How To Stop Iron From Sticking To Clothes

Ever been in a rush, trying to smooth out wrinkles from your favourite shirt, only to have your stick to it? It's frustrating, time-consuming, and the last thing you need when running late. Plus, a sticky iron can snag clothes, leave marks, and damage delicate fabrics. Thus, it is important to under why your iron is sticking to clothes and how to fix it. Luckily, the fix for a sticky iron is easy and includes a few simple tweaks. Ready to learn what they are? Here is what you need to know about how to fix an iron that sticks to clothes. 

Find out the solution to fix iron sticking to your clothes in simple steps; Photo Credit: Pexels

Why Is Iron Sticking To Clothes?

If your trusty iron keeps sticking to or tugging your clothes, it could be due to many reasons. But one thing is certain that something is off. Here are the most common culprits behind a sticky iron:

• Using the iron on high heat settings, even while ironing delicate fabrics like polyester, can cause them to stick and melt
• Residue from burnt fabric or starch can also make the iron drag or tug the fabric, rather than glide smoothly
• Overuse of fabric spray can also create a sticky film on the soleplate
• Another reason behind a sticky iron is hard water buildup that clogs vents

4 Tips To Prevent Iron From Sticking To Clothes

1. Match Heat Settings To Fabric Type

One of the most common mistakes that people make while ironing their clothes is using it on the wrong heat settings. While cotton and linen can handle high temperatures, delicate fabrics, like silk or rayon, need extra care and love to last long. Thus, always read clothing care labels and adjust the temperature of your iron accordingly. Most modern irons also come with a fabric guide that helps users adjust the temperature using a knob. 

2. Clean Dirty Soleplate

Let's be honest, we all have burned clothes while ironing at least once in our lifetime. This residue from fabric or burnt threads can gradually accumulate on your iron's soleplate. Although it may seem insignificant at first, the residue can affect your iron's gliding power. Similarly, it can also transfer stains to your precious clothes, making them unfit for styling.

To avoid this, always clean your iron's soleplate using a damp cloth, baking soda paste, or a dedicated cleaner. Avoid using anything sharp and instead, go for a soft-bristle brush or soft microfibre cloth. A clean soleplate ensures smooth ironing. 

Clean the dirty soleplate of the iron to prevent it from sticking to clothes; Photo Credit: Pexels

3. Avoid Starch Overuse

The next tip to prevent the iron from sticking to your clothes includes avoiding overuse. Many people sprinkle starch powder over their clothes to get a crisp finish while ironing. While it may work wonders, this may not be the best habit for your iron. Why? For starters, the gradual use of starch can cause a buildup on the iron soleplate, causing friction. It can make the iron stick instead of gliding smoothly like butter. 

Also Read: 5 Signs That Tell If Your Iron Needs A Replacement For Wrinkle-Free Clothes

4. Stop Using Hard Water

Another common reason for an iron that sticks and snags fabrics is using hard water. Known to only a few, hard water contains high levels of minerals. These minerals can cause a buildup on the iron's soleplate, which then makes it sticky. Instead, try using distilled or filtered water and check if the issue persists. 

Switch hard water with distilled or filtered water to prevent the buildup; Photo Credit: Pexels

Preventive Tips For Smooth Ironing Every Time

• Always match the heat setting to the fabric type
• Clean your iron soleplate after each use to prevent buildup
• Avoid ironing over zippers, buttons, or embroidery 
• Use a pressing cloth for delicate fabrics

Products Related To This Article

1. HAVELLS by Havells Dazzle 1100 W Dry Iron  (Black)

2. Sansui Magic 1000 W Dry Iron  (Grey, White)

3. Orient Electric Fabripress DIFP10BP 1000 W Dry Iron  (Turquoise, Black)#JustHere

4. Nova Plus by Nova Amaze NI 46 1200 W Dry Iron  (Black)

5. USHA ArmorAR1100WB 1100 W Dry Iron  (Purple, White)

6. BAJAJ Majesty DX 6 1000 W Dry Iron  (White)

7. BAJAJ Popular 1000 W Dry Iron  (White)

8. Bajaj DX 2 L/W Dry Iron

9. Crompton ACGEI-BRIO 1000 W Dry Iron  (SKY BLUE)

10. HAVELLS GHGDICNK100 1000 W Dry Iron  (Black)

These were some of the common reasons why your iron sticks to clothes and how to fix this issue with just a few simple hacks. Although it may seem daunting at first, tackling a sticky iron is easier than it looks. Just make sure to match the temperature settings to the fabric, clean buildup from the soleplate, and switch to distilled or filtered water for a change. Or you can also buy iron for clothes online at the best prices for a smooth performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How to stop iron sticking to clothes?

To prevent the iron from sticking to clothes, set the temperature according to the fabric and ensure that the soleplate is clean. 

2. Why are my clothes sticking to the iron?

Clothes sticking to the iron can happen due to many reasons, such as overheating and a dirty soleplate. 

3. How to stop iron leaving marks on clothes?

There are some tips to prevent the iron from leaving marks on clothes. For instance, adjust the iron's temperature to the fabric type, try ironing on the reverse side of the fabric, and use a pressing cloth. 

4. What to spray on clothes while ironing?

When ironing, spraying clothes with water or a starch-based solution can help remove wrinkles and get a crisper finish.

5. How to get iron residue off clothing?

To remove iron stains from clothes, make a paste of baking soda and water or lemon juice and salt. Lightly scrub it over the stain and wash as usual.

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purpose only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories and brands listed in this article.