How to Clean a Gummed Up Iron

A gummed-up iron can deposit materials onto your clothing and make ironing difficult. Fabric softener, starch residue or minerals from hard water can build up on your iron with regular use. Regular cleaning reduces the amount of residue on your iron and allows it glide smoothly over fabrics. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning the inside of your iron to reduce mineral buildup, and wipe the sole plate after each use to ensure your iron operates with maximum efficiency.

Things You'll Need

• Cloth
• Dish detergent
• White vinegar
• Ironing board (optional)
• Towels

Instructions

1. Dampen a cloth with water and wring it out. Apply 1 or 2 drops of dish detergent to the cloth. Make sure the iron is turned off and cool.

2. Wipe the sole plate with the damp cloth to remove any residue.

3. Rinse the cloth thoroughly and wring it out. Wipe the iron with the cloth to remove any soap residue.

4. Fill the iron tank with white vinegar.

5. Plug in and turn on the iron. Set the iron to the highest heat and steam setting. Allow it to heat up.

6. Lay a towel onto an ironing board or other heat-safe surface.

7. Steam iron the towel until the tank is empty.

8. Fill the tank with water and steam iron a new towel until the tank is empty. Repeat this process once more to clear out any remaining debris.

References

• Mrs. Clean House Cleaning Specialists: How to Clean an Iron