Garment finisher

Types of garment finishers

A garment finisher is a machine used to give clothes a final touch by removing wrinkles. There are several types of garment finishers, but the four main ones are the steam press, the steam iron, the automatic steam boiler iron machine, and the iron press machine. Steam press and steam irons are the most common garment finishers.

• Steam press: It is a large, flat device with a heated metal plate. It applies steam and pressure simultaneously to remove wrinkles from garments. Steam presses are available in different sizes and shapes to accommodate various garment types. They can also be used for bulk ironing. This is where operators iron multiple pieces of fabric at once. Steam presses are also used for precision ironing. This involves pressing specific areas of a garment to create sharp creases or pleats.
• Steam iron: It is a handheld device connected to a steam source. They are commonly used in homes and are lightweight. Steam irons are smaller and more portable than presses. They are more versatile and can be used for multiple jobs. However, they require more manual effort than a press.
• Automatic steam boiler iron machine: This is a heavy-duty steam pressing machine that is usually used in factories and commercial laundries. They are fully automated and have a steaming mechanism that can be controlled. The machines can press large quantities of garments quickly and efficiently. They are high-powered and have a large press plate that can accommodate multiple layers of garments.
• Iron press machine: This is a simplified version of a traditional steam press. It consists of a flat heated plate and a padded pressing area. Iron press machines are used for smaller-scale ironing jobs. They are also ideal for home-based businesses that require occasional garment finishing.

Other advanced garment finishers include the fusing press, shirt-sleeve press, topper press, and body press, among others. Fusing presses are used to attach interlining to fabric, while shirt-sleeve presses are designed to press sleeves and cuffs. Topper presses are used to press the tops of garments, and body presses are used for pressing the main body of a garment.

Specification and maintenance of garment finishers

• Specifications

Apart from the previously mentioned types of garment finishers, there are some other types that also have their own specifications.

Legger steam press: It is a large stationary press that is commonly used for pressing large items such as sheets or duvet covers. In addition to this, it can also be used to press items that need to be placed on a flat surface to be pressed, such as tablecloths and other large pieces of fabric. This type of press is usually operated by a single person who places the item to be pressed onto the press and then lowers the press to apply heat and pressure to the item. The operator then lifts the press and removes the item once the pressing process is complete.

Sleeve finisher machine: This machine has a head and shoulder shape that is made to mimic the shape of the human body. The purpose of a sleeve finisher is to press sleeves in garments such as shirts, jackets, and blouses. The operator of the machine will insert the sleeve of the garment over the pressing head, which is shaped to fit the contour of a sleeve. The operator will then lower the pressing head, which will apply heat and pressure to the sleeve, effectively pressing it. Sleeve finisher machines may be used in conjunction with other pressing machines, such as those used to press the body of a garment or to press collars.

Garment steamers are available with various types of steam heads to meet different garment pressing needs. For example, the brush steam head is designed for de-wrinkling and refreshing hanging garments, while the pleating steam head is used for creating permanent pleats in skirts or dresses. In addition, the puff steam head is ideal for shaping and pressing sleeves, and the wide steam head is suitable for pressing large areas of fabric. Moreover, some garment steamers may come with accessories, such as pressing pads and crease clips, to help achieve precise and professional pressing results.

• Maintenance

Regular cleaning: Clean the garment finisher on a more regular basis. This can be done by wiping down its interior and exterior with a damp cloth and cleaning solution. Also, make sure the machine is completely dry before plugging it in and using it again.

Descaling: Over time, limescale and mineral deposits can build up in the water reservoir and on the heating element of steam-based garment finishers. This buildup can affect the machine's performance and efficiency. Descaling the garment finisher periodically can help remove these deposits and keep the machine functioning properly. Descaling solutions or vinegar can typically be used to remove mineral deposits and limescale from steam-based garment finishers. The garment finisher should be unplugged and cool before descaling it. Then, the descaling solution or vinegar should be diluted with water and poured into the water reservoir. After that, the machine can be turned on and allowed to heat up so that the descaling solution passes through the system. Finally, the machine should be thoroughly flushed with clean water to remove any remaining descaling solution.

Inspecting and replacing parts: It is important to inspect the garment finisher periodically and replace any worn or damaged parts. For instance, check the condition of the garment steamer's hose, nozzle, and other components. If there are any leaks, clogs, or signs of wear, address them promptly. Also, ensure all the machine's parts are securely connected and functioning properly to ensure the machine's optimal performance and safety.

