Banish scale and mineral deposits: ultimate cleaning hack for your john lewis steam iron

Maintaining a clean John Lewis steam iron is essential for optimal performance and longevity. Dirt, mineral buildup, and other residues can accumulate over time, affecting the iron’s efficiency and potentially damaging fabrics. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to clean your John Lewis steam iron, ensuring a spotless and well-functioning appliance for years to come.

Step 1: Safety Precautions

Before you begin cleaning, ensure the iron is unplugged and completely cooled down. Wear gloves to protect your hands from heat and avoid using abrasive cleaners or materials that could scratch the iron’s surface.

Step 2: Cleaning the Soleplate

The soleplate is the primary ironing surface that comes into contact with fabrics. To clean it:

• Use a Damp Cloth: Wipe the soleplate with a damp cloth to remove any surface dirt or debris.
• Try a Vinegar Solution: For stubborn stains or mineral buildup, create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Apply it to the soleplate with a clean cloth and allow it to sit for 15 minutes. Wipe the solution away with a damp cloth.
• Consider a Commercial Cleaner: If the above methods don’t suffice, use a commercial steam iron cleaner specifically designed for soleplate cleaning.

Step 3: Flushing the Steam Chamber

Mineral buildup can accumulate within the steam chamber, affecting steam production. To flush it:

• Fill the Water Tank: Fill the water tank with distilled water, which contains fewer minerals than tap water.
• Heat the Iron: Plug in the iron and set it to the highest steam setting.
• Hold Upside Down: Hold the iron upside down over a sink or bowl.
• Press the Steam Button: Press and hold the steam button for several seconds to release steam and flush out any mineral deposits.

Step 4: Cleaning the Steam Vents

The steam vents allow steam to escape from the soleplate. To clean them:

• Use a Cotton Swab: Dip a cotton swab in white vinegar and gently insert it into the steam vents.
• Wipe Away Debris: Wipe away any loosened dirt or debris with a clean cotton swab.
• Repeat: Repeat the process until all steam vents are clean.

Step 5: Removing Scale from the Water Tank

Scale buildup in the water tank can affect steam production and cause the iron to leak. To remove it:

• Fill with Vinegar Solution: Fill the water tank with a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water.
• Let it Soak: Allow the solution to sit in the tank for several hours or overnight.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Empty the tank and rinse it thoroughly with clean water.

Step 6: Cleaning the Exterior

The exterior of the iron can accumulate dust and dirt. To clean it:

• Use a Damp Cloth: Wipe down the exterior of the iron with a damp cloth.
• Avoid Abrasive Cleaners: Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface.

Step 7: Routine Maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your John Lewis steam iron in optimal condition:

• Use Distilled Water: Distilled water contains fewer minerals than tap water, reducing mineral buildup.
• Empty the Water Tank: Empty the water tank after each use to prevent scale formation.
• Store Upright: Store the iron upright to prevent water from leaking into the steam vents.

Final Thoughts

By following these steps, you can effectively clean your John Lewis steam iron and ensure its longevity. A clean iron will provide excellent ironing results, protect your fabrics, and save you time and effort in the long run. Remember to perform routine maintenance and address any issues promptly to keep your iron working at its best.

Questions You May Have

1. How often should I clean my John Lewis steam iron?
Frequency depends on usage, but it’s recommended to clean the soleplate and steam vents weekly and flush the steam chamber monthly.

2. Can I use tap water in my steam iron?
While possible, distilled water is preferred to minimize mineral buildup.

3. What should I do if my steam iron is leaking?
Check the water tank for leaks and ensure the soleplate is clean and free of debris. If the leak persists, contact John Lewis for assistance.