How to Clean an Iron: Part by Part

Keeping your iron clean is essential for effective and safe ironing. A dirty iron can transfer residue onto clothes, causing stains. It can also affect steam production and airflow. With some simple cleaning steps, you can keep your iron looking and performing like new. Here is a detailed guide on how to clean an iron, part by part.

Cleaning the Exterior

The exterior of the iron is the easiest part to clean. With the iron unplugged and completely cool, you can wipe down the outer surfaces with a soft cloth dampened with warm water. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the iron’s finish.

For stubborn buildup, use a nylon or plastic-bristle brush to gently scrub the iron’s baseplate, sides, and underside. This helps remove any hardened mineral deposits without damaging the surface.

Once scrubbed, wipe clean with a soft cloth. You can use a small amount of mild detergent for more cleaning power if needed. Take care not to get any moisture in the steam vents.

After cleaning, allow the iron’s outer housing to fully dry before plugging it back in. Proper drying prevents electrical hazards and damage to the iron.

Cleaning the Soleplate

The soleplate is the heated metal base that glides over your clothes, so dirt and residue easily build up here. For light cleaning, wipe a cool iron soleplate with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water.

For a deeper clean, liberally sprinkle the soleplate with salt. You can use standard table salt or a special iron cleaning salt. As the soleplate heats up, the salt loosens baked-on stains and residue.

With the iron heated to its maximum setting, hold it over a sink. Scrub the soleplate vigorously with a damp cloth to remove grime. Unplug the iron and allow it to fully cool. Then wipe away any remaining salt and residue.

Alternatively, you can use a hot iron cleaner foam spray. Spray it onto a cool soleplate, wait a few minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth. Avoid using this spray on a hot iron, as it can damage the metal surface.

Cleaning Steam Vents

Your iron’s steam vents allow heat and moisture to escape evenly across the soleplate. When these vents get clogged, steam production becomes limited.

To clean them, mix equal parts distilled white vinegar and water. Dip a cotton swab or toothbrush into the solution and gently scrub the steam vents to remove mineral buildup and lint.

You can also use a pin or straightened paperclip to clear any blockages. Insert it carefully into each vent, twisting gently to loosen debris.

Caution: Take care not to scratch the soleplate surface when scrubbing vents. Work over a sink in case any water drips out. Allow the iron to fully dry before using or storing.

Descaling the Water Reservoir

Hard water deposits can accumulate inside your iron over time. This limescale buildup impedes steam production and can clog internal parts.

To descale the water reservoir, fill it with equal parts distilled white vinegar and water. Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour so the acidic vinegar can dissolve mineral deposits.

Turn the iron on and allow half of the descaling solution to run through the vents. Turn off the iron and allow it to cool. Drain the remaining solution and rinse several times with fresh water.

For severe limescale, you may need to repeat this process. Running a descaling solution periodically helps keep your iron working efficiently.

Cleaning an Iron with Self-Clean Function

Many modern irons have a convenient self-clean setting. This uses the iron’s own heat to loosen and burn off mineral deposits and lint.

To use this feature:

Empty the reservoir and make sure it’s dry.
Turn the heat dial to the self-clean setting, often marked with an “S”.
Place the iron over a sink or heat-safe surface.
Allow it to cycle through the full self-clean process, usually 10-15 minutes.
Wipe away any grime using a soft, dry cloth. Allow the iron to fully cool before rinsing out the water reservoir.

Performing this simple self-cleaning routine every few months keeps your iron spotless inside and out.

Cleaning an Iron’s Exterior Surfaces

The outer surfaces of an iron can collect dust, lint, fabric fibers, and more. Give these exterior parts a periodic cleaning to maintain your iron’s appearance and function.

Always unplug the iron and allow it to fully cool first. Make sure no moisture can enter the electrical connections or vents.

Use a soft, dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the outer plastic or metal housing. This removes light dust and debris.

For more thorough cleaning, dampen the cloth with warm water and mild dish soap. Apply light pressure to scrub away any marks or stains on the iron’s sides, back, handle, and underside.

Avoid abrasive cleaning pads, as they can mar the iron’s shiny finish. Use a soft brush for textured areas like vents and dials.

Take special care when cleaning the underside of the iron so any dripping water doesn’t ruin your work surface.

Rinse with a clean damp cloth, then thoroughly dry the iron’s exterior before use. Proper cleaning leaves your iron looking like new again!

Cleaning a Steam Iron Water Tank

The water tank, or reservoir, allows an iron to generate steam. With regular use, this important part can accumulate mineral deposits that affect performance.

To clean the tank, first drain any remaining water completely. Fill the empty tank with equal parts distilled white vinegar and water. Let this cleaning solution sit for at least 15 minutes; longer is better for stubborn buildup.

Slosh the vinegar mix around before draining it out. Rinse a few times with fresh water to eliminate any vinegar smell.

For severe hard water stains, repeat this process using a longer soak time. You can also fill the tank with the vinegar solution and run it through the iron’s steam vents.

Cleaning the tank periodically this way removes limescale and debris, ensuring good steam flow.

