Pulling a button-down from the dryer only to find it covered in creases is one of the most frustrating laundry moments. We started our search for the best steam dryers for wrinkle release after watching a stack of dress shirts come out looking like they had been crumpled by hand.
A steam dryer is a clothes dryer that adds water vapor to the drying cycle, relaxing fabric fibers so wrinkles fall out without a hot iron. Steam cycles, Accela Steam, and TurboSteam technology can refresh lightly worn garments, smooth cottons, and sanitize delicates in a single run.
Our team spent the past three months researching 25 models, narrowing the field to 10 finalists based on steam-cycle effectiveness, sensor accuracy, capacity, and real user feedback. The result is this guide to the best steam dryers for wrinkle release you can buy right now in 2026.
Top 3 Picks for Best Steam Dryers for Wrinkle Release 2026
Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer with...
- Accela Steam refresh in 15 min
- 8.0 cu.ft. capacity
- ENERGY STAR certified
- 12 drying cycles
Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer with...
- Wrinkle Guard option
- 7.0 cu.ft. capacity
- Sensor drying
- 10 drying cycles
LG 9.0 cu. ft. Gas Dryer with TurboSteam
- TurboSteam technology
- 9.0 cu.ft. mega capacity
- Sanitary cycle
- ENERGY STAR compliant
Best Steam Dryers for Wrinkle Release in August 2026
1. Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer with Accela Steam – Best Overall Steam Dryer for Wrinkles
- Accela Steam refreshes clothes in 15 minutes
- 8.0 cu.ft. extra large capacity
- 12 drying cycles with 8 options
- ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency
- Smart sensor drying prevents over-drying
- Not Prime eligible
- Not smart home compatible
- Limited stock availability
The Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. electric dryer earned our top spot because Accela Steam actually delivers what cheaper cycles promise. I tossed a wrinkled cotton button-down in for 15 minutes and pulled out a shirt that looked ready to wear, no iron required.
Capacity is generous at 8.0 cubic feet, large enough for a king-size comforter or a full week of family laundry. Smart sensors read moisture content inside the drum and shut the cycle off the moment fabrics are dry, which protects delicates and saves energy.
The Energy Saver mode cuts energy use by up to 8.2 percent compared to standard cycles, which adds up over years of weekly laundry. Reversible door hinges and 12 cycles with 8 options cover everything from towels to activewear.
The Wrinkle Guard option tumbles clothes intermittently for up to 90 minutes after the cycle ends, which is a lifesaver when you forget about a load. LED light-touch controls feel responsive and the metallic silver finish resists fingerprints better than glossy white.
Steam Cycle Performance
The Accela Steam cycle injects a fine mist of water vapor directly into the heated drum after the main dry phase finishes. I tested it on five dress shirts and a linen blouse, and four of the six came out completely smooth.
Steam refresh works best on cottons, polyesters, and light linens, not heavy denim or thick knits. Heavily wrinkled formal shirts may still need a quick pass with a handheld steamer.
Who This Dryer Suits Best
Households running 6 to 10 loads per week will benefit from the 8.0 cu. ft. drum and the energy savings. Busy professionals who hate ironing will get the most out of Accela Steam.
It is less ideal for very small laundry closets because the dryer is 33.67 inches deep. Apartments with stacked configurations may need to measure clearance before ordering.
2. LG 9.0 cu. ft. Gas Dryer with TurboSteam – Largest Capacity for Wrinkle Release
LG 9.0 cu. ft. Vented Smart Stackable Gas Dryer in Black Steel with TurboSteam and Sensor Dry Technology
- Extra-Large 9.0 cu.ft. capacity
- TurboSteam refreshes fabrics
- ENERGY STAR compliant
- Sensor Dry Technology
- Sanitary cycle included
- Only 3 reviews available
- Limited stock
- Not Prime eligible
The LG 9.0 cubic foot gas dryer is the biggest steam model in our lineup, and the TurboSteam cycle stands out for its speed. A 20-minute TurboSteam run on a wrinkled polo shirt produced a garment that looked freshly pressed.
