Are you going on a trip soon and considering taking your garment steamer with you? Very handy, especially if you like to look well-groomed. But before you throw the steamer into your suitcase, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Not all countries use the same power supply, plugs, or water quality. In this blog, we explain everything you need to know before you leave.
1. Voltage and frequency: a world of difference
The biggest pitfall for travelers taking electrical appliances with them is ignoring the voltage difference between countries.
Our STEAMRS handheld garment steamers are not dual voltage. This means they can only be used safely in countries with the same voltage as the country where you purchased the device. An overview:
- Europe, China, Iceland: 220–240 V, 50–60 Hz - 60-70 Hz
- US, Canada: 110–120 V, 50–60 Hz - 60-70 Hz
- Japan: 100 V, 50–60 Hz - 60-70 Hz
Using a steamer with a higher voltage than it is designed for can lead to a short circuit, damage to the device, or even a fire.
Tip: Always check the voltage (V) and frequency (Hz) of your destination before you leave. This is usually indicated on the plug or in the device manual, and you can also find it through online sources or travel guides.
2. Do you need a travel adapter?
Even if the voltage is correct, the plug may still not fit into the socket at your destination. There are no fewer than 15 different plug types worldwide (A to O).
A travel adapter allows your plug to fit into the socket, but does not change the voltage. So do not confuse an adapter with a voltage converter.
🚫 Do not use a voltage converter with our garment steamers. Due to their power output (up to 1500W), they are too powerful for most converters. This is not safe.
3. Water quality: do not underestimate it
In many countries, tap water contains a lot of limescale (hard water). Using this in your steamer can lead to limescale buildup, which shortens the lifespan of your device and affects its performance.
💧 Advice: Always use filtered, distilled, or specially formulated steam water if you are unsure about the water quality at your destination.
4. Do not forget to empty the water tank
Taking the steamer in your carry-on luggage? Do not forget to empty the water tank completely before going through security. Liquids in containers are strictly checked, and a full tank can cause problems.
✈️ At security, you will often need to present your steamer separately, just like a laptop or tablet. As long as it is empty, you can simply take it into the cabin.
In brief: your checklist for safe travel with your steamer
✅ Check the voltage and frequency of your destination
✅ Find out whether you need a travel adapter
✅ Use only suitable water (no hard water)
✅ Empty the water tank if you are flying
Travel safely and enjoy wrinkle-free clothes? This is how to do it with the right preparation!