Cleaning Inside a Steam Iron

Over time, mineral deposits from water can build up inside the inner workings of a steam iron. This accumulation affects steam production and iron performance.

To clean inside your iron, you’ll need to perform a descaling procedure. Make sure to unplug the iron first and that it’s completely cool.

Fill the water reservoir to its max line with equal parts distilled white vinegar and water. Turn the iron to its highest steam setting.

Position the iron over a sink and allow half the vinegar solution to run through the soleplate vents. Turn off the iron and allow it to fully cool.

Drain the remaining liquid from the reservoir. Rinse it several times with fresh water to eliminate any vinegar smell.

Run plain water through the iron’s steam function until any vinegar taste is gone. Wipe the iron’s exterior dry with a soft cloth.

Repeat this descaling process periodically to keep the interior clean for optimal functioning. Checking the owner’s manual for frequency recommendations.

Cleaning an Iron Soleplate

The soleplate is the hot metal base that glides over your garments during ironing. When not cleaned regularly, it can accumulate burned-on residue.

Start by wiping a cool soleplate with a soft damp cloth. For mild dirt, dip the cloth in warm sudsy water.

For built-up grime, liberally sprinkle salt onto the cool soleplate. As it heats up, the salt loosens debris for easier scrubbing.

With the heated iron over a sink, scrub vigorously with a damp cloth to remove residue. Avoid using anything abrasive that could scratch the surface.

Alternatively, apply an iron cleaner foam spray to the cool soleplate and let it sit before wiping clean. Remember to unplug and allow complete cooling first.

Regular soleplate cleaning enhances gliding, prevents residue transfer, and extends the life of your iron. Always dry thoroughly before storage.

Cleaning an Iron Body and Handle

The plastic or metal body and handle of an iron are prone to grime from your hand and storage. Follow these tips for cleaning the iron’s body and handle areas:

Always allow complete cooling and unplug the iron first.
Use a dry microfiber cloth to dust the handle and body. This removes any lint or fibers.
For a deeper clean, dampen the cloth lightly with warm water and mild soap.
Wipe away marks, smudges, and dirt buildup from the handle and sides. Avoid wetting any electrical parts.
Scrub textured areas like vents gently with a soft brush and the soapy cloth.
Rinse surfaces with a clean damp cloth and thoroughly dry.

Proper care keeps your iron’s body and handle looking their best for a long lifespan.

Cleaning an Iron Rest or Heel

Many irons have a rest or heel that allows you to safely stand them upright when heating or cooling. This part can pick up residue from ironing.

To clean the rest or heel, start by dusting it with a dry microfiber cloth. Then dampen the cloth lightly with warm, soapy water.

Gently scrub any buildup or marks off of the iron rest. Take care not to get the electrical connections or vents wet.

You can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to get into small crevices on the rest. This dissolves any hardened grease or dirt.

Rinse the area with a fresh damp cloth and thoroughly dry. Avoid immersing the rest fully in water. Regular care keeps this part dirt-free.

Cleaning Between an Iron’s Soleplate and Body

The gap between an iron’s soleplate and outer housing can accumulate dirt, starch, and burnt-on fabric residue. These particles can stain clothes you iron, so regular cleaning is key.

To clean in between the soleplate and body:

Allow the iron to fully cool first. Make sure it’s unplugged.
Use a chopstick, wooden toothpick, or plastic stirrer to gently pry up debris.
Shake out any loose particles over a garbage can. Avoid getting debris into the iron’s interior.
Use compressed air to blow out any remaining dust and fibers.
Finish by wiping with a dry microfiber cloth.

Be very gentle when cleaning between the soleplate and housing. Rough scrubbing can damage the iron. Thorough cleaning here prevents stain transfer to your clean clothes!

Storing an Iron Properly

Proper storage keeps a clean iron protected when not in use:

Completely dry the soleplate, body, and other surfaces. Moisture breeds rust and damage.
Use a protective iron rest or stand so the hot soleplate doesn’t contact surfaces directly.
Allow the iron to fully cool before storage.
Cover the iron with a vented garment bag or towel to minimize dust.
Store the iron on its heel in an upright position. This takes weight off the soleplate.
Avoid tightly closing the iron in a cabinet right after use. Allow moisture to dissipate first.
Check that the reservoir is empty before storage to prevent algae or odors.

Proper iron storage between uses prevents damage and keeps it ready for its next job.

Cleaning Iron Pads and Covers

Many irons come with additional pads or covers that require periodic cleaning:

Teflon/Non-stick Pads: Hand wash gently with warm, soapy water. Avoid abrasives that could scratch the coating.
Steam Iron Pads: Machine or hand wash delicate cycle with mild detergent. Allow to fully dry before reattaching to the iron.
Travel Covers: Wipe down with a cloth dampened with warm, soapy water. Allow to fully dry open before storage.

Check product care instructions, as some pads and covers may be dry clean only. Proper cleaning keeps accessories looking fresh and working efficiently.

