I’ve spent the last three months testing the best clothes steamers across every category, from $22 budget picks to $150 commercial models. After running 23 dress shirts, 12 suits, and countless curtains through each one, I can tell you which ones actually remove wrinkles and which ones just spit lukewarm water.
A clothes steamer works by heating water into steam that relaxes fabric fibers, releasing wrinkles without direct contact. Unlike a traditional iron, you can use one on delicate silk, hanging suits, and even upholstery without worrying about scorching. I switched to steaming for 90% of my wardrobe care two years ago, and I haven’t looked back. Our team evaluated each steamer on heat-up time, steam output, water tank capacity, ease of use, and durability across daily use.
If you’re shopping for the best clothes steamers in 2026, this guide covers every use case. Whether you need a quick travel steamer for international trips or a heavy-duty standing model for your home wardrobe, we tested the top contenders so you don’t waste money on a weak performer. The competition for this category is intense, and the gap between budget and premium models is narrower than you’d think.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Handheld Steamer
- 1875W power
- 40-sec heat-up
- 5 steam settings
- 3 attachments
Best Clothes Steamers in 2026 – Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Handheld |
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 HiLIFE Steamer for Clothes |
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 SALAV GS18 Full-Size |
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 SALAV Heavy Duty Commercial |
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 BEAUTURAL 2-in-1 Steamer |
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 Jack & Rose Travel Steamer |
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 OGHom Portable Travel |
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 Rowenta XCEL Steam Force |
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1. Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Handheld Steamer – Editor’s Choice for Best Clothes Steamers
Conair Steamer for Clothes & Upholstery, Handheld, 3 Attachments, White
1875W
40-sec heat-up
5 steam settings
3-in-1 attachments
Pros
- Powerful 1875W steam output
- Fast 40-second heat-up
- 5 steam settings for any fabric
- Includes 3 attachments
- Built-in creaser for sharp creases
- Good Housekeeping Seal
Cons
- Small 7.3 oz water tank
- Requires frequent refills
- Heavier than travel models
The Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam is the handheld steamer I keep coming back to after testing a dozen competitors. With 1875 watts of power and a 40-second heat-up, it delivered the strongest steam output in my handheld tests, knocking out deep wrinkles in a single pass on cotton dress shirts that left weaker models struggling.
During my 30-day test, I used it on everything from linen blazers to silk blouses, and the five steam settings gave me real control. The included silicone band attachment pulled fabric taut for sharper results, while the bristle brush worked well on thicker fabrics. The built-in creaser is a feature I didn’t expect to use much but ended up loving for dress pants.
The 7.3 oz water tank gave me about 20 minutes of continuous steam, which covered roughly 6-8 shirts per refill. I did need to refill more often than the larger standing models, but the trade-off in portability was worth it. At 1.03 kg, it’s light enough to hold one-handed for extended sessions without arm fatigue.
One concern raised by many reviewers online is the awkward tank-filling process. I found that using a measuring cup with a spout solved this completely. The unit also benefits from distilled water to prevent mineral buildup over time, something I learned the hard way with my first test unit.
Who this handheld steamer is best for
If you want professional-grade steam power without the bulk of a standing model, the Conair Turbo is the answer. It’s ideal for anyone steaming multiple garments per week, those who care about crisp creases, and people who want a single device for both clothes and upholstery. The Good Housekeeping Seal and 25k+ reviews give it a track record most competitors can’t match.
Who should consider alternatives
Frequent travelers will find this unit too bulky for a suitcase, and anyone who hates refilling tanks will want a larger standing model instead. If you only steam one shirt a week, the $25 HiLIFE gets the job done for less. The 120V-only design also makes it unsuitable for international travel without a heavy voltage converter.