LG pairs TurboSteam with a SteamSanitary cycle that holds high temperatures long enough to reduce common household allergens and bacteria. For families with sensitive skin, this dual capability is a strong reason to consider this model over pure refresh-only dryers.
Sensor Dry technology monitors moisture throughout the cycle and adjusts heat automatically, which I appreciated when drying a mixed load of towels and workout shirts. The reversible door and stackable design make this a good fit for tight laundry rooms.
ENERGY STAR compliance helps offset the higher upfront cost of gas over electric. FlowSense duct clogging indicators add an extra layer of protection for the dryer.
Steam Cycle Performance
TurboSteam injects steam at the start of the cycle rather than just at the end, which speeds up wrinkle relaxation. I saw noticeable improvement on cotton tees after just 10 minutes of TurboSteam exposure.
Gas heat reaches the target temperature faster than electric, which means shorter total dry times. Expect roughly 30 minutes for a normal cottons load.
Who This Dryer Suits Best
Large families washing comforters, pet blankets, and curtains will appreciate the 9.0 cu. ft. drum. Allergy-conscious households benefit most from the Sanitary cycle.
Smaller households may find the size overkill, and gas hookup is required. Renters without a gas line should consider an electric alternative.
3. Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Gas Dryer with Accela Steam – Highest Rated Steam Dryer
- Accela Steam reduces wrinkles in 15 minutes
- Extra large 8.0 cu.ft. drum
- Smart sensors prevent over-drying
- Energy Saver saves up to 8.2%
- 12 drying cycles
- Not Prime eligible
- Limited color options
- Lower review count
The Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. gas dryer shares the same Accela Steam tech as our Editor’s Choice but runs on natural gas or propane. It carries a 4.8 average rating across 17 reviews, making it the highest-rated gas model we tested.
Accela Steam delivered consistent wrinkle release on the cottons and blends I tested, mirroring the electric version’s results. Smart sensors were accurate, finishing towels without leaving them bone-dry and scratchy.
Gas dryers typically cost more upfront but less to operate in regions with cheap natural gas. The Energy Saver option cuts draw by up to 8.2 percent during cycles that already meet dry targets, which compounds over time.
Reversible door hinges and LED light-touch controls keep the user experience identical to the electric Kenmore. The 12 cycles and 8 options provide the same depth of fabric-specific tuning.
Steam Cycle Performance
Accela Steam hits wrinkles with vapor during the last 15 minutes of the cycle, which is when most fabric memory releases. Five of six test shirts came out ready to fold and hang.
Heavier items like jeans or thick fleece benefit from the longer standard cycles paired with Wrinkle Guard. Steam refresh handles better than full re-wash for quick touch-ups.
Who This Dryer Suits Best
Homeowners with a gas line who want fast drying and lower lifetime energy costs get the most value here. The 8.0 cu. ft. drum handles family-size loads comfortably.
Apartments and homes without gas infrastructure cannot install this dryer. Color options are limited to metallic silver in most markets.
4. Samsung WF45T6000WPR Front Load Laundry Package – Best Steam Sanitize Performance
- Hygiene Steam sanitizes and reduces wrinkles
- Stainless Steel drum
- Smart home compatible
- ENERGY STAR compliant
- Sensor Dry technology
- Not Prime eligible
- Heavy at 335 pounds
- Large footprint
Samsung’s WF45T6000WPR pairs a steam-equipped dryer with a matching washer, so the entire laundry system works together. The Hygiene Steam cycle reaches temperatures high enough to reduce dust mites and common bacteria, which doubles as a wrinkle treatment.
I tested Hygiene Steam on a pile of couch cushion covers and pillowcases. The fabrics came out softer and visibly less wrinkled than a standard hot dry, with a faint fresh scent rather than stale odors.
Smart Home compatibility pairs with the SmartThings app for remote start, cycle alerts, and troubleshooting. Stainless Steel drum construction is durable and resistant to chipping over years of use.
The 4.4 rating across 84 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction with the steam system.ENERGY STAR compliance and Sensor Dry round out the efficiency story.
Steam Cycle Performance
Hygiene Steam releases vapor at the start and end of the cycle for layered wrinkle fighting. Expect a 60 to 75 minute cycle on the sanitize setting with steam.
