How to Clean An Iron

Is your iron dragging? Or is the bottom stained and discolored?

A dirty iron can ruin your favorite garment in a hurry. The soleplate (the actual ironing surface) of an iron can contain build-up from starches, fabric softeners, and detergents. If you use a steam iron, the water reservoir can become dirty, which in turn clogs the steam vents.

Here's some quick and easy cleaning tips to bring your iron back to life:

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• iron
• vinegar
• soft clean cloth
• baking soda
• distilled water

1. SOLEPLATE:
   
   Vinegar works well on the surface of irons. Pour white or cider vinegar on a cloth and rub over the soleplate. If there is still residue build-up, create a mixture of equal parts vinegar and baking soda, then gently scrub with a cloth.
   
   If you have a waxy residue stuck to the bottom of your iron, turn it on to the highest setting and iron over newspaper or a brown paper bag.

2. 
    

   STEAM RESERVOIR AND VENTS:
   To clean the steam reservoir, pour a solution of 1:1 ratio water and vinegar into it, turn the iron on and allow it to steam for 4-5 minutes. Drain any remaining solution. Let sit for at least an hour, then refill with distilled water.
   
   The actual little steam vent holes can be cleaned with a Q-tip dipped in vinegar, to remove any residue. Knives or other sharp objects should not be used.

3. Maintaining your iron is the best prevention. Use only distilled water to prevent mineral buildup in your steam reservoir, and be sure to empty it out after each use.
   
   Iron only clean clothes to prevent dirt and oils from transferring to the soleplate.

Tips & Warnings

• Never use high heat settings on delicate or synthetic fabrics. They have a tendency to MELT!

[jenng]

on 2/1/2009 i was always wondering how to do this 5*recommend

[ScarlettOHairy]

on 1/22/2009 Great tips on cleaning the iron. It is no fun to use when it's sticky.

[1GoGetter]

on 1/20/2009 Thank you Thank you! I iron my Hula costumes a lot and use tons of starch. Just the other day I saw my iron propped up and said to myself, "Self, how do I get that clean before it soils my cloths???!!! Thanks Again!

[kimarkent]

on 1/20/2009 I just started making curtains for my home, and my iron was so clogged,,,now I know how to clean it.. I need these kinds of tips..man, vinegar is a great ingredient for alot of things! thanks

[ManyMusings]

on 1/19/2009 I really need to do this once I actually find my iron. I am soo bad.