Handheld Steamer RHC400 - Steam iron RUSSELL HOBBS - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Handheld Steamer
Model	RHC400
Brand	Russell Hobbs
Category	Steam Iron
Water Tank	Removable, with Max level mark
Heating Time	Approx. 45 seconds to preheat
Steam Control	Trigger with continuous steam switch
Auto Shut-Off	After 15 minutes of inactivity
Included Frames	Lint frame, Delicate fabric frame, Upholstery frame (3)
Horizontal Steaming	Yes, for pressing and creasing
Dry Ironing	Yes, without steam
Warranty	2 years (domestic use)
Power Indicator	Blue LED (blinking while heating, steady when ready)
Recommended Water	Distilled, purified, or filtered water
Cleaning	Wipe exterior with damp cloth; frames hand washable

Frequently Asked Questions - Handheld Steamer RHC400 RUSSELL HOBBS

How do I fill the water tank?

Place the steamer on a stable surface. Hold the handle and pull out the removable water tank. Open the rubber cover at the top, pour water using a clean measuring cup until reaching the MAX level. Do not overfill. Close the cover securely and push the tank back into place until it clicks.

How long does it take to heat up?

The steamer preheats in approximately 45 seconds. The blue power light will blink during heating and stay solid when ready. After refilling, allow 45 seconds to reheat and prime the pump by holding the steam trigger until steam appears.

Can I use tap water?

You may use tap water, but if you live in a hard water area, it is recommended to use distilled water (not chemically descaled or softened). Tap water minerals can build up over time. The manual also suggests using purified or filtered water. Avoid water with perfumes or scented additives.

How do I attach the frames?

Ensure the steamer and frame are cool. Gently attach the top of the frame over the steamer head, then click the bottom into place. The frame tab should point down. To remove, pull gently on the tab after the steamer has cooled. Be careful of condensation.

What is the auto shut-off feature?

The steamer automatically switches to auto shut-off mode after 15 minutes of inactivity. The boiler and water pump turn off. The power button light blinks rapidly. To resume, press the steam trigger or power button and allow reheating.

How do I clean the steamer?

Ensure the steamer is off, unplugged, and cool. Wipe the ironing plate and exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Mild dish soap can be used. Never use abrasive cleaners. After drying, steam over an old cloth to remove residue from steam holes. Clean frames separately: lint frame wipe with damp cloth; delicate frame wash with cold water and gentle cleanser; upholstery frame fabric can be removed and hand washed.

Can I use the steamer horizontally?

Yes, the steamer can be used horizontally for ironing and pressing. Position the steamer like a regular iron on an ironing board. Press the steam trigger as needed. For dry ironing, empty the water tank and do not use the steam trigger.

What fabrics can I steam?

Always check the garment's care label. The steamer is suitable for fabrics that tolerate steam. Use the delicate fabric frame for low heat or delicate items. Test on an inconspicuous area first. Do not steam items marked 'do not steam'. The steamer can also be used on upholstery, curtains, bedding, and other home textiles.

How do I remove wrinkles from delicate fabrics?

For delicate fabrics, attach the delicate fabric frame (low heat). Turn garments with embellishments inside out. Steam with slow, downward strokes keeping the head in contact with the fabric. Allow the garment to cool for about 5 minutes after steaming to set the press.

How should I store the steamer?

Ensure the steamer is unplugged and completely cool. Gather the cord into even ovals and secure with the hook-and-loop strip. Always store the steamer upright on its base to prevent water leakage. Empty the water tank after each use to avoid mineral buildup.

USER MANUAL Handheld Steamer RHC400 RUSSELL HOBBS

Exterior view of a modern steamer machine (no signage or text visible on body)

HANDHELD STEAMER

2 YEAR WARRANTY

MODEL RHC400

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

When using this appliance, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following: Read all instructions before, and follow whilst using this appliance.

