How to Correct a Steam Iron That Sputters

If your iron sputters when it should be steaming, it's often because minerals from your water have hardened and clogged the steam jets and spray nozzle. Here's an easy cure.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fine Needle
• White Vinegar
• Distilled Water
• White Vinegar
• Oven Rack
• Toothpick Or Small Ice Pick

1. Unplug the iron and let it cool.

2. Scrape any visible mineral deposits from the jets on the bottom of the iron, using a toothpick or the tip of a small ice pick.

3. Clean the spray nozzle with a fine needle.

4. Fill the iron with equal parts white vinegar and distilled water. Place an oven rack over your sink and position the iron on top, with the steam vents facing down. Plug in the iron and turn it to the steam setting. Run it until the steam stops.

5. Fill the iron with plain distilled water and repeat the process.

Tips & Warnings

• To prevent mineral buildup in your iron, always use distilled water.

[patcrowe]

on 1/29/2009 I have used Rowenta steam irons for many years. I used distilled water in the first one and it lasted for 6 years. On the second iron, I switched to tap water and the iron plugged up after 2 years. However, I was able to use scale remover to bring it back to life. In my opinion, using tap water will only shorten the live of your iron. It is interesting that Rowenta does not recommend the use of scale removers or distilled water in their irons. I wonder if it is just a scheme to sell more irons, by reducing their effective life?

[poopsie]

on 2/3/2008 2-3-08
I recently purchased a Rowenta steam iron. The instructions caution "never use distilled water". Comment from the expert please.

on 8/8/2006 I use one squirt of Harpic limescale remover in the iron and kettle; leave for 20 minutes, then rinse four to five times (no need to heat up and it works every time).

on 6/30/2006 I use one squirt of Harpic lime scale remover in the iron and kettle. Leave it for 20 minutes, then rinse four to five times. No need to heat the iron or kettle up and it works every time. Clean as a whistle.