power button several times to get it to work, and it was the slowest steamer to heat up in our testing. Also, it didn’t produce much steam, and it made strange—even alarming—noises, so we unplugged it after just a few minutes. It did have the largest water tank (13.5 ounces) of any handheld we tried, though.

In past years, we’ve also tested and dismissed other handheld steamers, including the Jiffy Esteam Travel Steamer .

The Hilife Steamer for Clothes leaked water, couldn’t be used horizontally, and didn’t get very hot.

In previous years we also tested and dismissed a number of other portable steamers, including the Conair Travel Smart and the Pure Enrichment PureSteam Portable Fabric Steamer .

Floor-standing

Our former floor-standing pick, the J-2000 Jiffy Garment Steamer , has a simple design, and it emitted strong steam, but it was the worst offender in our testing when it came to water leaks from the tank. When we tried to roll the Jiffy’s stiff wheels across the floor, water poured out of the base, covering the cord and plug. We had to halt testing this steamer until it was dry enough to plug in, and it leaked again when we moved it after testing.

The Pure Enrichment Pure Steam XL Standing Steamer was the least expensive full-size steamer we tried. Although it has some nice details, overall you get what you pay for. It spit on our test fabrics, and it wasn’t as powerful as our Reliable Vivio 500 GC floor-standing pick. The clip-on hanger kept garments still, but it was fussy to unclip and turn around to steam the garment’s other side. Plus, it had the smallest water tank of the floor-standing group.

The PurSteam Full Size Garment Fabric Steamer has a dial to control the force of the steam. This is a nice (and rare) feature, but the steamer leaked on all the test fabrics. Also, the hose was stiff to use until the steam loosened it up after several minutes.

In previous years we tested and dismissed several other floor-standing steamers, including the Conair Ultimate Fabric Steamer (GS28) and the Steamfast SF-510 Fabric Steamer .

This article was edited by Ingela Ratledge Amundson and Jennifer Hunter.

Editors, The Best Clothes Steamers on Amazon, According to Hyperenthusiastic Reviews , The Strategist , May 10, 2019

Sarah Bogden, These Are the 10 Best Garment Steamers to Buy , Good Housekeeping , December 7, 2018

Meet your guides

Jackie Reeve

Jackie Reeve is a senior staff writer covering bedding, organization, and home goods at Wirecutter since 2015. Previously she was a school librarian, and she’s been a quilter for about 15 years. Her quilt patterns and her other written work have appeared in various publications. She moderates Wirecutter’s staff book club and makes her bed every morning.

Zoe Vanderweide

Zoe Vanderweide is a senior staff writer reporting on style and accessories at Wirecutter. She has been wearing things for over three decades, and she has spent years covering streetwear, luxury, art, and design. Off the clock, you can find her painting the town rainbow with her (devastatingly stylish) daughter.

Further reading

If You Hate Ironing, Try This Handheld Steamer Instead

by Elissa Sanci

An iron isn’t the only way to blast away wrinkles.

The Best Clothing Iron

by Jackie Reeve

After testing dozens of irons (and researching many more), we think the Black+Decker Allure Steam Iron D3030 is the best clothing iron for most people.

11 Cheap(ish) Laundry Aids to Help Your Clothes Look Better and Last Longer

by Zoe Vanderweide and Dorie Chevlen

The right tools can keep your clothing looking better for longer. Here’s what you need to wash, dry, and spruce up your favorites.

Wirecutter’s 100 Most Popular Clothing Picks of 2023

by Wirecutter Staff

These stylish items were some of Wirecutter’s most-loved clothing and accessory picks in 2023.

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Take It From A Wedding Planner: Nordstrom Is A One-Stop Shop For Under-$200 Summer Wedding Guest Dresses

They have something for every wedding, from semi-formal all the way to black tie.