1. To protect against electrical hazards, do not immerse the power cord, plug or iron in water or any other liquid.
2. Do not use outdoors or in damp or moist areas.
3. Do not touch hot surfaces, always use the appliance handles.
4. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
5. This appliance must be attended whilst plugged in.
6. Ensure the iron is standing on its heel and with the soleplate clear of any surrounding objects when switching on.
7. Ensure the handheld steamer is unplugged during filling and emptying.
8. Always turn off and unplug from the wall power outlet when not in use.
9. To avoid possible burns, ensure the appliance is off and has cooled before cleaning.
10. To disconnect, turn off the wall power outlet, then grasp and pull the plug from the wall outlet. Never pull by the cord.
11. Do not operate this appliance with a damaged cord/plug or after the appliance has been dropped, is leaking, damaged or has malfunctioned in any manner. Contact Customer Service for examination, adjustment, repair or replacement.
12. There are no user serviceable parts. If repairs are required, they must be performed by the manufacturer or a suitably qualified person in order to avoid a hazard.
13. Do not use on an inclined or unstable surface.
14. Keep the appliance and the power cord away from the edge of tables or countertops and out of reach of children and persons with reduced physical, sensory and mental capacities.
15. Ensure the power cord does not present a tripping hazard.
16. Do not place on or near any heat sources.
17. Follow the instructions when cleaning this appliance.
18. Cleaning or user maintenance shall not be carried out by children without the supervision of a person responsible for their safety.
19. Do not use this appliance for other than its intended purpose.
20. Misuse of the appliance may cause injury.
21. Do not leave the iron unattended when switched on or where it may be touched by children or persons with reduced physical, sensory and mental capacities while it is still hot.
22. This appliance is not a toy. Children should be supervised to ensure they do not play with the appliance.
23. This appliance is not intended to be operated by means of an external timer or separate remote control system.
24. For added safety, electrical appliances should be connected to a power outlet that is protected by a residual current device (RCD / 'Safety Switch') having a rated residual operating current not exceeding 30mA. Your switchboard may already incorporate an RCD. If unsure, call an electrician for verification and fitting if necessary.
25. This appliance is intended to be used in household and similar applications such as:
    a. Staff kitchen areas in shops, offices and other working environments;
    b. Farm houses;
    c. By clients in hotels, motels, and other residential type environments;
    d. Bed & breakfast type environments.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS.

PARTS

1. Steam trigger
2. Continuous steam switch
3. Comfort grip handle
4. Removable water tank

5. Power button (not shown)

6. Lint frame

7. Delicate fabric frame
8. Upholstery frame

PREPARATION AND ATTACHING FRAMES

Check for textile care symbols (✗) on items to be ironed.

The steamer comes with three optional-use attachment frames recommended for use with a variety of fabrics and upholstery.

1. Select the proper frame using the following chart.
2. While the frame and steamer are cool, gently attach the top of the frame over the top the steamer head and then click the bottom of the frame into place. (A)

NOTE: Frame tab points down when in correct position.

1. Allow steamer to cool prior to removing frame. Gently pull on the tab. (B)

NOTE: Be careful when removing frames as condensation may build up during use.

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Frame Usage
Lint Frame	Garment Care Label: For any garments that call for medium to high heat and allow for use of steam.Tip: Frame helps remove lint, hair, and animal fur.
Delicate Frame	Garment Care Label: For any garments that call for low heat and allow for use of steam.Tip: For items with embellishment, turn the garment inside out to better remove wrinkles and avoid damage to sensitive areas.
Upholstery Fram	Upholstered Fabrics: Great for deodorizing and refreshing bedding, mattresses, curtains, plush toys, furniture, and hard surfaces (such as counters or desks that are not heat sensitive).Tip: Always test for colorfastness and heat sensitivity on an inconspicuous area.

FILLING

You may use the steam iron with tap-water, however if you live in a hard water area, you should use distilled water (not chemically descaled or softened water).

If you buy distilled water, check it is marked as suitable for use in irons.

• Place the steamer on its base on a stable surface.
• Hold the handle to stabilise and pull out the removable water tank with the other hand. (c)
  • Gently pull out the rubber water tank cover at the top of the tank. (D)
• Using a clean measuring cup, pour water into opening until water reaches the "MAX" level mark on the top of the tank. (E)
• Do not overfill. Close the rubber cover securely.
• Fill slowly, to let the air in the tank escape, otherwise you will cause an air lock and the water may overflow.

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• Dry off any excess water from the tank. Push water tank back into the steamer base; click into place.
• To refill at any time during use, turn steamer off by pressing the power button until the blue indicator light is off, unplug from outlet, and follow the above procedure.

NOTE: After refilling, allow to reheat for 45 seconds and then prime pump by holding steam trigger until steam forms.

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SWITCHING ON

1. Read the manufacturer's fabric label to make sure the fabrics are suitable for steaming.

2. If you see “do not iron” or this icon 📋, attach the delicate fabric frame and make sure to test on an inconspicuous area prior to steaming the entire garment.

3. If you see "do not steam" or this icon, do not steam the garment.

4. Refer to the "Preparation and attaching frames" section for determining whether to use a frame. Attach or remove frames while the steamer and frames are cool.

