How to Fix an Iron That Leaves Spots on Fabric

When an iron leaves stains on your clothes, the cause could be rust inside the steam chamber or dirt on the ironing surface.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cloths
• White Vinegar
• Distilled Water
• White Vinegar
• Baking Soda Or Table Salt
• Oven Rack
• Cloths

1. Scrub the ironing surface with a wet cloth covered with a mild abrasive such as baking soda or table salt.

2. Wipe the ironing surface with a clean, damp cloth to remove the residue.

3. 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.

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

5. To prevent spots in the future, after ironing, empty any leftover water while the iron is still hot. That way, the heat will dry out the steam chamber and prevent any metal particles in the water from rusting.

on 7/22/2006 Sometimes the iron has built up melted residue from nylon fabric and such. Heat up the iron on high settings and rub vigorously onto a damp rag or old towel. You may need to repeat a time or two.

on 11/22/2005 I was given a brand new pair of designer capri pants by a friend, because she burned them while ironing. I got the burn out by doing the following:

Treat the burn with a stain remover. Scrub the burn mark. Fill the sink with cold water, detergent, and bleach. Mix the water really well, and put the clothing in for 20 minutes. Scrub it again and rinse. Put it in the wash, then dry it. Good luck.