Southern Living / Marcus Millan

Summer wedding season has arrived in full force, and I’m so thrilled. I love when celebrations have outdoor elements, whether it’s a ceremony in a garden or a reception in a tent. As a wedding planner , I’m always excited to see the events unfold, but the single thing I’m most excited to see is the fashion. I love admiring wedding guest dresses , and during the summer it’s always so fun to see bright colors and tons of floral prints. After spending a decade in the wedding industry and planning tons of events, I’m sharing 10 summer wedding guest dresses that you can shop at Nordstrom for under $200. 

Best Nordstrom Summer Wedding Guest Dresses Under $200

• Maggy London Illusion Yoke Crepe Cocktail Dress , $88.80 (orig. $148)
• Petal and Pup Achanti Print Pleated Maxi Dress , $109 
• Petal and Pup Naira Pleated Maxi Dress , $119 
• Ciebon Jennsen Ruched Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress , $150 
• Tie Back Tiered Maxi Dress , $159 
• Adrianna Papell Tie Front Sheath Dress , $169 
• Eliza J Floral Print Asymmetric Ruffle Sleeveless Maxi Dress , $188
• Eliza J Ruffle Front Gown , $188 
• Dress the Population Livia Fit and Flare Dress , $198 
• Eliza J Mock Neck Lace Sheath Dress , $198 

Nordstrom has hundreds of under-$200 dresses to choose from, and I had a hard time narrowing down all of the options to just 10 dresses to recommend. I was up to the challenge though, and I found options for beach, semi-formal, cocktail, and black-tie events that you could even wear more than once. A beach wedding is cause for a pattern, and this flowy abstract dress will look perfect against a backdrop of sun, sand, and sea. If you’re attending a cocktail fete, this short Eliza J dress is perfect with its high neckline and lace detailing. And this pretty pleated floor-length gown is black tie wedding-ready—just add your favorite pair of heels for a night on the dance floor. There are plenty more dresses to shop, so keep reading below as you prep for all of the weddings on your calendar. 

Petal and Pup Naira Pleated Maxi Dress

Simply put, I love this dress for cocktail and black tie weddings. I think some of the best and most comfortable wedding guest dresses are those that are simple and classic, and this one fits that mold perfectly. The style is available in black, silver, Palm Green, and a bright Sunset Orange in sizes 0 to 16. My favorite detail is the all over pleats that make it look more unique and totally flattering with just one detail. You’ll find adjustable straps, a V-neckline, and a partial lining, too. Shoppers say it’s, “Such a flattering cut and the pleating is stunning.” They added it’s,  “so flowy and perfect for the dance floor!”

Ciebon Jennsen Ruched Flutter Sleeve Maxi Dress

If you’re attending an outdoor wedding in a backyard, garden, or tent, this flutter-sleeve maxi dress is for you. It’s my favorite dress that I spotted because it’s only $150, and I’m obsessed with the print. You can shop it in pink (my pick, pictured above), purple, or brown in sizes XS to XL. The flutter-y cap sleeves, midi length, and ruching are just a few of my favorite details, and I would be remiss not to highlight that this dress has pockets, too. I expect that the style will sell out quickly as customers are scooping up summer wedding guest dresses, so pick it up while you can.

Eliza J Floral Print Asymmetric Ruffle Sleeveless Maxi Dress

Bright colors and floral prints are a few of my favorite things about summer wedding guest dresses, and this gown is fit for beach and cocktail attire weddings (I think the print makes it not quite formal enough for black tie weddings). The flowers and side ruffle details would make me ask any wedding guest where they found their dress, so I think you’ll receive lots of compliments. And the bow in the back is not only pretty, but also functional: It forms when you find your perfect fit and tie it at the top. “Cinched waist. Great shape. Feels great on the body,” wrote one five-star reviewer who said the dress is “shaped, but flowy and flattering.” Shop it in sizes 4 to 14.