5. Hang the garment in an area that will not be impacted by the heat and steam, such as on a shower rod.
6. Plug the steamer into an outlet and then press the power button. (F) The blue power button light will slowly blink, indicating that the steamer is heating.
7. After about 45 seconds the power light will stay on, indicating the steamer is preheated.
8. Prime the water pump by holding steam trigger until steam forms.
9. To generate steam, press down on the steam trigger with your index finger. (G) As long as the trigger is held down, steam will emit from the steamer. When the trigger is released, the steam will stop.

- To generate a constant flow of steam without holding the trigger, press the steam trigger and then slide the continuous steam switch down. (H) This will activate the continuous steam feature. To turn the steam off, press the trigger, push the continuous steam switch up and then release trigger.

1. With your free hand keep the fabric taut. Steam the garment with slow, downward strokes, keeping the head of the steamer in contact with the fabric. (I)

Illustration of a hand using a tool to press or install a cylindrical object, labeled 'F' (no text or symbols on the object itself)

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Illustration of a hand using a spray gun to clean or brush the surface (no text or symbols visible)

NOTE: It is normal to feel or hear the water pump in the handle.

NOTE: If the steamer is left inactive, the auto shut-off feature will activate, indicated by the rapidly blinking Power Button. To resume steaming after the auto shut-off is activated, either press the steam trigger or press the power button. Allow the steamer to preheat if needed.

1. When finished steaming, press and hold the power button until its blue light turns off (about 3 seconds) and unplug from outlet. (J)
2. Stand steamer on its base and allow it to completely cool off before storing. (K) To avoid mineral buildup, empty the tank after each use.

Illustration of a handheld digital scanner (no text or symbols visible)

HORIZONTAL STEAM IRONING/PRESS

• Horizontal steaming allows garments to be pressed and create crease lines where necessary.
• For steam ironing check that there is water in the tank.
• Position garment on ironing board.
• Check that pockets, turn-ups, and cuffs are empty.
• Hold the handheld steamer as if it's a regular iron and horizontally position the plate against the fabric.
• Press the steam trigger as required.
• If dry ironing is required, empty the water tank and use as specified above, without holding the steam trigger button.

AUTO SHUT-OFF

The steamer will automatically switch to auto shut-off mode after being left inactive for 15 minutes. The boiler and water pump will turn off until reactivated. Rapid blinking of the power button light indicates that the steamer is going into auto shut-off mode. To resume steaming, press the steam trigger or power button and wait for steamer to fully reheat.

Using steam to clean household items that can tolerate hot, damp steam without damage is non-toxic, and inexpensive. This natural cleaning method is beneficial to those sensitive to chemical cleaners or trying to reduce chemicals in the home. Steam upholstery, draperies, linens and home textiles to clean and refresh.

CLEANING STEAMER EXTERIOR

1. Make sure steamer is off, unplugged and completely cool.
2. Wipe the ironing plate and outer surface with soft, damp cloth. Water and small amounts of gentle household soaps, such as dishwashing liquid, can be used on the exterior. Never use heavy-duty cleaner, or abrasive scouring pads that may scratch or discolor the steamer.
3. After the steamer has been thoroughly dried, turn it back on and lightly steam over an old cloth. This will help remove any reside left in the steam holes.
4. When finished cleaning, turn the steamer off by pressing the power button until the blue power light turns off (about 3 seconds). Unplug, empty tank, and allow time to cool before storing.

CLEANING FRAMES AND ACCESSORIES

For all accessories, allow to fully dry before using again or storing.

Accessories are not suitable for cleaning in a washing machine.

• Lint frame: Wipe with damp cloth to clean.
• Delicate frame: Wash with cold water and small amounts of gentle cleanser if needed. The fabric in the frame cannot be removed.
• Upholstery frame: The fabric on this frame can be removed and hand washed with cold water and gentle cleanser.

STORING THE STEAMER

1. Check that the steamer is unplugged and completely cool.

2. Gather the cord into even ovals and then gently cinch with the strip of hook and loop. (L)

3. Always store steamer upright on its base to prevent water leakage.

Tip: Emptying the tank after each use is recommended because standing water can leave a residue over time.

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STEAMING TIPS AND TRICKS

• This steamer is designed to use distilled, purified, or filtered water. Tap water contains minerals that build up. Using water with perfumes or scented additives is also not recommended.
• Always test garments by steaming a small hidden area to make sure the garment takes well to steam.
• Always read garment care label instructions. Low heat settings require the delicate fabric frame.
• Small amounts of dripping might occur during use. If excessive, the steamer needs time to get back up to full temperature. Just allow the steamer a minute to reheat.
• Wearing clothes immediately after ironing or steaming can actually create wrinkles. Always allow clothing to cool for about 5 minutes after ironing or steaming to set the press.

