If you've noticed black and brown stains building up on the soleplate of your iron, you're not alone.

It's a common problem that can be caused by the melting of synthetic and natural fibres in clothes, dust, starch, rust in the iron's reservoir, and hard water.

Most people either spend hours scrubbing away the stains using a scourer or simply chuck away their iron and replace it with a new one.

However, there is a simple way to get rid of the stains without resorting to harsh chemicals or hours of scrubbing - using paracetamol.

The unusual method was suggested when Angie Slaven asked the Facebook group, 'Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips': "I'm sure this will have been asked before but... please can someone tell me how to clean my iron?"

Angie also posted a photo of her iron, which was covered in black stains and scorch marks. There were a plethora of suggestions for removing the unsightly stains but the most highly recommended method was to use paracetamol.

Rita Ralph said: "Paracetamol. Rub over [the] warm iron. [It] works a treat."

Lisa Farrelly replied: "Paracetamol. Rub it over it."

Sadie Roach also suggested using paracetamol. She said: "Definitely paracetamol tablets. Warm iron and rub over the tablets. You will need to do it a few times but this method is the only method that works for me. Hold between tweezers if not with fingers."

Gail Rogers agreed and wrote: "Heat iron up. Hold a paracetamol tablet in tongs and rub over the burnt bits. It really works."

Lesley Maher also tried the method and claimed, "It's like a miracle".

Paracetamol tablets can be bought from most local supermarkets, online and from pharmacies. Superdrug sells paracetamol for 49p, Tesco for 37p and Sainsbury's for 50p.

Other suggestions from Mrs Hinch fans included using toothpaste and salt.

Dee Smith said: "Try toothpaste, worked on mine. Good luck."

Svetlana Kardan replied: "Put lots of coarse salt on the large paper, turn your iron on and iron the salt. But don’t forget to turn off the steam."