Top-Rated Garment Steamer For Heavy Fabrics: Suits, Coats & Curtains

Garment steamers have become a go-to solution for removing wrinkles and refreshing clothes, especially in comparison to traditional ironing. However, when it comes to heavier fabrics such as suits, coats, and curtains, a regular garment steamer might not provide the power or steam capacity needed. In this guide, we will delve into the best garment steamers specifically designed to handle heavy fabrics, offering powerful steaming solutions for those tough jobs.

Why Do Heavy Fabrics Require Special Garment Steamers?

Heavy fabrics like wool, linen, and thick cotton often require more powerful and continuous steam to remove deep wrinkles. These materials are typically denser and may require higher heat and steam output to restore their smooth appearance. Using a standard garment steamer could take longer or might not produce the results you're looking for. For fabrics like suits, coats, and curtains, which tend to be bulky and require substantial steam for effective wrinkle removal, choosing the right steamer is crucial.

Benefits of Using a Garment Steamer for Heavy Fabrics

Before we dive into specific recommendations, let's explore why garment steamers are ideal for heavy fabrics:

1. Gentle on Fabrics

   Steamers are generally gentler than traditional irons. They use steam to relax fabric fibers, which is particularly important for delicate or thicker materials. This prevents the damage that could occur from direct heat contact when ironing.

2. Quick and Efficient Wrinkle Removal

   Heavy fabrics, such as wool and heavy cotton, often require consistent steam to eliminate wrinkles. A powerful steamer can quickly handle these fabrics without the need for constant back-and-forth movement like an iron.

3. Sanitization and Freshening

   Garment steamers do more than just remove wrinkles. They can also sanitize, remove odors, and refresh fabrics. This is especially useful for bulky items like suits or curtains that may not be washed frequently.

4. No Need for an Ironing Board

   For heavier garments, using an ironing board might be inconvenient or impractical. Garment steamers allow you to work vertically, hanging the garment on a hook or shower rod, making it easier to steam directly.

5. Suitable for Multiple Fabrics

   A high-quality garment steamer can handle a range of fabrics, from thick wool coats to delicate silk. This flexibility is key when you're working with an assortment of heavy fabrics.

Key Features to Look for in a Garment Steamer for Heavy Fabrics

When selecting a garment steamer for heavier fabrics, there are a few critical features to keep in mind:

1. High Steam Output Heavy fabrics require more steam to penetrate the fibers. Look for a steamer with powerful steam output (measured in grams per minute or GPM), which ensures effective wrinkle removal without leaving any damp spots.

2. Large Water Tank Capacity Heavy fabrics like coats and curtains can take time to steam properly. A larger water tank (around 300ml or more) will allow you to steam larger sections without having to constantly refill.

3. Adjustable Steam Settings Heavy fabrics like suits may need more steam, while delicate fabrics require gentler steam. An adjustable steam setting lets you customize the steam output depending on the fabric, ensuring that you're not over-saturating delicate materials or underperforming on thicker ones.

4. Vertical Steaming Capability Being able to steam garments while they hang vertically allows for greater ease when steaming bulky items like coats, suits, and curtains. This design minimizes the need for pressing, reducing effort and time.

5. Long Cord or Cordless Design A long cord gives you more mobility to move around while steaming large garments. Alternatively, some high-end steamers are cordless, which may be ideal for heavy fabrics that require a lot of movement.

6. Continuous Steam Feature Continuous steam is important for larger items like curtains or heavy coats, which require longer periods of steaming. A steamer with a continuous steam feature allows you to keep the steam flowing without interruptions.

Top-Rated Garment Steamers for Heavy Fabrics

Here are some of the best garment steamers designed to tackle heavy fabrics like suits, coats, and curtains.

1. Jiffy Steamer J-2000

Best for: Durability and Heavy-Duty Use

The Jiffy Steamer J-2000 is known for its industrial-grade performance and is often favored by professional cleaners and tailors. This steamer offers high steam output and fast heat-up time, making it ideal for tough jobs like heavy coats or suits.

• Pros:

  • 1300 watts of power.
  • 1-gallon water tank for extended steaming sessions.
  • Continuous steam for up to 1.5 hours.
  • Sturdy and durable construction.
  • Ideal for heavy-duty fabrics like wool, linen, and heavy cotton.

