How do I clean the TEFAL iron inside of the scum at home?

For any housewife iron is an indispensable assistant in everyday life, because almost every day you have to steam and iron the mountains of linen and clothes. And with this operation inside any device, scale can be formed from hard water containing impurities. Agree, not every landlady listens to the advice of the manufacturer, which recommends using only distilled or purified water for steam ironing, for sure, the rules of operation are violated. Therefore, today we will tell the owners of modern appliances how to clean the iron "Tefal" inside from the scum at home, so as not to damage it.

to content ↑

Descaling process

Modern models of irons are very high in functionality and quality, but they require a more careful attitude. The most common problem with irons with a steamer is the scaling inside the device and the contamination of the sole from the outside. To understand how to clean the iron with steamer, it is necessary to understand the process of scale formation and take all preventive measures to prevent the problem.

Scum is called solid, insoluble in water, salt deposits( mainly magnesium and calcium), formed on heating elements. Invisible inside the scum layer is capable of causing irreparable harm to the device:

• Firstly, the salt deposits have a sufficiently low thermal conductivity( ten times lower than steel).Because of this, the device is malfunctioning. The iron can break down much earlier than the intended service life.
• Secondly - particles of salt fall off over time and clog the passages for steam, or come out with water, leaving hard-to-remove stains on clothing.

It is necessary to clean the iron from the inside regularly, so that the contamination does not affect the quality, ironing efficiency, and so that the equipment does not fail. But in order to resort to cleaning procedures much less often, observe the rules of operation of equipment recommended by the manufacturer.

to Contents ↑

Descaling

Scale occurs inside the unit due to the use of hard water and improper operation of the appliance. To make the iron serve as long as possible, and ironing was qualitative, follow the simple rules:

• Use only distilled water for steaming. It is completely freed from various types of impurities and allows to significantly reduce the process of scale formation. You can use filtered or pre-boiled water.
• After the ironing process, be sure to drain the remaining water from the steamer.
• Choose and observe the ironing and steaming correctly.
• If possible, purchase instrument models with built-in water filters. Filters clean water from impurities of hard salts, thereby preventing the appearance of scale.
• Store and expose the iron only in an upright position.
• Remove scale for prevention purposes at least 1-2 times per month. Use for this purpose the function of self-cleaning, which is available in all modern models of irons.

to the contents ↑

How to remove the scale in the iron with steamer?

Since the invention of steam devices, the problem of calcification has become a concern not only for users, but also for machinery manufacturers. Therefore, modern models of irons with self-cleaning function were invented. Different manufacturers have implemented a special "self-clean" function in their own way. Next, we'll show you how to clean the Philips iron or any other brand from scale in the home using the self-cleaning function.

To remove scum in the iron with steamer quickly and efficiently, you can apply several methods, for example:

• Use self-cleaning function.
• Clear anti-limestone rod.
• Use a variety of drugs that destroy salts.

Consider each method in detail.

to the contents ↑

How to remove the scaling in the iron with the steamer using the self-cleaning function?

Numerous modern models of steam appliances have a "self-clean" function that allows you to clean the iron from the internal scum without any effort. A sequence of actions is often described in the device instruction. For example, experts of one of the most famous firms Philips, advise as follows to clean the iron from scaling inside:

1. Fill the water tank with distilled water to the maximum mark.
2. Set the heating regulator to the maximum temperature.
3. Turn on the device. Make sure that the heating has occurred before the automatic shutdown.
4. Set the regulator to "0".
5. Take the iron and hold it over the previously prepared container( sink, basin).
6. Press the self-cleaning button.
7. While holding the iron over the container, shake it intensively so that the dirt begins to come out of the sole with water and steam.
8. Disconnect the device.
9. Place the appliance on the "heel" and allow it to cool completely.
10. Rinse the steam chamber thoroughly with running water.
11. Wipe the surface of the unit dry.
12. Leave the device for a day and do not use it for the intended purpose during this time.

