Why does my garment steamer leak water from the nozzle?

A small amount of drips can happen if the steamer has not warmed up fully, but water leaking from the nozzle is not something to ignore. Stop using the appliance immediately if water is escaping near the controls, the cable or any electrical part, then unplug it and let it cool.

Work through the likely causes

1. Check that the appliance has preheated for long enough before you start steaming. One manual explains that leakage can happen if the temperature is not yet high enough to turn water into steam, and recommends a 2 to 3 minute preheat on that model. Expected result: only steam, not liquid water, comes from the nozzle.
2. Keep the steamer upright while it is heating and in use. If it is tilted, water can collect in the hose or head and then splash out. Expected result: the nozzle stays dry between bursts of steam.
3. For handheld models, gently shake the appliance up and down if steam output has been inconsistent. The manual notes this can clear air from the water supply hose. Expected result: water is drawn through properly and the leakage stops.
4. Check that the water tank is filled correctly and not overfilled. The manuals advise filling to the marked maximum only, and some models work best when the tank is at least one-third full. Expected result: the tank fits securely and no water seeps from the reservoir area.
5. If the nozzle continues to spit or leak after correct preheating, the unit may be scaled up or internally damaged. Stop using it if the leak is repeated, heavy, or accompanied by overheating, strange noise or a tripped socket.

If you cannot clear the problem safely, stop using the garment steamer and contact the retailer or store where it was purchased.