The Nesugar R19 Handheld Travel Garment Steamer is a portable device designed to remove wrinkles from clothing using steam. It’s aimed at travelers and anyone needing quick touch-ups without a full-size ironing board. We tested it to see how it performs in real-world scenarios.
In practice, the R19 is used by filling its small water tank, plugging it in, waiting for it to heat up, and then gliding the steam head over hanging garments. It’s particularly handy for business travelers who need to refresh a suit or blouse after unpacking, or for those who want to smooth out a shirt before a meeting. The compact size makes it easy to toss in a carry-on, but it’s not a replacement for a traditional iron for large loads of laundry.
Key features include a 120V power requirement (so it’s only for use in North America unless you have a converter), a 60ml water tank, and a 30-second heat-up time. It’s lightweight at around 1.5 pounds and has a 9-foot cord. The steam output is modest, which is typical for handheld models, and the tank provides about 6-8 minutes of continuous steam. That’s enough for one or two garments, but you’ll need to refill for more. The R19 also has a brush attachment for heavier fabrics and a travel pouch.
One limitation is the small tank capacity. If you’re steaming multiple items, you’ll be making frequent trips to the sink. Also, the steam isn’t as powerful as larger models, so stubborn wrinkles may require a few passes. It’s also not designed for vertical steaming of delicate fabrics like silk at close range; you need to keep some distance to avoid water spots. Another trade-off is the lack of a temperature control—it’s either on or off, which might not suit all fabric types.
Compared to a traditional iron, the R19 is less effective on heavy cottons or linens but more convenient for quick touch-ups and travel. It’s also a better fit for those who don’t have space for an ironing board. Versus other handheld steamers, the R19 is competitively priced but doesn’t offer the same steam output as some larger models like the Steamery Cirrus or the Bissell SteamShot. However, its compact size and travel-friendly design make it a solid choice for frequent flyers.
Who is it for? It’s ideal for travelers, small apartment dwellers, or anyone who needs a quick de-wrinkling solution for light fabrics. It’s not suitable for those who need to press large amounts of laundry regularly, or for heavy fabrics like denim or thick wool coats. If you’re looking for a primary ironing tool, this might disappoint; but as a secondary, portable option, it does the job.
In use, the R19 heats up quickly and is easy to handle. The steam is consistent, though it sputters occasionally if tilted too far. The build quality is acceptable for the price, but it’s mostly plastic and may not withstand rough handling. The cord is long enough for most hotel rooms, but the plug is bulky, which could be an issue in tight outlets. The included brush helps with fabrics like wool, but it’s a bit fiddly to attach.
Overall, the Nesugar R19 is a practical tool for specific situations. It won’t replace a full-size steamer or iron, but it fills a niche for travelers and those with limited space. If you manage your expectations and use it for light fabrics, it can be a useful addition to your travel kit.