Dress the Population Livia Fit and Flare Dress

When a dress has Audrey Hepburn vibes, you know it’s a winner. I thought of the famous actress the moment I spotted this fit and flare dress that comes in five colors (Peacock Blue, Lavender, Garnet, Bright Fuschia, and white) in sizes XXS to XXL. It’s made from a crepe fabric that drapes beautifully, according to Nordstrom, and the cap sleeves and gorgeous deep-scoop back add even more to the allure of the dress. But the fact that it’s machine washable and has pockets completely seals the deal. Scoop this up to wear to beach or cocktail weddings this summer, and then plan to rewear it for years to come—this dress is far too classic to ever go out of style.  

Eliza J Mock Neck Lace Sheath Dress

Sheath dresses work for almost every occasion in every season, and this Eliza J style is one you’ll wear much more than once. The fully lined dress features a high neckline and a really pretty lace overlay that helps to make it feel more elegant, and it will fit in perfectly at weddings with cocktail attire dress codes. Introduce color into your look by shopping the dress in sizes 0 to 18 in denim or teal, or stick with classic black for a dress you can truly wear throughout the year.

It’s always obvious when someone loves what they’re wearing because they seem happier and much more comfortable in it, so shop for an under-$200 wedding guest dress while there are tons available at Nordstrom. In addition to the dresses mentioned above, there are even more semi-formal, cocktail, and black tie dresses to shop below, so keep scrolling while prices start at just $89.

Maggy London Illusion Yoke Crepe Cocktail Dress

Petal and pup achanti print pleated maxi dress, tie back tiered maxi dress, adrianna papell tie front sheath dress, eliza j ruffle front gown, more must-shop products.

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Days of UAE Culture will be held in the Russian Capital

F rom June 28 to July 2, Days of UAE Culture will be held on Manezhnaya Square—one of the central locations of the "Summer in Moscow" project. Citizens and tourists are invited to learn more about the country's attractions, traditional attire and cuisine, partake in henna painting, and explore an exhibition of paintings and photo displays.

The program is organized by the UAE Embassy and the Government of Moscow. It will be part of a cycle of events held on a reciprocal basis within the framework of bilateral cooperation, said Deputy Mayor Natalia Sergunina.

"Partnership relations between our countries are developing in many areas, including tourism. In 2023 alone, more than 42,000 travelers from the UAE visited Moscow—eight times more than the previous year. This trend continued in the first quarter of 2024—we are again recording growth. We invite everyone to Manezhnaya Square to see the exhibitions and musical performances, participate in master classes, take photos in front of art objects, and try popular Arab delicacies," announced Natalia Sergunina.

According to her, guests from the United Arab Emirates are attracted by the centuries-old Russian culture and the abundance of parks and museums. Gastronomy, which combines the cuisines of different peoples of the world, is also particularly popular. Most often, travelers from the UAE come to the capital alone (34.2%) or with a partner (23.8%). They choose comfortable hotels: about a quarter of them stay in five-star hotels (23.4%).

"We express deep appreciation and joy regarding holding the UAE Culture Days in the very center of Moscow, on Manezhnaya Square. We were very eager to host the event in this iconic place, on this beautiful square. This historical area is considered one of Moscow's most beautiful tourist spots. Our goal was to introduce the friendly Russian people to the culture and heritage of the UAE. We strongly believe that culture serves as a bridge between peoples and societies. The cultural event will be held over five days, during which we will try to showcase the true national heritage of the Emirates through folk performances by national art groups, a demonstration of an ancient Emirati wedding show, a falconry show, an engraving exhibition, henna pattern drawing, and an exhibition of antiques and folk crafts. Visitors will also be able to taste Emirati coffee and popular Emirati dishes. In addition, visitors to the event will be able to purchase traditional Emirati goods, and there will also be an opportunity to take memorable photos in a specially equipped photo zone. Cultural exchange between our two friendly countries has reached a new and qualitative stage, as there is an increasing flow of UAE citizens coming to Moscow for tourism, expressing their admiration and interest in the culture, art, history, as well as various customs and traditions of the friendly Russian people, which is why many of them have already made multiple visits to your beautiful country. Moscow is considered one of the attractive tourist destinations for tourists from the Emirates. Taking this opportunity, I would like to thank the Government of Moscow for their cooperation and support in successfully holding this important event for us and wish everyone to enjoy their visit, " noted His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Ahmed Sultan Essa Al Jaber , Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Russian Federation.

