Please ensure the plastic tab has been removed from the battery compartment. For instruction on how this can be achieved, please see the iHome iW1 user manual.
Please replace the remote control's battery and test again.
Please ensure there is nothing obstructing the IR receiver on the iHome iW1, this is located on the front beneath the speaker cloth next to where the status LED appears.
Ensure you are using the correct iHome remote for your iHome iW1 (if you own more than one iHome product).