HiLIFE Steamer for Clothes, Portable Handheld Clothing Steamer, 240ml Big Capacity, 700W, Strong Power, Fabric Quick Wrinkle Remover with Brush for Home, Office(ONLY 120V) -Blue

The HiLIFE 700W is the most-reviewed handheld clothes steamer on Amazon. It costs about $25 and has a 4.2-star average from more than 131,000 ratings. It's the budget pick in our best handheld clothes steamer roundup.

The specs, in plain terms

At 700W it's the lowest-powered steamer we recommend. That's enough for blouses, dresses, polyester and thin cotton. On heavy cotton, denim and linen you'll need more passes than with a 1500W-plus model like the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam.

The 240 ml (about 8 oz) tank gives up to 15 minutes of steam, which is generous at this price. The 9-foot cord reaches a door hook from most outlets. A brush attachment is included and clicks onto the steam head.

Two things to know before buying

It's 120V only. HiLIFE says plugging it into a 220-240V outlet will damage it, so it's not one for international trips.

The listing also says not to put perfume, essential oils or other scented liquids in the tank. If you clean it with detergent, run plain water through it a few times afterward.

Who it's for

• Anyone who wants a cheap, proven steamer for light everyday touch-ups
• A first steamer, to see whether you'll actually use one
• Dorm rooms, guest rooms, or a spare in the closet

Who should skip it

People who mostly steam cotton dress shirts or heavy fabric. The extra power of the Conair or the Rowenta X-Cel DR8120 makes a noticeable difference there. Frequent international travelers should also look elsewhere because of the 120V limit.

Getting the most from it

Low-wattage steamers depend on good technique: hang the garment, pull it taut and move slowly. Our how to use a handheld clothes steamer guide walks through it, fabric by fabric. If you're unsure whether a steamer can replace your iron, read clothes steamer vs iron first.