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10 best clothes steamers: for smooth, crease-free garments
From portable, handheld devices that you can pop in your luggage to wardrobe-sized units that can steam bulk items in minutes, we’ve rounded up the best steam cleaners available in 2023, as recommended by Mumsnetters.
By Mumsnet HQ | Last updated Sep 26, 2023
Whether ironing is your least favourite chore or you’re just struggling to stay on top of your overflowing to-do list, our Mumsnetter recommended guide to the best clothes steamer might just be the answer to your prayers. Feeling sceptical? The proof is in the multiple forum threads and customer reviews that boast of how they’ve ditched their steam iron for good, saving them time and valuable cupboard space whilst breathing new life into their wardrobe.
Experts and converts agree that the best clothes steamer should be portable, quick to heat up and effective against even the most stubborn wrinkles. From delicate silk dresses to your favourite denim jeans, a garment steamer will release creases easily without the risk of burning or damaging the fabric and saves you from worrying about whether you’ve left the iron on at home. Just hang your outfit on a clothes hanger directly from the tumble dryer and steam it inside your wardrobe - it really is that simple.
But how do you choose the one that’s right for you? We know the power of a freshly laundered, crease-free outfit; it can boost your confidence and make you look smarter. However, we also understand that many of us can’t afford to rush out to buy the next trendy washer-dryer, lauded laundry detergent or best clothes steamer when we aren’t even sure it’ll work for our families or us. So, to help you make an informed decision, we drew on the wealth of knowledge and wisdom of our 10 million unique Mumsnet users, the opinions of experts and the ratings of previous customers to find out which models had become trusted household essentials. From the best portable to the best upright, our research has collated a list of the top ten guaranteed to include a clothes steamer to suit you.
Here are the best clothes steamers recommended by Mumsnetters in 2023.
You may also want to check out our guides to the best washing machines, best dehumidifiers, best fabric softeners, best laundry baskets, best rotary washing lines and best clothes pegs to help meet all your laundry needs.
1. Best handheld clothes steamer: Philips Steam and Go Plus Handheld Clothes Steamer
RRP: £75 | Buy now from John Lewis
Key specs
Tank Capacity: 0.7L | Transparent Water Tank: No | Hanging Equipment: No | Accessories: Brush, glove, storage bag | Power: 1300w | Dimensions: 38cm x 12.8cm x 15cm | Weight: 950g |
What we love
Compact, lightweight and stylish design
Effective at de-creasing all fabric types
Easy to use, convenient and heats up in under a minute
What to know
It has a small water tank
What Mumsnet users say
“I have this one, and I love it. Not used my iron in about two years! Only downside is it has a fairly small water reservoir, so if I'm doing a long maxi dress, I usually need to refill the water. But other than that, it's great. So much faster and easier than using a clunky iron and ironing board.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user WineGetsMeThroughIt)
“I have the Philips Steam&Go. I have nothing to compare it with, but I find it effective. It’s a bit big for travel and takes up quite a lot of space, but I use it a lot when I can’t be bothered getting my iron and ironing board out.” (Tried and trusted by Mumsnetter ColourMyLife1)
Our verdict
Well, doesn’t this look luxurious! The Philips Steam&Go Plus is by far the most recommended model by Mumsnet users, snagging our top spot as the best overall clothes steamer. Its name pops up across multiple forum threads; praised for its lightweight, ergonomic design that makes it easy to manoeuvre, many claimed to have ditched the iron and ironing board for good in favour of it.
However, some point out that it has a tiny water reservoir, meaning it won’t last more than one large item, making it a pain when you've just pulled a load of your best maxi dresses from your washing machine. Still, with 1300w powering its steam action, it manages to release up to 24g/s of steam to smooth creases effortlessly. Also, as a trusted, big-name brand, you get certain perks that you don't get when it comes to other items on this list, such as a two-year guarantee. This is important to consider if you're taking a risk on trying a clothes steamer for the first time.
