How to Clean the Iron

Even if you have filtration systems in place, chemicals and minerals in the water in the sink can affect the functionality of your iron.

Over time, all of these invisible factors can destroy the iron's water tank, blocking the steam holes. Moreover, water with rust particles can affect the quality of fabrics, thus damaging freshly washed clothes.

After a series of uses, dirt accumulates on the soleplate of the iron. The appearance of these impurities is nothing more than a result of the ironing (at too high-temperature settings) of some clothes made of synthetic or natural fibers.

Upon contact with the hot iron surface, the fibers melt, leaving impurities on the surface of the appliance.

Iron has become an indispensable object in any household, and its care is essential if you want to enjoy it for as long as possible.

Limescale deposits caused by tap water (located on the sole or in the tank), dirt stains, and burnt portions of the material are residues that usually affect the proper functioning of the iron.

If it is not cleaned properly, not only will you be able to notice that your freshly washed clothes have been soiled on their sole, but they will spoil faster. So, here is how to clean the iron with the help of simple solutions, available to anyone.

How to clean the iron with what you have in the house

Clean the iron with a damp cloth

Never use wire sponges or solutions with abrasive particles on the soleplate of the iron, otherwise, you can damage the first layer in this area.

When you are in a hurry, it is enough to soak a piece of soft and clean material in a little water, then apply it on the sole (after removing the iron from the socket, of course) while it is slightly warm and wipe with gentle movements.

Eventually, if you encounter dirt stains that are harder to remove, soak the cloth in a little water with detergent.

Dry napkins

Dry napkins, whether nasal or kitchen, can be just as useful in cleaning the iron. In just a few moves you will be able to clean the iron without too much hassle.

Cleaning the iron with vinegar

Mix water and vinegar in equal parts, then pour the solution obtained into the iron tank but do not fill it. Plug the iron in and set it to a low to medium temperature. Allow the solution to take effect for 5–10 minutes, then remove.

Clean the iron with toothpaste

If you do not know how to clean the iron and you do not have any solution at hand, you can even use toothpaste in the bathroom, but do not use a gel-based product.

Apply on a cloth, then wipe the soleplate of the iron, insisting on the areas that are harder to clean.

How to clean the iron with baking soda

Are you facing stubborn dirt stains? Baking soda is the solution you need to use. Mix two teaspoons with a little water until a creamy paste is formed, then apply on the iron with a soft towel. To obtain a stronger solution you can mix it with vinegar.

How to clean the iron with salt

Salt, the best ingredient in a household, can be a real help when you don't know how to clean an iron. Do not use coarse salt, but a product as fine as possible. After sprinkling the salt on a soft cloth, carefully wipe the sole of the iron, preferably while it is warm, for the best results. If you notice portions of burnt material on his sole, apply a little salt on a small piece of aluminum foil, then apply the iron to it.

Tip: To prevent limescale deposits, remove water from the iron tank when it is still hot, so it will dry immediately.

Now that you know how to clean the iron, turn to the above methods and this item in your home will shine cleanly. Moreover, you will be able to successfully prevent limescale deposits and thus you will prolong its life considerably.