Panasonic Malaysia’s managing director Keisuke Nishida (left) and Panasonic Malaysia’s general manager of appliances marketing Shinichi Tsuda (right) at the recent launching of Panasonic’s handheld garment steamers.
RENOWNED electronics company, Panasonic, unveiled its new handheld garment steamers – the first of its kind by the brand to be introduced in Malaysia.
The cutting-edge appliances – the NI-GHF025WSK (2-way ironing + foldable) and NI-GHD015WSK (non foldable) models, are a significant departure from the bulky, often heavy conventional irons.
With an emphasis of powerful steam, these lightweight and compact models sport sleek, minimalistic designs, and offer excellent hand-grip.
Tailored for individuals on-the-go, including frequent travellers, busy professionals, fashion enthusiasts, and students, these handheld garment steamers provide the convenience of producing wrinkle-free outfits effortlessly, anywhere, anytime.
Effortless style
Nishida said convenience is the heart of this innovative new appliance.
Panasonic Malaysia’s managing director Keisuke Nishida shared that the new handheld garment steamer embodies Panasonic’s commitment to enhancing customers’ daily lives and holistic well-being.
The brand, he added, understands that consumers today are always on-the-go, and need products that seamlessly complement their busy, modern lifestyles.
“These products feature three key factors – convenience, simplicity and efficiency – as part of their design and thoughtful usability.
“We are excited about this product, and we believe it will redefine the way Malaysians approach garment care by offering a compact, convenient and efficient solution,” said Nishida.
Moving with times
Panasonic's dedication to pioneering technologies and solutions across a broad spectrum of consumer appliances has solidified its standing as a global industry leader—and understanding consumer trends is a big part of it.
Nishida highlighted that in his native Japan, handheld garment steamers have surpassed traditional irons in popularity.
“The handheld garment steamer's cute design was what first kicked off the momentum in Japan,” he said, adding that the appliance has been the go-to in the country for many years.
But at the heart of its popularity is its hassle-free concept that mirrored the changing times.
The handheld garment steamer also steams away 99.99% of mites and bacteria, making it ideal for refreshing and deodorising items like soft toys, pillows or frequently worn clothes.
“Decades ago, traditionally, men would work and housewives would stay home and manage household chores. But as both men and women joined the workforce, there was less time for domestic tasks.”
This cultural shift emphasised the growing need for convenience, and the handheld garment steamer emerged as a fitting solution.
Nishida highlighted that comparable trends are noticeable in Malaysia, emphasising the marketability of these products as a response to fast-evolving, modern lifestyles.
Minimal effort, maximum convenience
The NI-GHF025WSK, which weighs 600g, and comes with a 120ml water tank, is a foldable model featuring a Titanium Soleplate. Its innovative steam technology allows for two-way ironing—both steam and dry.
Meanwhile, the NI-GHD015WSK model, weighing only 530g with a 70 ml water tank, is ideal for delicate fabrics such as silk and chiffon, as its Plastotype panel delivers potent steam without the risk of an overheating soleplate damaging fabric.
The product’s well-considered design, also eliminates the need for an ironing board, making them versatile for both hanging and flat ironing.
Both models are equipped with Rapid Start-Up, a feature which enables steaming clothes in just 30 seconds for the NIGHF025WSK model, and 20 seconds for the NI-GHD015WSK model, ideal for those moments when time is of the essence.
With a robust 1300W steam power, reaching up to 21g/min, stubborn wrinkles are effortlessly smoothed out in no time.
Versatile tool
Compact and convenient, the handheld garment steamer makes business trips and travel a breeze, as it requires minimal space.
A distinctive feature found in both models is its ability to eliminate 99.99%* of mites and bacteria, making it a versatile tool for refreshing wardrobe items, soft toys, pillows, and frequently worn clothes like jeans or jackets.
According to Panasonic, bacteria from plush toys or clothes can be safely eliminated by utilising the gentle steam power from both models, which is said to effectively extend the lifespan of any fabric-based items by reducing the wear and tear of frequent washing.
The new handheld garment steamers are available for purchase at all official Panasonic outlets, Panasonic online stores, as well as official Panasonic distributors.
The retail prices are RM299 for the NI-GHF025WSK model and RM179 for the NI-GHD015WSK model.
For more information on the Panasonic handheld garment steamers, click here.
* Certified by Guangdong Detection Center of Microbiology; Test report number: 2022FM14284R01E, 2022FM14284R02E; Test method: Refer to Technical Standard for Disinfection (2002 Ministry of Health P.R.China) – 2.1.1.7.6, MS (i) C061-C01 test method for killing mites by household and similar electrical appliances; Test results: Eliminate bacteria rate up to >99.99% of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, Eliminate mites rate up to >99.99%.