2. Best budget clothes steamer: Swan SI12020N Handheld Garment Steamer
RRP: £25 | Buy now at Amazon
Key specs
Tank Capacity: 0.25 litres | Transparent Water Tank: No | Hanging Equipment: No | Accessories: Fabric brush | Power: 1100w | Dimensions: 32.5cm x 16.9cm x 13.9cm | Weight: 28.3g
What we love
Budget-friendly, standard clothes steamer
Quick to pre-heat with an in-built safety system
Lightweight and ergonomic design
What to know
Not so effective on heavier fabrics
What Mumsnet users say
“I bought a little cheap one from amazon... brilliant for taking on holiday and decrinkling lightweight clothing but not for pressing heavy duty clothing.” (Vetted by Mumsnet user Roseyleaf)
“I had the Swan garment steamer. It's brilliant. I got it for heavy velvet curtains; it worked a treat. I hardly use it, to be honest, I don't iron a single thing, but my husband uses it more often and likes how quick and portable it is.” (Loved by Mumsnetter Isettled)
Our verdict
The cost of living crisis has all of us searching for pennies down the back of our sofas, which is why we're recommending the Swan SI12020N as our best budget clothes steamer as an affordable but still effective alternative.
Many Mumsnetters and previous customers specifically recommended this option for travel and sprucing up delicates like a new silk blouse. Lauded for its lightweight design and short-ish (1.9 metres) cable that makes packing it in your luggage bag a breeze, it also comes with a clip-on brush attachment for when you'd like to refresh any soft furnishings or thicker-pile fabrics. The power is 1100w, which isn’t as hefty as some steamers out there, but it should be more than enough for basic de-wrinkling to get the job done.
3. Best upright clothes steamer: Fridja F1000 Professional Vertical Garment Steamer
RRP: £100 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Tank Capacity: 2.2L | Transparent Water Tank: Yes | Hanging Equipment: Yes | Accessories: Clothes hanger, fabric brush, trouser attachment | Power: 1500w | Dimensions: 32cm x 25cm x 80cm | Weight: 5400g
What we love
Very energy efficient
Easy to use for professional results
Conveniently quick to heat with a large water tank
Perfect for large laundry loads
What to know
Some reviews raise issues with the build quality
What Mumsnet users say
“I have a proper upright steaming station that I use for practically everything, haven't touched the iron since I got it.” (Type recommended by KatharinaRosalie)
Our verdict
This steamer is not for the faint-hearted; if it's your first foray into clothes steaming, we'd recommend you go for alternative models. Fridja claims retail stores use their F1000 Vertical Garment Steamer to keep their stock beautifully pressed, and with a clothes hanger, trouser attachment and added fabric brush, it promises to get professional results from even the most wrinkled item in your laundry basket.
Ideal for families of all sizes, the item has a large, transparent tank capable of steaming multiple piles of ironing in one go without needing to refill. Reviews say it does what it says on the tin, steaming multiple items in minutes (made simpler with a rack to set clothes up on), but some question the build quality, which some describe as flimsy. For less than a hundred pounds, it offers many features for the cash, but we recommend assessing whether it will withstand your lifestyle and how often you need to steam clothes before purchasing.
4. Best clothes steamer for first time users: Homeasy Clothes Steamer
RRP: £28 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Tank Capacity: 0.28 litres | Transparent Water Tank: No | Hanging Equipment: No | Accessories: Brush head, storage bag, anti-scalding glove | Power: 1500w | Dimensions: 32.1cm x 18.3cm x 14.7cm | Weight: 1501g
What we love
Quick to pre-heat, with powerful 5 in 1 cleaning
Simple to use and great for refreshing delicates and woollies
Built-in lint remover
What to know
Heavier and bulkier than other options
What Mumsnet users say
“I've not ironed a single thing since I bought this last summer. Love it. So good for silky tops, delicate blouses and any skirts with pleats.” (Tried and trusted by CamsPaisleyCuffs)
Our verdict
Clothes steamers, like heated clothes airers and dehumidifiers, have rapidly increased in popularity as a way to tackle our everyday laundry woes. Still, before splashing the cash on an expensive model, first-time buyers might want to try one that’s far more budget-friendly but still powerful. That’s why Homeasy’s handheld garment steamer is an excellent choice - easy to use, quick and efficient at de-wrinkling your clothes. You’ll find yourself converted in no time.
