For far too long, my life was a constant battle against creases. Between rushing out the door for work, preparing for special occasions, or simply wanting my casual clothes to look sharp, I often found myself wishing for a faster, gentler way to de-wrinkle my garments. The traditional iron and ironing board felt like a monumental task for just one or two items, and I was always worried about scorching delicate fabrics or struggling with awkward shapes. If only I’d had a reliable, quick solution like the Tefal Access Steam Easy Handheld Clothes Steamer, it would have saved me countless moments of frustration and the embarrassment of wearing slightly creased clothing. The hassle of setting up an ironing board for minor touch-ups was a recurring problem that absolutely needed to be solved to simplify my daily routine and ensure I always looked my best.
A garment steamer is a fantastic tool for anyone who needs to quickly refresh clothes, remove wrinkles from delicate fabrics, or simply hates the traditional chore of ironing. You’re likely considering a steamer if you frequently deal with items like blouses, dresses, jackets, or curtains that are difficult or risky to iron. The ideal customer for a handheld clothes steamer is someone with a busy lifestyle, limited space for an ironing board, or a wardrobe full of sensitive materials like silk, satin, or velvet. It’s perfect for last-minute touch-ups before heading out or for refreshing garments that have been stored away.
However, a steamer might not be the best choice for everyone. If you regularly need razor-sharp creases on tailored shirts or very heavy-duty fabrics like thick denim, a powerful traditional iron might still be your preferred tool, as steamers excel at relaxing fibres rather than pressing them flat. Similarly, if you only iron once a month and have plenty of time, a dedicated steamer might feel redundant. Before buying a handheld clothes steamer, consider its heat-up time (critical for quick use), water tank capacity (how many garments per fill), portability (for travel or easy storage), wattage (influences steam power), safety features for various fabrics, and the included accessories. Think about the types of fabrics you mostly wear and how often you’ll be using it.
Introducing the Tefal Access Steam Easy Steamer
The Tefal Access Steam Easy Handheld Clothes Steamer, DT7170G0 is a compact, powerful device designed to make wrinkle removal effortless and efficient. It promises super quick heat-up times and a generous steam output to tackle creases with ease, all while being gentle on your clothes. This particular model, the DT7170G0 in White & Blue, comes with a 150ml removable water tank, a door hook for convenient steaming, a steam cap, a microfibre cloth, and a fabric brush to enhance its versatility.
This specific Tefal steamer is ideal for anyone looking for a convenient alternative to the iron for everyday garments, delicate items, or quick fixes. It’s perfect for those who travel frequently or have limited storage space, and it also offers sanitising benefits for refreshed clothes. It might not be for someone who needs to iron heavy-duty linens or requires perfectly pressed pleats on trousers consistently, as its primary strength lies in refreshing and smoothing rather than creating sharp creases.
Pros:
* Rapid 15-second heat-up: Saves significant time.
* Large 150ml water tank: Fewer refills for multiple garments.
* Safe for all fabrics: Worry-free steaming for delicate materials.
* Sanitises and refreshes: Kills germs and removes odours.
* Handy accessories included: Enhances usability and results.
* Long 2.6m power cord: Provides excellent flexibility.
Cons:
* Can feel heavy: Might cause fatigue during prolonged use.
* No adjustable steam output: A single steam setting.
* Frequent refills for very large jobs: Despite the larger tank, big tasks still require multiple fills.
* No dedicated carry case: Limits true “travel-readiness” for some.
Unpacking the Performance: Key Features and Their Advantages
Having used the Tefal Access Steam Easy DT7170G0 for an extended period, I can confidently say it’s transformed my approach to laundry and garment care. It’s not just about removing wrinkles; it’s about a more efficient, kinder way to keep clothes looking their best. Let me delve into the specific features that make this steamer stand out.
Rapid 15-Second Heat-Up: Instant Readiness for a Busy Life
One of the most impressive aspects of the Tefal DT7170G0 is its incredible heat-up time. Just 15 seconds! This might seem like a small detail, but in practice, it’s a game-changer. Imagine you’re running late, you pull out a favourite shirt or dress, and it’s got those annoying storage creases. With this steamer, you can plug it in, quickly hang your garment, and by the time you’ve done a quick mental run-through of your day, it’s ready to go. There’s no waiting around for an iron to warm up, no lengthy setup. This instant readiness means I genuinely use it more often, transforming those last-minute touch-ups from a rushed chore into a quick, effortless task. It perfectly solves the problem of needing to look presentable without adding stress to an already hectic schedule. The immediate steam makes it incredibly convenient, especially when I only need to smooth out a single item.
Generous 150ml Removable Water Tank: Fewer Interruptions, More Efficiency
For a handheld unit, the 150ml water tank on the Tefal Access Steam Easy is quite substantial. Tefal claims it allows you to steam up to 3-4 garments per fill, and in my experience, this holds true for average-sized items like blouses or t-shirts. What this translates to is fewer trips to the sink to refill, making your steaming sessions much more efficient. The tank is also easily removable, snapping off and on with a simple press of a button, which makes filling under a tap incredibly straightforward and mess-free. I’ve found that even with this capacity, if I’m tackling a large number of items or very thick fabrics, I might need to refill, which can interrupt the flow. However, for everyday use and quick refreshing, it’s perfectly adequate, preventing the constant refilling often associated with smaller handheld steamers. This feature directly addresses the common problem of steamers running out of water too quickly, making the experience smoother and more productive.