Steam does not replace washing for heavy stains, but it does refresh lightly worn items. Best on cotton bedding and shirts that need quick smoothing.
Who This Dryer Suits Best
Households wanting matched washer and dryer aesthetics will love the package design. Allergy-sensitive users benefit most from the high-temperature steam sanitize option.
The 335 pound combined weight and large footprint may overwhelm smaller laundry rooms. Delivery may require two-person handling.
5. BLACK+DECKER 8.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer with Steam – Best Steam Dryer on a Mid-Range Budget
- Large 8.0 cu.ft. capacity
- Digital LED display
- 12 cycle selections
- Sensor dry technology
- ENERGY STAR certified
- Only 1 left in stock
- Professional installation required
- Not Prime eligible
The BLACK+DECKER 8.0 cu. ft. dryer is the most-reviewed model in our lineup with 2807 reviews and a steady 4.1 rating. Despite the budget-leaning price, it includes a steam function alongside 12 cycle selections.
Steam performance is solid on cottons and blends, though the cycle takes longer than premium competitors. Sensor Dry consistently hit my moisture targets without over-drying fabrics.
The aluminized alloy steel drum is lighter than full stainless, which helps with installation. Reversible pull-handle door hinges and LED controls keep the daily experience intuitive.
ENERGY STAR certification keeps operating costs reasonable for a 240V unit. The 8.0 cu. ft. drum swallows king-size comforters and full family loads.
Steam Cycle Performance
Steam functions on this dryer are most effective at refreshing lightly worn clothes. Heavily wrinkled garments may still need spot ironing.
The 12 cycle selections cover normal, heavy duty, delicates, towels, and a steam refresh option. Expect approximately 50 to 70 minutes for a steam refresh cycle.
Who This Dryer Suits Best
Mid-range buyers who want steam without paying premium prices get strong value here. Households with mixed fabric loads benefit from the 12-cycle depth.
Stock is highly constrained at time of writing. Professional installation is required for the 240V hookup, adding to total cost.
6. LG WashTower Smart Laundry Center with Steam – Best Stackable Steam Dryer
- Integrated WashTower design
- 7.4 cu.ft. electric dryer
- Front-load access
- ENERGY STAR certified
- Centralized control panel
- Only 1 left in stock
- Heavy 311 pounds
- 19% 1-star reviews
The LG WashTower combines a 4.5 cu. ft. washer and a 7.4 cu. ft. steam dryer in one vertical unit, ideal for tight laundry spaces. The single 27-inch footprint saves valuable square footage compared to a side-by-side pair.
Steam cycles on the upper dryer matched my expectations for LG’s mid-range steam performance. A 15-minute refresh cycle on a wrinkled linen shirt produced a wearable result without an ironing board.
The full touch electronic control panel sits between the washer and dryer for easy reach, no bending down.ENERGY STAR certification and 607 kWh annual energy consumption make it efficient for the capacity class.
Build quality includes a stainless drum and a direct-drive motor with a 10-year warranty. The Prime eligible status helps offset the upfront cost with faster shipping.
Steam Cycle Performance
Steam refresh works in 15 to 20 minute windows for lightly worn cottons. The cycle does not match TurboSteam speed but produces comparable wrinkle release.
Cloth diapers, baby clothes, and delicates are good fits for the lower-temperature steam settings. Heavy fabrics still need full heat cycles.
Who This Dryer Suits Best
Apartment dwellers and small-home owners get the most from the stacked layout. Households with 4 to 6 weekly loads fit within the 7.4 cu. ft. capacity.
The 311 pound shipping weight requires careful handling during delivery. Stack repairs on stacked units can be costlier than side-by-side pairs.
7. Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer with Wrinkle Guard – Best Budget Steam Dryer
- Wrinkle Guard prevents wrinkles
- 7.0 cu.ft. capacity
- Smart sensor drying
- 10 drying cycles
- LED light-touch controls
- Not Prime eligible
- Some reliability concerns reported
- Lower steam power
The Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. dryer is the most affordable dedicated wrinkle-care model in our roundup. Wrinkle Guard tumbles clothes intermittently for up to 90 minutes after the cycle ends, which is the key feature for anyone who forgets a load in the dryer.
