Tap Water vs. Distilled Water: What’s the Best Choice for Your Steam Generator Iron?
If you own a steam generator iron, you may be wondering whether it’s safe to use tap water in it. After all, tap water is readily available and convenient. However, using tap water in your steam generator iron can have negative consequences for both the appliance itself and your clothes. In this article, we will explore the reasons why using tap water is not recommended and why distilled water is the best choice for your steam generator iron.
The Problems with Tap Water
Tap water contains minerals and impurities that can build up inside the steam generator iron over time. These minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, form limescale deposits that can clog the appliance and affect its performance. Limescale build-up can also lead to reduced steam output and uneven distribution, resulting in less effective ironing and potential damage to your clothes.
Furthermore, tap water may contain other impurities such as chlorine and trace elements that can cause discoloration or stains on your clothes. These impurities can also leave behind residue on the soleplate of your iron, which can transfer to your clothing during ironing.
Using tap water in your steam generator iron can also affect its lifespan. The accumulation of limescale deposits can lead to the breakdown of internal components, resulting in reduced functionality or even complete appliance failure. Regular descaling can help mitigate these issues, but using distilled water in the first place is the best way to prevent limescale build-up and prolong the life of your iron.
The Benefits of Distilled Water
Distilled water is created through a process of boiling and condensing, which removes impurities and minerals from the water. Using distilled water in your steam generator iron eliminates the risk of limescale build-up and ensures optimal performance. It also helps to preserve the life of your iron by preventing the corrosion and breakdown of internal components.
In addition, using distilled water reduces the risk of staining or discoloration on your clothes. Without the impurities found in tap water, there is no residue or mineral deposits that can transfer onto your garments. This means your clothes will stay cleaner and free from any unwanted marks or spots.
You can easily find distilled water at most supermarkets or grocery stores, usually in the aisle where bottled water is sold. While distilled water may have a higher cost compared to tap water, the benefits it brings to your steam generator iron make it worth the investment.
Use Distilled Water for Optimal Performance
In conclusion, it is not recommended to use tap water in your steam generator iron. The minerals and impurities found in tap water can lead to limescale build-up, reduced steam output, and potential damage to your clothes. Distilled water, on the other hand, eliminates these risks and ensures optimal performance and longevity of your iron.
To get the best results from your steam generator iron and to protect your clothes, use distilled water for all your ironing needs. It may require a little extra effort to obtain distilled water, but the benefits outweigh the inconvenience. Your steam generator iron will thank you, and your clothes will look better for it.
