8 Aug 2023
3 min.

What fabrics can you steam at home with a clothes steamer?

A clothes steamer is a very practical tool to remove the crinkles from your clothes and refresh the fabric. It’s quick, easy, and doesn’t require as much energy as ironing. But what fabrics are safe to steam with a clothes steamer? We have made an overview for you:

THESE FABRICS ARE SUITABLE FOR STEAMING

Steaming silk
Silk can safely be steamed, but it’s important to follow the instructions of the manufacturer. When steaming silk, make sure the steamer is set at a low temperature, and keep the nozzle at a short distance from the fabric, to avoid damage.
Steaming polyester
Polyester is a fabric that can safely be steamed. Most clothes steamers have special settings for synthetic fabrics like polyester. When steaming polyester, follow the instructions on the clothes steamer for the best results.
Steaming viscose
You can steam viscose, but be careful. Use a lower steam temperature and keep the steam nozzle at a safe distance, in order to avoid shrinkage or distortion.
Steaming woollen blankets and sweaters
Woollen fabrics can safety be steamed. When steaming wool, make sure to use a lower steam temperature and keep the steam nozzle at a short distance from the fabric, to avoid shrinkage and damage to the fibres.

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Steaming velvet
Opinions are divided on steaming velvet. Some people say that it can flatten the fibres and leave permanent impressions, and there are manufacturers who recommend steaming velvet. So try a little bit first, and go to the dry cleaner if you have any doubts.
Steaming chiffon
Chiffon is very vulnerable. According to some manufacturers, you have to steam this fabric with your clothes steamer, but there are also those who say it’s better not to. So better to try it first.
Steaming denim
Denim and thick cotton are perfect for steaming. But with a hand steamer and without a steam board or steam blanket, it’s tricky to get the crinkles out properly. So it’s a good idea to invest in a good device with the right accessories.

THESE FABRICS ARE NOT SUITABLE FOR STEAMING

Steaming works for a surprising amount of clothing and furniture fabrics, including most types of cotton, silk, wool and polyester. But some fabrics are not suitable for steaming, like:

Waxed fabrics
Leather
Suede
Materials that can melt, like plastic

Prints are safe to steam. Are you not sure if you can steam the fabric? Carefully test on a small part of the fabric first, before steaming the whole item of clothing.