If you’ve ever accidentally scorched your iron on a synthetic fabric or melted a patch of fabric glue, you know the frustration: a sticky, dark, burnt residue stuck to the soleplate that smears with every use and ruins your clothes.
You’ve tried wiping it with a cloth. Maybe even used baking soda. But the gunk just won’t budge.
Here’s a cleaning hack that sounds like an urban legend — but actually works:
Use a crushed paracetamol tablet (acetaminophen) to clean your iron’s soleplate.
Yes — the same painkiller you keep in your medicine cabinet can help restore your iron to like-new condition — fast, cheap, and without scratching the surface.
Let’s break down how this surprising method works — and how to do it safely.
How Paracetamol Cleans a Burnt Iron
Paracetamol (known as acetaminophen in the U.S.) contains active compounds that break down under high heat, creating a mild chemical reaction that dissolves carbonized residue and sticky buildup on the iron’s hot plate.
When melted on a hot iron, it acts like a gentle solvent, lifting burnt fabric, glue, and scorch marks without the need for abrasive scrubbing.
And because it melts smoothly, it won’t scratch the delicate surface — unlike metal scrapers or harsh cleaners.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Your Iron with Paracetamol
What You’ll Need
- 1–2 white, uncoated paracetamol tablets (500mg)
- A hot iron (clean and unplugged after use)
- Tweezers or tongs (optional)
- Damp microfiber cloth or paper towel
- Heat-resistant surface
Step 1: Heat the Iron
- Plug in your iron and set it to the highest steam setting (no steam needed, just heat).
- Let it fully heat up — this usually takes 3–5 minutes.
- Place it on a heat-safe surface (like a ceramic tile or trivet).
Do not use on non-stick or Teflon-coated irons if unsure — test on a small area first.
Step 2: Prepare the Paracetamol
- Use a white, uncoated tablet (coated or gel-cap versions may leave behind a sticky film).
- Break it into small pieces or crush it slightly to make application easier.
Why white and uncoated? They dissolve cleanly and leave minimal residue.
Step 3: Apply the Tablet to the Soleplate
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