I use Niagara brand spray starch in a spray can. Works great and isn't too expensive. I think I might have to try some of the recipes some of you have shared and see how that works. Yes, the iron does get gunky after using starch alot but it cleans easily with commercial iron cleaning products. I think I bought this cleaner kit at Joann's on a 40% off coupon and it works great. It's called ROWENTA SOLE PLATE CLEANING KIT.