How to clean soot on the iron: 5 miracle methods

If the iron is left on the fabric or a dirty surface too long, it can build up carbon deposits that can damage your clothes as you iron them. Cleaning this carbon is quite a challenge, as it is formed by temperature and therefore adheres to the surface very firmly. It's not a good idea to scrub it off with an abrasive, as this can damage the iron's soleplate. And this is not the only situation when the iron needs cleaning.

However, there are several home remedies that can help clean the appliance. Sante Plus has collected several options.

When to clean the iron

There are several clear signs that indicate that it is time to clean the appliance from soot or scale. An approximate list is as follows:

• lime streaks remain on the clothes when ironing;
• the iron leaves sticky marks;
• the soleplate slip has worsened;
• dark spots appear on the clothes after ironing.

All of this can lead to irreversible damage to thin and delicate fabrics, which often need to be smoothed at high temperatures. Let's talk about home remedies that can help with this.

White vinegar

This product will better cope with the limescale that occurs due to the use of the steaming mode. Dilute the vinegar in equal parts with water and pour it into the iron's reservoir so that it is one third full.

Then switch the iron on to the steam mode and leave it on for 5-10 minutes until the vinegar mixture has evaporated. After that, the reservoir needs to be filled again, but this time with soft water - preferably distilled or specially purified water for ironing. The filled iron is switched to the steaming mode once again to remove any remaining mineral deposits.

However, to use this method, you need to read the instructions for the appliance in advance. Not all manufacturers allow the use of vinegar for cleaning.

Baking soda

This product is good for removing dirt on the sole of the iron. To prepare a cleaning paste, mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 tablespoon of water. Apply the resulting substance to the soleplate of the iron and work it with a soft brush, such as an old toothbrush. The procedure can be repeated if necessary. After that, wash off the remaining soda with a little water and wipe the sole dry.

Newspaper and salt

Ordinary table salt can make your iron shine. However, it is better to use finely ground or extra salt. To use this method, lay newspaper on the ironing board and sprinkle it with salt. Set the iron to the maximum temperature and move it in a circular motion over the layer of salt. Then let the appliance cool down, wipe off any residual product and dirt from the sole with a damp cloth and polish it with a dry towel.

Toothpaste

This cosmetic product has an abrasive structure, but it is delicate enough not to damage your teeth, so it will be safe for the iron. The main condition is to take only white toothpaste. Coloured brands can leave marks on the sole. Also avoid toothpaste in the form of a gel.

Apply the product on a completely cold, switched off iron. Rub the sole with a soft brush (you can use an old toothbrush) and leave it on for a few minutes. Gently remove the remaining paste from the surface with a damp sponge until the sole is clean. After that, the iron is wiped dry and the device is ready for use again.

Nail polish remover

This nail polish remover will also remove dirt from the soleplate of the iron. And you don't have to make any effort to clean it. Soak a cotton pad in nail polish remover and wipe the warm iron with it. A liquid containing acetone is best. This solvent will easily remove dirt.

Earlier, OBOZREVATEL told how to clean the burners of a gas stove.

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