Spectrum Brands Australia Pty Ltd

Locked Bag 3004 Braeside

Victoria 3195 Australia

Customer Service in Australia

TollFree: 1800 623 118

Email: [e-mail]

Website: www.spectrumbrands.com.au

Spectrum Brands New Zealand Ltd

PO Box 9817 Newmarket

Auckland 1149 New Zealand

Customer Service in New Zealand

TollFree: 0800 736 776

Email: [e-mail]

Website: www.spectrumbrands.co.nz

Spectrum Brands Australia Pty Ltd and Spectrum Brands New Zealand Ltd Warranty Against Defects

In this warranty:

Australian Consumer Law means the Australian consumer law set out in Schedule 2 to the Competition and Consumer Act 2010;

CGA means the New Zealand Consumer Guarantees Act 1993;

Goods means the product or equipment which was accompanied by this warranty and purchased in Australia or New Zealand, as the case may be;

Manufacturer, We or us means:

1. for Goods purchased in Australia, Spectrum Brands Australia Pty Ltd ABN, 78 007 070 573; or
2. for Goods purchased in New Zealand, Spectrum Brands New Zealand Ltd, as the case may be, contact details as set out at the end of this warranty;

Supplier means the authorised distributor or retailer of the Goods that sold you the Goods in Australia or in New Zealand; and

You means you, the original end-user purchaser of the Goods.

1. Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law, or the CGA. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods repaired or replaced if the goods fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.
2. The benefits provided by this Warranty are in addition to all other rights and remedies in respect of the Goods which the consumer has under either the Australian Consumer Law or the CGA. The original purchaser of the Goods is provided with the following Warranty subject to the Warranty Conditions:
3. We warrant the Goods for all parts defective in workmanship or materials from the date of purchase, for the period of 2 years from the date of purchase (Warranty Period)

If the Goods prove defective within the Warranty Period by reason of improper workmanship or material, we may, at our own discretion, repair or replace the Goods without charge.

Warranty Conditions

1. The Goods must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. This Warranty does not apply should the defect in or failure of the Goods be attributable to misuse, abuse, accident or non-observance of manufacturer's instructions on the part of the user. As far as the law permits, the manufacturer does not accept liability for any direct or consequential loss, damage or other expense caused by or arising out of any failure to use the Goods in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Exhaustible components (such as batteries, ironing board cover, filters and brushes) of the Goods are included under this Warranty only where there is a defect in workmanship or materials used.
3. The warranty granted under clause 3 is limited to repair or replacement only.
4. Any parts of the Goods replaced during repairs or any product replaced remain the property of the manufacturer. In the event of the Goods being replaced during the Warranty Period, the warranty on the replacement Goods will expire on the same date as for the Warranty Period on the original Goods which are replaced.
5. In order to claim under the warranty granted under clause 3 you must:

(a) Retain this warranty with your receipt/proof of purchase; and
(b) Return the Goods to us at the relevant address or to the Supplier by prepaid freight within the Warranty Period accompanied with (i) the legible and unmodified original proof of purchase, which clearly indicates the name and address of the Supplier, the date and place of purchase, the product name or other product serial number and (ii) this warranty.

1. This warranty is immediately void if:

(a) Any serial number or appliance plate is removed or defaced;
(b) The Goods have been serviced or otherwise repaired by a person not authorised to do so by us or where non approved replaced parts are used.

1. The Goods are designed for domestic use only. A limited 90-day Warranty applies to any industrial or commercial use of the Goods. The Goods must be connected to the electrical voltage requirements as specified in the ratings label located on the Goods.

2. This warranty does not cover the cost of claiming under the warranty or transport of the Goods to and from the Supplier or us.

3. This warranty is only valid and enforceable in Australia against Spectrum Brands Australia Pty Ltd and in New Zealand against Spectrum Brands New Zealand Ltd.

Contact us or the Supplier for further details.

Register your product online

If you live in Australia please visit: www.spectrumbrands.com.au/warranty

If you live in New Zealand Please visit: www.spectrumbrands.co.nz/warranty

Registration of your warranty is not compulsory, it gives us a record of your purchase

AND entitles you to receive these benefits: Product information; Hints and tips; Recipes and news; Information on special price offers and promotions.

Any questions? Please contact Customer Service for advice.

NOTES

NOTES

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www.russellhobbs.com.au

www.russellhobbs.co.nz