Removing stains from iron metal depends on the type of iron object and the nature of the stain. However, for an electric iron's soleplate, a common method involves using a cleaning paste followed by steaming.
Cleaning the soleplate of your electric iron is crucial for smooth gliding and effective wrinkle removal. Stains like scorched fabric or mineral deposits can build up and transfer onto clothes. The method described below, drawn from cleaning tips for irons, outlines a process using a cleaning paste and steam.
Step-by-Step Cleaning Method
This process typically begins with applying a specialized cleaning paste designed for iron soleplates. Once the paste has worked on the stain, follow these steps:
- Wipe Clean: After applying the paste, wipe the iron clean with a damp cloth. This removes the paste residue and loosened stains from the soleplate surface.
- Heat and Steam: Then turn the iron back on fill it with distilled water and select the steam setting. Heating the iron allows the steam function to work effectively. Using distilled water helps prevent future mineral buildup.
- Steam Out Vents: Finish the process by running the iron over a thick towel. Activating the steam function while doing this helps clear any remaining residue or mineral deposits from the steam vents, ensuring optimal steam performance.
Here is a summary of the follow-up steps after applying a cleaning paste:
| Action | Purpose | Key Tool/Setting |
|---|---|---|
| Wipe with damp cloth | Remove paste and loosened stains | Damp cloth |
| Turn iron back on | Prepare for steaming | Power On |
| Fill with water | Enable steam function | Distilled water |
| Select steam setting | Prepare for steam release | Steam Setting |
| Run over thick towel | Clear steam vents, final residue removal | Thick towel, Steaming |
This specific method is effective for removing typical soleplate stains and ensuring the iron's steam vents are clear. For other types of iron metal objects and different stain types (like rust on cast iron), different cleaning approaches may be necessary.