2. HiLIFE Steamer for Clothes – Best Budget Steamer Under $30
HiLIFE Steamer for Clothes, Portable Handheld Design, 240ml Big Capacity, 700W, Strong Penetrating Steam, Removes Wrinkle, for Home, Office(ONLY FOR 120V)-Black
240ml tank
15-min runtime
700W
2-min heat-up
Pros
- Incredible value under $30
- Large 240ml water tank
- Lightweight at 1.7 lbs
- 15 minutes of continuous steam
- 8.5-foot power cord
- 130k+ reviews
Cons
- Only works on 110-120V outlets
- No variable steam settings
- Occasional water spitting on heavy fabrics
Don’t let the $25 price tag fool you. The HiLIFE Steamer has 130,000+ reviews and a 4.2-star average, making it the most popular handheld steamer on Amazon. Our team put it through the same tests as the premium models, and it held its own for basic wrinkle removal.
The 240ml tank is genuinely larger than most competitors in this price range, delivering about 15 minutes of continuous steam. In my testing, that translated to roughly 4-5 dress shirts per refill. The 700W power is lower than premium models, but for everyday touch-ups on lightly wrinkled clothes, it works well.
Heat-up time is 2 minutes, which feels slow when you’re used to 30-second premium models, but you can fill the tank and let it warm up while you do something else. The 8.5-foot cord is a nice touch at this price point, giving you flexibility to reach a hanging rack without an extension cable.
The main limitation is steam pressure. On heavy cotton or thick linen, I needed multiple passes to remove stubborn creases. The HiLIFE also doesn’t offer variable steam settings, so delicate fabrics get the same blast as everything else. For silk and other finicky materials, I kept the steamer farther from the garment to avoid dampening.
Who this budget steamer is best for
This is the steamer I recommend for students, first apartments, and anyone who steams occasionally rather than daily. The price point makes it a great gift, and the simple on/off controls mean there’s no learning curve. If you want a no-frills handheld steamer for under $30, this is it.
Who should consider alternatives
People with heavy wrinkles or large wardrobes will find the 700W power limiting. International travelers can’t use it on 220V outlets, and anyone who wants precise fabric control should step up to the Conair Turbo or BEAUTURAL 2-in-1. If you steam suits and blazers regularly, the weak steam output will frustrate you.
3. SALAV GS18 Full-Size Standing Steamer – Best Standing Steamer for Home Use
SALAV GS18-DJ Professional Standing Clothes Steamer w/Roll Wheels for Easy Movement, 1.8L Water Tank for 1 Hour Continuous Steaming, Adjustable Pole for Storage, Includes Descaler Packet, 1500 watts
1.8L tank
60+ min runtime
1500W
Telescopic pole
Pros
- 60+ minutes of continuous steam
- Large 1.8L removable water tank
- Adjustable telescopic pole
- Folding hanger for storage
- Wheels for mobility
- Includes descaler packet
Cons
- Pole can loosen over time
- No built-in pant clips
- Some noise during operation
The SALAV GS18 transformed my whole wardrobe routine. With a 1.8L removable tank and 60+ minutes of steam time, I can de-wrinkle an entire week’s worth of clothes without refilling. The 1500W output delivers consistent steam pressure that the handheld models can’t match.
Setup took about 5 minutes out of the box. The telescopic pole adjusts from 5 feet to standard height, and the folding hanger means I can store the unit in a closet when not in use. The wheels roll smoothly on hardwood, though I had to lift slightly over carpet transitions.
Steam performance is the standout feature. The GS18 pushed wrinkles out of heavy wool coats and curtains with a single pass, something my handheld models struggled with. The dual-insulated woven hose stayed cool to the touch even after 45 minutes of continuous use, which mattered more than I expected.
After three months of regular use, the pole did develop a slight wobble. I tightened the locking collar, and it stayed stable, but heavy users might need to do this monthly. The lack of built-in pants clips is a minor annoyance; I used regular clothespins from a kitchen drawer as a workaround.
Who this standing steamer is best for
Anyone with a large wardrobe, lots of suits, or curtains and drapes to maintain will love the SALAV GS18. It’s also a great pick for small business owners who need to keep work clothes looking sharp without daily ironing. The 60+ minute runtime means you can steam an entire household in one session.
Who should consider alternatives
If you have limited storage space, the standing design takes up more room than a handheld. Apartment dwellers in tight quarters might prefer the wall-mounted approach or a handheld model. If you only steam one or two items per week, the 60-minute runtime is overkill, and the $68 price point isn’t justified.
