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Quick answer: for most sticky residue, unplug the iron and let it cool until it is just warm. Then rub the soleplate with a damp cloth dipped in a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water, and wipe it clean. For melted plastic or fusible web, iron over an old cotton towel while hot, and the residue transfers to the towel. Never use metal scourers or abrasive powders on non-stick, ceramic or Durilium soleplates.
Before you start
- Check your manual: some soleplates (for example Tefal Durilium AutoClean) have specific cleaning advice.
- Always unplug the iron. Most methods work best when it is cool or just warm.
- Never pour cleaning products into the water tank.
Method 1: bicarbonate of soda paste (most soleplates)
- Mix 2 tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda with 1 tablespoon of water.
- Apply it to the cool soleplate with a soft cloth, avoiding the steam holes.
- Rub gently, then wipe off with a clean damp cloth.
- Clear any paste from the steam holes with a cotton bud.
- Fill the tank, heat the iron and steam over an old towel to flush it through.
Method 2: the old towel trick (melted plastic, fusible web)
Set the iron to its highest safe temperature with no steam and iron firmly over an old cotton towel. Soft residue sticks to the towel. Repeat on a clean area until the plate is clear.
Method 3: white vinegar (light residue and marks)
Wipe the cool soleplate with a cloth dampened with white vinegar, then with plain water. Don’t put vinegar in the tank unless your manual says so.
Method 4: soleplate cleaning stick
Hot-iron cleaning sticks sold for irons melt onto the hot plate and lift residue. Follow the instructions carefully and ventilate the room.
Method 5: paracetamol tablets (stainless steel only)
A popular tip is to rub a paracetamol tablet held in tongs over a hot stainless steel soleplate. It can work on stainless steel, but it is abrasive to coatings, so avoid it on non-stick, ceramic and Durilium plates.
What to avoid
- Metal scourers, wire wool and abrasive powders (they scratch coatings).
- Descaler or chemicals in the water tank.
- Scraping with knives.
Prevent it happening again
- Iron prints and transfers inside out, or use a pressing cloth.
- Use a lower temperature for synthetics.
- Wipe the soleplate occasionally with a damp cloth when cool.
Time for a new iron? See the best steam irons UK.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get melted plastic off my iron?
While the iron is hot, iron firmly over an old cotton towel so the plastic transfers. Then clean the cooled plate with a bicarbonate of soda paste.
Can I use vinegar to clean my iron?
Wiping the outside of the soleplate with diluted white vinegar is fine. Only put vinegar in the tank if your manual specifically allows it.
How do I clean a non-stick soleplate?
Use a soft cloth with bicarbonate of soda paste or a gentle cleaner. Never use scourers or abrasive tablets.
Related guides
Sources: user manuals and support pages from Tefal, Philips, Morphy Richards and Russell Hobbs. How we research.
