How Can You Get Black Marks Off an Iron

Written by Tenley Haraldson

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Whether you're noticing funky burnt smells or steam is barely coming out, there are a number of reasons as to why your iron isn't functioning well.

Not to worry: Our expert cleaning tips will walk you through how to clean an iron plate, remove scorch marks, and even clean out the water reservoir.

Why Is My Iron Leaving Brown Marks?

Residue from synthetic fabrics and starch products are known to build up on iron soleplates (aka the metal part that heats up). If you live in an area with hard water and regularly use the iron's steam feature, those minerals can build up on the soleplate and inside the steam holes.

When this residue isn't cleaned, irons work less effectively. This can lead to burnt smells, snagging delicate materials, uneven steam production, and burn marks staining your clothes. The most worrisome issue is residue-covered irons leading to fires.

How to Clean an Iron Plate

There are plenty of scorched iron tips and tricks. Most are quick methods that require a few ingredients and tools that you probably have at your house. If the remedy you've chosen doesn't remove product buildup, don't panic: Different methods work better on different types of residue, so try another option until you see results.

Whatever method you choose, you should start by cleaning built-up residue from the steam holes. Use a toothpick, clean toothbrush, or cotton swab to wipe away gunk from the holes of a cooled, unplugged iron. Never use anything metal to clean an iron's soleplate.

1. How to Clean an Iron with Salt & Newspaper

Turn your iron on a warm setting (without steam). Next, place a piece of newspaper/parchment paper on the ironing board and cover with a thin layer of salt. When the iron is heated, rub it quickly over the salt – in a circle – for one minute. Repeat as needed by refreshing salt.

Unplug the iron, let it cool, and remove remaining grime and salt with a damp microfiber cloth.

2. Cleaning an Iron with Baking Soda

From absorbing smells to scrubbing grout, who doesn't love the cleaning power of baking soda? Cleaning gunk from an iron plate is no different. Create a thick, 2:1 paste of baking soda and water and cover the iron plate (take care not to cover any steam vents). Scrub with a clean toothbrush and wipe away with a damp microfiber cloth.

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3. Cleaning a Dirty Iron with Vinegar & Baking Soda

Distilled white vinegar is another incredible cleaner – and it's even more effective when it's paired with baking soda. Make a paste with equal parts vinegar and baking soda or salt, dip a clean microfiber cloth into the paste, then rub it in small circles over the soleplate.

Dip a clean microfiber cloth into distilled water (especially if you have hard water) and thoroughly wipe off any paste residue.

4. Toothpaste to Remove Burn Marks from Iron Plates

Using a cotton Q-tip or paper towel, rub a small amount of plain, white toothpaste (not gel) onto scorched marks on your iron. Only cover affected areas, then wipe off with a damp microfiber cloth.

If toothpaste happens to get into the steam vents, fill up the water tank with distilled water. Place the iron upright on an old towel, set the iron to steam, and let it sit for a few minutes on the ironing board. Hold the steam button for 20-30 seconds to dislodge the toothpaste, then wipe with a damp cloth. Repeat 5-6 times until the steam flows freely.

5. Paracetamol to Clean a Scorched Iron

Paracetamol (e.g.acetaminophen, Tylenol) is handy for headaches and for removing burn marks from an iron. It's crucial that you use a white, uncoated variety.

Turn your iron on high, grasp a paracetamol tablet with a pair of tweezers, and rub the tablet all over the soleplate. Avoid touching the hot surface with your fingers and tweezers. The tablet should gradually dissolve into a gel, dissolving residue right along with it. Repeat as many times as necessary to dislodge all the residue, then rub the hot iron over a clean, damp microfiber cloth.

6. Puracy Multi-Surface Cleaner to Remove Iron Marks

We know we're biased, but that's what happens when you create the best natural all-purpose spray anywhere. Start with a cool, unplugged iron and spray the soleplate with Puracy Multi-Surface Cleaner. Let the formula sit for 30-60 seconds, then scrub with a clean microfiber towel. It's absolutely that easy.

How to Clean an Iron Water Reservoir

If you notice musty odors – or can even see mold or mildew in the water tank – there's a simple solution for that.

1. Drain out any remaining water in the reservoir, then pour a 1:1 distilled water and white vinegar solution into the tank.
2. Stand the iron up and select a high heat with steam setting. Let your iron do its magic until the liquid has almost completely evaporated.
3. Let your iron cool and drain out the remaining liquid
4. Fill the tank with only distilled water, prop up the iron and select the same high-heat steam. Run for 5-10 minutes.

Note: If your iron comes with a reservoir filter, soak it in the vinegar-water mixture, thoroughly scrub with a dish brush, and rinse before replacing.

The Best Way to Keep Your Iron Clean

Frequent care is easy care, and that's certainly no different for your iron. It's important to prevent sticky residue from landing there in the first place.

Know Which Fabrics Can Be Ironed

Some types of fabric can't handle high heat while others shouldn't use steam. Read each clothing tag to see whether there are specific ironing instructions. When in doubt – or when ironing a garment made of multiple fabrics – start with the lowest setting and test an interior seam.

Create a Barrier

Use a clean press cloth (or thin cotton towel) every time you iron. This cloth will act as an effective barrier between your iron's soleplate and any gunk that it might pick up from synthetic fabrics.

Use Distilled Water

If your area has hard water, distilled water will help maintain your iron's steam function and decrease mineral buildup along the soleplate.

Wipe It Down

Wipe your (cooled) soleplate with a damp microfiber cloth after every use, especially if you're using starch.

Add Our Multi-Surface Cleaner to Your Cleaning Arsenal

Is there a non-porous surface you can't use our 99.96% natural Multi-Surface Spray on? We haven't found it. We're so sure you'll love this unbelievably effective household cleaner, we offer a money-back Puracy promise. No questions, no hassles, no returns.

How Can You Get Black Marks Off an Iron

Source: https://puracy.com/blogs/cleaning-tips/how-to-clean-iron-looking-brand-new

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