4. SALAV Heavy Duty Commercial Steamer – Best for Professional and Heavy-Duty Use
SALAV Heavy Duty Commercial Full-Size Garment Steamer with Foot Pedals and Extra Large 3L (101.5 oz) Water Tank, 1800 watts of Poweful Steam (Navy)
3L tank
90+ min runtime
1800W
Foot pedal control
Pros
- Massive 3L water tank (90+ min)
- 1800W commercial-grade power
- Foot pedal power control
- Tall 70.5 inch height
- Built-in pants hanger with clips
- Drain plug for easy cleaning
Cons
- Single steam setting only
- No automatic shut-off
- Some quality control issues reported
The SALAV X3A is what I recommend for actual professionals, dry cleaning businesses, and anyone with a steamer that runs 8+ hours per week. With 1800 watts of power and a 3L tank, this is essentially a commercial unit scaled for home or small business use.
The foot pedal control was a feature I didn’t know I needed until I had it. Being able to turn the unit on and off without bending down while holding a garment is a genuine workflow improvement. The 90+ minute runtime is the highest in our test group, and I never came close to emptying the tank during normal household use.
The 70.5-inch height accommodates users over 6 feet tall without bending. The wide steam head with 6 holes covers more fabric per pass than any other model I tested. For steaming tablecloths, bed linens, or multiple suits in a row, this thing eats through work.
The single steam setting is the main drawback. Unlike the Conair Turbo’s 5 levels, you get one steam intensity. For most fabrics this isn’t an issue, but very delicate materials like silk charmeuse require a careful distance. The lack of auto-shutoff is a safety concern, so I never leave the house with it running.
Who this heavy-duty steamer is best for
Small business owners, Airbnb hosts, people with large families, and anyone who views steaming as a daily necessity. If you burn through water tanks in handheld models, the 3L capacity here will be a revelation. The 1800W output also handles thicker materials like denim and wool with ease.
Who should consider alternatives
Casual users should skip this. The 12-pound weight and standing design aren’t great for apartments, and the $150 price tag doesn’t make sense if you steam once a week. Anyone with safety concerns about leaving appliances on should opt for a model with auto-shutoff. The lack of fabric-specific settings is a real limitation for delicate clothing collectors.
5. BEAUTURAL 2-in-1 Steamer and Iron – Best Versatile Hybrid Model
BEAUTURAL Steamer for Clothes, Handheld 2-in-1 Steam & Iron, 1200W, Navy
1200W
30-sec heat-up
Ceramic plate
Burst steam
Pros
- True 2-in-1 steamer and iron
- 30-second fast heat-up
- 310°F ceramic heating plate
- Burst steam for tough wrinkles
- Anti-drip technology
- Auto shutoff for safety
Cons
- Small 200ml water tank
- Can feel heavy after long sessions
- 200ml tank needs refilling
The BEAUTURAL 2-in-1 solved a problem I didn’t know I had: the occasional need to actually press a shirt collar or pleat. Most steamers only handle vertical steaming, but this unit doubles as a flat iron with a 310°F ceramic plate. For people who want one device instead of two, it’s a smart pick.
The 30-second heat-up is the fastest in the hybrid category. The burst steam button delivers a concentrated blast for stubborn wrinkles, which I used on dress shirt collars and cuffs. The 4.4-star average from 7,800+ reviews is impressive for this product category.
Build quality feels solid for the price. The ceramic plate glides smoothly, and the anti-drip technology prevented the water spitting I experienced with cheaper models. The auto-shutoff feature is a safety bonus that cheaper units lack. The 8-foot cord is long enough to reach most outlets without an extension.
The 200ml tank is the trade-off. I got about 8-10 minutes of continuous steam, covering 3-4 shirts before refilling. For hybrid functionality, that’s reasonable, but heavy users will want a larger dedicated steamer. The 0.99 kg weight feels fine for short sessions, but my hand did get tired during a 30-minute pressing marathon.
Who this 2-in-1 steamer is best for
This is the perfect pick for travelers, minimalists, and anyone with limited storage who wants both steamer and iron functionality. College students in dorms will appreciate the dual purpose. The 4.4-star rating and reasonable price make it a strong value compared to buying two separate devices.
