Your iron has a secret self-clean button
How to use the self clean button on a steam iron
Many steam irons have a self-clean or calc-clean button. Fill the tank, heat to max, unplug, hold the iron flat over the sink, press and hold the button and shake gently so hot water flushes the scale out, then reheat and iron an old towel dry.
Hot water and steam come out of the soleplate: keep hands and face clear and hold it over the sink. Unplug before flushing. Water only, no vinegar or descaler unless your manual says so, and never mix products.
Never mix cleaning products. Bleach plus ammonia, vinegar or other acids releases toxic gases. Use one product at a time, rinse between them, ventilate, and unplug appliances before you clean them.
Part of: Hidden appliance cleaning buttons you've never pressed
Step by step
- Check your manual for the self-clean, calc-clean or anti-calc button
- Fill the water tank with tap water and heat the iron to its highest setting
- Unplug the iron and hold it flat over the sink
- Press and hold the self-clean button and gently shake until the tank is empty
- Plug in again, reheat and iron an old towel to dry the soleplate
Watch it in 30 seconds
FAQ
How to use the self clean button on a steam iron?
Many steam irons have a self-clean or calc-clean button. Fill the tank, heat to max, unplug, hold the iron flat over the sink, press and hold the button and shake gently so hot water flushes the scale out, then reheat and iron an old towel dry.
What are the steps to use the self clean button on a steam iron?
1. Check your manual for the self-clean, calc-clean or anti-calc button. 2. Fill the water tank with tap water and heat the iron to its highest setting. 3. Unplug the iron and hold it flat over the sink. 4. Press and hold the self-clean button and gently shake until the tank is empty. 5. Plug in again, reheat and iron an old towel to dry the soleplate.
Is it safe to use the self clean button on a steam iron at home?
Yes, with care. Hot water and steam come out of the soleplate: keep hands and face clear and hold it over the sink. Unplug before flushing. Water only, no vinegar or descaler unless your manual says so, and never mix products. Never mix cleaning products. Bleach plus ammonia, vinegar or other acids releases toxic gases. Use one product at a time, rinse between them, ventilate, and unplug appliances before you clean them.