# Care and fixes Canonical page: https://everydaygarmentcare.co.uk/care/ Publisher: Everyday Garment Care Find the right instructions for scale, splutters, worn board covers and awkward refills. Updated November 2026 ![An upright steam iron with its soleplate visible beside a folded cotton cloth]() ## What needs attention? Find the exact reference, work through a steam problem or identify a cover that fits. Before looking up a method ### [Find your model number]() Use the full rating-plate reference, including the suffix, to locate instructions. **Identify the appliance** When steam stops ### [Steam generator not steaming]() Work through the water, controls and cleaning checks for the exact model. **Check the symptom** For a worn board cover ### [Replace the right cover]() Match deck dimensions, nose shape and the fastening before ordering. **Check cover fit** Explore the full topic ## All maintenance and repair guides [Search every guide]() ### Water & limescale Check the exact appliance’s water rules and cleaning hardware before treating scale. - [Water for irons & steamers]() - [Descale Philips GC7842/46]() - [Descale Tefal SV8022G0]() - [Descale Philips PSG7030/20]() - [Find a limescale cartridge]() ### Fix a problem Identify the symptom and work through the appropriate checks before continuing to use the appliance. - [Iron spitting or leaving marks]() - [Steam generator not steaming]() - [Clean an iron soleplate]() - [Ironing board dripping]() - [Steamer spitting water]() - [Steamer smells musty]() - [Ironing board wobbles]() ### Parts & useful checks Match replacement parts and covers to the full reference, and plan safe storage. - [Replace a board cover]() - [Brabantia Board B covers]() - [Joseph Joseph Pocket covers]() - [Store a steam generator]() - [Find your model number]() - [Steam boost & pressure]() Choosing & using ## Identify the model before choosing a fix ## Find the model before treating limescale Look for the full reference on the rating plate or in your paperwork. Two irons in the same range can use different cleaning systems. Philips, for example, describes separate routines for [Smart Calc-Clean and Easy De-Calc](). One uses a tray under the iron and the other drains from the base. Use the instructions for your model, including any cooling period. If you see [spitting water or brown marks](), identify where they start. A [soleplate wipe]() treats surface residue, while steam system maintenance has a separate procedure. If the base leaks or a cable is damaged, stop using the appliance and contact the manufacturer or an approved repairer. ## Match a replacement cover to the pressing surface Measure the length and the widest point of the board itself, excluding the iron rest. Check the nose shape and the way the cover fastens. If the maker uses sizes such as A, B or C, find the board’s model or part number and match it to the maker’s chart. The [Brabantia Board B guide]() compares three covers for its 124 × 38 cm deck. Use our [cover fitting steps]() when you have the right replacement. For a [steam generator](), also check that the cover and board allow steam to pass through as the appliance maker specifies. ## Check the tank before you put it away Look up whether your [steamer]() or [iron]() should be emptied after use. The permitted water, draining steps and storage position vary by model. Keep the cleaning tray or other supplied accessories with the appliance so they are easy to find when the reminder appears. Use the [rating-plate guide]() to identify the appliance, then follow the [storage guide]() for its tank, hose and lock. If a board drips or rocks, check [condensation]() and [frame stability]() before the next session. ## Explore another topic [Ironing]()[Steamers]()[Indoor drying]()[Fabric care]() ## Frequently asked questions ### Can I use vinegar to descale any steam iron? Use only the method and substances allowed by the exact appliance manual. Cleaning trays, drain systems, collectors and cartridges work differently, and an additive that suits another appliance can be unsuitable for your iron. ### Where do I find the exact model number? Look on the rating plate or in the supplied paperwork. Include the full suffix when finding instructions or replacement parts because similar range names can cover different tanks, cleaning systems and accessories. ### Can I replace a board cover by matching its colour? Match the board’s pressing-surface dimensions, nose shape and fastening method. If the maker uses a size letter or part number, confirm that against the board reference. Colour alone does not identify fit. ### What should I do if the base is leaking or a cable is damaged? Stop using the appliance and follow the manufacturer’s support or repair route. A damaged cable, hot-water leak or worn drain seal needs the correct assessment and replacement part rather than repeated attempts to continue ironing. ### Can I use a replacement part that looks like the original? Confirm the full model reference and the maker’s compatibility information. Similar-looking cartridges, caps, seals and covers can have different fittings or instructions. Use the specified part and an appropriate repair service where the work needs one.