11 Effective Tips for Cleaning a Burnt Iron Soleplate | March 22, 2025

Over time, the soleplate of your iron can accumulate residue that can stain your clothes. Fortunately, there are several simple and natural methods to clean it and restore its effectiveness. Here are 11 tips to try right now.

White Toothpaste
Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the sole and rub with a clean cloth or cotton swab. Then wipe with a damp cloth.

White vinegar
Soak a microfiber cloth in white vinegar and rub the soleplate in small circular motions. Dry with another clean cloth.

Baking Soda
Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with one teaspoon of water to make a paste. Apply it to the soleplate and scrub with a clean toothbrush. Wipe with a damp cloth.

Newspaper and Salt
Place a sheet of newspaper or parchment paper on the ironing board and sprinkle a thin layer of salt on it. Run the hot iron over it in circular motions. Then wipe with a damp cloth.

Wooden Spatula
If melted plastic has stuck to the soleplate, place the iron in a container filled with ice cubes to harden it. Then use a wooden spatula to gently scrape off the plastic.

Magic Eraser
Dampen a cleaning eraser and rub directly on the soleplate to remove burn marks.

Cotton swab and vinegar
To unclog clogged steam holes, dip a cotton swab in white vinegar and carefully clean each hole.
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