Some household habits—like leaving the laundry to sit unfolded overnight—are harmless, but others can quietly ruin your appliances. One of the most common? Putting your iron away with water still in the tank.
Even a small amount of water left inside can seep through the steam holes, discolor the soleplate, or corrode the internal parts. To extend the life of your appliance, always empty the reservoir after use and let the iron cool completely before putting it away.
The type of water you use matters, too. In most homes, tap water is fine, but if you live in an area with hard water, a 50/50 mix of tap and distilled water will reduce mineral buildup. It's also smart to avoid softened water from a whole-home filtration system, since it’s often treated with salt, which can leave deposits that can create blockages and impede steam flow.
Maintenance is equally important. Soleplate residue typically forms when synthetic or natural fibers melt or fuse onto the iron’s base at high temperatures. These fibers can snag and stain clothes if not addressed. To prevent this from happening, iron low-temperature fabrics like silk and nylon first, then move on to cotton and linen. You should also allow spray starch to soak in before pressing.
If buildup does occur, light deposits can be removed with baking soda. Simply dampen a cloth or non-scratch scrubber, dip it into baking soda, rub the surface, then wipe clean. For heavier residue, clean your iron with a solution like Good Housekeeping Seal holder Faultless Hot Iron Cleaner.
Ultimately, keeping your iron in top shape is all about prevention. Using the right type of water, emptying the tank after each use, and giving it an occasional clean may feel like negligible steps, but they pay off in a big way: better-looking clothes and an iron that stays reliable for years.
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Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