• Cons:

  • Heavier than other models (around 12 lbs).
  • Bulky design requires storage space.

2. Rowenta IS6300 Master 360 Garment Steamer

Best for: Versatility and Professional Quality

Rowenta is known for producing high-quality steamers, and the IS6300 Master 360 is no exception. It offers exceptional steam output and a rotating head that allows for easy access to all parts of your garment. Whether you're steaming a thick coat or a delicate suit, this model can handle it all.

• Pros:

  • 1.6L water tank for long, uninterrupted steaming sessions.
  • 5 steam settings for various fabric types.
  • Rotating head for easy maneuverability.
  • Heats up in just 60 seconds.
  • Adjustable height for comfortable steaming.

• Cons:

  • Large size, which may be inconvenient for small spaces.
  • A bit more expensive than basic models.

3. Conair Turbo Extreme Steam Fabric Steamer

Best for: High Power in a Compact Design

The Conair Turbo Extreme Steam Steamer is a handheld device that punches well above its weight. Its turbo steam feature delivers extra steam power, making it perfect for heavier fabrics such as coats and suits. Its compact design also makes it ideal for storage.

• Pros:

  • 1550 watts of power for heavy-duty steaming.
  • Dual heat settings for more steam control.
  • Turbo steam for tough wrinkles.
  • Compact and portable.
  • Ideal for delicate and heavier fabrics alike.

• Cons:

  • Smaller water tank (200ml) for shorter steam sessions.
  • Requires frequent refills for large garments.

4. Salav GS45-DJ Garment Steamer

Best for: Efficient Steaming with Continuous Power

The Salav GS45-DJ is a professional garment steamer that works effectively for heavy fabrics like coats and curtains. It has an extra-large water tank and delivers a steady flow of steam, making it perfect for long steaming sessions.

• Pros:

  • 1500 watts of steam power.
  • 1.2L water tank for longer steaming times.
  • Adjustable steam levels.
  • 360° rotating garment hanger.
  • Heats up in 45 seconds.

• Cons:

  • Larger footprint, requires more storage space.
  • Somewhat bulky for smaller spaces.

5. BLACK+DECKER Allure Professional Steam Iron and Steamer

Best for: All-in-One Steaming and Ironing

BLACK+DECKER's Allure Professional Steam Iron and Steamer is a versatile 2-in-1 model that works as both an iron and a steamer. This is particularly useful for heavier fabrics that might require both steaming and ironing for the best results.

• Pros:

  • Professional-grade steam output.
  • Dual-purpose (can be used as a regular iron).
  • Continuous steam and quick heat-up time.
  • Large water tank for extended use.

• Cons:

  • Bulkier than a typical handheld steamer.
  • Requires both vertical and horizontal steaming for best results.

How to Use a Garment Steamer for Heavy Fabrics Effectively

Here are some tips to get the best results when steaming heavy fabrics:

1. Hang the Garment Correctly

   Ensure that you hang your heavy garment properly. For coats and suits, use a sturdy hanger or a steam-friendly garment rack. This helps ensure that the fabric hangs freely and the steam can penetrate the fibers effectively.

2. Use the Right Steam Setting

   For heavy fabrics, you'll need to use the highest steam setting. Adjust the settings depending on the fabric, starting with the lowest setting for delicate items like silk or moving to the highest for thick wool coats.

3. Steam from Top to Bottom

   Always start at the top of the garment and work your way down. This ensures that wrinkles near the hem are tackled last and helps prevent new wrinkles from forming as you steam.

4. Use Continuous Steam

   If your steamer has a continuous steam function, make sure to take full advantage of it. This will save you time and ensure a smooth finish.

5. Take Care of the Water Tank

   For heavy steaming sessions, the water tank can run dry quickly. Make sure to keep an eye on the water level and refill when necessary to avoid interruptions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right garment steamer for heavy fabrics ensures that you can tackle tough wrinkles, refresh bulky garments, and maintain the look and feel of your clothes. The models discussed here offer powerful performance, large water tanks, and a range of features that make them ideal for steaming suits, coats, and curtains. Whether you're looking for durability, efficiency, or ease of use, these top-rated steamers will meet your needs.