Quck answer
Cleaning a fabric steamer is a simple process that can help maintain its performance and prolong its lifespan. Here are the steps to clean a fabric steamer:
1. Unplug the steamer and let it cool down completely before cleaning.
2. Empty any remaining water from the steamer’s reservoir.
3. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a bowl or spray bottle.
4. Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe the interior and exterior of the steamer with the vinegar-water solution. Pay attention to any build-up or residue.
5. Rinse the cloth or sponge with clean water and wipe away any vinegar residue.
6. If there are any stubborn stains or mineral deposits, use a soft brush or toothbrush to gently scrub them away.
7. Rinse the steamer’s reservoir with clean water to remove any remaining vinegar solution.
8. Let the steamer air dry completely before using it again.
Regular cleaning of your fabric steamer will help ensure optimal performance and extend its lifespan.
A fabric steamer, also called a garment steamer, utilizes tap water to generate steam that eliminates wrinkles from clothing and other fabric-based items. As time passes, the tap water that flows through the steamer leaves behind a deposit of minerals that obstructs the device and diminishes its effectiveness. By regularly cleaning it with white vinegar and distilled water, you can remove the mineral buildup and restore the fabric steamer’s ability to produce ample steam.
Preventing Mineral Buildup
Unless your house has a water softener, there is a strong possibility that your local tap water is hard water, meaning it contains minerals that could result in a powdery deposit on a showerhead, in the shower, and even in a clothes iron and the garment steamer. If you have noticed such a deposit in your house, hard water is the cause.
If mineral buildup occurs frequently in your clothing steamer, tap water may not be the best choice. Instead, mix equal parts tap water and distilled or de-ionized water. This will reduce the amount of minerals, such as calcium, that are responsible for the buildup, while still being safe for the garment steamer. On the other hand, using only distilled water may cause damage to the steamer over time if it contains metal components, so consult the owner’s manual for recommended water types for your specific model. Many models are designed to use tap water, or a mixture of tap and distilled water in areas with excessively hard water.
Removing Mineral Buildup
If your clothing steamer is not producing enough steam or no steam at all, it is time to clean the interior and remove the mineral buildup. Another clear indication is if you see white or yellowish debris near the steam opening, or even on the clothes after steaming them. Even if the tap water in your house is not particularly hard, it is advisable to descale the steamer once a year or after every 100 hours of use.
Fill the steamer’s water reservoir 2/3 full with distilled water, then fill it the rest of the way with white vinegar. Turn on the device and let it generate steam for 30 minutes, or until it uses half of the vinegar solution. Allow it to cool completely, then empty the tank over the sink, or save it for cleaning or descaling other items in your house, such as a steam iron. If you notice any sticky white residue on the exterior of the steamer, near the steam outlet, wipe it off with a damp cleaning cloth. If it is difficult to remove the buildup, use white vinegar on the cloth instead of water, or spray vinegar directly on the stubborn areas, wait a few minutes, then wipe away the residue.
Rinse the tank thoroughly, then fill it with equal parts tap water and distilled water. Turn on the device again and let it generate steam until it uses half of the water, then let it cool once more. If the steamer produces a sufficient amount of vapor, just like when it was new, it is ready to be used again. If not, repeat the steam cycle with a solution of 1/3 white vinegar and 2/3 distilled water, then rinse again. In some cases, multiple vinegar steam cycles may be required to remove all of the buildup.
