White flakes on clothes and red stains are a sure sign that lime scale has accumulated inside the device. To prolong the life of the technique and not spoil your favorite things, it is important to carry out timely prevention. To get rid of the problem, you can use proven methods, using improvised means that can be found in every kitchen.
Effective ways to remove internal plaque
For a good cleaning of the steam supply system, products containing mild acids are best suited. They react with calcium deposits and gently dissolve them.
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Citric acid. This is the most popular and effective method. It is necessary to dissolve 20-25 grams of powder in a glass of warm water. The resulting solution is poured into the tank, after which the iron is heated to the maximum temperature. Several intensive steam releases over the sink will help to remove all the dirt from the channels.
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Special descalers. If you prefer professional chemistry, you can use liquid descalers. They are gentle and specially formulated for modern heating elements.
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Self-cleaning function. Many modern models are equipped with a Self Clean button. It is important to remember that before using it, the appliance must be maximally heated and the reservoir filled with clean filtered water.
Cleaning the iron soleplate from burnt-on deposits
Sometimes you need to clean not only the inside, but also the outside. If lint is stuck to the soleplate or a dark layer of carbon deposits has formed, you should use gentle abrasives or special pencils.
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Hydrogen peroxide. Helps to remove light soiling. It is enough to wipe the cold sole with a cotton disk soaked in 3% solution.
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Household soap. Rub soap on the heated surface, let it cool, and then remove the residue with a soft rag. This effectively removes fresh burn marks.
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Vinegar solution. A mixture of vinegar and water in equal proportions is excellent for removing mineral deposits around steam vents.
Prevention rules for a long service life of the appliance
In order to prevent limescale from forming as slowly as possible, experts recommend that the appliance be operated in a safe and efficient manner. The main cause of breakdowns is the use of too hard tap water.
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Distilled water. The use of pure distilled or demineralized water virtually eliminates scale formation.
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Drain residual water. After each ironing session, the reservoir must be emptied completely to prevent moisture from stagnating inside the system.
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Temperature setting. Observing the recommendations on the clothing labels prevents synthetic fibers from melting and sticking to metal surfaces.
Regular maintenance of household appliances avoids costly repairs and ensures perfect results every time you iron. Proper iron maintenance keeps the soleplate smooth and the steam supply powerful and consistent for many years.
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