Like many, my mornings were often a rush, and the last thing I needed was to battle with a cumbersome ironing board and a traditional iron to get rid of those inevitable creases. There was a constant struggle to look presentable without adding significant time to my routine. Dealing with delicate fabrics or quick touch-ups on hung garments felt like an impossible task, leading to clothes either being worn creased or simply left unworn. This nagging problem needed a swift and simple solution; without one, the daily frustration and wasted time would only compound. Finding a reliable, easy-to-use device to keep my clothes looking sharp without the fuss was paramount.
Key Considerations Before Investing in a Garment Steamer
Garment steamers are brilliant tools designed to smooth out wrinkles and refresh fabrics quickly, making them perfect for those who want to avoid the rigmarole of traditional ironing. If you’re someone who frequently needs to de-crease delicate items, refresh clothes between washes, or simply doesn’t have the space or patience for an ironing board, a garment steamer could be your perfect companion. The ideal customer for a handheld clothes steamer is typically a busy individual, a frequent traveller, or someone with a wardrobe full of tricky fabrics like silk, chiffon, or embellished garments that don’t fare well with direct iron heat.
However, if you’re looking for crisp, sharp creases on formal trousers or perfectly pressed shirts with sharp lines, a garment steamer might not fully replace your traditional iron. Those who demand absolute perfection in pressing might find the results from a steamer slightly less precise. Instead, they might consider a powerful steam iron or even a full-sized standing garment steamer for larger capacity and continuous steam. Before purchasing, consider the water tank capacity, heat-up time, continuous steam output, portability, and whether it supports both vertical and horizontal steaming. These factors will greatly influence your experience and the steamer’s suitability for your lifestyle.
Introducing the Philips Steam&Go Plus Handheld Steamer: What it Offers
The Philips Steam&Go Plus Handheld Clothes Steamer, model GC362/86, is a compact and portable device designed to effortlessly remove creases and refresh your clothes. This sleek black and copper unit promises a convenient alternative to traditional ironing, allowing for both vertical and horizontal steaming without the need for an ironing board. When you purchase this handheld steamer, it comes with a brush attachment, a heat-resistant glove, the steamer unit itself, and a user manual.
Compared to some market leaders or even previous Philips models, the GC362/86 stands out for its SmartFlow heated plate technology and dual-orientation steaming capabilities, offering a more versatile user experience than simpler, steam-only devices. It’s ideally suited for individuals who need quick de-wrinkling on the go, for freshening up clothes before an important meeting, or for managing delicate garments. It’s perhaps not for those seeking an industrial-strength steaming solution or replacing all heavy-duty ironing tasks, but for everyday convenience, it truly shines.
Here’s a quick look at its pros and cons:
Pros:
* Convenient: No ironing board needed, works vertically and horizontally.
* Quick Heat-up: Ready to use in just 45 seconds.
* Safe for All Fabrics: Guarantees no burns, even on delicate clothes.
* Refreshes & Sanitises: Continuous steam removes odours and kills 99.9% of bacteria.
* Portable Design: Lightweight (0.91 kg) and relatively compact.
Cons:
* Small Water Tank: Only 70ml, requiring frequent refills, especially for multiple items.
* Inconsistent Performance: Can struggle with very stubborn creases or thicker fabrics.
* Potential for Water Spitting: Some users report water spitting, potentially leaving damp spots or stains.
* Cable Position: The power cable placement at the base of the handle can be awkward.
* Durability Concerns: Some reports suggest issues with longevity after prolonged use.
Unpacking the Philips Steam&Go Plus: Features and Their Advantages
Having used the Philips Steam&Go Plus Handheld Clothes Steamer for a good while now, I’ve really put it through its paces across a variety of fabrics and situations. It’s been a game-changer for some aspects of my wardrobe, though I’ve also come across its limitations. Let me break down the core features and what they really mean for daily use.
Vertical & Horizontal Steaming, No Ironing Board Needed
This feature is truly the backbone of the Steam&Go Plus‘s appeal. The ability to steam garments both vertically while they’re hanging and horizontally on a flat surface without an ironing board is incredibly convenient. I vividly remember countless mornings spent wrestling with an ironing board, trying to set it up, only to find myself pressing a shirt for a minute or two. With this Philips garment steamer, I can just grab a shirt off the hanger, give it a quick once-over, and be out the door. For delicate items like blouses or formal dresses, vertical steaming is a dream; there’s no risk of flattening intricate details or damaging delicate embellishments. The horizontal option comes in handy for trousers or even bed linen if you want a quick refresh without bringing out the full ironing kit. This versatility genuinely saves time and effort, making the entire de-wrinkling process much less of a chore.
Easy, Effective and Safe with No Burns Guaranteed
One of my biggest fears with traditional irons was always scorching a favourite top or leaving an unsightly burn mark. The Philips Steam&Go Plus eliminates that anxiety completely. Its SmartFlow heated plate technology ensures that the plate maintains an optimal temperature, making it safe for all ironable fabrics – from robust cottons to the most delicate silks and even cashmere. I’ve used it on everything from my everyday cotton t-shirts to a cherished silk scarf, and it consistently delivers results without any damage. This “no burns guaranteed” promise isn’t just a marketing slogan; it’s a practical benefit that gives immense peace of mind, allowing me to steam with confidence, even when I’m in a hurry. The heated plate also helps prevent wet spots on clothing, ensuring a smoother, drier finish compared to steamers that only produce unheated steam.
