Does TSA Allow Clothing Steamers Through Airport Security?

If you struggle to keep your clothes wrinkle-free in your suitcase, a garment steamer can come in handy during your travels. However, these appliances aren't exactly a common sight in airport security checkpoints, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) doesn't even mention them on its list of permitted and restricted items. So are steamers actually allowed in your carry-on luggage, or are you better off flying without the gadget?

A representative posting as @AskTSA cleared up the confusion on X (formerly known as Twitter) after a user inquired about traveling with clothing steamers. The short answer: Clothes steamers are allowed in carry-on luggage. The TSA representative also added that portable steamers and clothing irons are allowed on board.

The only thing to note is that, before traveling, be sure to remove any liquid inside the appliance and empty the reservoir tank if your steamer has one. Liquids — especially in quantities that exceed TSA's liquid rules — may be scrutinized by security officers. On top of that, the water could leak onto your other travel items, giving you a soggy start to your trip.

Besides emptying any liquid from your garment steamer, there are a few other points to keep in mind when flying with the item. While TSA wrote on X that clothes steamers can stay inside passengers' bags during screening, to get through airport security without hassle or questioning, it's a good idea to pull the appliance out and place it in a checkpoint bin. That way, security officers can easily determine what the item is when it's scanned on the conveyor belt.

Note that in some cases, it might not be wise to lug your steamer in your carry-on at all. Confirm your airline's weight and size restrictions for carry-on baggage when deciding how to pack the device. If your steamer is on the heavy side or takes up a lot of space, it may be easier to keep it in a checked suitcase instead.

In either case, consider wrapping your steamer to protect it from damage in-transit. A soft sleeve or bubble wrap can offer cushioning, as can any clothing or soft items in your luggage. Also, make sure to wrap and tuck the cord away so it doesn't get caught on anything during your travels. If you're not careful, you could end up with a broken steamer before even arriving at your destination.