Dirty iron, the laundromat method to clean it from top to bottom: it comes back like new

##### Step 4: Clean the Water Reservoir
The water tank of the iron is another area that can accumulate mineral deposits, especially if you use hard water. To clean it, you’ll need to do a “self-cleaning” cycle:

1. **Fill the Reservoir**: Fill the water tank halfway with **equal parts white vinegar and distilled water**.
2. **Turn the Iron On**: Plug in the iron, set it to a low heat setting, and allow it to heat up. Once it’s warm, **turn on the steam function** to release the vinegar-water solution through the steam holes.
3. **Flush the Tank**: Hold the iron over a sink and release the steam until the water tank is empty. This process helps remove any mineral deposits that have accumulated inside the iron.
4. **Rinse**: After the vinegar solution has been expelled, fill the tank with clean distilled water and repeat the steam cycle to flush out any remaining vinegar.

##### Step 5: Final Wipe and Polish
Now that the soleplate, steam holes, and water reservoir are clean, give your iron a final wipe-down with a clean cloth to remove any remaining vinegar or baking soda. For a polished finish, you can buff the soleplate with a soft cloth.

### Additional Tips for Iron Maintenance

– **Use Distilled Water**: If possible, always use distilled water in your iron. This helps prevent mineral build-up inside the water tank and steam holes.
– **Regular Cleaning**: Perform this cleaning method every few months or as needed to maintain optimal performance. For frequent ironers, a quarterly cleaning should suffice.
– **Prevent Rusting**: To avoid rust on the soleplate, store your iron in a dry, cool place. Avoid leaving water in the tank when you store it.
– **Avoid Harsh Chemicals**: Always stick to natural cleaning agents like vinegar and baking soda to clean your iron. Harsh chemicals can damage the soleplate or leave behind residues.

### Conclusion

The **Laundromat Method** is a simple yet effective way to clean your dirty iron and restore it to a like-new condition. By following these steps and using natural ingredients like baking soda and vinegar, you can remove grime, mineral deposits, and stains from your iron without any specialized cleaning products. With just a little effort, your iron will be ready to glide smoothly over fabrics, leaving your clothes crisp and wrinkle-free. Happy ironing!