Wrinkles can be a nightmare. You’ve got a perfectly good outfit lined up, only to find it crumpled and creased right before an important meeting, event, or trip. Traditional irons often feel like more trouble than they’re worth—heavy, time-consuming, and requiring space to set up a board. That’s why more and more people are turning to handheld garment steamers.

But here’s the catch: many new users find themselves asking how to use a handheld garment steamer properly to keep it performing at its best. And just as importantly, they wonder how to clean it to prevent mineral build-up, maintain strong steam output, and extend its lifespan. Learning the right technique ensures your clothes always look sharp while your steamer stays in top condition.

If you’ve ever wanted an easy, fuss-free way to de-wrinkle your clothes and keep your steamer working like new, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why Choose a Handheld Clothes Steamer Over an Iron?

Handheld steamers have become a staple for travellers, busy professionals, and anyone who values convenience. Unlike irons, they don’t require a bulky board or constant adjustments. With just water and a press of a button, you can de-wrinkle garments, freshen fabrics, and even reduce odours. A clothes steamer works by releasing hot steam through a wide plate or nozzle, which relaxes fabric fibres. The result? Smooth clothes that look freshly pressed in a fraction of the time.

If you’ve struggled with ironing or simply want a faster way to look polished, a handheld garment steamer is your best ally.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use Handheld Garment Steamer

Learning how to use a handheld garment steamer is straightforward once you know the basics. Follow these steps to get crisp results every time.

1. Fill the Water Tank 

Most handheld steamers, like Strongcore BRISK garment steamer, come with a detachable water tank. With BRISK, the 170ml water tank includes a handy measuring cup, ensuring you avoid spills. Always use clean tap water or, for longer-lasting performance, distilled water to prevent mineral build-up.

Tip: Never overfill the tank—there should be a clear maximum line. Overfilling can cause leaks and reduced steam pressure.

2. Power Up and Preheat

Once filled, attach the tank securely and plug in your steamer. BRISK takes just 30 seconds to heat up—perfect when you’re in a hurry. Most models will have a light indicator showing when it’s ready.

3. Hold the Steamer Upright

When steaming, always hold the steamer in an upright position. This ensures steady steam flow and prevents water from spilling. The ergonomic design of BRISK makes this especially comfortable, even for longer sessions.

4. Steam Clothes from Top to Bottom

For the best results, always start steaming at the top of your garment and work your way down. This lets gravity assist the process as the fabric relaxes. Move the steamer slowly across the material, keeping slight tension on the fabric with your free hand.

Remember: top to bottom is the golden rule.

5. Use Vertical and Horizontal Techniques

While most people steam vertically, modern handheld steamers like BRISK can also handle steaming horizontally. This is especially useful for items like tablecloths, curtains, or bedding that can’t be hung.

Always keep a safe distance of about 1–2 inches between the steamer plate and fabric to avoid excess dampness.

6. De-Wrinkle Delicate Fabrics Safely

Worried about silk, chiffon, or wool? The beauty of a garment steamer is that it’s safe for most fabrics including silk, chiffon, wool, cotton and linen. Unlike irons, there’s no direct scorching risk. With BRISK’s wide stainless steel panel, you get smooth, non-stick contact that glides effortlessly over materials.

Tip: For extra delicate items, use a gentle sweeping motion without pressing too close.

Tips and Tricks for Better Steaming

Mastering how to use a handheld garment steamer also means learning some clever tips and tricks:

• Hang your clothes properly – Use a sturdy hanger to allow full-length steaming.
  

• Pull gently on the fabric edge – Light tension helps smooth fibres faster.
  

• Steam both sides if needed – For thicker fabrics like linen or cotton, steaming both sides ensures a crisp finish.

• Use short bursts – Instead of holding the button continuously, short bursts of steam give better control.

The BRISK Handheld Garment Steamer Advantage

Among handheld steamers, BRISK stands out as the ultimate choice for travellers and everyday use. Here’s why:

• Lightweight, foldable, and travel-friendly – Perfect for packing without bulk.
  
  

• 170ml water tank with measuring cup – Steam up to 8 pieces of clothing without constant refills.
  
  

• Ready to steam in just 30 seconds – Ideal for last-minute touch-ups.
  
  

• Wide stainless steel panel – Smooth, non-stick surface for effortless gliding.
  
  

• Overheat fuse and thermostat – Built-in safety features for peace of mind.
  
  

• 1.8-metre cord – Greater freedom of movement while steaming.
  
  

• Safe for all fabrics – From silks to cottons, it handles them all.
  
  

If you’re serious about keeping your wardrobe crease-free, BRISK makes steaming not just easy but enjoyable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Handheld Steamer

Even with the best steamer, errors can reduce effectiveness. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overfilling the tank – This causes leaks and uneven steaming.
  
  

• Pressing too hard – A clothes steamer doesn’t need force; let the steam do the work.
  
  

• Holding it too close – This can make fabrics damp instead of smooth.
  
  

• Skipping maintenance – Forgetting to clean your steamer shortens its lifespan.
  
  

• Steaming on flat surfaces without care – Always keep fabrics slightly lifted to allow steam circulation.

Beyond Clothes: What Else Can You Steam?

A garment steamer isn’t just for clothing. Here are extra uses:

• Curtains – Steam them directly on the rod without taking them down.
  
  

• Upholstery – Refresh sofas and chairs while killing bacteria.
  
  

• Bedding – Smooth duvet covers or pillowcases without ironing.
  
  

• Stuffed toys – A quick steam freshens and sanitises fabric toys.
  
  

• Table linens – Get crease-free tablecloths in minutes.
  
  

Handheld steamers are versatile tools that go far beyond the wardrobe.

Learning how to use handheld garment steamer correctly means you’ll never again be caught with crumpled clothes before an important occasion. By steaming from top to bottom, experimenting with steaming horizontally, and following simple cleaning steps, you can enjoy a stress-free, wrinkle-free wardrobe.

Whether you’re travelling, heading into the office, or simply refreshing fabrics at home, a clothes steamer is the modern solution to ironing woes. With features like quick heat-up time, travel-friendly design, and fabric-safe steaming, the BRISK handheld steamer ensures you look sharp and confident wherever you go.

So next time you’re debating between the iron and a steamer, remember this: one makes life harder, the other makes it effortlessly smooth.