Always empty out the iron’s water cavity right after each use. The remaining heat will dry the cavity and prevent rust, which can permanently stain clothing. This also helps prevent the buildup of lime or calcium deposits inside the iron, which can be a big problem for those who live in hard-water areas. You may wish to consider using only distilled water.

 

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Clogged steam vents on the soleplate of the iron can be cleaned. Fill the water cavity with a solution of three parts water and one part white vinegar, place the iron flat on a steel-mesh or other free-breathing, suitable surface and turn the temperature control to its highest setting. Let the iron steam until the solution is gone. Be prepared to move the iron slightly every so often if your model has a safety shutoff that detects lack of motion when the iron is flat on a surface. In any case, a hot, plugged-in iron should never be left unattended.

Clean any melted synthetic fabric from no-stick soleplates by warming the iron at a medium setting, unplugging the iron and scraping away stuck-on fabric with a wooden stick. Don’t use metal tools, which will scratch the soleplate surface and lead to snags. Also avoid using any plastic implement not rated for high temperatures.

 

 

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Jeff Bredenberg, editor, in Clean It Fast, Clean It Right: The Ultimate Guide to Making Everything You Own Sparkle & Shine.