Tuesday, June 17, 2008

What is that streak on my shirt?


Okay you ironing experts, I need help.  I have used two different irons one good (Oreck) and one cheap and am having this issue: A "rust" streak as I iron.  I don't do it much and would prefer to have an ironing genie that appears out of the steam to do it for me, but that hasn't happened yet,  so until then, I need to solve this problem.   It is quite defeating to actually iron and then have to rewash the clothing because of a streak down the shirt!!!!  What do you think it is and how can I keep it from happening?  I have tried cleaning the iron and not storing water in it after using it.  I know some of you are sewing experts and can aide.  Perhaps someone out there can recommend a good iron for those of us that are struggling with this.  I think I have clothes to iron that are from April.  :)  
Signing Out,
A Bit Rusty

8 comments:

kristen said...

Unfortunately, I cannot help with the ironing but can with the music. I can walk you through it over the phone much easier. Call me when you are not busy cleaning and ironing and I'll tell you how I did it:)

Reba said...

Hello! My ironing tip is: Watkins Cleaners. :) My mom is embarrassed that I have a learning disability when it comes to ironing- I literally do not know how to do it. No clue. Best of luck with the rust stains...I'm sure at least one of your other pals will hopefully have a pointer for you. Sorry I can't help- I am good at folding clothes, though!
Signing off,
A Bit Lazy (my twist on your nickname for the day!)

Dona said...

Hey Andi-
I have the best iron in the world-a Rowenta. I got it at Hancocks- it was not cheap! It will make you want to iron! A tip about ironing- I used to not enjoy ironing my husband's button down shirts, but you sprinkle them with water all over, then put it in the freezer. I know it sounds crazy, but when you get ready to iron it, it will be easy!
Have fun trying new ways to iron!

Dona said...

One more thing- did you know that hydrogen peroxide can clean everything in your bathroom and your laundry without all the chemicals in the clorox -not good for your lungs or the little lungs you have around the house! I have a great e-mail that has tons of uses for it- I'll try to get your e-mail and send it too you!
I love to find safe ways to clean things- i.e. replace expensive, chemical cleaners with safe, natural ones!

Darby said...

Hey Andi,

I HAD a Rowenta but it rusted out... and it wasn't cheap. My secret is to buy an iron that has a teflon bottom (not stainless steel). Eventhough the stainless bottomed irons aren't supposed to rust... they do. Also, starch can build up on any iron and it looks like rust and really it's just "burnt starch" so... here's what I would do--- and HAVE DONE because of rusty irons...

Buy one with a teflon coated bottom. I got mine at Walmart and love it... the cord is "auto-rewind" into the machine and it has auto off in case you forget to turn it off. I think it was between $20 & $30. My Rowenta was closer to $100 and only lasted a few months. Sunbeam Steammaster 4214... it's black. And if you can avoid starch do... if you can't... clean your iron after each use so it doesn't build up on it! :)

Ok, that's my $.02.

Let us know what you decide!

Tonja said...

Define the word 'iron.'

Paula V said...

I've never had the rust problem; however, with the two or three irons I've had, the iron always gets some sort of dark build-up on it and that rubs onto the clothes.

Yes, you heard me right, only two or three irons...I am 34 so that tells you how little I iron. I iron only when needed...

Thanks for your sweet comment on my post and adding me to your sidebar.

nancygrayce said...

I sweetly donated every shirt of my husband's that had to be ironed and started buying the no iron. I love the no iron! I will iron a few of my things, just because women's no iron are very expensive and I don't go to work every day.....in other words, it's a good buy for him but not for me. I have often had problems with the iron leaving "something" on a shirt or pants. :(