Moscow is an important tourist destination not only in Russia but also internationally. In 2023, the foreign tourist flow amounted to 23 million people, most often coming from China, India, CIS countries, and the Middle East. To strengthen international ties, the capital participates in major specialized exhibitions, organizes business missions, and organizes projects and events aimed at an international audience.

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Moscow hosts UAE Culture Days on Manezhnaya Square amid growing tourism

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Discover Emirati heritage, cuisine and artistry in the heart of Russia's capital city

Moscow: Manezhnaya Square will host Days of UAE Culture, a highlight of the "Summer in Moscow" initiative. Visitors, including both citizens and tourists, are invited to explore the country's attractions, traditional attire, cuisine, henna painting, and an exhibition featuring paintings and photographs.

The program, organized by the UAE Embassy and the Government of Moscow, is part of reciprocal events under bilateral cooperation, explained Deputy Mayor Natalia Sergunina.

"Our partnership covers diverse areas, including tourism. In 2023, Moscow welcomed over 42,000 visitors from the UAE—an eightfold increase from the previous year. This trend continues in 2024, with ongoing growth. We invite everyone to Manezhnaya Square to enjoy exhibitions, musical performances, master classes, photo opportunities with art installations, and sample popular Arab delicacies," announced Natalia Sergunina.

According to her, UAE guests are drawn to Moscow's rich cultural heritage, parks, museums, and the city's diverse culinary scene, blending cuisines from around the world. The majority prefer traveling alone (34.2%) or with a partner (23.8%), opting for comfortable accommodations, with approximately a quarter staying in five-star hotels (23.4%).

"We are delighted to host UAE Culture Days in the heart of Moscow, on iconic Manezhnaya Square. This historical area is among Moscow's most beautiful tourist spots, and we eagerly anticipate showcasing UAE culture and heritage to the Russian people," noted Dr Mohammed Ahmed Sultan Essa Al Jaber, UAE Ambassador to Russia.

The cultural event spans five days, featuring folk performances, an ancient Emirati wedding demonstration, falconry shows, engraving exhibitions, henna art, and displays of antiques and traditional crafts. Visitors can savor Emirati coffee and dishes, purchase UAE goods, and capture memories in specially designed photo zones.

"Cultural exchange between our friendly nations has entered a new phase, reflecting increased UAE tourism to Moscow and growing interest in Russian culture, art, history, and traditions," Dr. Al Jaber added.

Moscow remains a key international tourist destination, with 23 million visitors in 2023, primarily from China, India, CIS countries, and the Middle East. The city actively engages in international collaborations through exhibitions, business missions, and events aimed at global audiences.

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World News | More Americans are ending up in Russian jails….

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World News | More Americans are ending up in Russian jails. Prospects for their release are unclear

TALLINN, Estonia (AP) — One was a journalist on a reporting trip . Another was attending a wedding. Yet another was a dual national returning to visit family.

All are U.S. citizens now behind bars in Russia on various charges.

Arrests of Americans in Russia are increasingly common with relations sinking to Cold War lows. Washington accuses Moscow of using U.S. citizens as bargaining chips, but Russia insists they all broke the law.

While high-profile prisoner exchanges have occurred, the prospects of swaps are unclear.

“It seems that since Moscow itself has cut off most of the communication channels and does not know how to restore them properly without losing face, they are trying to use the hostages. … At least that’s what it looks like,” said Boris Bondarev, a former Russian diplomat who quit after Moscow invaded Ukraine in 2022.

Who is known to be in Russian custody?

