A steam iron provides moist heat that removes wrinkles and folds from clothing without the need to apply any harsh chemicals. A scratch in the surface of the steam iron's stainless steel plate can cause the heat dissipation to be uneven. Remove the scratch from the steam iron so that an even layer of heat will be applied to the clothes it is placed against. You will need a few basic supplies that are available at hardware stores or home and garden centers.
Empty the water from the steam iron into the kitchen sink. Place a bath towel on a table.
Place the steam iron on the towel with the stainless steel plate's surface facing up. Hold the iron in place with one hand.
Place the edge of the fine-grit abrasive pad against the stainless steel plate. Push down on the pad as you drag it along the length of the scratch, following the grain.
Lift the pad off the plate once you reach the other side of the scratch. Repeat the procedure an additional three times.
Inspect the scratched area to see if the scratch is now invisible to the naked eye. If the scratch is still visible, repeat the procedure, only using a medium-grit abrasive pad. Stop using the pad when the scratch is no longer visible.
Wipe the surface of the stainless steel plate off with a soft cloth to remove loose contaminants from the surface. Place the steam iron away.