Cleaning your iron: it only takes 30 seconds. Find out how

1. Turn off the Iron and Let It Cool
   Safety first! Always unplug the iron and allow it to cool down before cleaning. Once cool, ensure there is no water left in the iron’s water reservoir (if it has one).
2. Clean the Soleplate with Baking Soda
   • Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to form a paste. Aim for a consistency that is thick enough to stick to the surface but not too runny.
   • Using a damp cloth or a sponge, apply the baking soda paste to the soleplate of the iron. Gently rub the paste over any build-up or stains on the soleplate.
   • The abrasiveness of the baking soda will lift away dirt, residue, and any scorched fabric.
   Pro Tip: Be gentle while scrubbing to avoid scratching the soleplate.
3. Clean the Steam Holes
   • The steam holes can often get clogged with mineral deposits, especially if you’ve been using hard water in your iron. To clean them, dip a cotton swab into a small amount of white vinegar and gently swipe it across the holes.
   • For tougher mineral buildup, pour a bit of vinegar into the iron’s water reservoir, turn the iron on, and let it steam for a few seconds. The vinegar will help dissolve any deposits inside.
4. Wipe It All Off
   Once you’ve cleaned the surface and the steam holes, grab a clean, damp cloth to wipe away any excess baking soda, vinegar, or grime from the soleplate. This will ensure that no residue is left behind.
5. Dry and Polish the Soleplate
   After cleaning, you can use a dry cloth or towel to wipe the soleplate dry and buff it slightly to restore its shine.

Quick Fix for a Dirty Iron Using Only Water

If your iron has minor residue or if you’re in a hurry, you can also do a quick clean using water alone:

1. Fill the Water Reservoir: Pour distilled water into the iron’s water reservoir (use distilled to avoid mineral buildup).
2. Turn on the Iron: Set it to a high heat setting and let the steam function run for a minute.
3. Steam Clean: Hold the iron over the sink or an old towel and press the steam button. The heat and steam will release some of the dirt, grime, and mineral buildup in the holes.
4. Wipe It Clean: After steaming, wipe the soleplate with a damp cloth to remove any remaining residues.

Tips for Preventing Future Iron Build-Up

To keep your iron in tip-top shape and reduce the need for frequent cleaning, here are some preventative measures:

• Use Distilled Water: If your iron has a steam function, always use distilled water instead of tap water. Tap water can contain minerals that build up inside the iron over time.
• Empty the Water Reservoir: After each use, empty the water tank to prevent water from sitting and causing mineral deposits.
• Store Your Iron Upright: When not in use, store your iron in an upright position to avoid any potential leaks or build-up.
• Clean Regularly: Make it a habit to clean your iron every few weeks, especially if you use it often. A quick wipe after each use will help keep the soleplate in good condition.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your iron doesn’t need to be a time-consuming or difficult task. In just 30 seconds, you can restore your iron to its optimal performance, ensuring that it continues to help you keep your clothes looking neat and fresh. With a little maintenance and care, your iron can serve you well for years to come.

Remember, a clean iron is a happy iron, and with these simple steps, you’ll be able to handle any wrinkles that come your way. Keep your iron in great shape with regular cleaning, and you’ll always have a trusty tool to help you achieve perfectly pressed clothes!