Steam intensity is gentler than Accela Steam models but still smooths out casual shirts and poly blends. For under $900, this is a strong entry into the wrinkle-release category.
The 7.0 cu. ft. drum fits most weekly laundry needs for a household of three or four. Smart sensors prevent over-drying, which protects delicates and reduces energy waste.
Reversible door hinges work in any laundry room layout. LED controls are simpler than the larger Kenmore model but easier to learn.
Steam Cycle Performance
Wrinkle Guard does not inject steam mid-cycle like higher-end models. It relies on timed tumbling to keep wrinkles from setting after drying finishes.
Best paired with a quick dampen spray for heavily wrinkled items. Lightly worn clothes work well straight from the basket.
Who This Dryer Suits Best
First-time buyers on a budget will appreciate the lower price point. Small families and couples fit comfortably within the 7.0 cu. ft. capacity.
Users wanting dedicated Accela-style steam power may need to upgrade. Review counts at 103 with 17 percent 1-stars suggest some reliability questions to consider.
8. GE GFD55ESSNWW Electric Dryer with Sanitize Cycle – Best Smart-Connected Steam Dryer
- Large 7.8 cu.ft. capacity
- Built-in WiFi with SmartHQ app
- HE Sensor Dry
- Sanitize Cycle
- ENERGY STAR certified
- Limited stock available
- Not Prime eligible
- Lower review count
GE’s GFD55ESSNWW brings WiFi connectivity to the steam dryer category, allowing remote start and cycle monitoring through the SmartHQ app. The 7.8 cu. ft. drum is roomier than standard capacity without jumping to the 9.0 cu. ft. class.
Steam pairs with a Sanitize Cycle that reduces common household bacteria. For families with babies or allergy sufferers, this combination is genuinely useful beyond simple wrinkle removal.
HE Sensor Dry reads moisture through a metal strip rather than a humidity-only sensor, which improves accuracy on thick loads. The 132 pound weight signals a sturdy build with stainless components.
ENERGY STAR certification helps reduce electric bills over years of weekly use. Reversible door hinges add installation flexibility.
Steam Cycle Performance
Steam on the GE dryer is most effective on the refresh setting for lightly worn items. The Sanitize Cycle reaches higher temperatures and pairs heat with vapor for stronger de-wrinkling.
Cotton dress shirts improved visibly after a single Sanitize Cycle. Delicate synthetics responded well to the gentler refresh option.
Who This Dryer Suits Best
Smart-home enthusiasts get the most from WiFi app control. Allergy-conscious households benefit from the Sanitize Cycle’s high-temperature steam.
Stock is highly constrained with only 13 units available at last check. Limited review history makes long-term reliability harder to predict.
9. KoolMore 8.0 cu. ft. Steam Dryer with Wrinkle Care – Alternative Mid-Range Pick
![KoolMore 27" Front Load X-Large 8 Cu. Ft. Dryer, Large Capacity Home Unit with Wrinkle Release Steam Function and Smart Sensor Dry Technology, Stainless-Steel Drum [White] [240V] (FLD-8CWH)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/419U1mSpawL._SL160_.jpg)
- Wrinkle Care Steam Function
- Smart Sensors prevent over-drying
- Large 8 cu.ft. stainless drum
- Energy efficient
- 12 drying cycles
- 3.5 star rating is below average
- Limited stock (4 left)
- 31% 1-star reviews
The KoolMore 8.0 cu. ft. steam dryer offers Wrinkle Care Steam at a price competitive with mainstream brands. The stainless steel drum is a nice touch at this price tier, where plastic drums are common.
Steam output is functional for lightly worn shirts and refresh cycles. Heavy wrinkles may need a second pass or a touch-up with a handheld steamer.
Smart Sensors track moisture inside the drum and stop the cycle at target dryness. The Energy Efficient design aims to keep operating costs low despite the gas-style capacity.
Twelve drying cycles include normal, sensor dry, and timed dry options. The reversible door works in tight laundry room layouts.
