Summer volume puts more hours of heat on your ironer belts than any other season. That heat doesn't just wear belts — it glazes them. Glazing is a hardened, shiny streak pattern that forms when friction and high heat compress the fabric surface over time.

What Glazing Looks Like

Glazed sections show up as streaky, discolored lines running lengthwise with the belt travel direction — usually tan to dark brown, with a slight sheen compared to the surrounding matte fabric. It starts at high-friction points: belt edges and the center crease.

Why It Matters

A glazed belt loses grip. Once grip drops, sheets feed unevenly, tracking drifts, and ironer output slows — often before anyone notices the belt itself. By the time output drops enough to investigate, the belt has usually been glazing for weeks.

Machines Affected

This applies across Chicago Dryer, Jensen, and Continental Girbau flatwork ironers — any high-throughput feeder system running consistent summer volume.

What to Check

• Run your hand along the belt surface — glazed sections feel harder and smoother than the rest
• Look for color change at the edges and center crease first
• Check feed consistency — drift or slow feed is often the first visible symptom

Replacing Glazed Belts

CIC manufactures and stocks replacement belts cut to your machine specs — no waiting on custom orders. Belt rolls are also available for facilities that cut and lace their own.

Browse ironer belts at Cicus.com or call (866) 632-2298.