A iron that loses dirty water can transform a simple ironing into a small domestic nightmare. Fortunately, there are effective and natural remedies to solve the problem without stress or unnecessary expenses.
It is not necessary to be experts to recognize the moment when something is wrong: brown drops that ruin the newly washed garments, inexplicable halos on the fabrics or that strange smell that releases as soon as the iron lights up. Sometimes you immediately think about the worst, but it is often not a fault. It is simply a question of limestone, rust or other impurities who have accumulated over time.
It is surprising to discover that even the latest generation irons, if neglected, can behave in the same way. It doesn’t matter how expensive or new is the model: if deposits form inside, sooner or later the problem jumps out. And it is not just an aesthetic question: dirty water can permanently stain the most delicate fabrics, making frustrating an activity already little loved by many. It is therefore worth understanding why it happens and, above all, how to remedy you in a simple, safe way and – why not – also ecological.
Where does all this water getting dirty in the iron arrives?
When the iron begins to lose dark or cloudy water, the reason is almost always to be sought inside. It is generally tap waterfull of mineral salts such as calcium and magnesium, to be the main responsible. Over time these minerals deposit in the boiler or in the steam ducts, and the result? A mix of limestone and dirt that ends directly on the clothes. Sometimes they also feel rumori stranias if the water struggles to go out, or you notice that the steam no longer comes out with the same strength. In some cases, the iron begins to “spit” small drops of water accompanied by dark particles. An annoying situation, which can be avoided with some small attention.
Leaving water in the tank after use, for example, is a harmful habit. Residual humidity accelerates the formation of deposits. Better to always empty it and, if possible, use demineralized water or filtered, especially in the areas where the water is particularly hard. But if the situation is compromised by now? Then you need to act immediately with targeted cleaning.
How to clean iron without using chemicals
No magic formulas are needed, nor complicated products: just open the pantry. Some of the most useful ingredients for cleaning the iron in depth are already at hand.
- White vinegar and demineralized water: a timeless classic. Just mix the two parts in equal quantities, pour them into the tank and activate the steam jet on an old towel. The effect is immediate: the residues dissolve and the interior frees slowly.
- Baking soda: perfect for the plate. A pasta made with a little water applies on the cold surface. After a few minutes he rubs gently with a cloth, and away the stains!
- Lemon: for those who also love a touch of freshness. The juice, thanks to its slight acidity, helps to dissolve the limestone. But be careful: better not to overdo it, otherwise you risk ruining the internal components.
One thing never to do? Use pointed or metallic objects to free the holes of the plate. Even if the temptation is strong, you risk scratching the surface irreparably.
Those who have an iron equipped with self -cleaning function can take advantage of it immediately after these treatments, to eliminate any residue. And for an even more complete cleaning, everything can be repeated using only demineralized water as a final rinse.
Avoid the problem is possible: this is how
Once the iron is cleaned, the ideal would be to always keep it in order with some small good habit. It is surprising how little it is enough to prevent the problem from recurring. For example, emptying the tank completely after each ironing costs nothing, but helps a lot. As well as leaving the lid open to evaporate any humidity. And if you use tap water, better filter it first or alternate it with the demineralized one. Every 10 or 15 uses, a brief internal cleaning (even if only with water and vinegar) can avoid future incrustations. And every now and then pass a damp cloth on the cooled plate keeps it smooth and ready for use.
Some advanced models have Integrated anti -limescale filters o replaceable cartridges. A help, of course, but which cannot replace careful maintenance. Even the most expensive iron, if neglected, begins to lose blows. After all, a well -kept iron is not only more performing: it also allows you to save time and treat the garments with greater delicacy. And if it may seem an extra effort, just think of how much it can cost – in economic terms and nerves – ruin a favorite shirt with a dirty stain of water.
In short, taking care of the iron convenient. And with some natural remedies and two minutes more attention, opaque steam and unwanted drops can be said.
Strare will never be fun, but at least … without unexpected events.
Photo © Stock.adobe
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