It depends largely on how often you use your iron, but like other appliances, it needs a good cleaning occasionally. Dirt, grime, rust, dust, stains, burnt pieces of fabric, residue from starch or sprays, mineral deposits and lime scale accumulate on the flat of the iron and also inside the steam vents. This residue build up can cause your iron to stick rather than slide when ironing clothing or other fabrics.
There are several ways to clean an iron:
- If you clean it often, a wet cloth rubbed on the flat of the iron may be enough. Slightly heat your iron and wipe with the wet cloth, cleaning the entire bottom of the iron.
- With your iron on low heat, use a small handful to dryer sheets, wiping thoroughly over the entire bottom surface.
- You can clean the inside of your iron with equal parts of water and vinegar. Pour the mixture into the reservoir of your iron, filling it one-third full. Turn the iron on medium high and allow to sit and steam for 8 to 10 minutes or until the vinegar evaporates. Then go through the same steps using plain water.
- You can also use the same mixture, half water-half vinegar to clean the flat bottom of your iron. Dip a cloth in the mixture, squeeze out the excess, and rub the bottom of the iron.
- Make a paste of water (or vinegar) and baking soda and rub onto the bottom of the iron with a
- cloth. Scrub the entire bottom thoroughly. Then wipe clean with a clean wet cloth.
- Sprinkle salt liberally on a spread-out newspaper and turn the iron on high heat. "Iron" the newspaper, sliding the iron all around in all directions on the salt. The salt will remove dirt and grime.
- Salt on aluminum foil or wax paper will loosen stuck on pieces or plastic or fabric.
- Never use steel wool pads to clean your iron!