According to online customer reviews, it works a treat at removing wrinkles and creases from everything from pleated skirts to work shirts to curtains. However, our favourite feature is its built-in lint-removing abilities, which can debobble your woollies and de-wrinkle them simultaneously. Reaching 110 degrees, which is hot enough to kill bacteria, you can use it to refresh your worn best work dress for an important meeting or your kid’s uniform that they desperately need but didn’t put in the laundry basket! Mumsnet users particularly praised its crease-busting abilities that lasted for fifteen minutes before it needed refilling. Though it doesn't look as flashy or elegant as others on this list, it is reasonably priced and sturdy. However, that sturdiness lets it down a little, as it is one of the heaviest handheld steamers on this list, meaning it isn't travel-friendly.
Read next: Best ironing boards to keep clothes smooth and wrinkle-free
5. Best powerful clothes steamer: Tefal DT9100G0 Access Steam Care Handheld Garment Steamer
RRP: £115 | Buy now from John Lewis
Key specs
Tank Capacity: 0.2 litre | Transparent Water Tank: No | Hanging Equipment: Yes | Accessories: Fabric brush, steam bonnet, door hook | Power: 1600w | Dimensions: 30.3cm x 12.7cm x 13.2cm | Weight: 2120g
What to love
Effortlessly steams clothes using its ceramic-coated soleplate
Stylish, convenient design
Quick to heat up with three steam settings for different fabric types
What to know
Heavier than other models, especially when filled with water, so it can be tiring to use over a long period
What Mumsnet users say
“I have this. I wear very casual clothing, so I just use it for tops, but it’s great!” (Brand of clothes steamer tried and trusted by Mumsnetter Dalmation88)
Our verdict
The Tefal Access garment steamer recommended in our forums is now out of stock, but never fear; Tefal has released a new and improved clothes steamer of the same name: Tefal DT9100G0 Access Steam Care. Predictably it is being sold at a much higher price point and does have one or two issues that still need ironing out (pun intended), but it more than makes up for it by being the most powerful handheld steamer on this list, with a continuous locking trigger for up to 30g/minute of steam.
For those who like our appliances to look good, its sleek gold and black design reflects its price and will make you want to show it off to all your mum friends. Although it isn’t just pretty, Tefal has put a lot of thought into making their clothes steamer work for every wardrobe. Ready to use in 40 seconds, with three steam settings to suit different fabric types, a generous removable water tank and a three-metre power cord, you’ll be able to zip between glittery skirts, your favourite jeans and party dresses with ease. Don’t forget the excellent accessories, too, as few handheld clothes steamers come with a door hook (although a coat hanger can be just as practical). With a 140-degree heated, ceramic-coated sole plate, steam sanitise your baby’s well-worn rompers to leave them smelling fresh and looking new (couple this with our best laundry detergent for babies for extra cleaning power after their latest poonami).
6. Best basic clothes steamer: Steamworks Handheld Garment Steamer
RRP: £26.00 | Buy now from Argos
Key specs
Tank Capacity: 0.23 litres | Transparent Water Tank: No | Hanging Equipment: No | Accessories: Brush tool | Power: 1500w | Dimensions: 14.6cm x 11cm x 25.8cm | Weight: 1067g
What we love
Affordably priced, value for money
Easy to use, with a sturdy, convenient design
Pre-heat in 30 seconds; safe on all fabrics, including clothing detail
What to know
Vertical steam only
Sometimes spits
What Mumsnet users say
“I have this one from Argos which works very well, but it can feel a bit bulky and heavy, so not travel friendly. I find that they work particularly well on silk and lightweight items.” (Recommended by Mumsnet user Xsquared)
Our verdict
Described as nifty, Steamworks' clothing steamer is a steal for those who aren’t committed to getting rid of their iron but still want to be able to use it on key items such as sequined delicates or cashmere sweaters. Affordably priced, sturdy and reliable, it pre-heats in 30 seconds and provides 10 minutes of continuous steam before it needs refilling.
Whilst not the biggest, its design is convenient. With a three-metre-long power cable, detachable tank and brush attachment included, you can reach around the room no matter where the plug sockets are. Couple it with your best fabric softener or Lenor’s crease release spray (a Mumsnetter favourite) to fill your bedroom with gorgeous scents and release stubborn wrinkles quickly. If you’re looking for a no-faff, no-frills steamer within your budget, Steamworks’ clothes steamer is right for you.
