English1. Basic Structure and Working Principle of Handheld Steam Iron
Handheld Garment Steamer is usually composed of iron body, water tank, heating element, steam generator and control panel. When working, the user sets the temperature and steam volume through the control panel, and the heating element heats the water to boiling to generate steam. The steam is evenly sprayed through the nozzle and directly acts on the surface of the clothes to achieve the purpose of rapid wrinkle removal, sterilization and mite removal, and restoration of the original shape of the clothes. Compared with traditional dry irons, the biggest feature of steam irons is that they can reduce the risk of direct contact of fabrics with high-temperature metals, and through the gentle action of steam, clothes can be cared for more safely and effectively.
2. Characteristics and Ironing Requirements of Silk Fabrics
Silk fabrics are woven from natural silk fibers and have excellent air permeability and hygroscopicity, but this also means that they are easy to deform after absorbing water, and the fiber structure is easily damaged at high temperatures, resulting in reduced gloss and weakened strength. Therefore, silk clothing should be ironed with special care to achieve wrinkle removal and avoid damaging the fabric.
3. Application skills of Handheld Garment Steamer on silk fabrics
Preheating and temperature adjustment: Before use, make sure that the Handheld Garment Steamer has been fully preheated to a temperature suitable for silk fabrics (generally not exceeding the maximum temperature that silk can withstand, about 100°C-120°C). Most modern handheld steam irons are equipped with a temperature adjustment function, and users can choose the appropriate temperature level according to the specific type of silk (such as mulberry silk, tussah silk, etc.).
Steam volume and pressure control: When ironing silk, the right amount of uniform steam is the key. Too much steam may cause the fabric to be over-wet and affect the final effect; while insufficient steam will make it difficult to effectively remove wrinkles. Handheld Garment Steamer usually allows users to adjust the steam volume. It is recommended to start from a lower level and gradually adjust to the steam output that is most suitable for silk. At the same time, keep the iron in slight contact with the fabric during operation, and avoid applying too much pressure to avoid crushing the fibers.
Ironing order and technique: Ironing from the inside of the clothes can avoid direct steam action on the surface of the fabric and reduce gloss loss. When ironing, the iron should be gently slid along the fabric texture direction, avoiding dragging back and forth to prevent the fabric from stretching or producing light marks. For complex patterns or wrinkle-prone areas (such as cuffs and collars), you can use a fixed-point light pressure method to carefully handle them.
Use an ironing cloth: In order to protect silk fabrics, you can place a thin and breathable ironing cloth (such as a cotton cloth) between the iron and the fabric, which can not only effectively disperse heat, but also prevent the iron from directly contacting the fabric and causing damage.
Cooling and shaping: After ironing, do not put away the silk clothes immediately. Let them cool naturally for a period of time to ensure a long-lasting ironing effect and avoid shrinkage or deformation of the fabric caused by rapid cooling.
IV. Precautions
Avoid direct contact with high temperatures: Even if you use a steam iron, you should avoid keeping the bottom of the iron in the same position for a long time to avoid local overheating.
Test the temperature resistance of the fabric: Before ironing for the first time, you can conduct a small-scale test in an inconspicuous corner of the clothing to confirm that it will not cause damage to the fabric.
Deal with watermarks in time: If watermarks are left accidentally, immediately use a clean dry cloth to gently absorb excess water and place it in a ventilated place to dry.
Regular cleaning and maintenance: Keep the iron nozzle and water tank clean to avoid scale and impurities affecting steam output and extend service life.
