We iron to remove the creases giving a neglected appearance to our clothes. On the other hand, we don’t expect to leave a few iron stains in the process! So, between the yellow spots on white and the white ones on dark fabrics, it’s a disappointment that we could do without. Indeed, ironing is already experienced as a chore without the additional need to add treatment against these iron stains. And like a blood stain, a red wine stain, an ink stain or a grease stain, the iron stain cannot be removed so easily. So how to avoid and treat them? What very effective stain remover should be left there to detach them? Grandma tells you how to remove stubborn stains left by this appliance without damaging your t-shirt or shirt.
1) Understand where iron stains on clothes come from to prevent them
Identify the cause of stains on your textiles will prevent the appearance of iron stains. In general, there are four common causes:
- First of all, the soleplate may be dirty and require cleaning.
- Otherwise, the device may be entartré if you did not use demineralized water. This is easily fixed with white vinegar.
- This may also be due to a too starched fabric.
- Finally, it is often due to improper use of iron. In fact, you really need to follow the instructions given on the label. If you opt for a temperature too high to go faster, you will certainly have marks, even burns. If you no longer have the label as a reference, start with a low temperature and increase slowly.
2) Other simple tips to prevent iron stains.
If in doubt, you can always make a ironing on the reverse side of the garment. In fact, this will smooth the fibers while hiding any stains if you specifically need them. Furthermore, you can use this great classic that is “pattemouille“. This simply involves ironing the clothes under a damp, fine cloth. Here, we recommend, for example, a cotton sheet to protect the fabric from contact with the iron. And of course, the ironing will still remain impeccable!
3) The different solutions against iron stains
To begin, trust the Marseille soap slightly damp rubbed well on the stain to make a layer. Then emulsify with water, if possible added with a little white vinegar, and rinse. Otherwise, consider dabbing your more difficult iron stains with a little white vinegarof hydrogen peroxide (by testing the fabric before on a corner that you cannot see) or70° alcohol. If you don’t have any of these you might have to lemon juice or toothpaste rub on the stain with a toothbrush.
The most equipped can bathe or rub the stains with a mixture based on 5 drops of solution d’alun and 1 liter of water. This solution is obtained by boiling 10 g of alum stone in 1 liter of water, but you can also buy it ready-made. Also, it is possible to use a suede gum (especially on velvet) or very fine sandpaper (grain 3000) as a last resort on thick fabrics (jeans, cotton twill, etc.)! Here, be very gentle in your movements so as not to create holes.
Finally, on an iron stain caused by starch: Treat these hard stains by soaking in lukewarm water with vinegar.
How to avoid ending up with iron stains?
Knowing how to remove iron stains is good. However, knowing how to avoid them is better! Here are some tips to avoid having this problem in the future.
In addition to descale the iron to avoid the accumulation of limescale which can promote leaks and stains, clean the sole regularly. Residues from ironing products, such as starch, can accumulate there and cause unwanted marks. Clean the sole regularly using a damp sponge and a little white vinegar or Marseille soap for example. Also choose a suitable ironing product. Ban tap water, full of tartar!
Additionally, make sure always make sure the clothes you iron are clean. Dirt and particles present on clothing may transfer stains to the soleplate of the iron and then be transferred to other clothing. Moreover, heat could set stainsthus making them more difficult to treat later. The ironing board can accumulate dirt and residue over time. So make sure it is clean and in good condition before each use to avoid any transfer of stains. Same thing for the protective cover that we tend to forget to clean.
Finally, adjust the iron temperature depending on the type of fabric you are ironing. Too high a temperature can burn the fabric fibers and cause unsightly stains. (If necessary, find out here how to save clothes burned by the iron!) And of course don’t overuse starch which risks burning in too large quantities. It is better to use a little and increase the quantities if necessary to obtain the desired effect without excess material.