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How to descale and clean a steam iron
Keep your steam iron sparkling with our top descaling and cleaning tips, so it can take great care of your clothes for longer.
You rely on your iron to keep your clothes looking their best, so giving it a scrub every now and then should be a no-brainer. But most of us don’t know what to look for and end up letting our trusty appliance work hard without giving it the TLC it deserves. Not only can this have you searching for a replacement sooner than you need to, it probably isn’t doing the best job either. If you notice steam’s not coming out like usual or there are a few mystery marks on your favourite top, it’s time to give your iron some attention. With just 15 minutes and a few household essentials, you can bring back its sparkle.
Whether you’ve got a Russell Hobbs steam iron , a Tefal model, or a reliable Morphy Richards, always check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you’re cleaning it correctly. Some models, like Philips steam irons, use parts or coatings that can be damaged by vinegar, so it’s well worth digging out the manual before you get started.
Once you’ve got the green light, all you’ll need is:
- Distilled white vinegar
- Clean water
- A soft cloth or sponge
- Cotton swabs (optional)
- A heat-resistant container or sink
Follow these steps to keep your steam iron spotless, inside and out:
Step 1:
Unplug the iron and make sure it’s cool before emptying the water tank.
Step 2:
Mix a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water. Fill the tank with the magic mix.
Step 3:
Plug the iron in and set it to the highest steam setting. Leave upright for 5-10 minutes over a sink or heat-resistant container - that’ll make sure any mineral deposits are dissolved.
Step 4:
Empty the tank and refill it with clean water.
Step 5:
Pop the steam setting on again to get rid of any remaining solution – you don’t want any of that on your clean clothes!
Step 6:
When it’s cooled, wipe the soleplate with a damp cloth.
Step 7:
For any stubborn stains, use a paste of baking soda and water then wipe clean as normal.
Step 8:
If the steam vents look clogged, clean them with a cotton swab dipped in vinegar to remove any chalky residue.
Top tips
Cleaners
Avoid abrasive cleaners as they can damage the soleplate coating.
Self-clean
If your iron’s got a self-clean button, press it while the steam’s on to help flush out minerals even more effectively.
Next time your iron’s looking a little worse for wear, you don’t have to dread giving it a quick spruce – or even consider shopping for a new one. Looking after it properly will help it do a great job and last for years.
