Do you know why the Self clean function is needed in an iron?

When using an iron with a steaming system, you have probably encountered the appearance of limescale on the steam outlets. The Internet is replete with recipes for solving this issue. But scale forms not only on the external stomata, there is no less of it inside the device.

Manufacturers of household appliances are also concerned about finding a solution to this problem. As a result of their research, a self-cleaning function for the iron, called self clean, was born. What kind of animal this is and what to do with it, you will learn from this article.

Cleaning function

As a result of technological progress, even simple household appliances receive new useful functions that can make the life of a housewife easier, for example, the self-cleaning function of the iron, or Self Clean. As a rule, manufacturers place the cleaning button next to the steam button and place it in the most accessible place.

The literal translation of the phrase self clean is self-cleaning. This option will allow the device to automatically get rid of excess dirt and scale. This function is ineffective for removing carbon deposits from the soleplate of the iron.

The cause of scale formation in the iron is salt. Dissolved in tap water, it turns into a solid at high temperatures and disrupts the operation of the steam generator. The Self Clean button can neutralize the formation of salt flakes.

Important: For proper operation of the iron, you need to monitor the quality of the water poured into the device’s container. Experts advise using a 50% solution of distilled water and then draining the remaining liquid.

Regular use of Self Clean can increase the life of the device and maintain its appearance.

Simple folk remedies against scale

Such methods are used as soon as lime deposits appear. Home remedies act gently, so they do not harm the electrical appliance.

Lemon acid

This is a universal method, as it allows you to remove scale from the iron, as well as carbon deposits from the soleplate. Citric acid can also be used to clean the steam generator. It is necessary to prepare a solution: use the contents of 1 packet of product, 1 glass of water. You need to pour this product into the water tank. Then turn on the electrical appliance in steam mode. This method is also suitable for cases when you need to remove an old layer of scale. Press the steam release button, and along with a stream of hot humidified air, particles of limescale come out.

Mineral water

The principle of using this remedy is the same as in the previously discussed case with citric acid. It is necessary to pour mineral water into the container. The electrical appliance is turned on, and when the soleplate heats up, use the steam button to clean the steam iron from scale. The steps are repeated, but using clean water. This will remove any remaining carbonation from the reservoir.

Vinegar

You need to use 100 ml of this substance. The product is diluted with water (250 ml). The prepared solution is poured into the container. The cleaning principle is the same as in the previously discussed cases: limescale is removed using steam through the perforated base of the device. Then you need to clean the container from traces of vinegar. The reservoir is filled with water and the described manipulations are repeated.

How to use

Often housewives immediately begin to use a new iron, and familiarization with its functions occurs at random. This should not be done. Even such a familiar device as an iron requires a more serious approach.

Despite the complexity of the terminology, the instructions contain information that describes step by step the principles of operation of the self-cleaning iron for a specific model.

Basic rules for using the iron's self-cleaning function:

1. Study the instructions for the device to avoid possible errors.
2. Prepare a 50% solution of distilled water and pour it into the iron reservoir.
3. Set the maximum temperature and turn on the iron.
4. It is worth preparing a suitable container in advance into which a stream of steam containing fragments of contamination will be directed. If possible, it is better to carry out the cleaning procedure over the sink.
5. When the maximum temperature is reached and the iron turns off, you must press the Self Clean button.
6. It is worth shaking the device periodically to better separate contaminants.

During the cleaning process, the sole becomes very hot, and the steam release effect occurs more intensely. At this moment, you should remember safety precautions and treat the procedure with increased attention.

Review of the best models with scale protection

The presence of a special collector rod prevents clogging of the steam supply holes with scale. The device retains even the smallest particles of scale, preventing premature breakdown of the device and simplifying its maintenance.

The rating includes three Tefal irons equipped with an anti-scale option. They are distinguished by their functionality and comfortable ironing of any fabric.

Tefal FV1543

An easy-to-use device equipped with an ergonomic handle that does not slip in your hand. The sole is made

made of ceramic, glides easily over fabric and distributes heat evenly.

The model is functional and easy to use. The presence of an anti-drip system prevents clothes from getting wet. Optimal cord fastening prevents it from tangling during operation. Steam works great even on tough creases.

The device turns off after inactivity for 30 seconds, eliminating the risk of burning fabric and fire.

Characteristics:

• power - 2100 W;
• water consumption during steaming - 25 g/min;
• water capacity - 250 ml;
• cable - 1.9 m.

pros

• high-quality sole;
• no leaks;
• ironing delicate fabrics without gauze;
• large amounts of steam;
• convenient temperature adjustment.

Minuses

• flimsy button for steam supply;
• sometimes the sole sticks to clothes.

Tefal FV5635 Turbo Pro

This model irons hard-to-reach areas due to its tapered nose. Innovative Turbo Boost technology

Provides a powerful burst of steam that removes tough creases from any fabric.

The anti-lime collector rod protects the device from scale. The anti-drip system prevents the formation of wet spots on clothes when the water tank leaks. For local moistening of areas, the “Spray” function is provided.

The sole is made of metal ceramics, so it glides smoothly over clothes.

