Dirty iron: the dry cleaner’s method to clean it thoroughly and make it as good as new

With frequent use, the clothes iron accumulates fabric residue, products, burns or even scale from the water, which ends up affecting not only its effectiveness, but also the appearance of the garments we are trying to straighten. Has it ever happened to you that you iron a white shirt and a brown stain appears?

That’s a sign that your iron needs urgent cleaning. Fortunately, dry cleaning professionals have an effective method to make it look like new… And today we tell you about it.

Why do irons get so dirty?

Irons get dirty for several reasons, and they all have to do with their daily use:

• Using high temperatures with unsuitable fabrics: When ironing synthetic or delicate materials in high heat, they melt and stick to the base of the iron.
• Starch or textile buildup: Many use sprays to make ironing easier, but these leave behind sticky residue that chars over time.
• Tap water: Using unfiltered water can cause scale to build up in the steam tank, causing stains and preventing proper operation.
• Lack of regular cleaning: Like any appliance, the iron needs maintenance.

A dirty iron is not only inefficient, but it can damage your clothes irreversibly. Therefore, cleaning it is not a luxury, it is a necessity!

Effective methods for cleaning irons (the secret of dry cleaning)

1. The coarse salt and parchment paper trick

Ideal for: removing residues stuck to the base.

How to do it:

• Turn the iron on high (without steam).
• Place a sheet of parchment paper on the board and sprinkle coarse salt.
• Smooth the iron over the salt in gentle motions for 1 to 2 minutes.
• The friction will remove the embedded residue.

2. White vinegar and baking soda

Ideal for: cleaning both the base and the internal tank.

How to do it:

• Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with white vinegar until it forms a paste.
• Apply it to the cool base of the iron with a soft cloth.
• Rub in circular motions and wipe with a damp cloth.

For the steam tank:

• Fill the reservoir with a mixture of 1 part vinegar and 1 part distilled water.
• Turn on the iron and activate the steam for a few minutes.
• Then, empty and fill with clean water to rinse.

3. Swabs and vinegar for steam holes

Ideal for: cleaning clogged nozzles.

How to do it:

• With the iron unplugged and cold, moisten a cotton swab in white vinegar.
• Insert it into each steam hole carefully to remove mineral residue.

Additional tips:

• Always use distilled or filtered water to prevent scale buildup.
• Do not scrape the base with metal objects, as this could damage the nonstick coating.
• Clean your iron every 15 to 30 days if you use it frequently.
• Store it completely dry, especially if it has a water tank.
• Avoid the use of abrasive products or industrial degreasers, which can deteriorate the material.

Keeping your iron clean not only prolongs its lifespan, but also guarantees you a more effective and accident-free ironing. With these professional and easy methods, you’ll leave it looking like new… and your clothes will thank you too!