Using hair straighteners in Montserrat

Montserratian power outlet

Will my hair straighteners work in Montserrat?

First check that your hair straighteners can work in Montserrat:

  • If your hair straighteners can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair straighteners will not fit.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair straighteners and other applicances with a 230 volt Montserratian power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A power converter changes the voltage but won't change the actual shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the types of power outlet used in Montserrat, therefore please check that the power converter comes with the right power adapter for Montserrat otherwise you will also need to bring a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your own existing hair straighteners might not be suited for travelling and you risk potential damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 230 volts you run the potential risk of damage to your hair straighteners, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Prior to using your hair straighteners in Montserrat check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using hair straighteners in Montserrat

Will my hair straighteners work in Montserrat?

That will depend on if your hair straighteners is designed to handle the 230 volt power outlets used in Montserrat. If you're using either dual voltage hair straighteners or your hair straighteners is designed to handle 230 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you can use the hair straighteners in Montserrat. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a power converter or dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2]. Read the guide on do you need a power converter to use a domestic hair straighteners for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Montserrat power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Montserrat?

Power outlets in Montserrat are 230 volts.

What electrical frequency is used in a Montserratian power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current in a Montserratian power outlet is 60 Hz. [8]

Which plug adapter do you need to bring to use  hair straighteners in Montserrat?

Type A and B power outlets

Which plug adapter do you need to bring to use hair straighteners in Montserrat?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Montserrat, types B and A with the primary power outlets being type B:

  • Plug Type A - You can identify the wall socket by two adjacent slots for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type B - The power outlet (also known as a type B power outlet) is identified by the 2 thin slots parallel to each other with a hole below for the slightly long ground pin.

A recommended power adapter to bring for using 230 volt hair straighteners in Montserrat is a Type B plug adapter, read the simple guide below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Montserrat. Be aware that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you will need to confirm if you also have to bring a power converter.  [4] [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?

An easy way how to tell if your hair straighteners will handle a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or plug of the hair straighteners. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair straighteners, it could also be written on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other straighteners will feature a button which allows you to operate between different voltages depending on which country you are in.

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

Travelling to Montserrat with hair straighteners

Is it better to bring travel hair straighteners or domestic hair straighteners to Montserrat?

It is preferable to bring dual voltage travel hair straighteners instead of packing your existing domestic hair straighteners to Montserrat as it is safer to assume that they will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Montserratian power outlet, provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Montserrat. It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing your expensive domestic hair straighteners could place them at risk due to potential loss or damage in your check in luggage by an airline baggage handler in Montserrat. The costs of repairing expensive specialised domestic hair straighteners in Montserrat might overshadow the costs of buying cheaper dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] before your trip. If you intend to pack your own hair straighteners in your luggage it is recommended to either slide them inside a sneaker or boot 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 packed whilst hot without waiting to cool down.   [10] [11] [AD]

Can I take hair straighteners in my hand luggage to Montserrat?

Travel hair straighteners with heat protective cap

Can I take hair straighteners in my hand luggage to Montserrat?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair straighteners there is no restriction on carrying mains powered hair straighteners in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that your airline that is flying you to Montserrat will allow hair straighteners onboard and that they will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing the hair straighteners in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves them easily accessible when going through airport security checks, they can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around electric items such as hair straighteners). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive hair straighteners in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and drops during your journey.    [2] [10] [12] [13] [AD]

Power converters for Montserrat

Do you need a converter for Montserrat to use hair straighteners?

A voltage transformer (or power converter) allows hair straighteners using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Montserrat. Travellers who want to use their existing hair straighteners can use a power converter, but it could be more expensive to purchase a power converter than it is to buy dedicated dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2]. Also, a power converter is substantially heavier than travel hair straighteners making a power converter less suitable for packing compared to travel hair straighteners. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter will convert the voltage of 230 volts from a Montserratian power outlet to work with non-230 volt hair straighteners, whereas a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit into a power outlet found in Montserrat. [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 Montserrat using a type B power adapter

How to power your hair straighteners in Montserrat using a three pronged Type B power adapter.

  1. Make sure that the hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair straighteners. Before using a travel hair straighteners make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts to use in Montserrat - consult the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Montserrat you'll need to bring a Type B plug adapter [4]. This plug adapter helps adapt plugs from other countries into a power outlet in Montserrat simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start by plugging the Type B plug adapter into the Montserratian power outlet. You can recognise the wall outlet by two slots where the live and neutral blades go with a single hole below for the earth pin. Be aware that power cables used with type B sockets which are rated at less that 240 volts should not be used so we recommend checking first.
  4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Montserratian power outlet.
  6. Your hair straighteners can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Montserrat using a type B power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Montserrat using a type A power adapter

Instructions showing how to use hair straighteners in Montserrat using a 2 pronged Type A travel charger.

  1. Make sure that the hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair straighteners make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts to use in Montserrat - refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where this switch is.
  2. This guide assumes that you don't already own hair straighteners with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but still check that your hair straighteners will work with a 230 volt power outlet). You'll need to bring a Type A plug adapter [6] if the type of plug used on your hair straighteners isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Montserrat. The plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Montserrat simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Firstly plug the Type A plug adapter in the power outlet. The power supply (sometimes called the Type A power outlet [5]) is identified by 2 thin slots next to each other where the live and neutral blades slide into. Please be aware that power cords with type A plugs which are rated at less that 240 V shouldn't be used so we recommend checking prior to continuing.
  4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Montserratian power outlet. Your hair straighteners can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Montserrat using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org entry about Montserrat
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair straighteners
  3. iec.ch - Type B power outlet
  4. Type B plug adapter - A Type B adapter, rated at 15 A and 125 V, featuring two parallel flat blades and a longer grounding pin, in compliance with NEMA 5-15 specifications. Suitable for travel to the US plug types and Canadian plugs..
  5. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
  6. Type A plug adapter - A two-blade, ungrounded electrical plug adapter for US plug types, Canadian power outlets, Thailand sockets, Mexico plug types, and select Asian power outlets..
  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..