Read next: Best lint remover and fabric shavers to get rid of lint, hair and bobbles from clothing
7. Best clothes steamer for soft furnishings and furniture: ProBreeze Garment Steamer
RRP: £25 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Tank Capacity: 0.12 litres | Transparent Water Tank: Yes | Hanging Equipment: No | Accessories: Pouch | Power: 850w | Dimensions: 15cm x 8.5cm x 21cm | Weight: 700g
What we love
Featured in Which?
Compact, storage-friendly and travel-sized
Gentle and safe to use on all fabric types
What to know
Not as powerful comparatively
Can only be used vertically
What Mumsnet users say
"Mine is v similar to the Pro Breeze one on Amazon for £25; they all have good reviews, though, so it looks like they all work well. I steam five tops on a Sunday afternoon to wear throughout the week and hang them up ready to wear. I do kids' clothes as and when if I decide they're too wrinkled to wear!" (Vetted by Mumsnet user Greenvalleymama)
Our verdict
The Pro Breeze garment steamer is, dare we say, ‘cute’ - shaped like a watering can, its nozzle allows steam to distribute evenly and accurately whilst remaining compact and perfectly travel-sized (with its own storage pouch).
There are more powerful models on our list. Still, for delicate, soft furnishings and furniture, it is ideal as it is gentle and kind to all fabric types (so no nasty burns) and will help to eliminate the bacteria that cause odour, refreshing your home. Use it for breathing new life into your lacey curtains or a well-loved sofa. Heating up in under a minute, you’ll be able to use it two or three times before it needs refilling. It isn’t laden with bells and whistles, but if you want a garment steamer that you won’t be using every day, this has all the functionality you need at a very fair price.
Read next: If you’re looking for additional laundry products to take care of your home, look at our guides to the best water softeners, the best mould removers, and the best washing machine cleaners.
8. Best clothes steamer for attachments: Beautural Clothes Steamer
RRP: £35 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Tank Capacity: 0.26 litres | Transparent Water Tank: Yes | Hanging Equipment: No | Accessories: Brush tool, lint remover, pressing attachment | Power: 1200 | Dimensions: 29.8cm x 19.3cm x 14.3cm | Weight: 930g
What we love
Includes three attachments
Powerful and practical
Fast and convenient to use
What to know
Bulky design - not travel friendly
What Mumsnet users say
"Ive never tried another. I like it. You have to hold it close. The creases really dropped out especially on fabric that isn't a crease holder hard to iron. The water only lasted for 3 garments but I will probably do it quicker as I get used to it." Rollerbird
Our verdict
Favourite features? Beautural clothes steamer is right for you if you avoid fabrics that require regular ironing like the plague. Designed to freshen up lightweight clothing, we wouldn't ditch your iron or throw out your ironing board in favour of this product. However, if you are looking for a clothes steamer to make quick work of light creases, the Beautural clothes steamer is an excellent choice.
Designed to preheat in 30 seconds and with a good-size water tank for 15-minutes of continuous steaming using their lock steaming feature, it is quick and easy to use. However, by far our favourite feature of this product is the built-in automatic shut-off, electric leakage and overheating protection, perfect for the clumsy, forgetful and safety conscious amongst us. The only negative thing we would say about this product is that, although the brand does market this as travel-friendly, many previous guests state that they would consider this clothes steamer too bulky for packing in your luggage. However, if you are off for a quick weekend away or dressing up for a date night, this could be a lifesaver when you're in a hurry.
9. Best clothes steamer for travel: Fridja F10 Handheld Clothes Steamer
RRP: £90 | Buy now from Lakeland
Key specs
Tank Capacity: 0.26 litres | Transparent Water Tank: Yes | Hanging Equipment: Yes | Accessories: Brush tool, Water bottle adaptor, delicate fabric guard, portable hanger, collar press | Power: 1500w | Dimensions: 15cm x 12cm x 22cm | Weight: 900g
What to love
Lightweight, compact and portable
Easy to use, powerful and anti-calc
Includes excellent and useful accessories
What to know
Some reported that they don't last long before breaking (Lakeland has a three year guarantee)
What Mumsnet users say
"I have a fridja steamer. Got if off eBay from Fridja, heavily discounted as it had been used for a tester (I think) but was just like new. Would recommend it." (Tried and trusted by boatahoy)
Our verdict
A brand recommended by experts, Fridja’s F10 handheld clothes steamer is the travel-size alternative to their upright clothes steamer. A small and relatively new brand in general, it has a lot of hype and some pretty big claims, but does it live up to it?