1400W Power and 25g/min Steam Output: Uncompromising Wrinkle Removal
With a robust 1400W of power and a consistent steam output of up to 25g/min, this handheld clothes steamer delivers impressive performance. The high wattage ensures the steam is powerful enough to penetrate fabric fibres effectively, relaxing them to effortlessly release creases. I’ve used it on everything from delicate silk scarves to more stubborn cotton shirts, and it handles them all with remarkable efficiency. The continuous steam flow means you don’t have to repeatedly press a trigger, allowing for a smooth, uninterrupted pass over your garments. This power translates directly into superior results, helping to remove even those ingrained wrinkles that might typically require a hot iron. It’s the “engine” that drives the steamer’s effectiveness, ensuring that “easy” in its name isn’t just a marketing ploy.
Safe for All Fabrics: Versatility and Peace of Mind
One of my biggest concerns with traditional ironing was the risk of damaging delicate fabrics. The beauty of the Tefal Access Steam Easy is that it’s explicitly designed to be safe for all materials, including fragile ones like silk, satin, and velvet. This means I can steam my most cherished garments without any worry of scorching, shining, or flattening textures. The gentle action of the steam relaxes fibres without direct heat contact, preserving the integrity and feel of the fabric. This versatility is incredibly important for maintaining a diverse wardrobe and eliminates the need for separate garment care methods. It provides genuine peace of mind, knowing that my clothes are being treated with the utmost care, a significant benefit over the harshness of a hot iron.
Thoughtful Accessories Included: Enhancing the Steaming Experience
Tefal has really thought about the user experience by including a suite of practical accessories with this garment steamer. The door hook is ingenious; it allows you to hang clothes on any standard door, positioning them at the perfect height for effortless steaming. This eliminates the need for an additional stand or searching for a suitable hanging spot. The steam cap is fantastic for delicate fabrics, ensuring a gentle and even dispersion of steam. The microfibre cloth attachment is brilliant for removing dust and minor dirt while steaming, giving your clothes a fresh, clean look. Lastly, the fabric brush attachment is invaluable for thicker materials; it helps to separate the fibres, allowing the steam to penetrate deeper and achieve a more thorough de-wrinkling effect. These accessories aren’t just add-ons; they genuinely improve the steamer’s versatility and effectiveness, making it a comprehensive solution for various garment care needs.
Extended 2.6m Cord and Stable Base: Freedom and Safety
The 2.6m power cord on the Tefal Access Steam Easy provides excellent flexibility, allowing you to move around your garment freely without being tethered to the nearest power socket. This long cord makes it incredibly convenient to find a suitable space to steam, whether it’s by a window or near a wardrobe. Furthermore, the steamer is designed with a stable base, ensuring it can be safely stored upright when not in use or during short breaks. This small but crucial design detail prevents accidental tipping and makes the overall user experience much safer and more organised. The combination of a long cord and a stable base significantly enhances both the usability and the practical safety aspects of this steamer.
Cleaning & Sanitation Capabilities: Beyond Just Wrinkle Removal
Beyond its primary function of wrinkle removal, this Tefal handheld clothes steamer offers significant cleaning and sanitising benefits. The natural power of steam is effective at refreshing fabrics, removing odours, and, importantly, killing up to 99.99% of viruses, bacteria, and germs. In today’s world, this added layer of hygiene is a huge bonus. I often use it to refresh clothes that aren’t quite ready for a full wash but need a pick-me-up, or to sanitise outerwear after being in public spaces. It’s an excellent way to keep your wardrobe hygienically clean and smelling fresh without harsh chemicals or frequent washing, which can extend the life of your garments.
Tefal’s 15-Year Repairability: A Commitment to Longevity
Tefal’s commitment to 15-year repairability, with technical spare parts available at a fair price and 6200 approved repairers worldwide, speaks volumes about the brand’s confidence in its product and its dedication to sustainability. This isn’t just a throwaway appliance; it’s an investment. Knowing that you can get parts and support for well over a decade provides immense peace of mind and adds significant long-term value to the Tefal DT7170G0. It’s a testament to the quality and durability that Tefal aims to deliver, moving away from a disposable culture.
What Users Are Saying: Real-World Feedback
Having scoured the internet, it’s clear that many users share my positive sentiments about this Tefal Access Steam Easy. People consistently praise its effectiveness on various fabrics, with many noting how quickly it removes creases from shirts, dresses, and even curtains. The rapid heat-up time is a frequent highlight, often described as a “life saver” for busy mornings. Users appreciate the generous water tank, leading to fewer interruptions, and the convenience of the door hook. However, some have mentioned that it can feel a bit heavy during extended use, and that larger jobs might still require multiple refills. A few isolated reports have also highlighted concerns about units arriving used or developing faults, though these appear to be exceptions rather than the norm. Overall, the consensus leans heavily towards satisfaction, particularly for its convenience and powerful wrinkle-fighting capabilities.
Final Thoughts: Is This Steamer Right for You?
The constant battle against wrinkled clothes, the time-consuming nature of traditional ironing, and the fear of damaging delicate fabrics are common household frustrations that need a modern solution. Ignoring these issues means always feeling less polished, wasting precious time, and potentially shortening the lifespan of your favourite garments.
The Tefal Access Steam Easy Handheld Clothes Steamer, DT7170G0 is an excellent fit to solve these problems. Firstly, its rapid 15-second heat-up time means you can tackle creases instantly, making it perfect for last-minute adjustments and saving you valuable minutes in your day. Secondly, its gentle yet powerful steam output, coupled with its safety for all fabrics, provides peace of mind, allowing you to de-wrinkle even your most delicate items without worry. Finally, the added benefit of sanitisation and odour removal means your clothes aren’t just smooth, but also fresh and hygienically clean. For anyone seeking a fast, effective, and versatile way to maintain their wardrobe, this garment steamer is a truly commendable investment. To experience the convenience for yourself, click here to check out the product!