- Hold the tablet with tweezers or your fingers (use an oven mitt for safety).
- Gently rub the tablet directly onto the burnt areas of the hot soleplate.
As it contacts the hot metal, the paracetamol will melt and foam slightly, dissolving the burnt-on gunk.
Tip: Focus on stained or sticky spots — no need to cover the whole plate.
Step 4: Wipe Away the Residue
- After applying, use a damp (not soaking) microfiber cloth or paper towel to wipe the soleplate clean.
- You’ll see the black residue lifting away with the melted paracetamol.
Keep wiping — you may need to repeat the process 2–3 times for stubborn stains.
Step 5: Repeat if Necessary
- For heavy buildup, reapply the tablet and repeat the process until the soleplate is shiny and clean.
- Avoid pressing too hard — let the heat do the work.
Step 6: Final Clean & Cool Down
- Once clean, wipe the iron one last time with a damp cloth to remove any leftover residue.
- Unplug the iron and let it cool completely before storing.
Important Safety Tips
Use gloves or an oven mitt — the iron is extremely hot.
Work in a well-ventilated area — melting paracetamol can release mild fumes.
Never use on a non-stick surface if uncertain — test on a small spot first.
Do not inhale fumes — avoid leaning directly over the iron.
Keep away from children and pets — store tablets safely.
Note: This method is for external cleaning only — never use on fabric or for medical purposes.
Why This Works Better Than Other Methods
Paracetamol offers a smooth, chemical-assisted clean without scratching — making it ideal for delicate soleplates.
Alternative Methods (If You Don’t Have Paracetamol)
- Baking soda + water paste — scrub gently with a soft cloth
- White vinegar — dab on a cloth and wipe (avoid on aluminum)
- Iron cleaning pads — specially designed abrasive pads
- Toothpaste (non-gel) — mild abrasive, wipe with damp cloth
A Painkiller That Heals Your Iron
It sounds too strange to be true — but thousands of users swear by it:
A paracetamol tablet can rescue a burnt iron when nothing else works.
It’s cheap, effective, and uses a household item you likely already have.
So next time your iron picks up a sticky mess, don’t panic.
Grab a painkiller, heat up the iron, and let science do the rest.
(Your iron’s clean. The problem’s solved.)
Sometimes, the best cleaning tools aren’t in your cabinet — they’re in your medicine drawer.
