Tip of the Week: Iron Maintenance
As a quilter, you know that having an iron you enjoy using and that works well is almost as important as having a good sewing machine. Our irons here at the shop get heavy use so we clean them often. There are many different recommendations for cleaning an iron, so before doing anything read the owner's manual that came with yours.
We find that a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser (available at the supermarket) works nicely for gently cleaning the sole plate or our irons. Other suggestions we've heard and read about include using a soft cloth and a baking soda/water paste. Some people have had luck pressing a new dryer sheet to get "gunk" off of the bottom of an iron.
If you put water in your iron to use steam regularly be sure to empty your iron when it's not in use to keep minerals from building up. Check your owner's manual about what kind of water to use in your iron. The Oliso, for example, (see above) specifically calls for tap water or inexpensive bottled water and says NOT to use distilled water.
You can clear the steam vents of mineral deposits using a Q-tip soaked with a a mild water/vinegar solution. For a thorough internal cleaning fill your iron about half way with water, let it heat up to the highest temperature, and the hold it over a sink while depressing the steam button repeatedly until the water droplets coming out are clear. Some people recommend doing this with a mild vinegar/water solution but, again, consult your owner's manual. And if you do use vinegar, repeat the process with water only to get the vinegary smell out. However you do this, be CAREFUL . . . steam is hot!
Before cleaning your iron make sure it's unplugged and cool to the touch. Don't use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on the sole plate. Now go find your iron and give it the TLC it deserves. We wish you pleasant pressing.