Characteristics:

• power - 2600 W;
• water consumption during steaming - 50 g/min;
• water capacity - 300 ml;
• cable - 1.9 m;
• weight - 1.52 kg;
• size - 31x15.10x15.20 cm.

pros

• ergonomics;
• anti-drop option;
• automatic shutdown;
• ceramic sole;
• narrowed nose.

Minuses

• automatic adjustment of steam supply intensity;
• stability of the device.

Tefal FV4961 Ultragliss

The iron is suitable for care of thin and dense fabrics, as it is equipped with a powerful steam boost for

eliminating stubborn wrinkles. A special system prevents the formation of scale, which eliminates the risk of device breakdown.

There is a spray option to moisten the desired areas. Due to the anti-drip system, container leaks and clothing getting wet are eliminated. Steaming is carried out in a vertical position, which allows you to care for clothes on hangers and curtains.

A light indicator indicates that the iron is ready for use.

Characteristics:

• power - 2500 W;
• water consumption during steaming - 40 g/min;
• water capacity - 270 ml;
• cable - 1.9 m.

pros

• excellent glide;
• fast heating of the working surface;
• high-quality steaming;
• economical mode.

Minuses

• short cord;
• The water level is not visible.

Frequency of use of the cleaning option

Almost throughout the entire territory of Russia there is increased water hardness. In addition, tap water is saturated with sodium and fluoride. Using such water to fill the iron's container increases scale and limestone deposits inside the appliance.

Therefore, the self-cleaning function should be performed as often as possible. Irregular or occasional cleaning leads to the formation of a dense layer of scale on the internal parts of the appliance sole. Then the self clean function on the iron becomes useless.

Cleaning the soleplate of the iron at home

The iron sole is made of stainless steel or modern ceramic alloy with a high degree of slip. The stainless steel coating makes the iron sole smooth and reliably protects it from scratches and makes it easy to clean. To do this, just run a soft, damp swab over a warm metal surface. Heavy contamination, both on steel and ceramic surfaces, can be easily and simply removed with a special pencil that resembles a candle. Pass it over the areas where the fabric of the heated iron is burned and immediately wipe with a rag. The pencil gives off a strong ammonia odor, so be careful not to inhale its fumes. The hot sole of the iron will cause the pencil to spread over the surface of the sole, so place an old newspaper or rag under the iron in advance.

To prevent the iron from accidentally melting fabric, especially synthetic fabric, get into the habit of always placing it only on the heel. Do not place the iron flat on a metal stand, this will protect the soleplate from possible scratches.

Pros and cons of Self Clean

The self-cleaning system involves the presence of a water softening cartridge. It may fail and the cleaning process will be ineffective.

Also, at the moment of maximum heating, there is an increased load on all systems of the device, and premature failure may occur. Models from Bosch, Vitek and Phillips are not affected by this.

The advantage of the Self Clean function is its simplicity. The housewife does not need to use additional cleaning solutions, buy special filters and replace them. Simply fill the iron's reservoir with water and turn on the cleaning function.

Traditional methods

For long-term and reliable operation, several options for descaling are used. Failure to take these steps may result in poor heat transfer or failure of the device.

Vinegar

For the cleaning procedure to be successful, you must:

• take water, vinegar (proportion 1:1);
• pour 1/3 into the inner container;
• heat the electrical appliance to a high temperature;
• stand for 10 minutes;
• the Philips iron will turn on and off on its own without interfering with the process;
• hold it horizontally over the bowl while pressing the “steam” button;
• Perform the procedure until the liquid in the reservoir runs out;
• fill it with purified water, turn it on, heat it up strongly, releasing steam, the remaining scale will come out with it;
• Drain off the remaining water and wipe the base with a clean cloth.

To avoid inhaling harmful vinegar fumes, you need to work with the window open.

Sparkling water

Pour water (200 ml) into the inner container and heat the iron high. Select the “steam” function and press the button. All the exfoliated scale will come out. Repeat the process several times until clean water comes out.

Tribasic carboxylic acid

Using citric acid, you can effectively clean the inside of your Philips iron from scale at home.

• Dissolve 20–25 g of citric acid in a glass of water at room temperature;
• pour the product into a well-heated iron;
• stand for 10 minutes;
• hold over the sink, release steam by pressing the button until rust comes out of the holes in the sole;
• drain the iron and fill it with purified water;
• continue releasing steam;
• Wipe the base of the device with a clean cloth.

Peculiarities

An iron from any manufacturer has its own structure. The structure of the Braun models includes an anti-calc rod (Anti Calc) or cassettes. They are used to filter water and prevent the release of salt particles and other sediments.

To use our function, you need to remove such “gadgets” from the iron and clean them separately. Execution order:

1. Immerse the rod in a vessel with lemon juice or a specialized descaler for 4-5 hours.
2. After time has passed, it must be pulled out and washed under high water pressure.

Remember! It is prohibited to touch the rod with your fingers!

Thanks to careful use, modern irons have been pleasing housewives for years. And by choosing a device with a self-cleaning system, you can forget about the problems of scale and white stains on things.

