Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 3: Cleaning the soldering tip
• Warnings
• Necessities

If you have a soldering iron and want to keep it in good condition, you should clean it regularly. The iron tips come into contact with hot metals and are therefore vulnerable to corrosion or rust. But as long as you thoroughly clean and tin the tip, you can prevent metal build-up and damage to the tip over time. By regularly cleaning your soldering iron in the right ways, you can keep it in good condition for years to come.

To step

Method 1 of 3: Cleaning the soldering tip

1. Let the soldering iron cool down before cleaning it. Turn off the soldering iron and let it cool for 15 to 20 minutes before cleaning the tip. This way you can clean the device as thoroughly as possible without the risk of burns.
   • Clean the soldering tip immediately after using the soldering iron to limit tin build-up over time. Place a sticky note near your workspace if you find yourself often forgetting to clean the soldering iron.
2. Wear eye protection while tinning the tip. It is advisable to spread a thin and even layer of solder on the tip after cleaning the tip. This is called "tinning" and it protects the tip from rust or oxidation. That said, many chemicals in solder are irritants to the eyes. Solder tends to "spit" or pop if you accidentally hit an air pocket, so always keep your safety glasses on.
   • Tin the soldering iron after each use to prevent rusting.
   • Always wear eye protection when working with a hot soldering iron.
   • Although gloves are not actually necessary for tinning, it is recommended to wash your hands with soap and water afterwards.
3. Check the soldering iron cord for burns or cracks. The cord of the soldering iron can easily be damaged by the high heat under which the device is used. If you notice damage to the cord, take the soldering iron to a professional electrician to have the cord replaced.
   • Soldering irons with broken cables are not only inefficient but also dangerous to work with.
4. Wipe the tip of the soldering iron between solderings. Cleaning the tip of the soldering iron while you are working with it will improve the soldering job. After each soldering, wipe the tip of the soldering iron with a wet sponge to prevent build-up.
   • If you are done soldering and you have regularly wiped the soldering iron during use, you will have to clean less.

Warnings

• Use and clean soldering irons in a well-ventilated area. If at any time you feel dizzy, light-headed, or nauseated, leave the room immediately and call the National Poison Information Center for further instructions.
• Always wash your hands after soldering or cleaning a soldering iron. Some materials in solder such as lead can be toxic if absorbed through the skin or swallowed.

Necessities

• Solder
• Microfiber cloth
• Sulfur-free sponge
• Steel wool
• Alloy cleaner