'Magic' 37p staple removes black stains from irons in minutes - and it's not vinegar

Over time, clothing irons can succumb to damage from various sources such as rust, accumulated clothing fibres, or the accidental burning of fabrics.

Fortunately, there's a trick to eliminate those stubborn stains from the iron's plate before they have a chance to mar your garments.

A perplexed individual sought advice on the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips Facebook group after their iron suffered some mishap.

They posted: "Cleaning ladies, I need your help! I can't think for the life of me what I have ironed, but how can I get the plate clean again? Thanks."

Fellow cleaning aficionados in the group swiftly recommended an unconventional solution - using paracetamol on the hot plate.

One member advised: "Turn on the iron and use paracetamol. I hold mine in tweezers as it gets hot but trust me it works. Just rub the paracetamol over the iron until it's all off", reports the Mirror.

Another chimed in with their success story: "I did this a couple of weeks ago and someone recommended paracetamol tablets. Fantastic. I found it best when the iron was warm. Run it on dry and wipe off with kitchen roll."

However, one user raised a red flag about potential fumes, commenting that their attempt at the hack resulted in everyone having to vacate the premises. A fellow group member responded: "It does cause fumes, I did it outdoors. Also, use tweezers to hold the tablet."

The rationale behind this ingenious hack was provided by a savvy group member who explained: "Some paracetamol tablets contain silicon dioxide which is slightly abrasive and works to remove the burn marks without scratching the surface."

Other tips were also shared on the thread, with some suggesting that rubbing the iron with a damp dishwasher tablet would work, while others recommended using The Pink Stuff and a scourer.

Paracetamol can be purchased from all major supermarkets, with prices starting from as little as 37p.