How to Clean Heat Press Machine Step by Step Guide For Beginner
If you run a graphic business and frequently use a heat press machine to transfer images on different substrates. Over time it becomes dirty, and its cleaning plays an essential role in its long life and appropriate working. Beginners mostly wonder how effectively they can clean their heat press machine. This article will teach you how to easily clean a heat press machine at home.
We will also give you some preventive tips and tricks to help if you accidentally burnt anything on the platen. These tips also enhance your heat press machine’s lifespan and overall performance.
Let us get started!
Why is Cleaning of Heat Press Machine Important?
The cleaning of the heat press machine is vital for several reasons.
- First, regular or periodic cleaning and lubrication of different parts help the machine to work accurately.
- Second, if you do not regularly clean the machine after every use, it also precludes dirt and grime, which may interfere with the smooth transfer of images during pressing.
- Finally, it keeps the machine parts healthy and everlasting.
Notice
Always read the manufactures manual user instructions before applying any cleaning method for the heat press machine.
What are Common Accidents or Mistakes That Beginners May Face While Using a Heat Press Machine?
These include
- The residue of ink when you place the wrong side of the transfer paper, do not use any sheet over the ink on the paper melt and stick with a heat press plate.
- High temperature or over-pressing for a long duration may burn delicate materials or fabric.
- The improper cleaning and maintenance of the heat press also affect its performance.
Methods: How to Clean Heat Press Machine
1. General or Daily Cleaning Method
It is best practice to clean your heat press after every use. Before starting, unplug the press and remove any dirt or debris from the LCD with the help of a slightly damp cloth.
If you find any grime or grease, use mild soap and a warm water mixture to clean it. Then clean it with a dry clean towel and cover it.
2. Removal of an Accidental Upside-Down Paper
If you accidentally place the wrong side of the transfer paper (or vinyl) that sticks with a heat press heating element or platen. In this situation, switch off the machine and take a pair of tweezers or a plastic spatula.
Safely remove the paper and clean its surface with a cloth before the plate cools down. Once it cools down, eliminating paper is tricky and may leave a stain on the plate that may affect your next pressing results.
Our Tip
The top coating of the heating element is exceptionally smooth and coated with a protective sheet. So, when removing stuck paper or excessive ink, use a non-abrasive sponge and a very light household cleaner like Soft scrub, or Goo Gone. After washing with cleanser, cleanse the surface with a damped cloth; this removes the residues of the cleaner. Finally, remove the moisture with a dry clean cloth.
3. Removal of Ink Stains or Residues
If your iron is still gumming constantly after cleaning. Then the use of EZ Off Hot Iron Cleaner gives the best results. It removes messy endeavors and tough stains that don’t clear with any other method.
4. How to use EZ Off Hot Iron Cleaner
Heat the machine to 200° and apply a small amount of EZ off cleaner on a cotton rag. Wear heat-resistant gloves and clean the surface in a circular motion. This cleaner effectively removes all kinds of foreign residue, scorched soil, burned fabric, dirt, and starch without damaging the heating element surface.
Our Tip
During rubbing, apply gentle pressure, and clean the area in a circular motion. After cleaning, your machine is ready for use.
Preventive Tips
- Always place a Teflon sheet before placing a t-shirt.
- Always place the plain paper over the transfer paper. This will prevent the plate surface in case of an accident.
- Do not press any delicate material for a longer time and high temperature that melts quickly.
- Do not use any sharp objects to remove stuck material from the platen.
- Use a non-abrasive sponge and cleaner to prevent the upper platen surface from scratching.
- Do not use harsh chemicals or detergents.
- Regularly clean your machine. In case of any mishaps, unplug the device, inspect it, and resolve the issue immediately.
- For additional protection, cover the lower platen as it lowers wear and tears in outer corners during the loading and unloading of clothes.
- Also, consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on cleaning your particular model of heat press machine. By doing this, you can ensure that your heat press machine will last many years.
Conclusion: How to Clean Press Heat Machine
As you see, regular cleaning of the heat press machine is important to keep it functioning correctly. This will also extend its lifespan. If you follow all these above-mentioned simple methods, tips, and tricks, you will be able to clean your heat press machine correctly because the incorrect process may lead to damage.
FAQS
What Should I Use to Clean my Heat Press Machine?
In the market variety of cleaners are available. You can use any of them but always try to use a mixture of mild cleanser (Soft scrub, or Goo Gone) and water. Do not use strong chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they damage the top layer of the platen.
How Often Should I Clean my Press Heat Machine?
If you use it over time, weekly cleaning is recommended to keep your heat press machine in optimal working condition.
How Can I know my Heat Press Machine Needs to be Cleaned?
Their many conditions when your heat press needs to be cleaned. For example, If your machine is transferring an uneven image or leaving spots on clothes. If it takes more time to transfer an image or does not work properly, it’s time to clean your heat press machine.