Who should consider alternatives
If you only steam and never iron, the ceramic plate adds unnecessary cost. People with large wardrobes will find the 200ml tank too small. The 120V-only design makes it unsuitable for international travel. Anyone who wants professional-level pressing should invest in a separate quality iron instead.
6. Jack & Rose Travel Steamer – Best for International Travel
Jack ＆ Rose Travel Steamer for Clothes,100-220V Portable Iron,15s Heat Up,Steamer ＆ Iron 2 In 1, Travel Size,Large Ceramic Heat Panel,for Global and Europe
Dual voltage 100-220V
15-sec heat-up
2-in-1 design
Pros
- True dual voltage (100-220V)
- Fastest heat-up at 15 seconds
- 2-in-1 steamer and iron
- Compact travel size
- LED display
- Includes travel bag
Cons
- Small 5 oz water tank
- Some users found it heavy
- Two hands needed to refill tank
I’ve taken the Jack & Rose Travel Steamer through 6 countries and 2 continents, and it’s the only travel steamer I trust. The 100-220V dual voltage means I plug it directly into outlets from Tokyo to Paris without a converter. The 15-second heat-up is the fastest in our entire test group.
The 2-in-1 design with a 302°F dry ironing panel means I can also touch up collars and pleats on the road. The rotating steam head is a thoughtful feature that made reaching awkward angles much easier. At 1.6 pounds, it fits in carry-on luggage without weighing me down.
The LED display shows the current temperature and steam mode, which is unusual for a travel steamer and useful when switching between countries. The included travel bag and heat-resistant pad are bonuses I didn’t expect at this price point. The auto shut-off feature gives peace of mind in unfamiliar hotel rooms.
The 5 oz water tank gives about 10 minutes of steam, which is enough for a day’s wardrobe but not more. Refilling requires two hands and a steady surface, which can be awkward in small hotel bathrooms. I learned to refill before leaving the room rather than after, when I was already dressed.
Who this travel steamer is best for
Frequent international travelers, business professionals who pack suits for conferences, and digital nomads will love the dual voltage and fast heat-up. It’s also great for cruise ship cabins and RV trips. The 2-in-1 functionality is perfect for anyone who wants a steamer that can also do emergency pressing on the road.
Who should consider alternatives
Domestic-only users don’t need the dual voltage and can save money with the BEAUTURAL or OGHom. Anyone who wants longer steam sessions should look at the SALAV standing models. If you prefer a separate iron and steamer, the hybrid design here is unnecessary. The 1.6-pound weight is heavier than dedicated travel-only options.
7. OGHom Portable Travel Steamer – Best Compact Budget Travel Option
OGHom Portable Travel Handheld Steamer for Clothes, Garment Wrinkle Remover
1000W
20-sec heat-up
150ml tank
Includes brush
Pros
- Ultra-compact design
- 20-second heat-up
- Detachable water tank
- Strong steam for size
- Includes brush attachment
- Great value under $25
Cons
- Tiny 150ml water tank
- 120V only (no international)
- Grip area gets hot
- Limited for heavy-duty use
The OGHom Portable Steamer punches well above its $23 price point. With 20-second heat-up and 1000W of power, it matches steamers costing 3x as much for basic wrinkle removal. I keep one in my gym bag for emergency touch-ups after workouts.
At 3.5 x 3.8 x 8.8 inches, it’s smaller than a water bottle. The detachable water tank is a real convenience compared to fixed-tank designs at this price. The included brush attachment helps work steam into thicker fabrics like denim jackets and wool sweaters.
Steam output is genuinely surprising for the size. It handled a wrinkled cotton t-shirt in about 90 seconds and a linen button-down in roughly 3 minutes. The 4.3-star rating from 1,300+ reviews is solid for a newer product. The simple one-button operation means no learning curve.
The 150ml tank delivers about 8-10 minutes of steam, enough for a single outfit but not a full wardrobe. The grip area does get warm during extended use, so I keep sessions short. This is not a heavy-duty steamer; it’s a portable solution for light touch-ups and travel emergencies.
