This steamer actually packs a punch once it gets past all the spitting and boiling process to get fully heated. Have patience as it takes a few minutes to complete that process, because if you do try to steam too soon, you’ll have hot water all over. With that being said I can see why they provide you with a convenient mitten that resembles an oven mitten. However, one shouldn’t have to use it if they are patient to wait for it to fully boil/heat. Had a pair of microfiber golf pants that needed de-wrinkling and this steamer did the trick. Microfiber can be difficult, and I was happy with the result. Cord is super long for convenience as well. Good buy.