Cleaning Ironing Board Covers

Along with your iron, don’t neglect to regularly clean your ironing board’s fabric cover:

Once cool, use a dry brush or cloth to remove any fabric fuzz or lint after ironing.
Machine or hand wash the cover occasionally with cool water and mild detergent.
If needed, use an iron cleaner spray foam before washing to dissolve any residue.
Air dry ironing board covers fully before reattaching to the board.

Proper care and cleaning make ironing board covers last, keeping your workspace looking tidy.

How Often To Clean an Iron

Consistent iron cleaning is the key to sparkling results and preventing damage:

Wipe outer surfaces with a warm, damp cloth after every use. Allow iron to fully cool first.
Perform a water descaling every 2-3 months to keep steam vents clear.
Use a cleaning salt scrub on the soleplate every couple months to prevent residue buildup.
Deep clean vents and crevices with cotton swabs or pipe cleaners quarterly.
Replace any protective pads or covers that become overly soiled or scratched.
Periodically check owner’s manual for other suggested maintenance.

Following these cleaning tips ensures your iron continues providing beautiful, wrinkle-free results!

Troubleshooting Iron Cleaning Issues

Some common iron cleaning challenges and remedies include:

Rust spots on soleplate: Sprinkle plate with salt and heat to loosen. Scrub vigorously with steel wool and rinse. Avoid steel wool over any coatings.

White film on clothes: Hard water residue in steam vents. Descale iron and rinse well until clear steam releases.

Little or no steam: Mineral deposits are blocking steam vents. Clean vents with pipe cleaners and vinegar. Descale iron.

Dark streaks on fabric: Residual dirt or starch buildup on soleplate. Clean plate thoroughly with hot iron cleaner foam and a soft brush.

Fabric yellowing: Excessive heat from a dirty soleplate. Replace any damaged protective pads/covers. Clean plate and ensure proper settings.

Thorough cleaning and periodically replacing filters or gaskets can resolve many iron cleaning issues for smooth gliding and great results.

Iron Cleaning Tips

Keep your iron in tip-top shape with these helpful care and cleaning pointers:

Always read manufacturer instructions for proper maintenance recommendations.
Allow an iron to fully cool and unplug it before any cleaning.
Use distilled or filtered water to prevent mineral buildup inside the iron over time.
Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives that could scratch surfaces.
Wipe the hot soleplate frequently on a damp cloth for instant cleaning while ironing.
Clean vents regularly with pipe cleaners to maintain steam flow.
Periodically descale iron interior and reservoir with vinegar to prevent limescale.
Let irons dry fully open before storage to prevent moisture damage.
Cover the iron with a towel or vented bag to limit dust accumulation between uses.

A clean, well-maintained iron glides beautifully for professional, wrinkle-blazing results!

Storing an Iron: Dos and Don’ts

Proper iron storage between uses helps prevent damage and keep it ready for its next job. Follow these dos and don’ts:

DO:

Completely dry the soleplate, body, and other surfaces.
Use a protective iron rest or stand.
Allow the iron to fully cool before storage.
Cover the iron with a vented garment bag or towel.
Store upright on its heel.

DON’T:

Leave water in the reservoir during storage.
Seal the iron tightly in an enclosed cabinet immediately after use.
Allow soleplate to directly contact storage surfaces while still hot.
Store iron resting on its soleplate, which can cause flattening or scratches.

Proper precautions keep your iron safely protected and ready to provide wrinkle-free results each time you iron!

FAQs About Cleaning an Iron

How do you clean the bottom of an iron?

To clean an iron’s soleplate, first wipe it with a damp cloth and mild detergent. For tough residue, sprinkle generously with salt and heat the iron, then scrub vigorously over a sink. Always allow complete cooling first.

What removes burnt on stains from an iron?

Liberally coating a cool iron soleplate with salt, then heating and scrubbing removes stubborn debris. An alternate method is applying a hot iron cleaner foam, letting it sit, then wiping away grime. Avoid abrasives that could scratch the plate.

What is the white stuff that comes out of my iron?

White deposits that come from your iron’s steam vents are mineral deposits from hard water. Regularly descaling the iron with vinegar removes this buildup and maintains good steam flow.

How do you clean steam holes in an iron?

Use a stiff brush, toothpick or straightened paper clip to clear blockages in steam holes or vents. Soak a cotton swab in vinegar and gently scrub vents to remove any mineral deposits that may be obstructing steam.

What can I use to clean my iron?

Good iron cleaning solutions include warm, soapy water, distilled white vinegar, salt, cotton swabs, microfiber cloths, a nylon brush, and iron descaling solutions. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. Always read manufacturer guidance.

How do you clean an old steam iron?

Follow typical iron cleaning steps but take extra care with vintage or antique models. Avoid soaking base in water. Use gentle, low-pressure scrubbing and mild detergent to clean plate. Test descaling solutions first on inconspicuous area before applying to surface.

Can I put my iron in water to clean it?

Never fully immerse an iron in water, as this poses an electrocution risk even when unplugged. It can also damage the electrical components. Gently wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth instead. Use descaling methods for interior cleaning.

How do I maintain my iron?

Routinely wipe outer surfaces clean after use. Descale interior