Curling irons will last a very long time if cared for properly. Removing product buildup, storing properly so they don’t fall and get scratched or break, and minding cords for safe electrical flow are all important.  Sam Villa, Co-founder/Chief Creative Officer of Sam Villa and Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken, shared a DIY recipe for how to clean and sanitize curling irons properly—see below!

“When you see your iron start to turn yellow or get spots, it’s time to clean it,” says Villa. “Gels, sprays and heat protectant residue can build up quickly. Stylists have to clean tools after every use in the salon, but when at home, you can do a weekly cleaning if using the iron on a daily basis.”

Daily:

1. Mix warm water and dish soap in a tub.

2. Dip cloth into mixture and wipe down the entire iron from handle to tip. Make sure iron is cool and detach the tong if it is removable. 

3. Dry with a cloth.

Weekly:

1. Mix warm water and dish soap in a tub.

2. Dip cloth into mixture and wipe down the entire iron from handle to tip.  Make sure iron is cool and detach the tong if it is removable. 

3. Add baking soda and toothpaste to the soap and water to thicken and add scrubbing power.

4. Apply the mixture to the barrel and tong with a brush and leave on for at least 15 minutes (can also sit overnight).

5. Wipe clean with a cloth.

Spot Cleaning:

1. Use a cotton pad with rubbing alcohol to wipe clean and sanitize.

2. Apply baking soda and more alcohol to the pad and scrub stubborn spots.  The scouring power is strong enough to remove most burned-on stains, yet gentle enough not to damage the surface.  A gentle sponge can also be used for more abrasive scrubbing.

“And use the iron kickstand, otherwise your iron can tip over and melt things causing even more buildup,” adds Villa, who designed his namesake Artist Series 2-in-1 Marcel Curling Iron and Wand with a convenient removable tong for easy cleaning.