EVAN GERSHKOVICH — The 32-year-old Wall Street Journal reporter faces trial Wednesday on espionage charges that he, his employer and the U.S. government deny. He was detained in March 2023 while reporting in the city of Yekaterinburg and accused of spying. Russia alleges Gershkovich was “gathering secret information” at the CIA’s behest about a facility that produces and repairs military equipment. It provided no evidence to support the accusations.

PAUL WHELAN — The 54-year-old corporate security executive from Michigan was arrested in 2018 in Moscow where he was attending a friend’s wedding, convicted two years later of espionage, and sentenced to 16 years in prison. He maintains his innocence, saying the charges were fabricated.

TRAVIS LEAKE — The musician was arrested in 2023 on drug charges. An Instagram page describes him as the singer for the band Lovi Noch (Seize the Night). Court officials have said he is a former paratrooper.

MARC FOGEL — The Moscow teacher was sentenced to 14 years in prison, also on drug charges. The Interfax news agency said Fogel taught at the Anglo-American School in Moscow and had worked at the U.S. Embassy. Interfax cited court officials as saying Fogel has admitted guilt.

GORDON BLACK — The 34-year-old staff sergeant stationed at Fort Cavazos, Texas, was convicted June 19 in Vladivostok of stealing and making threats against his girlfriend, and was sentenced to three years and nine months in prison. He had flown to Russia from his U.S. military post in South Korea without authorization and was arrested in May after she accused him of stealing from her, according to U.S. and Russian authorities.

ROBERT WOODLAND — Woodland, a dual national, is on trial in Moscow on drug- trafficking charges. Russian media reported his name matches a U.S. citizen interviewed in 2020 who said he was born in the Perm region in 1991 and adopted by an American couple at age 2. He said he traveled to Russia to find his mother and eventually met her on a TV show. Woodland was charged with trafficking drugs as part of an organized group — punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

ALSU KURMASHEVA — Kurmasheva , a dual U.S.-Russian national, was arrested in 2023 in her hometown of Kazan. The Prague-based editor for the U.S. government-funded Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s Tatar-Bashkir service was visiting her ailing mother. She faces multiple charges, including not self-reporting as a “foreign agent” and spreading false information about the Russian military.

KSENIA KHAVANA — Khavana , 33, was arrested in Yekaterinburg in February on treason charges, accused of collecting money for Ukraine’s military. Independent Russian news outlet Mediazona identified her by her maiden name of Karelina, and said she had U.S. citizenship after marrying an American. She returned to Russia from Los Angeles to visit family. The rights group Pervy Otdel said the charges stem from a $51 donation to a U.S. charity that helps Ukraine.

DAVID BARNES — An engineer from Texas, Barnes was arrested while visiting his sons in Russia, where their mother had taken them. His supporters say the woman made baseless claims of sexual abuse that already had been discredited by Texas investigators but he was convicted in Russia anyway and sentenced to prison.

What’s the process for negotiations?

Gershkovich and Whelan have gotten the most attention, with the State Department designating both as wrongfully detained. The designation is applied to only a small subset of Americans jailed by foreign countries.

Those cases go to a special State Department envoy for hostage affairs, who tries to negotiate their release. They must meet certain criteria, including a determination the arrest came solely because the person is a U.S. national or part of an effort to influence U.S. policy or extract concessions from the government.

The U.S. successfully negotiated swaps in 2022 for WNBA star Brittney Griner and Marine veteran Trevor Reed — both designated as wrongfully detained. Moscow got arms dealer Viktor Bout , who was serving a 25-year sentence, and pilot Konstantin Yaroshenko, serving 20 years for cocaine trafficking.

It’s unclear how many Americans are jailed in Russia or if negotiations are in the works for them.

Kurmasheva’s husband, Pavel Butorin, told The Associated Press after her arrest he hoped the U.S. government would use “every avenue and every means available to it” to win her release, including designating her as wrongfully detained.

Is the West holding anyone Russia wants?

In December, the State Department said it had made a significant offer for Gershkovich and Whelan but Russia rejected it.

