Is the steam setting on your iron blocked?
Or, does it cause water to spurt out?
Your iron is likely overdue for a refresh.
Credit:Jacob Fox
So, here’s how to clean an iron plate withnatural, readily available ingredients.
Prep the Soleplate
The metal base of an iron is called a soleplate.
If your soleplate is caked with gunk, scrub it with an old toothbrush to loosen and remove residue.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Skip any harsh chemicals and put a few drops of liquid dish detergent into a bowl of warm water.
Mix until suds appear.
Use a paper towel or a soft rag dipped in the sudsy water to wipe away residue.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Wipe away any remaining suds or moisture with a clean towel.
Dampen a paper towel or soft rag withdistilled white vinegar, and wipe the soleplate to remove the gunk.
Wipe away the remainder with a clean towel.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Buff the soleplate clean.
Wipe clean with a damp rag or paper towel.
Set the iron on high heat and full steam and stand it upright.
Credit:Jacob Fox
(Some irons have a “steam clean” setting.)
Let your iron set, allowing it to emit steam and flush the vents.
you could also iron an old towel for several minutes so steam flushes the debris onto the towel.
Credit:Jacob Fox
Remove Deposits from Vents
Once cool, empty any remaining water from the reservoir.
If needed, use a cotton swab or toothbrush to gently dislodge deposits from the steam vents.
Avoid putting vinegar in the water reservoir.
Before you store your iron, unplug it and allow it to cool completely.
Store your iron upright on its heel rest (not on its soleplate).
