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If you own a garment steamer, you probably know how quickly steam can turn a crumpled shirt into something wearable. But have you ever thought about the extras that make steaming faster, safer, and more versatile? Accessories transform a basic steamer from a one-trick pony into a multi-tool that can handle delicates, curtains, upholstery, and quick travel touch-ups. Think of them as the proper shoes for a marathon — they’re the small things that prevent blisters and get you across the finish line.
Not every add-on is created equal. Some accessories are essential, while others are luxury items that suit particular lifestyles. Essentials include fabric brushes, lint removers, and heat-resistant gloves. Mid-range must-haves are replacement water tanks and travel nozzles. Premium touches like steam hangers, continuous-fill adapters, and commercial-grade extension poles suit heavy users. Choosing the right mix can save you time and money, and make steaming feel less like a chore.
Fabric brushes attach to the steamer head to loosen fibers and remove surface dirt for a deeper clean. They’re especially useful for textured fabrics and heavier garments like wool coats. A good brush can be the difference between a mere refresh and a truly polished look, and most brushes clip on in seconds. When shopping, look for dense but soft bristles that won’t damage delicate materials.
Lint and pilling are common culprits in making clothes look older than they are. A steam-friendly lint brush or dedicated pilling attachment can restore sweaters and knitwear without the risk of cutting fibers like a razor does. These attachments usually glide over the fabric while steam relaxes the fibers, lifting pills and lint into an easy-to-collect pad.
Wouldn’t it be nicer to steam without hunting for a coat hook? Steam hangers and clips let you hang garments at a comfortable height so you can steam hands-free. Some come with metal clips for trousers and skirts, and others include a sturdy frame to keep shirts taut. They’re small investments that make steaming neater and quicker, especially when you’re prepping an outfit for work or a night out.
Steam is hot — literally — and a stray blast can leave your hand stinging. Heat-resistant gloves let you press seams and hold hems without fear, and a silicone or fabric pad protects surfaces when you need to rest a steamer head. These accessories are inexpensive insurance for anyone who steams frequently or handles garments with finesse.
Tired of refilling mid-press? Larger or spare water tanks mean longer sessions and fewer interruptions. Many steamer users prefer tanks that hold around 32 fl oz to 64 fl oz for extended steaming. If your water quality is suspect, inline water filters or detachable cartridges help prevent scale buildup that can clog nozzles and reduce steam output. That’s especially useful if your home water tends to be hard.
If you take a steamer on the road, look for compact nozzles and fold-away poles that pack small but perform well. Travel attachments are designed to be lightweight — often under 3 pounds — and fit into carry-on bags. They may not have the continuous steam time of larger units, but they’re perfect for quick touch-ups and last-minute meetings.
Where you buy matters. In the UK there are reliable retailers that stock a wide range of garment steamer accessories for different budgets. Here’s a quick guide to who sells what, and why you might choose one over another.
Argos is a popular high-street option with both online inventory and local collection points. They typically carry a range of steam brushes, replacement tanks, and travel steamers. Argos often has seasonal discounts and multi-buy deals, making it easy to pick up a couple of accessories without breaking the bank.
John Lewis tends to stock higher-end steamers and brand-specific accessories, and is a great choice if you want premium fabric brushes or official replacement parts. Their focus on customer assurance and extended guarantees makes them a top pick for people investing in a durable steaming setup.
Currys and AO.com are go-to stores for electrical appliances, and their range often includes well-known steamer brands. These sites are useful if you want to compare technical specs like steam pressure, continuous steam time, and tank capacity. They also offer clearance deals on discontinued models, so keep an eye out for bargains.
For sheer variety, Amazon UK and eBay are unmatched. You’ll find cheap generic attachments and premium brand parts side by side, often with user reviews to guide your choice. Look for sellers with fast delivery and clear return terms, and be careful to buy accessories that are compatible with your specific steamer model.
Lakeland and similar homeware retailers sometimes stock steam accessories aimed at household use rather than professional steaming. These outlets are great for niche items like steam-safe garment hangers, storage racks, or multi-purpose brushes designed for both clothes and soft furnishings.