Criteria for choosing a good iron

Irons can be classified as one of those household appliances that a household cannot do without. Even if I wanted to, it still won’t work. Therefore, if you have to choose, then in such a way that he can easily and quickly solve any given task, and will not spoil things and, more importantly, the mood of his owners

If we briefly define the basic requirements that a good iron must meet, then when choosing, you should first of all pay attention to:

• power (for household use, usually 1.5-2-2.5 kW is quite enough; lovers of more powerful equipment should take into account that such a device will load the network too much and can easily damage delicate fabric);
• number of holes on the sole: in this case, the more, the better (minimum 50, but better about 100), because the quality of steaming depends on this;
• weight (in this case, the golden mean is important: with an iron that is too light, it will be difficult to iron, for example, linen or some dense fabrics, and if it is too heavy, your hand can quickly get tired);
• the water tank should be transparent enough so that you can easily control the amount of water remaining for steaming, and large enough so that there is no need to frequently turn off the iron during steaming to top up;
• The power cord must be heat-resistant and of sufficient length (optimally 2-2.5-3 m) so that there are no restrictions on movement; in addition, it is very convenient when there is a 360˚ swivel mount and room for winding;
• additional features: vertical steaming (the ability to iron clothes, coats, jackets directly on a hanger or curtains without removing them from the curtain rod);
• steam boost (supplying double power steam at the touch of a button);
• self-cleaning (removing scale inside the device) can be performed by pressing a special button, automatically when the “turbo steam” function is turned on; in some cases, the package includes a removable anti-lime rod, which will need to be cleaned periodically;
• “drip stop” system, which will be useful when ironing with steaming at not too high temperatures to prevent drops of water from the steam holes from getting onto the fabric;
• Fire protection is a function due to which the device automatically turns off from the power supply after it is no longer used (after 30 s with a horizontal position of the sole or 8 minutes with a vertical position).

sole material that deserves special attention.

Equipment

Unfortunately, during transportation, the box lost its presentation, but the foam form provided by the manufacturer coped with its task and protected the device from mechanical damage.

The delivery set is standard: iron, warranty card, instruction manual and safety manual.

There is no measuring cup for pouring water.

The operating instructions are quite detailed and understandable. You can view it by following the link.

What safe chemicals can be used

Manufacturers of Tefal irons recommend getting rid of scale using only distilled water and not using chemicals intended for other household appliances. To care for the soles, you can buy special kits. Cleaning products and wipes are specially designed for gentle care of the device and do not cause damage to it.

Even the most modern technology requires care and over time loses its advantageous characteristics. Modern irons require careful treatment and special care products.

Despite the special non-stick coating, if used incorrectly, carbon deposits can form on the soleplate of the iron, and in order not to spoil things when ironing, you must begin cleaning immediately. Under no circumstances should you use abrasive substances so as not to permanently damage the device.

Pencil for cleaning soles. The most inexpensive and widespread remedy. Outwardly it resembles a tube of lipstick. It is better to remove carbon deposits in a ventilated area, since the smell from the pencil is unpleasant. It is necessary to place something under the iron, as the product begins to flow when heated. The cleaning itself is very simple: the heated sole is treated with a pencil. Residues are removed with a rag.

What it is?

Self Clean is an automatic function in modern steam irons that removes scale and rust from the dosing device. A large accumulation of burning microparticles can affect the operation of the device. The main advantage of this function is the cleanliness of the steam generation system of the iron and, accordingly, the extension of its service life. Otherwise, this can lead to a loss of efficiency of the equipment, and ultimately to breakdown. The big advantage of the self-cleaning system is its ease of use.

Smart devices

Homeowners encountered the problem of scale in their irons as soon as devices with a steaming function became available on the market. And the harder the water in the region, the faster a persistent white and red coating forms inside such a device. To close this topic, manufacturers are trying to improve the devices and come up with ways to automatically descale a steam iron. Today there are models on the market with various self-cleaning functions. Moreover, the iron is able to “notify” that it is time to start this very function - a special light comes on.

Self-cleaning button

In this case, the device can be cleaned in eight simple steps.

1. Fill the water tank to the maximum level.
2. Set the maximum temperature.
3. Disable the steam ironing function.
4. Plug in the device and wait until the device is completely heated.
5. Turn off the device.
6. Hold the device horizontally (above a large container).
7. Press and hold the Self-Cleaning button.
8. Shake the device.

Powerful steam will push out plaque accumulated inside and in the holes. When the scale comes out, iron it with a clean rag - this will tidy up the sole. For the most effective cleaning, the procedure is performed several times in a row.

“Filter” cassettes

There are also models of devices with installed protection against the formation of limescale. It involves the use of granules, which are placed in “filter” cassettes in a special compartment of the iron. These substances purify water from impurities that lead to plaque formation. Cassettes are replaceable and permanent, which are enough for the entire period of work.

Anti-lime rods

Cleaning the iron with an anti-limescale rod is automatic - the element filters the water inside the iron. The rod does not need to be changed - just remove it from the electrical appliance once a month and clean it with water and citric acid. The element is placed in the solution for two hours, then washed, dried and installed back into the device.