Officials did not give details, although Russia has been said to be seeking Vadim Krasikov , serving a life sentence in Germany in 2021 for the killing of Zelimkhan “Tornike” Khangoshvili, a Georgian citizen of Chechen descent who had fought Russian troops in Chechnya and later claimed asylum in Germany.

Beyond that, Russia has stayed silent. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov says such swaps “must be carried out in absolute silence.”

Historically, when relations are better, “the exchanges seem to be smoother,” said Nina Khrushcheva, a professor of international affairs at the New School in New York and the great-granddaughter of Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev.

She cited prisoner swaps between the USSR and Chile in the 1970s, as well as those with the U.S. and Germany shortly after Mikhail Gorbachev took office in the 1980s involving dissidents Vladimir Bukovsky and Natan Sharansky.

Ultimately, the decision “is only in Putin’s hands,” Khrushcheva said.

In Gershkovich’s case, an exchange might also involve concessions, possibly related to Ukraine, said Sam Greene of the Center for European Policy Analysis.

“Even if the immediate reason to get people around the (negotiating) table is Evan and a prisoner exchange, that allows them to get right up to the line and to say: ‘OK, we’ve got 98% of the deal, but if you really want to get this done, there’s this other thing we’d really like to talk about,’” like sanctions or another Ukraine-related issue, he said.

“The Kremlin is perfectly happy to hold onto Evan as long as it possibly can. And so its incentive is to get as much for him as possible,” Greene said.

Tucker reported from Washington.

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Moscow, Delhi work on PM visit to Russia, his first since Ukraine war

This will be Modi’s first visit to Russia after it attacked Ukraine in February 2022, and is significant given India’s tactful diplomacy on ties with Moscow and the West in the backdrop of their hostility.

NEW DELHI and Moscow are exploring a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 8-9. Sources said preparations are underway for the possible visit, but there has been no official confirmation from either side about the visit.

The Tribune Tuesday reported that Modi will undertake a “quick day-long trip” to Moscow on July 8.

Modi had last visited Russia in 2019, when he had gone to Vladivostok for the 20th India-Russia Annual Summit.

News agency PTI quoted a Kremlin official in Moscow who said active preparations are underway for the trip. “I can confirm that we are preparing a visit by the Prime Minister of India.

We cannot (say) the dates as yet, because the dates are announced by the parties in agreement,” Yuri Ushakov, an assistant to Russian President Vladimir Putin , said, according to the news agency. “But we are actively preparing. I will emphasise once again, this visit will take place,” he told reporters, replying to a question.

Over the last two years, New Delhi has maintained a diplomatic balancing act between Russia and Ukraine. While it has not explicitly condemned the Russian invasion, it has called for an international probe into the Bucha massacre and has expressed concern over nuclear threats issued by Russian leaders. At the UN Security Council, India has taken a nuanced position and abstained from voting against Russia in several resolutions.

This will be a standalone visit on the lines of the annual bilateral summit between the Indian and Russian leaders, that have been going on since 2000. The Annual Summit between the Prime Minister of India and the President of the Russian Federation is the highest institutionalised dialogue mechanism in the strategic partnership between India and Russia.

So far, 21 annual summits have taken place alternatively in India and Russia; the 21st summit was in New Delhi in December 2021. Since then, Modi and Putin have maintained regular contact through at least 10 telephone conversations to review progress on bilateral cooperation and exchange views on regional and global issues of mutual interest: five telephone conversations in 2022, two in 2023 (June 30 and August 28) and three in 2024 (January 15, March 20 and June 5).

India has strategic ties with Moscow and a strong dependence on Russia for defence supplies. Ever since the war began, India has also been buying Russian oil at discounted prices to cushion the inflationary impact of rising oil prices.

The last in-person bilateral meeting between the two leaders took place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on the sidelines of the SCO Summit in September 2022. This was the time, when Modi had told Putin that “this is not the era of war” — a line later used in the formulation at the G20 summit in Bali in November 2022 and by other western leaders and interlocutors to press on Russia to end the war.

