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How does steam iron clothes?

Published in Appliance Science 1 min read

A steam iron removes wrinkles from clothes by using heat and moisture generated from steam to relax the fibers of the fabric.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the process:

  • Water Heating: The iron contains a water reservoir that is heated to create steam.
  • Steam Generation: As the water heats up, it turns into steam, which is then released through holes on the soleplate (the flat, metal part that makes contact with the clothing).
  • Fiber Relaxation: The hot steam penetrates the fabric, loosening the bonds between the fibers. This allows the fibers to relax and become more pliable.
  • Weight and Pressure: The weight of the iron and the pressure applied while ironing help to flatten and reshape the fibers into a smoother, wrinkle-free state.
  • Drying: As the iron moves across the fabric, the heat also helps to dry the slightly dampened fibers, setting them in their new, smooth position.

Essentially, steam irons use a combination of heat, moisture, and pressure to remove wrinkles and create a crisp, neat appearance.

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