How do I use hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire?

Ivorian power outlet

Will my hair straighteners work in Cote d Ivoire?

Check that your hair straighteners can handle the voltage in Cote d Ivoire:

If not then you can either:

Buy travel hair straighteners for Cote d Ivoire
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair straighteners and other applicances with an 230 volt Ivorian power outlet, however this is considerably heavier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the wall outlet used in Cote d Ivoire, so check that the power converter has the right power adapter for Cote d Ivoire otherwise you will need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Be aware that your own personal hair straighteners might not be suited for travelling and you could risk damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 230 volts you run the risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair straighteners or even an electrical fire hazard. Before attempting to use your hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire

Will my hair straighteners work in Cote d Ivoire?

It depends on if your hair straighteners is designed to operate using the 230 volts used in Cote d Ivoire:

Cote d Ivoire power outlets and plug sockets

What is the frequency used with an Ivorian power outlet?

The frequency of the current found in an Ivorian power outlet is 50Hz. [8]

What mains voltage is used in Cote d Ivoire?

Power outlets in Cote d Ivoire are 230 volts.

Which power adapter will you need to bring to use hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire?

Type C and E power outlets

Which power adapter will you need to bring to use hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire?

There are two types of power outlets used in Cote d Ivoire, types E and C with the primary power outlets being type E:

  • Plug Type C - You can identify this plug socket by two circular adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type E - This sunken circular power outlet (called the CEE 7/7 plug) can be identified by two holes 19mm adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins and one long metal earth pin protruding the top forming a triangle shape.

A suitable power adapter to bring when using 230 volt hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire is a Type E power adapter; read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire using a travel adapter. Please be aware that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you will need to see if you need to use a power converter.  [6] [9] [AD]

Get a plug adapter for Cote d Ivoire

Dual voltage hair straighteners

Are my hair straighteners dual voltage?

Single voltage hair straighteners

Are my hair straighteners dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair straighteners will handle dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or plug. This location might vary depending on the make or model of your hair straighteners, it should also state on the box. Some dual voltage models might change automatically but other straighteners will have a button which allows you to change between different regions depending on which country you are visiting.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates single voltage hair straighteners. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Cote d Ivoire then you should be able to use your hair straighteners with an Ivorian power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates single voltage hair straighteners which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 230 volts used in an Ivorian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair straighteners then you can use it in Cote d Ivoire.
  • A large range separated with a dash or slash such as 100/240V indicates dual voltage hair straighteners capable of being used in Cote d Ivoire or any other country.
 [2] [AD]

Travelling to Cote d Ivoire with hair straighteners

Can I bring hair straighteners in my carry on?

Travel hair straighteners with heat protective cap

Can I bring hair straighteners in my carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair straighteners there is no restriction on bringing mains powered hair straighteners in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA suggests that you should verify that the airline which is taking you to Cote d Ivoire will allow hair straighteners onboard and that they will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

Packing the 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 power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around electronic items). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive hair straighteners in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against knocks and bumps during your journey.    [2] [10] [11] [12] [AD]

Should I bring domestic hair straighteners or travel hair straighteners to Cote d Ivoire?

It is preferable to packing dual voltage travel hair straighteners as opposed to bringing your existing domestic hair straighteners to Cote d Ivoire as it is safer to assume that they'll work with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Ivorian power outlet, as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Cote d Ivoire. Please be aware that packing your expensive domestic hair straighteners could place them at risk due to potential damage or loss in your check in suitcase by an airline baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience involved in replacing or repairing expensive specialised domestic hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire might overshadow the cost of purchasing cheaper dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] before setting off. If you intend to pack your own hair straighteners in your suitcase it is recommended to either slot them inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light knocks, alternatively use a heat resistant and shockproof 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 whilst hot without risk of burning.   [11] [13] [AD]

Power converters for Cote d Ivoire

What is the difference between a power adapter and a voltage converter for Cote d Ivoire?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power adapter and a voltage converter for Cote d Ivoire?

An expensive and heavy power converter will transform the voltage of 230 volts from an Ivorian power outlet to work with non-230 volt hair straighteners, however a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit into a power outlet in Cote d Ivoire. [7] [AD]

Do I need a converter for Cote d Ivoire to use my hair straighteners?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) allows hair straighteners using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Cote d Ivoire. A power converter is suitable for travellers who wish to bring their existing domestic hair straighteners, however it can be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to buy dedicated dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2]. A power converter is significantly heavier than travel hair straighteners making a power converter less suited for travelling. [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.    [11] [13] [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 Cote d Ivoire using a type C power adapter

How to power hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire with a 2 prong Type C travel charger.

  1. Ensure that the straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then do not attempt these instructions because you might damage your straighteners, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Travel straighteners sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using your straighteners make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting, consult the user guide to find out where the switch is found.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair straighteners isn't the same type of outlet used in Cote d Ivoire you will need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. The power adapter is designed to adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet in Cote d Ivoire simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Plug in the Type C plug adapter in the Ivorian power outlet. You can identify this plug outlet by two circular adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral pins.
  4. After that plug in the hair straighteners into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Ivorian power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on your straighteners in Cote d Ivoire. [AD]
How to use hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire using a type C power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire using a type E power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire with a Type E travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that your hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply; if it doesn't then don't proceed as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your straighteners or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel straighteners ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts to use in Cote d Ivoire, please consult the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. You'll need to use a Type E plug adapter [6] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Cote d Ivoire doesn't take the plug shape on your hair straighteners. This Type E plug adapter helps convert different plugs from other countries for use with a power outlet used in Cote d Ivoire by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by inserting the Type E plug adapter into the wall outlet. You can identify this power outlet by two 4.8mm circular holes 19mm apart from each other with a single long metal earth pin protruding from the top forming a triangular pattern.
  4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Ivorian power outlet.
  6. Your straighteners can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use hair straighteners in Cote d Ivoire using a type E power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Ivorian country Wiki 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 E power outlet
  6. Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
  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. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair straighteners -
  11. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  12. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
  13. 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.
  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..