How to Clean the Iron : When the iron has some glob or stain, it can ruin our clothes. How to clean it to extend its useful life and prevent problems.
As we use it and over time, the iron can deteriorate. It is one of the most used electrical appliances in homes, and it must work correctly so as not to ruin our clothes.
It can happen when there is some remaining fabric attached or when it has a stain. Luckily, there are a few straightforward home solutions to prevent problems. We share some tips on how to clean your iron and make it like new.
How to Clean the Iron
Table of Contents
Types of the Clothes Iron
Before learning how to clean the clothes iron, you must first know what type of appliance we have at home because we must apply a different recipe for each one. In general, the models are:
- Steam iron.
- Teflon-based iron.
- Ceramic base plate.
- Plate without a coated base.
How to Clean the Steam Iron
These irons have many small holes in their base, which allow the necessary steam to escape to achieve perfect ironing.
The problem is that they tend to become clogged or dirty, accumulating scale and dirt. How to clean them? Dish detergent is a great solution:
Dip a cotton swab in an emulsion of detergent and warm water and run it through each hole in the base. If necessary, repeat the process and then wipe with a damp cloth with water. Dry it well to finish.
VIDEO: How to Clean a Dirty Iron
How to Clean a Teflon Plate
Teflon-coated plates are the most used since the base is non-stick. However, this does not guarantee that they will not get dirty or burn a bit.
Liquid laundry soap is a perfect resource to make your clothes look new.
The goal is to clean the iron without scratching the base to prevent it from losing its non-stick properties. To do this:
- Prepare an emulsion with warm water and a small measure of liquid laundry soap.
- Wet a cloth with the preparation and wipe the base of the iron.
- Rinse with a damp cloth and dry well. You will see that it is ready to use.
How to Clean a Ceramic Plate
It is not difficult at all. Also, in this case, you can resort to elements that are in all houses. It’s just a matter of learning what they are and how to use them.
Take note:
With Salt
I turned on the iron to get it hot. Meanwhile, put a thick, clean cloth on the table and spread a thick layer of salt on it.
When the iron is hot, rub it over the salt in dragging movements until the stains disappear. When the iron is cool, wipe it with a damp cloth to remove any salt and dirt.
With White Vinegar
This recipe is indicated for more stubborn stains. Heat a little white vinegar, wet cloth, and wipe it over the iron base, rubbing hard until you see that they disappear.
If they still don’t come out, you can add a teaspoon of baking soda. When the iron is clean, wipe it with a cloth dampened in water and dry it well before using it again.
To Clean a Burned Iron
If you had an accident and the iron got burned, don’t worry. These are the options you have to clean it and make it like new.
With Candle
This trick is a bit more complex, but it is very effective. First, heat the iron and rub a candle against the base so that the melted wax sticks to it.
Next, remove the candle remnants with a thick, damp cloth, passing several times if necessary. When you remove the wax, the dirt will disappear from the base.
With Toothpaste
Another simple trick to clean your burned iron: rub the iron base – hot but unplugged – a layer of toothpaste. Rub well with a damp cloth until all the plaster is removed and, with it, the remains of dirt.
Then I turned on the steam function and let the remains of pasta that may have remained in the holes come out during this process. Finally, I cleaned the iron again with a damp cloth.
How to Clean an Iron without a Coated Base
In this case, it is essential to be careful not to damage it with abrasive products. This is the best resource:
With Metal Polisher
Remember that this option only works for plates that do not have a coated base. It’s super simple: rub a cloth soaked in the polish until the stains come out and it’s flawless.
Don’t forget to finish wiping with a cloth dipped in warm water.
Some Data that is Good to Note
As with many appliances, it is essential to take some care:
- When cleaning an iron, please put it on heat but be sure to unplug it when cleaning. Never do it if it’s plugged in.
- When you stop using it, please wait for it to cool down before winding the cord and putting it away.
- If your iron is steam, empty the water tank before storing it.
- If, by accident, you burn a garment, quickly remove the remains of fabric adhered to the iron and clean it following the advice we gave you.
With these tips, you will be able to extend the life of your iron and make sure that your clothes always look neat and like they just came out of the dry cleaner.