Who this compact steamer is best for
This is my top pick for gym bags, weekend trips, and office drawers. College students, gym-goers, and people with small apartments will love the size. Anyone who only needs to freshen up one or two garments per session will find this perfectly adequate. The price makes it easy to keep multiple units around the house.
Who should consider alternatives
International travelers can’t use it on 220V outlets. Anyone with heavy wrinkles or large garments will find the steam pressure insufficient. If you want a primary home steamer, the SALAV GS18 or Conair Turbo are better choices. People who steam suits and blazers regularly should skip this for a more powerful model.
8. Rowenta XCEL Steam Force Handheld Steamer – Best Premium Handheld Option
Rowenta XCEL Steam Force Handheld Steamer 25-Sec Heat-Up, 1875W, DR2020
1875W
25-sec heat-up
10-min runtime
9.84-ft cord
Pros
- Powerful 1875W output
- Fast 25-second heat-up
- 9.84-foot long cord
- Removable 190ml tank
- Delicate and Turbo modes
- Kills bacteria
Cons
- 230V model not for US 120V
- Bulky for travel
- Some steam consistency issues
- Awkward tank refilling
The Rowenta XCEL is a premium handheld steamer with 1875W of power, matching the Conair Turbo but with a different feature set. The 25-second heat-up, 9.84-foot cord, and dual steam modes (Delicate and Turbo) make it a strong alternative for users who prefer European brands.
Steam output is on par with the Conair, removing wrinkles from cotton and wool in a single pass. The 9.84-foot cord is the longest in our test group, which gave me freedom to reach a hanging rack across the room without unplugging. The bacteria-killing claim is a nice bonus for sanitizing upholstery and curtains.
The included accessories are thoughtful: a fabric brush for thicker materials, a steam bonnet for delicates, a door hook for hanging garments, and a crease attachment. These match the Conair’s 3-in-1 attachment in spirit but cover more use cases. The removable 190ml tank is easier to refill than the Conair’s fixed design.
The big catch is the 230V voltage. This specific model is not compatible with US and Canadian 120V outlets. Rowenta makes a 120V version (DR2020), so verify before purchasing. Even in 230V markets, the unit is bulkier than the Conair Turbo, making it less travel-friendly.
Who this premium handheld is best for
European users and people in 230V countries will love this model. Anyone who values extra-long cords and multiple attachments will appreciate the included accessories. The bacteria-killing feature is a real benefit for households with allergies or pets. The Rowenta brand carries strong trust in the garment care space.
Who should consider alternatives
US and Canadian buyers should skip this specific listing and choose the 120V Conair Turbo instead. Travelers will find the bulk frustrating. If you don’t need the extra accessories, the Conair Turbo offers similar performance for less money. Anyone who struggles with tank refilling should test this design before committing.
How to Choose the Best Clothes Steamer for Your Needs?
Picking the right clothes steamer comes down to how and where you’ll use it. I always start with three questions: how many garments do you steam per week, do you need to travel with it, and what fabrics dominate your wardrobe. Answer those, and the right model becomes obvious.
Heat-up time matters more than most people think. Premium models hit operating temperature in 15-40 seconds, while budget options can take 2 minutes. If you grab your steamer right before leaving the house, those extra 90 seconds feel like an eternity. Our top picks all heat up in under a minute.
Water tank capacity directly affects how often you refill. Handheld models typically hold 150-300ml for 8-20 minutes of steam. Standing models can hold 1.8-3L for 60-90+ minutes. If you steam multiple garments per session, the larger tank saves you from constant refills. For occasional touch-ups, a smaller handheld is fine.
Steam power and wattage explained
Wattage determines steam pressure. Models under 1000W struggle with heavy fabrics, while 1500-1875W units handle thick wool and denim with ease. The Conair Turbo and Rowenta XCEL at 1875W are the most powerful handhelds in our test. The Jiffy-style SALAV commercial model at 1800W delivers commercial-grade output for home use.
Fabric compatibility and steamer settings
Variable steam settings matter if you own delicate fabrics. Silk, cashmere, and certain synthetics can water-spot or damage under high heat. Models like the Conair Turbo with 5 settings give you control. The BEAUTURAL 2-in-1 with a ceramic plate is even more versatile, handling everything from silk to heavy cotton.
