How to Clean an Iron

Over time, the reservoir for the water and the bottom of the iron gets covered with scale. Most manufacturers recommend descaling irons every 1-4 months depending on how often you use them. This will make them slide perfectly and prevent any problems, like causing stains while ironing.

5-Minute Crafts offers simple ways to descale your iron. You’ll need materials and tools you can easily find at home, like a kitchen sponge, detergent, an old toothbrush, baking soda, and vinegar.

1. Sponge and detergent

New dirt can easily be removed with a regular sponge and the detergent you use for your dishes.

• Put a few drops of detergent on the bottom of the iron.
• Create some foam with the soft side of the sponge.
• Wipe the surface for a minute.
• Remove the foam and wipe the bottom with a towel.

2. Baking soda paste

For older dirt, you’ll need baking soda paste.

• Mix 2 tbsp of baking soda and 1 tbsp of water.
• Wipe the bottom of the iron with the paste using an old toothbrush.
• Try to avoid getting the soda into the steam holes.
• Remove the paste and wipe the surface with a towel.

3. Vinegar

If you need to clean the water reservoir and remove the scale, you’ll need vinegar.

• Mix 2 tbsp of vinegar and 2 tbsp of water.
• Open the reservoir and pour the mixture inside.
• Turn on the iron and set it to the highest temperature.
• Take an old rag you don’t need or an old sheet and iron it. The scale will come out, along with the vinegar, through the steam holes.