New garment steamers highlight user convenience

Units with extra-large tanks, and adjustable height and steam settings promote ease of use.

TOP TRENDS

• Ease of use: Makers are releasing units with water tanks that can hold more than 2L, allowing an hour of continuous operation and lessening the need to refill often. The greater capacity aids use on curtains, bed sheets and plush toys as well. Adjustable stems, which can likewise be folded and disassembled, facilitate storage.
  
• Enhanced safety: Models incorporate tanks made of ABS and PC as these are strong enough to withstand leaks and breaking. Several midrange and high-end garment steamers shut off automatically when there is inadequate liquid.
  
• Additional functions: Many of the latest appliances feature adjustable steam settings for use on different fabrics, including silk, cotton and hemp fiber. Select versions can also sterilize, deodorize and kill mildew.
  
• Aesthetics: Apart from the typical black and white models, units in silver, gray, and various shades of yellow, green, red and blue are available.
  
• Price projection: Quotes are expected to increase between 5 and 10 percent in 2012 due mainly to escalating costs and the yuan’s appreciation.
  

PRODUCT GALLERY

Nvision Electrical Appliance Co. Ltd
Model: NV-358
Description: 2.1L tank capacity; 60min continuous steam; eight steam settings; LCD; 100/240V, 50Hz; 600 to 1,500W; GS, CE, RoHS

Shenzhen Jumbooking Mechanical & Electrical Industry Co. Ltd
Models: EUM-628
Description: 2.5L tank capacity; 30s heating, 3hr working time; 25g/min steam discharge; 1,000W

Shenzhen Success Industry Co. Ltd
Model: H-809
Description: 2.8L tank capacity; 110min continuous steam; 45s heating time; auto-off; stainless steel stem

Xiamen Yea-Sincere Import/Export Corp.
Model: GS609D
Description: 2.2L tank capacity; >70min continuous steam; 45s heating time

Yejen Industries Ltd
Model: YJ-3042
Description: <180s heating time; 6mL/min steam discharge; 120/240V, 50/60Hz; 250W

Zhejiang Cereals, Oils & Foodstuffs Import & Export Co. Ltd
Model: DY-518
Description: Height-adjustable aluminum stem; auto-off