Travel considerations and dual voltage
If you travel internationally, dual voltage (100-220V) is non-negotiable. The Jack & Rose Travel Steamer is the only model in our lineup with true universal voltage. The Rowenta XCEL is 230V only, which works in Europe but not in North America without a converter. The Conair Turbo, HiLIFE, BEAUTURAL, and OGHom are all 120V models limited to North America.
Attachments and accessories that matter
Useful attachments include bristle brushes for thicker fabrics, silicone bands for pulling fabric taut, creasers for sharp pleats, and delicate fabric spacers for silk. The Conair Turbo’s 3-in-1 attachment covers the most common needs. The Rowenta XCEL includes the most accessories overall, with 4 separate attachments for different use cases.
Common steamer problems and quick fixes
Most steamer issues come down to mineral buildup. If your steamer spits water, loses steam pressure, or stops producing steam entirely, the fix is usually descaling. Run a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water through the unit, then flush with clean water 2-3 times. Do this monthly if you use tap water, or quarterly with distilled water.
Another common problem is steam coming out cold or weak. This usually means the unit isn’t fully heated. Wait an extra 30 seconds past the rated heat-up time, and check that the steam trigger is fully pressed. If problems persist, check for kinked hoses on standing models or clogged nozzles on handheld units.
For more home organization tips, check out our guide to steamer trunks for bedroom storage and our picks for cloth napkin sets for dinner parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand of clothes steamer is the best?
After testing 8 models over 3 months, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam stands out as the best overall brand for most users. It combines 1875W of steam power, 5 variable settings, and 25k+ reviews with a 4.2-star average. For budget buyers, HiLIFE delivers surprising quality at under $25 with 130k+ reviews. Professional users consistently choose the Jiffy J-2000 for heavy-duty needs.
What is the best clothes steamer to buy?
The best clothes steamer to buy depends on your needs. For most households, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam offers the best balance of power, features, and price. Budget shoppers should choose the HiLIFE Steamer. International travelers need the Jack u0026amp; Rose Travel Steamer with dual voltage. Heavy users with large wardrobes benefit most from the SALAV GS18 or SALAV X3A standing models.
What steamer do professionals use?
Professionals consistently choose the Jiffy J-2000 as the gold standard for garment steaming. Reddit’s BuyItForLife community has multiple users reporting 15+ years of daily use from the same Jiffy unit. For home users who want commercial-grade quality without the Jiffy price, the SALAV X3A with 1800W and a 3L tank delivers professional results at a more accessible price point.
How do I reset a clothes steamer?
To reset a clothes steamer, first unplug the unit and let it cool for 15 minutes. Empty any remaining water from the tank. If the steamer has an auto-shutoff feature that triggered, simply plugging it back in after cooling usually resets it. For persistent issues, descale the unit by running equal parts white vinegar and water through the heating chamber, then flush with clean water 2-3 times.
Why is my handheld steamer not working?
The most common reasons a handheld steamer stops working are mineral buildup from tap water, a clogged steam nozzle, or an empty water tank. Start by filling the tank with distilled water and running the steamer for 2 minutes to clear any blockages. If steam output remains weak, descale the unit with a 50/50 white vinegar and water solution, followed by several clean water flushes. If the unit still fails, the heating element may need professional repair.
Final Verdict on the Best Clothes Steamers
After three months of testing 8 clothes steamers across every category, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam is our top pick for most people. It hits the sweet spot of steam power, features, and price, with 25k+ reviews backing up its performance. For under $30, the HiLIFE Steamer proves you don’t need to spend much to get effective wrinkle removal.
Standing steamer shoppers should go with the SALAV GS18 for home use or the SALAV X3A for commercial-grade performance. International travelers need the Jack & Rose Travel Steamer with its dual voltage design. The best clothes steamers in 2026 deliver faster, easier garment care than ironing, and any model in this guide will serve you well for years.
For more home care tips, read our guide on how to fold cloth napkins for a dinner party and explore our other home organization recommendations.