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Introduction
Over time, even the best irons can accumulate grime, mineral deposits, and scorch marks that hinder their performance. A dirty iron not only affects the appearance of your clothing but can also damage delicate fabrics. Thankfully, you don't need fancy gadgets to clean your iron — just some common household items and a laundromat-inspired method. In this guide, we'll show you how to clean your iron thoroughly, leaving it as good as new.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons of baking soda
1 teaspoon of salt
White vinegar (1/4 cup)
A soft cloth or sponge
An old toothbrush
Distilled water (for rinsing)
A clean microfiber cloth
Paper towels
Optional: Lemon juice (1 tablespoon)
Directions
Unplug and Cool Down
Ensure your iron is unplugged and completely cooled before starting the cleaning process. Safety first!
Create the Cleaning Mixture
In a small bowl, mix baking soda and salt. Add enough white vinegar to create a thick paste. This mixture acts as a gentle abrasive to remove stubborn stains and mineral deposits.
Clean the Soleplate
Apply the paste to the iron's soleplate using a soft cloth or sponge.
Gently scrub in circular motions to loosen any grime, paying extra attention to scorch marks or residue.
Use an old toothbrush to clean the steam vents and hard-to-reach areas.
Rinse and Wipe
Dampen a paper towel or cloth with distilled water to remove the paste residue.
Wipe the soleplate until it’s clean and shiny.
Descale the Steam Vents
Mix equal parts of vinegar and distilled water.
Fill the iron’s water reservoir with this solution. Turn the iron on and set it to steam.
Allow the steam to run for a few minutes to clear mineral deposits.
Final Rinse
Empty the reservoir and refill it with distilled water. Repeat the steaming process to ensure no vinegar remains in the system.
Polish and Dry
Use a clean microfiber cloth to dry the iron and give it a final polish.
Ensure the iron is completely dry before storing it.
Serving and Storage Tips
Always empty the water reservoir after use to prevent mineral buildup.
Store your iron in a cool, dry place with the soleplate facing upward to avoid scratching.
Regular maintenance can prolong the life of your iron and improve its performance.
Variations
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