Why does the sole of the iron darken and how to clean it

For the smooth operation of any electrical appliance, it is necessary to properly care for it. For the iron, these operations consist of timely cleaning of the sole and capacity of the steam generator. If this is not done, then over time consumer qualities deteriorate and ironing clothes becomes not very convenient. In especially neglected cases, linen can be ruined, especially for moody, delicate fabrics: silk, chiffon, velvet. This trouble is due to soot, which forms over time on the sole of the device.

If the steam generator is not cleaned, scale will form in it. Because of this, spots remain on the fabric when ironing. In addition, the scum clogs the steam-venting channels, which negatively affects the operation of the iron

Why the sole of the iron is getting dark

With strong heating, the smallest fabric fibers adhere to the sole of the device. They form a dark coating, and this can happen for several reasons:

• the use of inappropriate temperature conditions is one of the main causes of pollution;

Reference! Each type of fabric requires its own mode. For example, silk should be ironed at a minimum, and a gauze layer should be used to iron the woolen cloth.

• contact of the hot sole with plastic elements - buttons, buttons - as a result of which particles of molten plastic may remain on the iron;
• impacts on a hard surface or falls of a household appliance - covering the lower part of the iron can get microscopic damage and scratches, on which, in turn, dust and dirt will accumulate faster;

Reference! Today, the soleplate can be coated with the following compounds: Teflon, glass ceramics and ceramics, enamel and Teflon.

• the quality of the water poured into the steam generator - if you use hard water, then the scale will not only clog the steam ducts over time, but will also protrude on the sole, forming a coating;
• inaccurate ironing of clothes with metal parts (rivets, buttons, metal buttons and zippers) - these elements can scratch the coating, and microscopic particles and fibers will stick at the deformation site.

How to clean the sole of the iron

If such a nuisance has already happened, and the bottom of the device is covered with a dark deposit, then you should use one of the following methods:

1. Pencil for cleaning. This special tool can be purchased at a hardware store. Each type of coating has its own composition. You can find out exactly what tool is suitable for your type of iron from the instructions. To clean, heat the appliance and rub its sole with a pencil. Wait until the substance dissolves soot to form a foam and wipe it with a soft cotton cloth.
2. Fine salt. Pour it on a clean rag, flatten and drive it with a heated iron until you remove all the carbon deposits. After the procedure, the cooled iron must be wiped with a clean cloth.
   
3. Laundry soap. They can rub the heated device. Then wait until it cools down and rinse the surface with clean water.
4. Table nine percent vinegar. For old pollution, it is better to use concentrated liquid, and for fresh, you should dilute two tablespoons in a glass of water. For application, moisten a cotton pad with liquid and wipe the carbon deposits. If necessary, the procedure should be repeated.
5. Vinegar and ammonia. Mix vinegar and ammonia in equal parts. You can also use the juice of one lemon and three drops of ammonia.
6. Hydrogen peroxide. Regular peroxide will perfectly clean carbon deposits.

Reference! In addition to the listed funds, you can use a paraffin candle, nail polish remover or acetone, sulfur from matches. They are used in the same way as in the above methods - they heat up the device and treat the sole with the product.

How to protect the sole of the iron from darkening

Of course, you can even cope with long-standing darkening on the sole of the iron, but it is much more reasonable to prevent their formation. To do this, when ironing, you should follow a few simple rules:

1. The main thing is to maintain the right temperature for a certain type of fabric. You can get the necessary information by reading the recommendations on the clothing label.
2. To iron synthetic things or wool products, use a layer in the form of a piece of gauze or thin fabric.
3. In order to prevent plaque from forming in the water tank, at the end of ironing, it is necessary to remove the remaining water from it.
4. If you do not want scale to appear in the steam generator, use filtered water for the procedure. Already boiled water can be poured into the steam generator.
5. After the process is complete, do not rush to put the device in the cabinet, wait for it to cool completely and wipe the sole with a rag of soft, dry cloth.
6. Periodically clean the steam generator from plaque using special tools.
7. If a small amount of contamination does occur, remove it immediately without delay. The more time passes, the more difficult it will be to remove carbon deposits.
8. If you are not sure that the product you purchased is suitable for the type of coating the sole of the device, try to apply it in a small area with the edge. After waiting a while, check the result. Once you are convinced of the positive effect, apply it on the entire surface.

Remember: good care helps maintain the performance of the iron and extend its life. A non-defective iron will not spoil your favorite things and help maintain their attractive appearance. All this as a whole saves the family budget, freeing up funds for pleasant purchases.