If your steam iron is starting to sputter, spit, or stain your clothes, the culprit might be your tap water. In many areas of the UK — especially hard water regions — mineral build-up can damage your appliance and reduce its efficiency.
One of the simplest ways to extend the life of your steam iron and keep your clothes looking their best is to switch to distilled water.
👉 Order distilled water with free next-day delivery →
🚱 The Problem with Tap Water in Irons
Most tap water in the UK contains dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals don’t evaporate when heated. Instead, they’re left behind in your iron’s boiler or steam vents, where they:
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Form limescale build-up
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Block steam holes
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Cause white flakes or brown stains on clothing
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Shorten the life of your iron
💧 What Is Distilled Water?
Distilled water is water that has been purified by boiling and condensation, removing:
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Minerals (like calcium, magnesium)
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Salts
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Impurities
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Bacteria
The result? Ultra-pure water — just H₂O — that’s ideal for any application where cleanliness and longevity matter.
✅ It’s available in bulk sizes from The Somerset Clear Water Company here →
🔍 Why Steam Irons Perform Better with Distilled Water
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No limescale build-up – Prevents mineral residue inside the water tank and steam vents.
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Cleaner steam – No white streaks or mineral stains on your clothes.
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Longer iron life – Protects internal components from corrosion or blockages.
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No need to descale – Reduces or even eliminates the need for frequent cleaning.
Most major brands — including Philips, Tefal, Morphy Richards, and Russell Hobbs — recommend using distilled or demineralised water, especially in hard water areas.
🇬🇧 Is Distilled Water Necessary in the UK?
Much of the UK — including Somerset, Kent, Essex, and London — is classified as hard to very hard water zones.
Using distilled water in your iron is a smart choice across the UK, but it’s especially critical if:
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You live in a hard water area
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You’ve had to replace irons frequently
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You use your iron daily or in a commercial setting
🎯 Get the right size for your needs here →
🧺 How Much Distilled Water Do I Need for My Iron?
For home use, a typical steam iron consumes:
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300–500ml per ironing session
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2–4 litres per month for occasional use
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10+ litres monthly for frequent or commercial ironing
That’s why we offer:
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5-litre single bottles and packs of 2, 3, or 4
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25-litre drums (also in multipacks)
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1000-litre IBC tanks for commercial or industrial use
All with free next working day delivery across the UK — see all options →
❓ Common Questions
Can I mix tap water with distilled water?
You can, but you reduce the benefits. For best results, use 100% distilled.
Is deionised water the same?
Deionised water is similar but may still contain organic compounds. Distilled water is more thorough for irons.
Can I buy distilled water in UK supermarkets?
Not easily. Most supermarkets don’t stock it, or only in small quantities at high prices. We offer bulk sizes with nationwide next-day delivery at highly competitive rates.
🚚 Ready to Protect Your Iron?
Switching to distilled water is a small change that pays off in a big way. Your iron will last longer, your clothes will look better, and you’ll spend less time cleaning and descaling.