This Medicine Cabinet Staple Magically Cleans a Burned Iron Like New
Anyone who’s scorched their favorite shirt while rushing out the door knows the pain of looking down at an iron covered in blackened residue. It’s frustrating, and it usually means more ruined clothes if you don’t fix it. Most people assume they’ll need harsh cleaners or a new iron altogether, but the solution might already be sitting a few feet away in your medicine cabinet.
Before rushing to buy a special cleaner, there’s a bottle of pills most households keep for headaches that can undo the damage caused by burnt fabrics and residue buildup on your iron’s plate.
How It Works
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Mateus Hidalgo
Acetaminophen, most commonly known as Tylenol or paracetamol, reacts to heat in a unique way. When the iron is hot, the tablet softens and melts slightly on contact. This reaction helps break down the scorched film that sticks to the metal plate.
Unlike abrasive cleaners, the softened acetaminophen doesn’t scratch or damage the surface. It loosens residue enough to wipe away with a cloth, thus leaving the iron smooth again.
This household hack has become a favorite among cleaning experts because it’s affordable and free of harsh cleaning chemicals. The key is using a plain, uncoated tablet. Coated or gel capsules won’t melt properly and can release unwanted substances when heated.
How To Do It Safely
Start by turning on your iron to a medium or high setting. It needs to be warm enough to melt the tablet but not so hot that it burns the surface further. Grip a plain acetaminophen tablet with a pair of tweezers or wear heat-protective gloves to keep your hands safe.
Press the tablet against the burned spots and move it gently across the surface. As the pill melts, it will form a thin film that loosens the charred buildup.
Once the marks begin to lift, unplug the iron and allow it to cool fully. Use a soft, damp cloth to wipe away the residue. The plate should look noticeably cleaner, and you’ll notice it glides over fabric more easily. If a few dark spots remain, repeat the process once the iron has cooled.
Other Quick Fixes That Work
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If you don’t have acetaminophen on hand, a few simple kitchen ingredients can help. A mix of baking soda and water forms a gentle paste that can lift burnt residue from a cold iron. Spread the paste over the marks, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a soft cloth or toothbrush before wiping clean.
White vinegar also works well on older stains. Mix equal parts vinegar and salt, heat the solution slightly, and dip a cloth in it. Wipe the warm iron plate to help dissolve the buildup.
Keeping Your Iron in Top Shape
Regular maintenance prevents buildup in the first place. Wipe your iron’s plate with a damp cloth after use and empty its water reservoir before storing it. Avoid pressing synthetic fabrics at high temperatures, and always check your settings before ironing. With a little care, you can keep your iron running like new without spending extra money or effort.