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How to Clean a Soleplate of an Iron

The soleplate of your iron can become quite dirty due to residual starch and dust. A soiled soleplate can make a mess of your clothes when the debris transfers onto them while ironing. If you haven't cleaned your iron's soleplate in a while or the dirt on it is quite evident, you may already have what you need for the job. Check your cupboards and clean the soleplate before it touches another article of clothing.

Things You'll Need

  • Clean cloth
  • White vinegar
  • Table salt
  • Plastic scrubber
  • Wooden utensil
  • White toothpaste
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Instructions

    • 1

      Unplug the iron and allow it to cool down to avoid getting burned while cleaning it.

    • 2

      Wipe down the soleplate with a clean cloth soaked in white vinegar. Vinegar is mildly acidic and can help to cut through residual starch that may be stuck to your iron's soleplate.

    • 3

      Make a paste of table salt and white vinegar for stubborn areas of starch and dirt. Scrub the area with the paste using a plastic mesh dish scrubber or a sponge. Wipe the area with a clean damp cloth to rinse away any residual buildup.

    • 4

      Plug the iron in and allow it to heat up to help soften any foreign debris that may have become stuck to the soleplate, such as plastic. Once the iron is hot and the debris has heated up, scrape it off with a wooden utensil. Unplug the iron and allow it to cool before wiping it with a clean damp cloth.

    • 5

      Coat the soleplate with white toothpaste and allow it to dry. Wipe the dried toothpaste away with a damp cloth and buff the soleplate dry with a soft towel. This restores the shine without having to use a polish.