If you’re after manufacturer-certified parts, check brand stores like SteamOne, Philips, or Tefal. Buying directly often guarantees compatibility and ensures you get genuine replacement tanks and nozzles built for your steamer’s specifications.
Compatibility is king when it comes to steamer accessories. Not every attachment fits every model, and choosing the wrong part is like trying to plug a square peg into a round hole. Here’s a quick checklist to keep you on track.
Start by checking your steamer’s model number and the attachment connection style. Many accessories fit multiple models, but some brands use proprietary fittings. If in doubt, take a photo of the nozzle and compare it to the product listing to avoid disappointment.
Think about how long you usually steam. If you’re only freshening one or two shirts, a 16 fl oz or 32 fl oz tank might suffice. For household tasks like curtains or bedding, aim for 48 fl oz or 64 fl oz tanks so you can steam large surfaces without pausing to refill. Larger tanks weigh more, so balance endurance with portability.
Accessories aren’t all plastic — look for metal clips, sturdy silicone pads, and brushes with durable bristles if you plan to use them often. Cheap attachments can break quickly and cost more in the long run, like buying disposable tools instead of a proper set of Kitchen Knives.
If storage space is tight, collapsible poles and fold-away hangers are a godsend. Travel-friendly nozzles should tuck into a small bag or compartment. Keep dimensions in mind: a 20-inch telescopic pole will take up more space than a 12-inch compact model when stored.
Treat your accessories like an investment. With a little upkeep you’ll avoid clogged nozzles, warped brushes, and stained pads. These small habits pay off in longer life and consistent performance.
Mineral buildup is the steamer’s enemy, especially if you have hard water. Use manufacturer-recommended descaling products or a diluted vinegar solution occasionally to clear deposits from tanks and nozzles. Rinse thoroughly after descaling to avoid residual smells on fabric.
Always allow brushes and pads to dry completely before storing to prevent mold and odors. Keep electrical parts and cords wrapped neatly, and store delicate attachments in a protective pouch to avoid damage.
Inspect bristles, clips, and seals for wear. A frayed brush or cracked tank can reduce effectiveness and even cause damage to clothing. Replacing worn pieces before they fail is like changing the oil in your car — routine upkeep that saves hassle later.
You don’t always need an expensive accessory to see better results. A few clever hacks can extend the usefulness of what you already own, especially when you’re on a tight budget.
If you don’t have a fabric brush, a clean, thick towel clipped over a hanger can act as a buffer to protect delicate items while steaming. It’s a temporary fix, but it softens the blow and avoids direct heat on delicate fibers.
To reduce scale if you lack a filter, use filtered or bottled water for steaming. That little change can significantly reduce clogs and extend the life of your steamer and accessories.
Lint rollers work well after steaming to remove loosened particles. Velvet or flannel cloths can press delicate fabrics without pinching, and they’re gentler than some aftermarket pads.
If you steam daily or run a small alteration or styling business, premium accessories make sense. Higher-end brushes, heavy-duty tanks, and commercial-grade poles save time and deliver consistent results. For casual users, a solid mid-range brush and a good glove usually do the job.
Premium purchases often come with better warranties and easier access to spare parts. That can be worth the upfront cost if you want long-term reliability and less downtime when something wears out.
Before clicking buy, ask yourself a few simple questions: What types of garments do I steam most? Do I need portability or large capacity? How often will I use the tool? Answering these will guide you to the right accessories and the right UK retailer. Remember, the best accessory is the one you actually use — practical, durable, and matched to your routine.
Choosing the right garment steamer accessories in the UK is about matching needs to products and knowing where to look. From Argos and John Lewis for convenience and quality, to Amazon and eBay for variety, there’s something for every budget and lifestyle. Treat your steamer well, pick compatible accessories, and you’ll find steaming becomes less of a chore and more of a quick styling ritual.
Conclusion: The right accessories turn a steamer into a versatile home or travel tool. Whether you invest in a premium fabric brush, a larger tank, or simple heat-resistant gloves, small upgrades deliver big results. Shop smart, maintain regularly, and pick items that match how you steam — then enjoy fresher clothes with minimal effort.
