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A steam iron needs constant cleaning and care. This helps to extend the life of the iron. It also makes it to remain efficient and saves money as one does not need to buy a new one every now and then. Improperly maintained iron can be dangerous to use.This is because the user could be exposed to electrical injuries or burns. Hence, the need to maintain and clean the iron on a regular basis.

Maintenance includes cleaning of the various components of the iron to ensure the whole device is functioning properly. Dirt may build up around the control knobs making them sticky and difficult to operate. The water tank will be a bacteria reproducing zone if left uncleaned for sometime. It is easy to understand the structure of the iron and how the various parts can be maintained by reading the user’s manual.

The outer frame of the iron is easy to clean by wiping the surface with a wet cloth to remove settled dirt and stains. The iron is an electric equipment hence, care should be taken to avoid water from wetting the electric circuit as this can result to short circuits and damage the iron.

Vinegar solution in water is used to clean and clear the odor in the steam generator tank. Fill the tank with the solution and heat the iron up and then steam off the iron slowly. Avoid using tap water as it contains minerals which might get oxidized by heat and end up settling on the sides of the tank. This procedure should be done for a second round using pure water to rinse out the vinegar.

Any dirt sticking on the soleplate of the iron is easily transferred on the garment being ironed. Therefore, this part requires more frequent cleaning than any other. Leave the iron to cool before cleaning it. This will protect you from burns and allow you to work more efficiently. Sponge the surface with cleaning solution until the sticking dirt dislodges. Only non-abrasive materials should be used to clean the soleplate.

Sometimes the dirt is as a result of a build up of burnt fabric and may require harder solvents such as vinegar to clean. Dab over the stain with vinegar and try to rub it off after a few minutes. Do not be tempted to use a sharp object to remove the patch, it may cause severe abrasions on the surface.

Wax related stains and dirt can be easily removed for by heating the iron until the wax melts, then wipe it off by ironing on an absorbent paper. Use ammonia to dissolve and clean oil stains on the iron surface. Soak an absorbent cloth in ammonia and iron over it until the stain disappears.

The steam vents in steam irons are prone to blockages and extra care is required while unblocking them. Hard materials will scratch the tubes and this may tear them. Therefore, a soft material is recommended. Partial blockages can be dislodged using the heating up the iron and steaming it out in a continuous stream. Maintain a well insulated power cord always.

Kristine Taylor owns a best iron blog. You can find many top rated steam iron reviews in her blog such as SteamFast steam iron reviews, Rowenta steam iron reviews, Sunbeam steam iron reviews and many more.