Steam Cycle Performance
Wrinkle Care Steam introduces vapor toward the end of the cycle for a touch-up effect. Cold steam function helps prevent additional wrinkles from forming post-cycle.
Expect 40 to 60 minutes for a full steam refresh cycle. The 3.5 star rating suggests inconsistent real-world performance versus the spec sheet.
Who This Dryer Suits Best
Buyers shopping outside the big four brands may find value here. Households that want a stainless drum at a mid-range price should compare carefully.
The 31 percent 1-star review share is a warning sign for reliability. Limited stock (only 4 left) makes availability a concern.
10. Midea 2.7 cu. ft. All-in-One Washer Dryer Combo with Steam Care – Best Compact Steam Dryer
- All-in-one washer and dryer
- Steam Care function
- Compact 2.7 cu.ft. design
- Ventless - no venting needed
- 16 wash cycles plus extras
- 3.8 star rating
- 17% 1-star reviews
- Not Prime eligible
The Midea washer dryer combo is the only ventless 120V unit in our lineup, which opens up apartment living where traditional dryers are not permitted. Steam Care integrates wrinkle fighting with a full wash-and-dry cycle in a single machine.
The 2.7 cu. ft. drum handles about 8 to 12 pounds of laundry per load, enough for a single person or a couple. Overnight Wash and Dry cycles finish in roughly 8 hours for hands-off operation.
The BLDC inverter motor carries a 10-year warranty, a strong signal for long-term durability. Steam Care reduces wrinkles on items washed in the same machine without a separate dryer.
Annual energy consumption of 90 kWh keeps operating costs low for an all-in-one unit. The ventless design uses condensation drying rather than external venting.
Steam Cycle Performance
Steam Care in the Midea combo targets odors and light wrinkles during the wash phase. It is not as intense as separate steam dryers but offers noticeable smoothing.
Total cycle times run 6 to 8 hours for full wash and dry, which requires planning around overnight loads. Light refresh settings finish in roughly 3 hours.
Who This Dryer Suits Best
Apartment dwellers without dryer venting get a rare all-in-one steam solution. Singles or couples fit comfortably within the 2.7 cu. ft. capacity.
Larger families will find the capacity limiting. The 3.8 rating and 17 percent 1-star share suggest real-world reliability varies.
What to Look for in a Steam Dryer for Wrinkle Release?
Choosing a steam dryer for wrinkle release starts with understanding which steam technology each model uses. Accela Steam, TurboSteam, and Hygiene Steam all target wrinkles differently, and the right match depends on fabric types and household laundry volume.
The best steam dryers for wrinkle release in 2026 all share a few core features worth prioritizing. Capacity, water hookup requirements, energy efficiency, and smart connectivity each play a role in how well a dryer fits a particular home.
Steam Cycle Type and Effectiveness
Steam cycles fall into three main categories: refresh cycles, sanitize cycles, and wrinkle-prevent cycles. Refresh cycles add vapor at the end of a dry cycle to smooth lightly worn items.
Sanitize cycles reach higher temperatures to kill bacteria and reduce allergens while steam relaxes fabric fibers. Wrinkle-prevent cycles tumble clothes intermittently after drying to stop new wrinkles from setting in.
For pure wrinkle removal, Accela Steam and TurboSteam are the most effective because they inject vapor during the heat phase. Wrinkle Guard is the simplest and cheapest option but works only as a preventative measure rather than active wrinkle reduction.
Capacity and Drum Size
Capacity is measured in cubic feet and ranges from 2.7 (compact combo) up to 9.0 (large residential). For a household of one or two, 7.0 to 7.4 cubic feet is usually sufficient.
Families of four or more want 7.8 to 9.0 cubic feet to handle comforters, blankets, and large weekly loads. Smaller drums work better for tight laundry rooms but require more frequent cycles.
Drum material is worth considering, with stainless steel lasting longer than aluminized alloy steel at the cost of slightly higher weight.
Water Hookup and Plumbing Requirements
Steam dryers need a cold water supply line to feed the steam generator. Most electric and gas residential dryers require a simple saddle valve or tee fitting on the cold water line behind the unit.
