Russell Hobbs Steam Genie

It ranks #3 (A tier) on our consolidated clothes steamers board, drawn from 3 independent outlets.

Someone who wants one portable tool that both steams and presses. It is an A tier 2-in-1 steamer and iron on our clothes steamers board, with strong steam, precise control and strong sales behind it. If you only steam and want the most power, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam Handheld Fabric Steamer (GS59X) is the S tier pick.

For most daily use, yes. The Russell Hobbs Steam Genie is a 2-in-1 steamer and iron, so it can steam a hanging shirt and also press a collar or cuff flat. A full-size iron on an ironing board still gives the sharpest crease on heavy cotton and linen, so keep one if you press formal shirts often.

Both are 2-in-1 steamer and iron units with powerful steam. The Russell Hobbs Steam Genie ranks higher on our board, in A tier against B tier for the Tefal ActiSteam 2-in-1, and is noted for portability and precise control. The Tefal ActiSteam 2-in-1 is noted for heat-up speed and durability at a mid-range price. Pick the Russell Hobbs Steam Genie unless you find the Tefal ActiSteam 2-in-1 at a clear discount.

Yes, steaming is gentler than ironing on silk, wool and synthetics because there is no hot plate pressing on the fibres. Hold the head a few centimetres from the fabric and keep it moving. Use the iron function only on fabrics that tolerate direct heat, and test on an inside seam first.