Modi is, however, learnt to be skipping the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit to be held on July 3-4 in Astana, Kazakhstan. This sends a mixed signal about Delhi’s commitment to the platform — where Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif are expected to attend.

Modi’s visit to Russia comes just after his visit to Italy for the outreach session at the G7 leaders’ summit on June 13-14. He met top world leaders there — US President Joe Biden , British PM Rishi Sunak , French President Emmanuel Macron, Germany Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Italian PM Giorgia Meloni — and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the G7 leaders’ summit.

The Indian Prime Minister, however, did not go for the peace summit on Ukraine held in Switzerland. Top Indian official, Secretary (West) in MEA, Pavan Kapoor, went for the summit meeting, but India did not sign the joint communique since Russia was not present there.

Russia did not attend the Swiss summit, calling it a “waste of time”. On June 16, India decided to not sign the joint communique by saying that “only those options acceptable to both parties can lead to abiding peace” — reflecting its diplomatic tightrope walk since Russia invaded Ukraine.

The Indian position of not becoming a signatory to the joint communique was explained by Kapoor in his statement as Moscow — one of the two warring parties —had declined to attend the summit in Burgenstock in central Switzerland. The Russia-Ukraine war, which began on February 24, 2022, is in its third year now, with no end in sight.

Later this year, there is another possible opportunity for Modi to travel to Russia — since Russia is hosting the annual summit of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) in October — it is scheduled to take place in Kazan from October 22-24.

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Treason trial opens for L.A. woman held in Russia for donating $50 to Ukraine charity

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The trial of a Russian American dual citizen whom Russia accuses of treason opened Thursday as tensions rise between Washington and Moscow, including over the arrests of two American journalists.

The trial is being held behind closed doors in Yekaterinburg, in the same court that next week is to begin hearing the case of Evan Gershkovich , a Wall Street Journal reporter who was arrested in March 2023 and charged with espionage.

The defendant was identified by Russian authorities as Los Angeles resident Ksenia Karelina , although U.S. media reports frequently use the surname Khavana, the name of her ex-husband.

World & Nation

Russia arrests L.A. woman for treason after she gave $50 to Ukraine, employer says

A Russian American woman from Los Angeles is held in Russia on treason charges, apparently over a donation to a charity for Ukraine.

Feb. 20, 2024

Karelina was born in Yekaterinburg and was arrested in February while visiting her family.

Russia’s main domestic security agency, the Federal Security Service, charges that Karelina raised money for a Ukrainian organization that was providing weapons, ammunition and other supplies to the Ukrainian military. Her boyfriend has said she made a single donation of about $50 to a Ukrainian organization, according to media reports.

Karelina faces a sentence of up to 20 years in prison if convicted. Almost all Russian criminal cases that make it to court end in convictions. The trial was adjourned in the afternoon and the next session was set for Aug. 7, Russian news agencies said.

Gershkovich, the highest-profile American behind bars in Russia, is accused of gathering secret information from a tank factory in Nizhny Tagil, about 90 miles north of Yekaterinburg.

His employers deny the allegation, and the U.S. State Department has declared him to be wrongfully detained.

Russian court denies appeal of Los Angeles woman held on ‘treason’ charge

Ksenia Karelina, a U.S.-Russia dual citizen who was detained in Russia over an apparent donation to a Ukrainian aid group, appeared via video in court on Thursday. A judge denied her appeal.

Feb. 29, 2024

Gershkovich’s trial, also closed, is to begin Wednesday.

A journalist for U.S.-funded Radio Liberty/Radio Free Europe with U.S. and Russian dual citizenship has been held since October on charges of gathering military information and failing to register as a foreign agent.

Since sending troops into Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has sharply cracked down on dissent and has passed laws that criminalize criticism of the operation in Ukraine and remarks considered to discredit the Russian military. Concern has risen since then that Russia could be targeting U.S. nationals for arrest.

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