How to

Tips for Cleaning a Steam Iron Thoroughly and Safely

Are your clothes suffering from yellowing due to the residue in your steam iron? Follow these tips for how to clean your appliance and prevent further damage.

Administrator

22 August, 2023

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Over time, a steam iron can become clogged with deposits, resulting in blocked air vents. In order to clean a steam iron effectively without causing damage, it is important to follow the right steps.

1How Often Should You Clean a Steam Iron?

How often should you clean a steam iron?

To prevent stains on clothes and ensure optimal performance and longevity of the iron, it is recommended to clean the iron at least once a month, ideally once a week.

To properly clean a steam iron, follow these steps:

Step 1 Dilute and mix water thoroughly to create a foam.

Step 2 Soak a soft cloth in the solution and wipe the surface of the iron. Use a pipe cleaner for the air vents for easier cleaning.

Step 3 Rinse the iron with clean water.

Step 4 Fill the water tank with clean water, stand the iron upright, and set the temperature to the highest level.

Step 5 Dry and wait for the iron to completely dry.

2Methods to Clean a Steam Iron

Dishwashing Liquid

Dishwashing liquid

Aside from its use in cleaning kitchen utensils, dishwashing liquid can effectively clean an iron. Dilute it with warm water, create foam, and use a cloth soaked in the solution to wipe the iron’s surface. Finally, wipe it clean and wait for the iron to dry completely.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is known for its ability to clean even stubborn stains. Create a mixture of baking soda and water in a 1:1 ratio to form a paste. Apply the paste to a soft cloth and use it to wipe the iron’s surface. Clean the steam vents by using the steam function and wipe off any remaining mixture. Finally, wipe the surface of the iron clean.

Lemon Juice Solution

A combination of lemon juice and salt can also be used to clean a steam iron. Mix lemon juice (or vinegar) and salt in a 1:1 ratio, then boil the mixture until the salt dissolves. Once cooled, soak a cloth in the solution and use it to rub the iron’s surface. Use a cotton swab to remove burnt residues. Finally, wipe the surface of the iron with a soft cloth soaked in vinegar and wait for it to dry.

Specialized Iron Cleaner

If you have a specialized cleaner for steam irons, it is recommended to use it. Dampen a cloth with an appropriate amount of the cleaner and place the iron on the cloth so that the cleaner evenly covers the soleplate. Unplug the iron, allow the soleplate to cool down, and wipe it with a damp cloth. Finally, wait for the iron to dry before using.

3Some Tips for Cleaning a Steam Iron

Some tips for cleaning a steam iron

Use clean, purified water when using a steam iron to minimize the risk of clogging and blockage of the water vents.

Pour out any excess water after use. While vertical steam irons can retain some water in the reservoir for up to a week, it is best to empty the excess water.

Regularly clean the water tank, soleplate, and other parts to prolong the life of the iron. If your steam iron has a self-cleaning and anti-calc function, make use of it to save time and effort.

When adding water to the iron, do it slowly to avoid exceeding the allowed water level, which can lead to short circuits and fires.