Proper storage: When not in use, the garment finisher should be properly stored. Ideally, store it in a dry and well-ventilated area. Make sure the machine is completely cooled and drained before storing it.

Proper usage: Follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines to use the garment finisher properly. This includes using the appropriate cleaning solutions and descaling products. Also, avoid overfilling the water reservoir and never use the machine without water. Proper usage can prolong the machine's lifespan and ensure safety.

Scenarios of garment finishers

Garment finishers play a crucial role in the final stage of the garment production process. The following are some common usage scenarios:

• Final finishing touches in garment production:

Garment finishers are used to add the final touches to newly made clothes. They help to give the garment a polished and professional look. Depending on the type of garment finisher, it can be used to press, steam, or add decorative touches and embellishments to the clothes.

• Ensuring high-quality presentation for retail:

Garment finishers are used not only for newly made clothes but also to ensure that clothes look their best for retail display. Retailers can use garment finishers to steam or press clothes before putting them on display. By doing this, they can make clothes look crisp, fresh, and more attractive to customers.

• Enhancing customer service:

Some businesses such as laundries, dry cleaners, and hotels use garment finishers to provide premium services to customers. Customers often expect their clothes to be well pressed and steamed. Garment finishers help such businesses meet customer expectations by ensuring that garments are of high quality after finishing. This can lead to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.

• Specialized finishes:

Some garment finishers are designed for specialized finishes such as pleating, ruffling, or adding lace. These machines give fashion designers more creative freedom to experiment with different styles and techniques.

• Repair and alteration services:

Garment finishers are also used in repair and alteration services. Tailors and seamstresses can use them to give repaired or altered clothes a professional finish. Whether it is fixing a button or hemming a pair of trousers, garment finishers can help ensure that the repaired garment looks as good as new.

How to Choose Garment Finishers

Choosing the right finishing machine for garments is crucial for ensuring a high-quality finish and efficient production. When choosing a garment finisher, it is important to consider the following aspects:

• Garment Types and Materials

Different garment finishers are designed to handle various types of fabrics and garments. When choosing a finishing machine, it is essential to consider the types and materials of the garments being processed. For delicate fabrics like silk or lace, a garment steamer may be a better choice than a heat-based finisher, as it can prevent damage.

• Production Volume

The volume of garments processed per day or per production run is a key factor in selecting the right garment finisher. For high-volume production environments, such as large factories or commercial laundries, investing in industrial-scale finishing equipment is essential to meet demand and ensure efficiency. Industrial steamers or tunnel finishers are designed for high-volume production and offer continuous processing capabilities.

• Space and Layout

The available space and layout of the facility should be considered to ensure the chosen garment finisher can be properly accommodated and integrated into the workflow. Some finishing machines, such as ironing presses, require more space and specific installations, while others, like handheld steamers, are more portable and versatile in their placement.

• Energy Efficiency

Energy usage is a key consideration for garment finishers that rely on heat, such as dryers or ironing equipment. Choosing machines with energy-efficient features can help control operational costs and reduce environmental impact. Some garment finishers offer control settings that allow operators to adjust temperature and steam usage based on the specific requirements of the garment being processed.

• Quality and Performance

It is also essential to consider the machine's quality and performance when choosing a finishing machine. Choose a machine with excellent performance, which can ensure the finishing effect of the clothes and can be used for a long time with durability. It is also essential to choose a machine with good safety performance and to ensure the safety of operators during operation.

Q&A

Q1 What are the benefits of using garment finisher machines?

A1: Industrial garment finishers provide several benefits, including increased efficiency, improved garment quality, and enhanced professional appearance. By pressing and finishing garments in large batches, they can help businesses save time and streamline their production processes.

Q2: Is it better to steam or press clothes?

A2: Steaming is generally considered to be more gentle on fabrics than pressing. Therefore, for delicate garments or those that may wrinkle easily, steaming may be preferable. However, for garments that require a crisp, polished look, pressing with a garment finisher may be more effective.

Q3: What is the difference between a presser and a finisher?

A3: A presser refers to the pressing component of the garment finisher machine. It is used to apply heat and pressure to the garment, smoothing out wrinkles and creases. A finisher, on the other hand, is a machine used to give garments a final touch, which may include pressing, steaming, and other techniques, depending on the garment's specific requirements.