Empty the water after each use, especially if you’re a once-a-month ironer. Stale water grows moldy and smells like a swamp. Pour it out, let the tank dry, and your iron will thank you by not revenge-spewing brown gunk on your white blouse.
If you do get white buildup, run a 50-50 mix of vinegar and water through it (with the steam setting high) to flush out the calcium. Then rinse with plain water. Your iron will feel reborn—like a phoenix from the ash of old wrinkles.