Tips:

• To effectively and efficiently clean the Philips iron from scaling inside at home, use only clean water without any tools. Otherwise, it is possible to damage rubber( silicone) gaskets.
• Be sure to follow the operating instructions stated in the manual, especially for modern sophisticated irons.
• When purchasing the device model, carefully read the instruction manual. Ensure that the device has a useful and convenient self-cleaning function.
• Pay attention to the models of household appliances Bosch and Siemens. Manufacturers of irons of these brands offer an integrated cleaning system that neutralizes lime. In the construction of the technology there is a cassette equipped with granules that change the positive ions of manganese and calcium to negative ones. Specialists of this technology argue that the system works effectively throughout the life of the equipment.
• To verify the efficiency of self-cleaning, check the condition of the anti-lime rod. Next to the water tank is a button( mostly white), when pressed, the rod pops up. If there are traces of scale on the part, remove the rod and clean it. More details about the method of cleaning the rod, we will discuss below.

Safety measures when working with the self-cleaning function

During self-cleaning, drops of boiling water and steam with slurries will come out of the iron. To avoid getting burned, adhere to safety rules:

1. Do not touch the iron platform, as it is too hot.
2. Keep hot steam and water droplets away from the hands.
3. Do not use the iron immediately after cleaning. Check its operation first on an unnecessary piece of cloth to make sure that there are no stains when ironing.

to the contents ↑

How to clean the anti-limestone rod

In order to acquaint you with the process of cleaning the rod, let's look at how the "Tefal" iron is descaled from home. Modern models of this brand are equipped with a special removable core, which collects all the lime scale.

Important! If the model of the steam device is equipped with an anti-lime cartridge or cassette, they are not cleaned, but are changed as needed.

To properly clean the Tefal iron from scaling inside, proceed as follows:

1. Wait until the iron cools down after self-cleaning.
2. Pull the brackets and pull out the rod.
3. Prepare a container to place a part in it.
4. Prepare the vinegar solution: pour 1 cup of water into a glass of water.spoon of vinegar. You can use and citric acid in this way: 1 teaspoon of acid per 1 liter of water.
5. Pour the prepared solution into a container.
6. Soak the rod in the solution for 1 hour( possible for a longer time if necessary).
7. Rinse the rod with running water, removing residual salt deposits.
8. Wipe the part dry.
9. Reinstall the rod.

Important! Clean the anti-lime rod at least once a month. When using untreated water, do this procedure more often.

to the contents ↑

How to clean the steamer in an iron with chemicals?

In order to remove the salt residues from the internal parts of the iron efficiently and efficiently, the chemical industry can be used. Their main advantages:

• Availability.
• Efficiency.

Important! After using household chemicals, all parts of the device must be thoroughly washed. It is not recommended to use aggressive chemicals if the iron is intended for ironing children's things.

The most popular chemical products:

• Antinakipin. Under the influence of the preparation there is a splitting of salts and minerals. Dilute the preparation with water according to the instructions. The prepared solution is poured into a water tank. Then, the iron must be plugged in, warmed to the maximum temperature, disconnected and left for 20-30 minutes. After the device has completely cooled down, the solution is removed together with the salt residues. Wash the water tank several times with running water and wipe it dry. Before using the device for the next time, test with an unnecessary cloth.
• Topper is a concentrated agent for descaling. Use the drug for the most serious internal deposits. Due to the high level of concentration( ratio with water 2: 1), even the most complex precipitates are output, and there is no negative effect on the parts of the iron.
• Optima Plus OP-020 is manufactured in Germany. The composition of the drug includes only natural ingredients, so the product is safe for human health. The effect of the drug is visible from the first time.

Tips:

• Instead of "Antinakipin" many advise using a cleaner "Silit".
• When using special tools for cleaning irons "Magic Power", "Bon" and others, be sure to read the manual for their use.

to the contents ↑

How to clean the iron from scaling inside with the help of improvised tools?

Even the simplest steam iron without additional self-cleaning functions can be decontaminated using improvised tools. The most effective are:

• Citric acid.
• Table vinegar.
• Mineral water.

