How do i remove residue from the plates of my iron?

Question

How do i remove residue from the plates of my iron?

Answer 1

rubbing alcohol

Answer 2

They make a product specifically to clean your iron. It comes in a tube and they sell it at Jo-Ann fabrics, it is in the notions isle

This is what to look for

http://www.sewingmachinesplus.com/dritz-...

This is a similar product.

http://www.createforless.com/Faultless+H...

If the residue is really really thick use a fine grade steel wool, but only if your iron has a stainless steel bottom, do not use steel wool ( even the finest grade ) on Teflon.

I use both methods because I am always getting a huge starch built -up, or fusible web ( quilting) on my iron.

Answer 3

If the residue is from the water, it is more than likely caused by lime or calcium deposits.

If this is the case, vinegar is the easy solution for most people.

If you live in an area with 'hard water', this is one of those things you should learn to live with, and know how to deal with.

I am assuming that you are asking about the plate on a clothes iron.

This works for tea kettles as well.

Only use a 10-15% solution of vinegar however.

The first time I tried this I did not bother to dilute the vinegar, and when I boiled the kettle, I had a mess to to clean up afterward, since the reaction became so reactive that a foaming mass overflowed.

If you are talking about some scorching from cloth material, I have used a number of solvents to soften the material residue,(gasoline, kerosene, MEK, etc...), and then used some very fine sandpaper to finish the job.

It only takes a few drops of solvent on a paper towel or cloth rag to do the trick (and patience).

Edit:

lori makes a very good point which I had overlooked.

Do NOT use any abrasive material if it has a Teflon base.

Answer 4

Put salt on brown paper and iron it with iron on high and no steam

You can try rubbing the iron with a cut lemon too