Certainly, one of the lightest clothes steamers on this list, it has been thoughtfully designed to be portable and travel-sized. So, whether you’re jetting off on a family holiday or travelling to a business meeting, with this handheld clothes steamer, you can leave the water tank at home to save valuable luggage space and attach a drinks water bottle instead when you’re there. The Fridja F10 has many functional accessories, such as the fold-up hanger, delicate fabric net guard and collar press attachment. With an ironing plate that heats up in 45 seconds, you won't have to worry about fashion emergencies whilst you are away if you remember to pack it. However, this product does come with a rather large but, as previous customers do complain that they've had to return their Fridja F10 after as little as three uses due to a faulty product, which considering the price shouldn't be the case. We’d recommend keeping an eye out for it in the January or Black Friday sales.
10. Best professional clothes steamer: Sabi Garment Steamer
RRP: £140 | Buy now from Amazon
Key specs
Tank Capacity: 3 litres | Transparent Water Tank: Yes | Hanging Equipment: Yes | Accessories: Brush tool and heat resistant glove | Power: 2200w | Dimensions: 44.5cm x 42.5cm x 34cm | Weight: 7500g
What we love
It's a professional steamer with a hanging attachment and four settings
Suitable for all fabrics, gentle and kind to your delicates
Easy to use and convenient
What to know
Most expensive clothes steamer
What Mumsnet users say
"But if you have a whole load of clothing to do, then you might want a big one like this that the shops use." (Type suggested by WineGetsMeThroughIt )
Our verdict
It is accepted that a rotary washing line and your best clothes pegs are far better at de-wrinkling clothes than your standard tumble dryer because, under their own weight, the creases are released from the fabric. An upright clothes steamer works using the same logic; hang it up on the hanging attachment and gently steam the wrinkles away. If you're staring at a family-size laundry pile and dreaming of professional-looking results at home, consider the Sabi clothes steamer an investment purchase highly recommended by previous customers.
So, how does it achieve these professional results? Well, it comes with a high-quality metal soleplate nozzle, four steam and temperature settings designed for delicate, light and heavy-duty fabrics and a large capacity water tank for large loads. So, it seriously cuts down on faffing and water re-filling and can be used on everything from sequinned dresses to your sofa. You’ll also never have to worry about burn marks, as it comes with a double-stage anti-dry burning system that ensures it won't damage any of your clothing. The second upright steamer to make it on the list, Sabi's clothes steamer comes with an adjustable hanging attachment, flexible hose and wheels that make it easy to manoeuvre around your home. Although if you're looking to save space, the Sabi does require more storage and is less portable than a handheld clothes steamer.
What does a clothes steamer do?
Clothes steamers remove wrinkles and refresh fabric using steam created through heat and moisture to relax and de-wrinkle the material and kill bacteria.
Is a clothes steamer better than ironing?
Well, that depends. Traditionally, ironing is far more effective on clothing or fabric that requires pressing to reinforce sharp lines or folds, like on collars or pleats on skirts. However, using your iron can be a risky business when it comes to delicates, synthetics and high-pile fabrics. That's where a clothes steamer can be more effective as they are much more gentle and works by relaxing the material back into its intended form. Look at the Reader's Digest article, which offers additional guidance if you want more in-depth information.
Which fabrics cannot be steamed?
Some fabrics, such as woollen materials and chenille, are not recommended for steaming. These tight-knit fabrics are prone to shrinking when dampened, which can permanently damage the item. We recommend that any dry-clean items are kept away from garment steamers and handed to professionals for cleaning. If you need clarification, check the label or with the manufacturers of your item.
What type of clothes steamer should I go for?
Purchasing the best steam cleaner for you comes down to meeting your individual needs. Some will require nothing more than a quick handheld steamer for a clothing refresh, whereas others will be looking to eliminate ironing for good.
Handheld steamers
Handheld steamers are great if you need something lightweight and versatile enough for travel. A handheld steamer is a useful option for business travellers and those who need a quick garment press for a special occasion, such as de-wrinkling a wedding or bridesmaid dress or sari before a big event. If you are looking for a long-term option that may rival an iron, a larger, less portable device can offer increased power and a heavier steam-per-second ratio for better results.