Instant Refresh and De-wrinkle Hanging Clothes
The primary use case for this handheld clothes steamer in my household is for refreshing clothes. Sometimes, garments aren’t necessarily dirty but might have absorbed slight odours from being in the wardrobe or just need a quick spruce-up. The continuous steam output of the GC362/86 works wonders here. It revitalises fabrics, making them feel fresh and helping to release those superficial creases that accumulate over time. This is particularly useful for items that have been packed in a suitcase or worn briefly. Instead of running a full laundry cycle or dry-cleaning, a quick pass with the steamer makes them look and smell ready to wear again. This capability significantly extends the life of my clothes between washes and reduces my environmental footprint.
Ready to Use Within 45 Seconds
Speed is of the essence in modern life, and the 45-second heat-up time of the Philips Steam&Go Plus is a major advantage. I can turn it on, quickly grab the item I need to steam, and by the time I’m ready, the steamer is good to go. This rapid readiness means no more waiting around for an iron to heat up or for steam to build. It’s truly an instant solution for those last-minute touch-ups when you’re just about to leave the house and notice a wrinkle. This feature alone has saved me from numerous fashion emergencies and made my morning routine much smoother.
SmartFlow Heated Plate Technology & Continuous Steam
The combination of SmartFlow heated plate technology and continuous steam is what sets this Philips steamer apart. The heated plate helps to press the fabric slightly as the steam passes through, giving a more polished finish than steam-only handheld devices. The continuous steam, powered by a robust 1300W, is crucial for effectively relaxing fabric fibres and releasing wrinkles. More than just de-wrinkling, this powerful steam also plays a significant role in hygiene. It’s highly effective at removing unpleasant odours that can cling to clothes and, impressively, kills 99.9% of bacteria. This means my clothes aren’t just smooth; they’re also hygienically clean and smell fresh, a fantastic benefit for items like jackets or coats that aren’t washed as frequently.
Compact and Lightweight Design
Weighing in at just 0.91 kilograms, the Philips Steam&Go Plus GC362/86 is incredibly lightweight and easy to handle. Its compact dimensions (15L x 12.8W x 38H centimetres) also make it highly portable. It comes with a storage bag, which is perfect for tucking it into a suitcase for business trips or holidays. I’ve taken it on several trips, and it’s always proven its worth. Being able to quickly refresh clothes that have been crumpled in luggage is invaluable. The lightweight design also makes it comfortable to use for longer periods, though the small water tank often dictates short bursts of use anyway.
The Downside: Water Tank Capacity
Now, for a practical reality check: the 70ml water tank capacity. This is, without a doubt, the most significant drawback of the Philips Steam&Go Plus. While one fill is typically enough to de-wrinkle one piece of clothing, if you have more than one item, you’ll be refilling it constantly. For a full blazer or a pair of jeans, I often find myself needing to refill mid-way. This can be a bit of a nuisance, breaking the flow of steaming. For quick touch-ups on a single item, it’s fine, but if you’re planning to tackle a pile of clothes, be prepared for frequent trips to the tap. It’s a trade-off for the compact size, but one worth considering for your specific needs.
Occasional Water Spitting and Stubborn Creases
While the Philips Steam&Go Plus is generally effective, I have noticed that it can occasionally spit out water, particularly if it’s overfilled or used at an awkward angle. This can leave damp spots on clothing, which then need to air dry. While not a deal-breaker, it’s something to be mindful of, especially on delicate fabrics or when wearing the garment immediately. Furthermore, for very deep-set creases or on thicker, more rigid fabrics like heavy denim or linen, the steamer sometimes struggles to achieve a perfectly smooth finish. It will undoubtedly improve the appearance, but it might not replicate the crispness achieved by a traditional iron. In these instances, a full ironing session might still be necessary.
What Others Are Saying: Real Experiences with the Philips GC362/86
I’ve certainly spent some time browsing other user feedback online, and it seems my experiences with the Philips Steam&Go Plus Handheld Steamer resonate with many. Numerous customers praise its speedy heat-up and portability, noting how handy it is for last-minute touch-ups and refreshing delicate items without an ironing board. Many appreciate the convenience for travel, making creased luggage a thing of the past. However, the recurring theme in negative feedback often revolves around the small water tank capacity, with users expressing frustration at having to refill constantly, sometimes even for a single garment. There are also mentions of the steamer occasionally spitting water, leaving damp patches, and some questions about its overall durability, with a few instances of electrical issues reported after several months of use. Overall, it appears to be a highly-regarded tool for convenience, but with a few notable limitations that users are keen to point out.
Final Thoughts on Conquering Creases with Philips Steam&Go Plus
The daily battle against wrinkles can be a significant drain on both time and patience, leaving you feeling less polished than you’d like. Without an efficient solution, clothes can quickly look unkempt, impacting your confidence and presentation. The Philips Steam&Go Plus Handheld Clothes Steamer, GC362/86, offers a compelling answer to this problem. It’s a great fit for those seeking a quick, convenient, and safe way to de-wrinkle and refresh their wardrobe. Its rapid heat-up, no-burn guarantee, and dual steaming capabilities make it an invaluable tool for modern living. Despite its small water tank, the benefits of quick touch-ups and garment sanitisation make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re ready to simplify your routine and keep your clothes looking their best, click here to check out the product!