To clean a curling iron, wipe all parts of the barrel with rubbing alcohol. Do this at least once a month to remove product buildup. If your curling iron has layer of dirt or buildup from hair products, use a stronger solution, such as a baking powder paste or oven cleaner.
- Unplug the curling iron
Unplug the curling iron, and allow it to cool completely before handling.
- Clean the curling iron with rubbing alcohol
Place rubbing alcohol onto a clean washcloth, then use the washcloth to wipe down the barrel of the iron. This removes buildup from hair spray, gel and other hair products. Remember to lift the clasp part that catches the hair, and wipe underneath it.
- Clean the curling iron with baking powder paste
If you have crusty buildup that won't come off with just the alcohol, mix baking powder with enough water to make a thick, spreadable paste. Rub the baking soda all over the curling iron barrel, and let it sit for a few minutes. Wipe off the paste with a clean, damp cloth. Apply more paste, if necessary, to remove more of the buildup.
- Clean the curling iron with oven cleaner
Try oven cleaner if the buildup is not coming off with rubbing alcohol or the baking powder paste. Cover the curling iron handle and cord in a cloth to protect it from the oven cleaner. Wear protective gloves. Cover the work surface with newspaper. Spray oven cleaner all over the curling iron barrel and leave on for 15 to 20 minutes, or until you see the cleaner starting to bubble up around the accumulated residue. Wipe off the oven cleaner with a damp cloth, ensuring that all the cleaner has been completely removed.
