How to clean hair straighteners

Before you clean: safety first

Switch off and unplug the straighteners. Let them cool completely on a heat mat; the plates can stay hot for some time after switching off. Never clean plates while warm, as the cloth can stick, moisture can steam and you risk burns.

Never immerse straighteners in water or hold them under a tap. Use only a cloth that is damp, not wet, so no water can run into the hinge, body or cable connection.

Note:Always unplug and cool straighteners before cleaning. Never put them in water. If water gets inside, do not use them until checked by the maker or a qualified repairer.

Step by step: routine plate cleaning

A quick wipe like this every week or two, or whenever you notice residue, stops build up hardening on the plates. It takes a couple of minutes and keeps the glide smooth.

1. 1

   Unplug and let the straighteners cool completely.

2. 2

   Dampen a soft, lint free cloth with clean water and wring it out well.

3. 3

   Open the arms and wipe each plate from the hinge end to the tip.

4. 4

   Wipe the plate edges and the area around the plates.

5. 5

   Dry the plates with a second soft, dry cloth.

6. 6

   Leave the straighteners open for a few minutes so any moisture evaporates before you store or use them.

Removing stubborn product build up

If a damp cloth does not shift the residue, many makers accept a cloth lightly dampened with a little mild soapy water, followed by a clean damp cloth and a dry one. Some people use a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cloth or cotton pad, which dissolves sticky product. Check your manual before using alcohol or any cleaner, because some coatings and finishes can be affected.

Work gently in small circles and let the cleaner do the work. For residue in the plate edges, wrap the cloth around a cotton bud. Never use metal tools, scouring pads, magic sponges, nail varnish remover or bleach on the plates; they can scratch or strip the coating, and a damaged coating will drag on hair.

Cleaning ghd straighteners

ghd plates are ceramic, and many ghd models have a high gloss or ultra gloss coating. ghd's care guidance is to unplug, allow to cool and wipe the plates with a damp cloth, without abrasive cleaners. Check the manual for your model, as recommendations can vary. Do not try to remove floating plates or open the casing, which can affect safety and your guarantee.

If your ghd shows unusual lights or beeps after cleaning, make sure it is completely dry before trying again. Our guides to ghd red light and beeping and ghd straighteners not working explain common signals. For details of cover, see our ghd warranty guide.

The body, cord and storage

Wipe the outer casing with a slightly damp cloth and dry it. Check the cord along its full length for cracks, kinks or exposed wires, and look at the swivel joint where the cord meets the body. Do not wrap the cord tightly around the straighteners, as that strains the joint over time; loop it loosely instead.

Store straighteners cool and dry, ideally in a heat resistant pouch, with the plate guard on if supplied. Keeping them clean also makes it easier to spot plate damage early. If a plate is chipped or the coating is peeling, it is time to look at a replacement; our best hair straighteners guide compares premium models, and ceramic vs titanium plates explains plate materials.

Compare premium straighteners →

Reducing build up in the first place

Curling tongs and wands build up product in the same way. Our guide to cleaning curling tongs covers barrels and clamps, and the best curling wands guide lists premium curlers if yours needs replacing.

• Let heat protection sprays dry before straightening.
• Use styling products sparingly, applying them to hair rather than near the plates.
• Apply serums and hairspray after straightening, not before.
• Wipe the plates regularly before residue hardens.

Frequently asked questions

How do you clean ghd straightener plates? Unplug, let them cool, then wipe the plates with a damp, soft cloth and dry them. Check your ghd manual before using any cleaner.

Can I use rubbing alcohol on straighteners? Many people do, on a cloth, for stubborn build up. Check your manual first, as some coatings may be affected, and only clean when cool and unplugged.

How often should I clean my straighteners? A quick wipe every week or two, or whenever you see residue, is usually enough.

Why are my straightener plates sticky or brown? That is usually product build up from sprays and serums. Wipe it off when cool, and apply products before heat only when they are dry.