Steamer Help
Answers for SALAV and True & Tidy steamers, fabric shavers, and cleaning tools: choosing a model, first use, leaks, Auto Off, parts, warranty, and returns.
If a model is sold out, we will not suggest it as a replacement. We will point you to an in-stock SALAV or True & Tidy model that does the same job.
For order tracking, open chat and tap Track my order, or email support@ctbrandco.com. Your order number is in the subject line of your confirmation or shipping email.
Need a person? Email support@ctbrandco.com or call 1-855-725-2887.
What's the difference between a handheld and a standing steamer?
Handhelds (TS38, HS26, DuoPress) heat fast and travel well. Standing units (Q5, X5, SX3, X3, and similar full-size models) have a large tank, hang the garment, and steam a full load without refilling.
Choose a handheld for 1–3 items or travel. Choose standing for daily family laundry, uniforms, or a boutique.
Q5 vs X5 vs SX3 vs X3 — which standing steamer?
True & Tidy Q5 — top of the line, 1800W, auto-off, luxury pro.
True & Tidy X5 — commercial-style standing steamer.
True & Tidy SX3 — 1800W with adjustable steam settings.
SALAV X3 — 1800W commercial standing steamer, 3L tank, about 90 minutes of steam.
Quick rule: a few garments at home → SX3 or Q5. All-day or boutique → X5, SX3, or X3. We will not recommend a model that is sold out.
Do I need DuoPress or a regular steamer?
True & Tidy IS1600 and SALAV SS1500 / IS900 combine steamer plus iron plate. Use those when you want a crease on collars and pants. Use a hanging steamer when you want speed and no ironing board.
Can I steam a wedding dress, veil, or silk?
Yes. Steam is gentler than an iron. Keep the nozzle a few inches off delicate fabric, use a lower setting if your model has one, and test an inside hem first.
Will this replace my iron?
For most shirts, dresses, curtains, and knits, yes. Use an iron or DuoPress when you need a sharp crease or crisp pocket flaps.
How do I choose a standing steamer for home vs all-day use?
Think about volume.
A few garments a few times a week → SX3 or Q5 if in stock.
Boutique, uniforms, or long sessions → X5, SX3, or X3 if in stock.
Compare wattage, tank run time, and heat-up time. Tell us how many pieces you steam on a busy day and we will point you to an in-stock model.
What water should I use?
Distilled or demineralized water. Hard tap water leaves scale, weakens steam, and shortens heater life.
How long does it take to heat up?
Typical standing units: about 45–65 seconds (SX3 about 50 seconds, X3 about 65 seconds). Travel handhelds can take about 1–2.5 minutes. Wait for the ready light or steady steam before you touch a garment.
The hose is stiff. Is it broken?
No. Dual-insulated hoses are stiff when cold and soften after steam is flowing.
How do I attach the hose?
Seat it fully, then twist to lock. Many hoses use a multi-turn lock. A loose hose leaks steam at the base and feels weak.
Do I empty the tank after every use?
Yes. Standing water breeds scale and odor and is a common cause of leaks the next time you use it.
Why is it leaking?
The most common cause is a tank cap that is not fully tightened, so the tank does not seat. Also check: overfilled tank, unit tilted, hose not locked, or extra water on first heat-up.
If it still leaks after a tight cap, a level floor, and a locked hose, stop using it on hardwood and contact support.
It spatters water on my clothes.
Usually the unit is not fully preheated, or you are using tap water. Let it reach full steam, keep the nozzle vertical, and switch to distilled water.
Little or no steam.
1. Use distilled water and seat the tank.
2. Descale (see below).
3. Confirm the hose is locked.
4. Do not share an overloaded outlet.
If the unit is still cold after several minutes, stop and contact support with the model name and purchase date.
It shuts off or beeps even when the tank looks full.
If the unit keeps going into Auto Off, check these in order:
1. Water level — refill if the tank is low.
2. Buoy — the small floating piece inside the reservoir must be in place. If it is missing, the unit stays on Auto Off.
3. Buoy position — it should float freely. If it sits on the bottom, add water or see if it is stuck. The C-shaped clip can get pushed down too far and hold the buoy against the bottom. Nudge the clip up so the buoy can float.
If it still beeps or shuts off after those checks, email support@ctbrandco.com with the warranty packet below.
How do I descale?
Use a SALAV descaler packet (or the packet that shipped with the unit). Add one packet and water to the tank, run a full steam cycle, then flush. Do this monthly if you have hard water.
Dark rinse water after descaling is old scale leaving the tank. That is expected.
What can I steam besides clothes?
Drapes, upholstery, bedding, and uniforms. Keep the nozzle moving. Do not park it on one spot.
Will steam damage leather, suede, or waxed jackets?
Do not steam those. Stick to washable fabrics.
How far should the nozzle be from the fabric?
About 1–2 inches on sturdy cotton. Farther on silk or satin. Pull the garment taut with your other hand and wear the heat glove.
My LR900 fabric shaver will not hold a charge.
Before you file a warranty claim:
1. Make sure the charging port is clear of debris.
2. Seat the USB-C cable firmly.
3. Inspect the cable for damage.
4. Try a different outlet or a different USB-C charger.
If it still will not hold a charge, it is covered by our one-year warranty. Send the warranty packet below. This applies to units bought from us or from retailers such as Target.
Where do I buy a pole, hanger, hose, or tank?
Shop Parts & Accessories on this site. Use the exact model number on the unit (Q5, X5, SX3, X3, GS18, GS66, TS38, HS26, SS1500, LR900, and so on). Some parts fit more than one model across SALAV and True & Tidy. Match the model list on the part page.
What's the warranty?
One year on all SALAV and True & Tidy products, including steamers, steam stations, fabric shavers, and cleaning tools.
How do I file a warranty claim?
Email support@ctbrandco.com or call 1-855-725-2887. Include all of the following:
• A copy of the receipt or a screenshot of the order with the order date
• A photo of the silver sticker on the back or bottom of the unit
• Your phone number and shipping address
• What the product is doing
Do not ship the unit until we give you a return authorization.
I bought it at Target, Amazon, or another store. Is it still warrantied?
Yes. The one-year warranty applies to all products. Send the receipt or order screenshot with the rest of the warranty packet.
What's the return and exchange policy if a steamer or cleaning tool isn't the right fit?
You can return items within 30 days from the delivered date. Email support@ctbrandco.com with your order number (it is in the subject line of your confirmation or shipping email).
Where is my order number?
It is in the subject line of your order confirmation or shipping confirmation email.
Where is my order?
Open chat and tap Track my order, or email support@ctbrandco.com. Include the order number from the subject line of your confirmation email.
Something was missing from my package.
Call 1-855-725-2887 or email support@ctbrandco.com with:
• A copy of the receipt or a screenshot of the order with the order date
• A photo of the silver sticker on the back or bottom of the unit (if you have the unit)
• Your phone number and shipping address
• What was missing
I need to talk to a person.
Email support@ctbrandco.com or call 1-855-725-2887. Include your order number if you have it.
Is True & Tidy the same as SALAV?
Same company (Capital Technology / CT Brand Co.). SALAV is the core steam brand. True & Tidy is the complementary home and lifestyle line. Warranty and parts use the model name printed on the unit.
