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

Instructions:

1. Turn Off the Iron and Unplug It: Safety first! Make sure your iron is cool and unplugged before you start cleaning. Wait for a few minutes if it was recently used.
2. Make a Baking Soda Paste: In a small bowl, mix about two tablespoons of baking soda with one tablespoon of water to create a thick paste. The paste should be easy to spread but not too runny.
3. Apply the Paste to the Soleplate: Using your finger, a cloth, or a cotton swab, gently apply the baking soda paste to the soleplate of the iron, especially the areas that look dirty or have built-up residue. You can also use a soft cloth to spread the paste evenly over the surface. If there’s any stubborn gunk, you can gently scrub it with an old toothbrush.
4. Wipe the Paste Off: After about 30 seconds, use a clean, damp cloth to wipe away the baking soda paste. Make sure to wipe the soleplate thoroughly to remove all residue. You’ll notice that most of the grime and built-up stains should come off easily with this simple step.
5. Clean the Steam Vents: If the steam vents are clogged with mineral deposits, dip a cotton swab into a little water and gently clean out the vents. You can also dip the swab into the baking soda paste for tougher build-ups. This should help clear out any blockages and allow steam to flow freely again.
6. Final Wipe-Down: Once you’ve cleaned the soleplate and steam vents, wipe down the entire iron with a clean damp cloth. If necessary, use a dry towel to buff the iron to a nice shine.
7. Test It Out: Plug the iron back in, set it to a low heat, and test it on a clean fabric. If it glides smoothly and doesn’t leave any marks, you’re all set!

Additional Tips for a Cleaner Iron

While cleaning your iron in 30 seconds is incredibly effective, here are a few additional tips to keep it in top shape:

• Use Distilled Water: If you use your iron’s steam function frequently, using distilled water can help prevent mineral build-up from tap water, especially if you live in an area with hard water.
• Deep Cleaning with Vinegar: If your iron is heavily soiled or you’re dealing with tough mineral deposits, you can fill the water reservoir with a 1:1 solution of distilled white vinegar and water. Set the iron on steam and let it steam for a few minutes to clean out any internal build-up. Afterward, run a water-only cycle to flush out the vinegar.
• Check for Residue: After cleaning the iron, check the soleplate to ensure there is no leftover residue from the paste or other cleaning materials. Always wipe it down thoroughly before putting the iron back in storage.
• Store Your Iron Properly: To prevent future buildup, always empty the water reservoir after using the steam function and store your iron in an upright position to avoid water leaks and residue accumulation.

Preventing Future Build-Up

While a quick clean every now and then will keep your iron looking its best, you can take steps to prevent build-up in the future:

1. Use a Pressing Cloth: When ironing delicate fabrics or clothing with heavy starch, use a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric to prevent starch or fabric fibers from transferring to the soleplate.
2. Clean Your Iron Regularly: It only takes 30 seconds to clean your iron, so make it a habit to clean it every few weeks to prevent any serious build-up from occurring.
3. Empty the Water Reservoir: After every use, empty any water remaining in the reservoir to prevent mineral deposits from building up.
4. Avoid Using Too Much Starch: Excess starch can leave a sticky residue on the soleplate, making it harder to clean. Use starch sparingly, and be sure to wipe down your iron after each use.

Conclusion

Cleaning your iron doesn’t have to be a chore that takes up your entire afternoon. With just 30 seconds and a few common household ingredients like baking soda and water, you can keep your iron in perfect working condition and ensure it glides smoothly over your clothes without leaving stains or residue behind. Not only will a clean iron improve your pressing results, but it will also help extend the life of your appliance. So, the next time your iron starts leaving marks or struggling to steam, try this quick and easy cleaning method—it’s a game changer!

Now you can keep your iron looking shiny, new, and working like a charm with minimal effort!