How to Clean Your Iron
by ckeeta
Cleaning an iron is one of those horrible tasks that has to be done- something like cleaning the refrigerator, or dusting behind the stereo.
If you can, determine what is stuck.
If it is waxy, like the crayon that your daughter forgot in her Sunday dress,then heat your iron as hot as possible and iron newspaper until it is gone.
If it is an oil based sticky residue, use a soft rag and wipe with ammonia. Then rinse well with water.
If it is hard water deposits, use vinegar or something like CLR (Calcium and Lime Remover). Again make sure you rinse completly.
If (as is most likely) it is starch residue, then elbow grease and a good cleaner such as Simple Green, Top Job etc. will remove it.
After you have cleaned the sole of the iron, you should iron several pieces of waxed paper to coat the bottom and help it slide over clothing rather than dragging.
CAUTION: When cleaning your iron do not immerse it in water, use a rag and wipe it down.
{tongue in cheek emotion}