A dirty iron can leave rust and water marks on your freshly washed clothes. Here’s how to clean your iron to keep it working well and your clothes looking great.
Have you ever carefully ironed a white shirt only for your iron to leave rusty water marks on it? It can be so annoying as you have to start the washing process all over again! If this is happening to you, your iron needs a good clean to unclog the steam vents.
The best way to get your iron clean and functioning well again, is to start by unplugging it and making sure it is completely cool. Check to manual to ensure it’s ok to use vinegar on your iron, then follow the steps below!
Cleaning Kit
- Kat’s Cleaning Spray
- Cleaning cloths
- Dishwashing liquid
- White vinegar
- Mini brush or cotton tip
Steps to Clean the Iron
- Spray cleaning spray onto a cloth and wipe over the iron and soleplate. Alternatively, fill a bowl with a warm water and add a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Dip a cloth into the water, then wring out and use to wipe over your iron and soleplate. Wipe with a dry cleaning cloth to remove any water.
- To clean the water reservoir and steam vents, empty water from the iron’s reservoir. Refill with 1/2 cup vinegar. Stand iron upright on a bench or ironing board with a towel beneath to collect any dirt. Turn iron on, put setting onto high heat and full steam. Let your iron heat for 5 minutes or until water and vinegar evaporate.
- Refill the reservoir with water. Press the steam button and hold for 20 seconds or until the steam flows well. then repeat five times to release dirt and clear the vents. Iron an old rag or tea towel to help remove any debris (better on that than clean clothes!)
Kat’s tip
For stubborn stains and build-up on an iron soleplate with a non-stick coating, make a paste using 1/4 cup bicarb soda and 1 tablespoon white vinegar. Rub onto the areas with a cloth to pick up the stains. Rinse with a slightly damp cloth.
One of my children put a pen in the washing machine on the second week of school this year – with all the new school uniforms! I wasn’t impressed. I was told to use Isycol, but at the time it could not be found on any shop shelves. Continue Reading…
