Routine cleaning is critical to this go-to beauty tool delivering years of good hair days.
They work their magic with heat and a ceramic or metal rod.
A dirty curling iron can even damage your hair.
Credit:Getty Images / Natalya Sambulova
Uneven heating produces hot spots on the barrel that can burn your tresses.
Here are instructions for cleaning and removing product buildup from a curling iron.
Before Getting Started
How do you know if your curling iron is due for a cleaning?
If you notice sticky residue on the barrel, thats a sure sign your curling iron needs some TLC.
Do you notice a burning smell when you use the iron?
That may be product residue burning off the barrel of the curling iron.
Is your curling iron taking longer than usual to heat up?
Is your hair not curling as quickly as it used to?
All of these are signs its time to clean that curling iron.
Of course, always unplug a curling iron and let it cool off before you clean it.
Mix a Cleaning Solution
Combine equal parts of water andrubbing alcoholorvinegar.
This solution will dissolve and remove product buildup.
Wipe Down the Barrel
Dip a soft cloth into the cleaning solution and wring it out.
You want the cloth damp but not soaking wet.
Be sure the cleaning solution gets into the edges, crooks, and crannies.
Use the brush to scrub away any stubborn product residue remaining on the barrel.
Clean the Cool Top
If your curling iron has a cool tip, clean it too.
Hair products can build up around the cool tip and harm the curling irons performance.
Dry Thoroughly
Use a towelto wipe off the water and let the curling iron completely air-dry.
Once the curling iron is dry, check to see if all visible product buildup is gone.
Wipe down the iron after each use to prolong its life and prevent product buildup.
If you use your curling iron daily, give it a light cleaning every two weeks.
Wipe it down with a cloth dipped in a mild cleaning solution.
Check the manufacturers instructions for cleaning your curling iron because certain coatings on the barrel may need specific care.
