How do I use hair straighteners in Iceland?

Iceland power outlet

Will my hair straighteners work in Iceland?

Check that your hair straighteners can handle the voltage in Iceland:

  • If your hair straighteners can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you'll only need to use the correct power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair straighteners won't fit in the outlet.

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair straighteners and other applicances with an 230 volt Iceland power outlet, however this is substantially heavier, bulkier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A power converter will change the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the power outlet used in Iceland, therefore check that the power converter has a suitable power adapter for Iceland otherwise you will also need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your existing hair straighteners might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 230 volts you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair straighteners. Before attempting to use your hair straighteners in Iceland read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using hair straighteners in Iceland

Will my hair straighteners work in Iceland?

That depends on if your hair straighteners is designed to operate using the 230 volt power outlets in Iceland. If you're using either dual voltage hair straighteners or your hair straighteners can handle 230 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you'll be able to use it in Iceland. If not then you will need to consider using either a power converter or dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2], read the guide on can you use a voltage converter with hair straighteners in Iceland for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Iceland power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Iceland?

The typical voltage used in Iceland is 230 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in Iceland?

The frequency from an Iceland power outlet is 50 Hz. [8]

Which power adapter do you need to use  hair straighteners in Iceland?

Type C and F power outlets

Which power adapter do you need to use hair straighteners in Iceland?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Iceland, these are type F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - The wall outlet, also called a Europlug, is identified by two circular adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral plug socket pins go.
  • Plug Type F - This round power socket (called a Schuko plug) can be identified by two large circular adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral plug socket pins slide into and metal grounding clips above and below.

A suitable plug adapter to bring to use 230 volt hair straighteners in Iceland is a Type F power adapter; read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of how to use a plug adapter for Iceland. Please note that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you will need to check if you also need to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [9] [AD]

Dual voltage hair straighteners

How can I tell if my hair straighteners are dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair straighteners

How can I tell if my hair straighteners are dual voltage?

One way to tell if your hair straighteners will accept a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or plug of your hair straighteners. This location will vary depending on the make or model of your hair straighteners and could also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair straighteners can change automatically, however other models will have a switch which allows you to toggle between different voltages depending on which country you are visiting.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Iceland then you should be able to use your hair straighteners with an Iceland power outlet.
  • Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in an Iceland power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair straighteners then you should be able to use it in Iceland.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair straighteners will be capable of being used in Iceland or any other country if these numbers are shown.
 [2] [AD]

Travelling to Iceland with hair straighteners

Is it safe to bring my hair straighteners to Iceland?

Bringing dual voltage travel hair straighteners are preferable to bringing your existing hair straighteners as it is safer to assume that they'll operate correctly with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Iceland power outlet, as long as you use the correct power adapter for Iceland. Please be aware that packing your expensive domestic hair straighteners might put them at risk due to potential loss or damage in your check in suitcase by a baggage handlers in Iceland. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing expensive quality hair straighteners in Iceland could overshadow the cost of buying much cheaper dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] before setting off. If you intend to bring your own hair straighteners in your suitcase it is recommended to either slot them inside a sneaker or boot to protect from light damage, alternatively use a shockproof and heat resistant hot tools travel case or heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons which will also allow the hair straighteners to be transported right after use without waiting to cool down.   [10] [11] [AD]

Can hair straighteners go in your hand luggage to Iceland?

Travel hair straighteners with heat protective cap

Can hair straighteners go in your hand luggage to Iceland?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair straighteners there is no restriction on carrying mains powered hair straighteners in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also recommends that you should verify that your airline which is taking you to Iceland will allow hair straighteners onboard and that they will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing your hair straighteners in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves them easily accessible for airport security, they can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around hair straighteners). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive hair straighteners in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against bumps and knocks during your journey.    [2] [10] [12] [13] [AD]

Power converters for Iceland

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a plug adapter for Iceland?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a plug adapter for Iceland?

An expensive and bulky power converter will convert the voltage of 230 volts from an Iceland power outlet to work with non-230 volt hair straighteners, but a more lightweight and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to slot into a power outlet in Iceland. [7] [AD]

Do you need a power converter to use your hair straighteners in Iceland?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow hair straighteners using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Iceland. A power converter is more suited for travellers wishing to bring along their own domestic hair straighteners, but it can be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to buy dedicated dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2]. Also worth noting, travel hair straighteners can be considerably lighter and smaller than a power converter making travel hair straighteners more suited for packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

Hair straightener safety

Are hair straighteners dangerous?

The temperature of the ceramic plates used in hair straighteners can reach over 200 degrees with the potential to burn hair, skin, and even start a fire if not used correctly. According to figures from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service electrical beauty products have been responsible for an estimated 650,000 fires in the United Kingdom alone.

How can I minimise risk using hair straighteners?

A heat resistant glove

How can I minimise risk using hair straighteners?