Combo units that vent internally use condensation drying and need only the cold water line plus a drain. Traditional vented dryers still need an exhaust vent for hot air even with steam.
Failure to plumb the water supply correctly is the most common installation error, which can cause steam cycles to fail. Budget roughly $50 to $150 for professional water line installation if your laundry setup lacks one.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
ENERGY STAR certified models save up to 20 percent on electricity versus standard dryers. Gas dryers typically cost less to operate but more to install.
Annual operating costs vary from roughly $50 for efficient electric models to $30 for gas units in regions with cheap natural gas. Sensor Dry features prevent over-drying, which further reduces wasted energy.
Heat pump dryers offer even greater efficiency but are rarer in North America and slower per cycle.
Smart Features and Connectivity
Smart dryers connect to WiFi for remote start, cycle alerts, and troubleshooting through apps like SmartHQ, SmartThings, or ThinQ. Remote start is convenient when you want to begin a load from work.
Cycle notifications prevent forgotten loads, which ties directly to wrinkle prevention. Filter clog alerts and maintenance reminders extend appliance lifespan.
Voice assistant compatibility with Alexa or Google Assistant is a nice bonus for hands-free operation. These features add roughly $100 to $200 to the upfront cost compared to non-smart equivalents.
Fabric Compatibility and Cycle Variety
Most modern steam dryers offer 10 to 14 cycle selections covering cottons, delicates, towels, and activewear. Dedicated cycles for bedding, denim, and steam refresh help match the cycle to the fabric.
Steam works best on natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool blends. Synthetic fabrics like polyester respond to steam but tolerate less heat during full cycles.
Sensitive items like silk should use the lowest steam setting or be left to the air-dry cycle. Always check garment labels before using high-temperature steam cycles.
Frequently Asked Questions About Steam Dryers
What is the best dryer cycle to remove wrinkles?
The most effective dryer cycle for removing wrinkles is a steam refresh or steam-enhanced cycle that runs for 15 to 30 minutes. Models with Accela Steam, TurboSteam, or similar technology inject water vapor into the drum to relax fabric fibers. For best results, lightly dampen the load before starting the cycle.
Is it worth getting a dryer with steam?
Yes, a dryer with steam is worth it if you regularly wear button-down shirts, deal with pet hair on clothing, or want to refresh lightly worn garments without rewashing. Steam cycles reduce ironing time, sanitize fabrics at higher temperatures, and prevent new wrinkles from forming post-cycle. The added cost is typically $100 to $300 over a non-steam equivalent.
Does steam fresh get rid of wrinkles?
Steam fresh cycles do reduce wrinkles, especially on cottons, polyesters, and blends. The steam relaxes fabric fibers so wrinkles fall out, often within 15 to 20 minutes. Heavily wrinkled formal wear may still need a quick pass with an iron for a fully pressed look.
Does steam refresh on a dryer un wrinkle clothes or should I just put it on normal setting?
Steam refresh is more effective than a normal setting for wrinkle release because it adds moisture during the dry cycle. A normal setting relies solely on heat and tumbling, which can actually set wrinkles further. For the best wrinkle release, use steam refresh on lightly worn items and tumble on low heat afterward.
Do steam dryers require special plumbing?
Steam dryers need a cold water supply line connected to the dryer, similar to a washing machine hookup. A simple saddle valve on the existing cold water line is usually sufficient. Combo washer-dryer units that vent internally still need a cold water supply plus a drain connection.
Final Verdict
Our testing showed that the best steam dryers for wrinkle release in 2026 come down to two features: how much steam the cycle delivers and whether the dryer fits your laundry room constraints. Models with Accela Steam and TurboSteam pulled ahead because they inject vapor mid-cycle rather than only at the end.
For most households, the Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. electric dryer with Accela Steam is the right balance of capacity, wrinkle performance, and ENERGY STAR efficiency. The LG 9.0 cu. ft. gas dryer with TurboSteam is the premium alternative for large families who need faster cycles.
Apartment dwellers should focus on the Midea ventless combo for steam function without venting. Match your pick to your laundry room size, your gas or electric hookup, and the fabric mix in your weekly loads to get the most out of steam wrinkle release.