Black & Decker Compact Garment Steamer, Hand Steamer, + Travel Steamer

As someone who often finds themselves battling wrinkles on both a daily wardrobe and travel clothes, I was excited to try out the Black & Decker Compact Garment Steamer (model HGS100T). Portable and designed for quick wrinkle removal, this small yet mighty tool promised to make my routine easier. Here’s my experience with the steamer, from unboxing to steaming my favorite shirts.

Design & Build

First impressions matter, and the Black & Decker steamer scores well on design and ergonomics. Despite being labeled as compact, it has a surprisingly substantial build. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, which is crucial when using it for extended periods. Weighing in at 2.1 pounds, it’s light enough to handle without causing strain but has enough heft to feel sturdy.

The steamer comes with a metal press plate, a feature that promises to aid in wrinkle reduction. The construction quality feels robust, making it clear that this tool is built to last. Its dimensions (12.2 inches in height, 5.5 inches in length, and 3.5 inches in width) make it easy to store, whether at home or in a suitcase.

Key Features

One of the compelling features of this steamer is its fast preheat time, clocking in under one minute. Although, from my experience, it took closer to three minutes to fully heat up when filled to the indicated line. This isn't a significant drawback but something worth noting if you're in a rush.

Another standout feature is the continuous steam switch, which allows for uninterrupted steaming. This is particularly useful for larger garments or curtains. I also appreciated the steam burst trigger, which provides a powerful burst of steam for stubborn wrinkles.

The 160 mL water tank capacity is adequate for quick tasks. On a full tank, I could steam about 4 t-shirts before needing a refill. For more demanding materials like stiff cotton mixes, it took about half a tank to achieve satisfactory results.

Performance

Performance is where the steamer shines and falters in equal measure. It excels at removing wrinkles from lightweight fabrics and most cotton t-shirts. However, when it comes to deep wrinkles or heavier fabrics, it doesn't perform as well. For instance, my daughter's stiff collared shirt required more effort and time to look presentable.

The steam is hot and effective, making quick work of minor wrinkles. However, caution is advised as the steam can burn if your hand gets too close. One aspect that requires attention is the potential for water sputtering. I noticed occasional splattering, especially at the beginning of the steaming process. While this didn’t happen consistently, it’s a minor inconvenience that can leave your clothes damp.

Portability & Usability

Portability is one of this steamer's strong suits. Its compact size and lightweight nature make it an excellent travel companion. The 8 ft cord length adds to its flexibility, allowing you to move around freely without constantly having to change outlets.

Usability is straightforward. There’s no on/off button, so plugging and unplugging is necessary to operate it. While this might be a minor inconvenience, it’s not a dealbreaker. The steamer is intuitive to use, even for those who might be new to garment steaming.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the steamer holds up well with regular use. However, it’s not without its issues. After about two years of sporadic use, some users might find the steamer stops working. While this is within the tool's warranty period, it’s something to consider for long-term use.

Maintenance is easy, especially if you use distilled water to prevent mineral buildup. Cleaning the water tank and the steam vents occasionally ensures the tool remains in good working condition.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Fast Preheat Time: Heats up quickly, though not within the advertised 45 seconds.
• Ergonomic Design: Comfortable to hold and maneuver, even for longer periods.
• Continuous Steam: Useful for larger tasks, such as steaming curtains or multiple garments.
• Portable: Compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel.
• Effective on Lightweight Fabrics: Works well on t-shirts, dresses, and other light materials.

Cons:

• Inconsistent Water Sputtering: Occasionally splatters water, which can dampen clothes.
• Limited Effectiveness on Heavy Fabrics: Struggles with deep wrinkles and heavier materials.
• No On/Off Button: Requires plugging and unplugging to operate.
• Durability Concerns: Potential for the tool to stop working after a couple of years of use.

Final Thoughts

Would I recommend the Black & Decker Compact Garment Steamer? Yes, but with some reservations. For its price point and features, it offers good value, especially if your primary need is for lightweight fabrics and travel. Its ease of use, fast preheat time, and ergonomic design make it a handy tool for anyone looking to ditch the iron for something more convenient.

However, if you frequently deal with heavier fabrics or require a steamer for extensive use, you might find its performance lacking. The occasional water sputtering and absence of an on/off button are minor inconveniences that some users might find off-putting.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for those who need a quick, portable solution for wrinkle-free clothes. Just be aware of its limitations and potential durability issues.