How To Clean A Clothes Iron

Keeping your cloth iron clean is essential for maintaining its efficiency and extending its lifespan. Over time, mineral deposits, burnt fabrics, and starch build-up can clog your iron, leading to reduced performance and potential damage to your clothes. Here's a detailed guide to help you clean your iron effectively and keep it in top condition.

Why Cleaning Your Clothes Iron Is Important:

• Prolongs the iron's lifespan: Regular maintenance prevents wear and tear.
• Enhances performance: A clean soleplate glides smoothly and ensures even heat distribution.
• Protects your clothes: Avoid stains or residue transferring to your garments.
• Saves energy: A clean iron works more efficiently, reducing energy consumption.

What You'll Need:

• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• A microfiber cloth
• Cotton buds
• Distilled water
• An old towel or cloth
• Toothpaste (optional for tough stains)

Step-By-Step Guide To Clean Your Cloth Iron:

1. Cleaning The Soleplate

The soleplate is the most critical part of your iron. Here's how to clean it:

1. Cool the iron: Ensure the iron is unplugged and completely cool.
2. Create a cleaning paste: Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with one tablespoon of water to form a paste.
3. Apply the paste: Gently rub the paste onto the soleplate using a microfiber cloth. Focus on stubborn stains but avoid using anything abrasive to prevent scratches.
4. Wipe clean: Dampen another cloth with clean water and wipe off the residue.
5. Use toothpaste for stubborn marks (optional): Apply non-gel toothpaste to burnt marks, scrub gently, and then wipe clean with a damp cloth.

2. Descaling The Water Reservoir

Limescale build-up is common in areas with hard water, such as many parts of the UK. Descaling prevents clogging and keeps steam functions working efficiently.

1. Mix a cleaning solution: Combine equal parts white vinegar and distilled water.
2. Fill the reservoir: Pour the solution into your iron's water tank.
3. Turn on the iron: Set it to the steam setting and let it run for about 5-10 minutes. This helps loosen the limescale inside the iron.
4. Empty and rinse: Once cooled, empty the tank and rinse thoroughly with distilled water. Repeat if necessary.

3. Clearing Steam Holes

Blocked steam holes can reduce efficiency. Here's how to clean them:

1. Use cotton buds: Dampen cotton buds with white vinegar and clean each steam hole carefully.
2. Run a steam cycle: Refill the tank with distilled water and run a steam cycle to flush out any remaining debris.

4. Cleaning The Exterior

1. Wipe down the body: Use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe the iron's exterior, removing dust and smudges.
2. Polish: For a shiny finish, dry the iron with a clean, dry cloth.

Tips For Maintaining Your Iron

• Use distilled water: Prevents limescale build-up in hard water areas.
• Empty the water tank after use: Avoids stagnant water and reduces mineral deposits.
• Iron at the right temperature: Follow fabric care labels to prevent burnt residue.
• Store properly: Allow the iron to cool completely before storing it upright.

When To Clean Your Iron

• If your iron is leaving marks on clothes.
• If the steam output has decreased.
• If the soleplate feels rough or sticky.
• After using starch sprays, they can build up on the soleplate.

Conclusion

Cleaning your cloth iron doesn't have to be a daunting task. With regular maintenance and the steps outlined above, you can keep your iron performing like new for years. A clean iron not only saves you time and effort but also protects your clothes from unwanted stains and damage.

For more tips on maintaining your household appliances check out our blog section.

If you are looking for a new iron or other ironing accessories feel free to explore our household appliance collection.