  • Skin protection: Wear heat resistant gloves during styling to protect hands from heat.
  • Children's protection: With 10% of children's burns being caused by hair straighteners it is recommended to look for flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag to keep the plates closed shut when not in use, making it easier to store out of reach of children.
  • Luggage protection: Placing hair straighteners directly into luggage without allowing them to cool down can risk damage to clothes and heating up combustible or flammable packed items. If your hair straighteners weren't supplied with a heat protective cap then wrap them in a heat resistant mat or use a hot tools travel case to pack them into luggage whilst warm. A travel case will also keep expensive hair straighteners protected from damage during transit.
  • Hair protection: Applying a heat protectant spray prior to using hair straighteners is essential to prevent burning, as well as using the correct technique for your hair type - read our guide on how to use hair straighteners for comprehensive information.
  • Fire protection: It can take up to 40 minutes for hair straighteners to cool down so resting your straighteners on a heat resistant mat could reduce the risk of setting fire to furniture. Forgetting to turn off hot domestic appliances can also cause fires. This risk can be reduced by using a model of straightener with a timer socket which will turn itself off automatically after a certain length of time, you can also add this feature to any basic straighteners by using a timer socket in a power outlet.    [10] [11] [14] [15] [16] [17] [AD]
How can I add a safety timer to my existing hair straighteners?

Hair straighteners connected to a timer power outlet

How can I add a safety timer to my existing hair straighteners?

1 in 12 owners of hair straighteners admit to forgetting to turn them off after use, unless your hair straighteners have a built in automatic timer then leaving them on could potentially start a fire. However you can add this functionality to any model even if it doesn't have an integrated timer:

  1. Add an automatic timer to any hair straighteners by plugging them into a timer socket then plugging the timer into a power outlet.
  2. Turn on the timer and use the hair straighteners as normal.
  3. After you have finishing using the hair straighteners turn off the power at the outlet.
  4. However if you forget to turn the power outlet off then the timer will automatically switch off the straighteners after a pre-set length of time. Depending on the model of timer this could be 15, 30, 60 or 120 minutes - ideally pick the shortest length of time possible.
  5. For added peace of mind use a power outlet splitter to share the outlet from the timer with both your hair straighteners and a lamp. When the timer is running both the straighteners and the lamp will be turned on, making the lamp a clear indicator that the straighteners are still being heated. When leaving a room it is second nature to ensure all lights are turned off, if the lamp is still on then this acts as a reminder to switch off the straighteners.
  [16] [18] [AD]

How to treat a hot iron burn

If you accidentally burn yourself run cold water under your burn and if it is severe it is advised to seek medical attention from a doctor or hospital.

How to use hair straighteners in Iceland using a type C power adapter

Instructions showing how to power hair straighteners in Iceland with a two prong Type C travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that your hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet; if it doesn't then do not continue as you might damage your hair straighteners, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel straighteners which can toggle between different voltages ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts - please refer to the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair straighteners isn't the same type of outlet used in Iceland you will need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4]. The power adapter will convert plugs from other countries for a power outlet found in Iceland by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start the process by plugging the Type C plug adapter in the wall outlet. The plug outlet, sometimes called a Type C power outlet [3] or Europlug, is recognised by the two circular holes adjacent to each other.
  4. Plug in your hair straighteners into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Iceland power outlet. You can now switch on the straighteners in Iceland. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Iceland using a type C power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Iceland using a type F power adapter

Instructions showing how to power your hair straighteners in Iceland with a two pin Type F travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that the straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then do not continue as you could damage your hair straighteners, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel straighteners which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - please consult the instructions for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair straighteners isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Iceland you'll need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6]. The plug adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet used in Iceland simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Insert the Type F plug adapter in the wall outlet. This sunken circular plug outlet can be identified by two 4.8mm adjacent holes next to each other along with a pair of two thin metal grounding clips at the top and bottom.
  4. Plug in your hair straighteners into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Iceland power outlet. You can now turn on the straighteners in Iceland. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Iceland using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Iceland Wikipedia web page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair straighteners
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  7. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  8. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  9. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  10. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  11. Heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons - Protects surfaces from hot hair irons and wraps around the appliance allowing instant packing into baggage.
  12. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair straighteners -
  13. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
  14. Heat resistant gloves for hair styling - Heat resistant glove recommended to protect skin against the risk of heat from a curling iron, flat iron or hair dryer.
  15. Heat protectant spray - Thermal protector spray used prior to styling with heated tools such as blow dryers and flat irons.
  16. Energy saving outlet with timer - Automatic power shut down of a connected appliance after a preset length of time.
  17. Flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag - Example of hair straighteners with a protective bag suitable for travel.
  18. Power outlet splitter - A power outlet splitter transforms a single wall outlet into multiple AC outlets which is a practical solution for using multiple appliances in locations with limited access to power outlets, such as hotels or airports..