Using citric acid

To properly and efficiently carry out the cleaning procedure, proceed as follows:

1. Dilute 200 ml of warm boiled water 1 citric acid pack.
2. Stir the ingredients until completely dissolved.
3. Pour the solution into the water compartment to the maximum level.
4. Set the highest temperature mode.
5. Connect the appliance to the mains.
6. Wait for automatic shutdown.
7. Place the iron over the container( sink, basin or bathtub).
8. Clean the appliance from the liquid by repeatedly pressing the steam release button. You can use the "Steam boost" function.
9. Unplug the appliance and allow it to cool.
10. Thoroughly flush the device with running water.
11. Wipe the device dry.
12. Carry out a control patch to ensure the cleanliness of the equipment.

Important! When working with citric acid, follow the safety rules. Secure your hands with protective gloves, and respiratory system - respirator.

Similarly, you can clean with vinegar, using a solution of table vinegar and running water in a ratio of 1: 1.The procedure should be carried out only near the open window, because, during the cleaning process, caustic steam will be released.

Cleaning with vinegar

The most time consuming process to remove salt residues is vinegar digestion. After such a procedure, the scale will not have a single chance.

Step-by-step instruction:

1. Prepare a metal baking sheet and place wooden sticks parallel to each other.
2. Place the iron on the wooden rails with the outsole facing down.
3. Prepare the vinegar solution by mixing 200 ml of 9% vinegar with 1 liter of water.
4. Bring the solution to a boil.
5. Fill the baking solution in the baking tray so that the water hardly covers the bottom edge of the soleplate. Plastic parts of the iron should not touch the liquid.
6. Place the pan on a small fire to increase the effect of cleaning agents. Boil the solution for 10-15 minutes.
7. Wash the water tank separately if there are traces of salt on it.
8. Wait until the iron cools down, flush the surface with running water.
9. Wipe the device dry and do not use it for a day.

Important! Use this method only in a well-ventilated area or with a hood above the gas stove.

Use of mineral water

Effectively removes dirt inside the appliance of mineral water. To carry out this cleaning method, proceed as follows:

1. Pour mineral water into the compartment to the maximum level.
2. Set the maximum heating temperature.
3. Connect the appliance to the mains.
4. Wait for the automatic shut-off, place the iron over the sink( pelvis).
5. Release the steam.
6. Repeat the procedure several times.
7. Wash the appliance with running water.
8. Wipe the surface of the appliance dry.

Important! Cleaning mineral water should be carried out 3-5 times, depending on the degree of contamination, so prepare for work at least 1 liter of mineral water.

to the contents ↑

How to clean the sole of iron Tefal?

If it is necessary to clean the external surface of the device, then you can use improvised means or chemical preparations.

How to clean the soleplate of an iron Tefal?

Use home tested products:

• Hydroperit.
• Ammonium alcohol.
• Hydrogen Peroxide.
• Lemon juice.
• Solution of vinegar.
• Household soap.

Excellent cope with pollution and household chemicals:

• Pencil for cleaning the soles.
• Detergent for dishes.

Important! To clean the soles of the iron, use only soft sponges, cloth or gauze. Eliminate the use of powdered products and metal sponges that leave a mark on the surface.

We suggest you use the following effective methods to clean the sole of the iron "Tefal":

• Wipe the surface of the heated device with household soap( 72%).Cool the device, remove the soap with a soft cloth. If particles of soap have got into the holes of the surface, then remove them with a cotton swab. After cleaning the working surface, perform a "purging" with steam using distilled water.
• Dampen a piece of cloth or gauze with the selected improvised remedy( vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, lemon juice, ammonia).Wipe the cool surface of the appliance. Dishwasher detergent onto a soft sponge and wipe the surface. Then rinse the product, and wipe the working surface dry.
• With a hydrolite( tablet), heat the heated surface of the household appliance. After the iron has cooled down, wipe the soleplate of the iron with a soft cloth.
• Qualitatively remove the scum from the holes of the working surface will help a special pencil. Type the water in the iron and heat it. After 2-3 minutes, rub the surface with a pencil. Melt the pencil with a piece of cloth. Smooth out the unnecessary cut of fabric with steam so that the scum leaves from inaccessible places.

To extend the life of the faithful assistant - iron, follow only 3 rules: first - carefully read the attached instructions to the device, the second - take all preventive measures to prevent scale from inside and outside, the third - regularly perform the procedure for cleaning the device from salts andmineral deposits. And to work with the care of technology, use the tools and methods that we have selected for you in the article.