A contaminated iron plate can be frustrating, whether it's from burned fabric debris or mineral deposits from hard water. A dirty iron plate increases the risk of staining or burning garments. Here are the most effective methods to quickly and easily clean your household iron using environmentally friendly and readily available materials.
Clean Iron with Baking Soda Paste
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons of baking soda
A small amount of water
Instructions:
Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to form a paste.
Apply the paste to the iron's soleplate.
Use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the soleplate.
Wipe off the paste with a damp cloth.
Ensure the iron is completely dry before use.
Vinegar and Salt Solution
Ingredients:
1 part white vinegar
1 part salt
Instructions:
Heat the vinegar and salt in a pan until the salt dissolves (do not boil).
Let the solution cool slightly.
Dip a cloth in the solution and scrub the iron’s soleplate.
Wipe the soleplate with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Dry the soleplate thoroughly before using the iron.
Toothpaste
Instructions:
Apply a small amount of non-gel toothpaste to the cool iron’s soleplate.
Use a soft cloth or sponge to rub the toothpaste in circular motions.
Wipe off the toothpaste with a damp cloth.
Make sure the soleplate is completely dry before use.
Newspaper and Salt
Instructions:
Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on a piece of newspaper.
Heat the iron to its highest setting (make sure the steam function is off).
Iron over the salted newspaper to remove any residue.
Let the iron cool, then wipe the soleplate with a damp cloth.
Lemon Juice and Baking Soda
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
2 tablespoons of baking soda
Instructions:
Mix lemon juice and baking soda to form a paste.
Apply the paste to the iron’s soleplate.
Use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub the soleplate.
Wipe off the paste with a damp cloth.
Ensure the soleplate is dry before using the iron.
Iron Cleaning Stick
Instructions:
Use a commercially available iron cleaning stick as per the product instructions.
Typically, you heat the iron and rub the stick on the soleplate.
Wipe away any residue with a clean cloth.
Additional Tips:
Preventive Maintenance: Regularly clean your iron’s water reservoir with a 50/50 solution of water and white vinegar to prevent mineral build-up.
Iron on a Clean Surface: Always use a clean ironing board cover and keep your ironing area clean to avoid transferring dirt to the iron’s soleplate.
Check Fabrics: Ensure the fabrics you iron are free from dirt and debris that could stick to the iron.
By using these kitchen tricks and natural materials, you can keep your iron clean and extend its lifespan while protecting your garments from stains and burns.
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