Laundry & Ironing Glossary Terms

What Does Steam Output (g/min) Mean on an Iron?

Steam output is the rate at which a steam iron releases steam, measured in grams per minute, and is a key indicator of how quickly it tackles creases — typically 30-50g/min for continuous steam, with a separate, higher steam-boost figure for stubborn wrinkles. A higher figure generally means faster, more effective ironing on thicker fabrics.

Garment Steamer or Iron — What Is the Difference?

A traditional iron uses a flat, heated soleplate pressed against fabric on a board to flatten creases, while a garment steamer hangs the item and uses hot steam alone, with no direct pressing. Steamers are faster for delicate fabrics, curtains and items that can't lie flat, but generally give a less crisp, sharp finish than ironing on structured items like shirt collars or trouser creases.

What is Polypropylene?

Polypropylene is a synthetic plastic material known for its durability and resistance to moisture. In home & garden applications, it’s frequently used in items like outdoor rugs, mats, and storage solutions because it can withstand exposure to the elements – rain, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations – better than many other plastics. It's relatively lightweight and generally more affordable than materials like woven cotton or high-grade synthetic fibres. This makes polypropylene a practical choice for products intended for outdoor use where longevity is desired, but perhaps not extreme conditions.

What is Mesh?

In the context of home & garden products, ‘Mesh’ refers to a fabric construction where individual strands are woven together to create open spaces. It's typically used for materials like storage baskets, laundry hampers, and shelving components. This means the material is breathable – allowing air circulation – which can be beneficial for drying clothes or preventing moisture build-up in storage areas. Mesh products tend to be lightweight and relatively inexpensive compared to solid fabrics. However, they may not offer as much structural support or protection against damage as denser materials, so consider this when choosing a product’s longevity.