Upright steamers
Upright steamers are ideal if you have a long garment to press. The clothes are added to a hanger and pressed against a solid surface. These are the most common types of clothes steamers available, and it is worth noting that they are also great for long curtains. If you are after a neat press of a pair of trousers or would like to steam your carpets, bedding or furniture items, you’ll need to invest in a steamer that offers horizontal steaming, too. These are a little more expensive but also come with the upright steaming option allowing you to steam a broader range of fabric surfaces.
Is a garment steamer worth it?
Whether or not a garment steamer is worth it depends on what you need it for. It is difficult to recreate the look of an ironed item with a garment steamer, particularly on heavier fabrics, but it is possible to reduce wrinkles overall. If precision is vital for you, look for a garment steamer with accessories that can add crisp lines, such as a trouser creaser, and opt for the heavy-duty garment steamers with higher steam-per-second ratios. These will work faster than those with less steam pressure and achieve superior results compared to their lower-ratioed brethren.
What should I look for in a clothes steamer?
When buying a clothes steamer, consider the following:
Is it power efficient? With rising energy bills, you don't want a steam cleaner that will drive them upwards.
How long does it take to preheat? These can range from 20 seconds to a full minute.
What size is the water tank? If you're planning on using a clothes steamer on a large laundry pile, you will need the biggest size water tank you can get.
What accessories does it come with? Accessories can be really useful in preventing you from making future purchases.
Can it be used on all fabrics? You don't want to find this one out the hard way.
Do I want an upright or handheld clothes steamer? Handheld clothes steamers are travel-friendly and easy to store. However, upright clothes steamers are better for large laundry loads and offer better results.
Is it portable? You'll want to consider weight and size if you need it to travel.
Has it been rigorously tested on safety? Again, better to check this beforehand, especially if you're clumsy or danger-prone.
What is the best steam cleaner?
For us, the best steam cleaner provides exceptional wrinkle reduction while being cost-effective. We have chosen to compare our steam cleaners against each other, not against an iron's performance, as the end results are too different to provide an accurate comparison.
The favourite of the bunch for us was the Philips Steam&Go Plus, particularly because Mumsnetters raved about it on the forums. It's practical, easy to use and high-quality, making it an all-around trustworthy and reliable purchase. Although, we do love the budget-friendly Swan Garment Steamer, too, as a great value and still effective option. It's perfect for those desperate to try but who must stick to a tight budget.
Tips on how to get the most out of your clothes steamer.
Use a clothes crease releaser spray like this one from Lenor
Hang your clothes up to allow the steam to relax the material effectively
Let it pre-heat entirely before use
Distilled water can prolong the life of your clothes steamer
Keep fabric taut so it doesn't relax into a wrinkled position
Change steam settings and accessories to match the appropriate fabrics
Clean your steamer regularly
How we chose our recommendations
We know the importance of having household gadgets you can rely on and ensuring your hard-earned cash is spent on a product that's up to the task. That's why we carefully choose all of our recommendations using a three-step verification process.
Recommendations from Mumsnet users
We believe in providing honest, real-life recommendations when purchasing a product. This is why we have scoured the Mumsnet forums to find out which clothes steamers our trusted users recommend and have put through their paces. Independent and authentic suggestions like these are valuable, and we always look out for the products that have been proven to make parents' lives easier.
Expert picks
In addition to the Mumsnetter’s invaluable tried and tested advice, we’ve also spent hours researching the opinion of industry experts to find those recommended by consumer champions like Which? And Good Housekeeping. This is in addition to seeking our reviews by verified purchasers through other reputable sources such as legitimate review websites and real-life tester feedback.
Verified consumer reviews
We then check the reviews of our short-listed products for the final round of eliminations considering which have the most positive feedback and which are getting repeated criticism across multiple retailers.
Celebrated Clothes Steamers
Ultimately, by using this process, we’ve been left with the top ten clothes steamers loved by parents, trusted by experts and rated by customers, so you can shop safely knowing that every product has been thoroughly vetted.
Why you should trust us
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice our readers can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more extensively researched articles like this one.