How do I use my hair straighteners in Saint Kitts?

St Kitts power outlet

Will my hair straighteners work in Saint Kitts?

Check that your hair straighteners can handle the voltage in Saint Kitts:

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

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair straighteners and other applicances with a 230 volt St Kitts power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A power converter will change the voltage but won't change the physical shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the types of wall outlet used in Saint Kitts, therefore check that your power converter includes a power adapter for Saint Kitts otherwise you will also need to purchase another power adapter. Please be aware your personal hair straighteners might not be suitable for travelling and you risk damage in transit. [11] [AD]
Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 230 volts you run the risk of damage to your hair straighteners, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Before attempting to use your hair straighteners in Saint Kitts read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using hair straighteners in Saint Kitts

Will my hair straighteners work in Saint Kitts?

It depends on if your hair straighteners is designed to operate using the 230 volts used in Saint Kitts:

How can I use my American hair straighteners in Saint Kitts?

The instructions on this page assume that you are an America reader travelling to Saint Kitts and will provide guidance for using your American hair straighteners with a St Kitts power outlet.

Saint Kitts power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Saint Kitts?

Power outlets in Saint Kitts are 230 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in a St Kitts power outlet?

The frequency found in a St Kitts power outlet is 60 Hz. [12]

Which plug adapter do you need to bring when using hair straighteners in Saint Kitts?

There are four different types of power outlets used in Saint Kitts, these are type G, A, B and D with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type A - You can recognise this wall socket by the 2 thin slots adjacent to each other.
  • Plug Type B - This wall socket, technically called a type B power outlet, can be identified by 2 slots where the plug socket blades go with a hole below for the longer ground pin.
  • Plug Type D - You can identify this power socket by the 3 round holes forming a triangle configuration for live, neutral and earth pins.
  • Plug Type G - This power socket, technically called a type G power outlet, looks like 3 rectangular holes containing shutters forming a triangular configuration for live, neutral and ground pins.

A suitable travel adapter to bring for using 230 volt hair straighteners in Saint Kitts is a Type G power adapter, read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use hair straighteners in Saint Kitts with a travel adapter. Be aware that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you might also need to bring a power converter.  [8] [13] [AD]

Which plug adapter do you need to bring when using  hair straighteners in Saint Kitts?

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 accept dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or handle. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair straighteners and could also be written in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair straighteners will change automatically, however other models will feature a button which allows you to operate between different voltage ranges.

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

Travelling to Saint Kitts with hair straighteners

Should I bring my travel hair straighteners or domestic hair straighteners to Saint Kitts?

It is preferable to bring dual voltage travel hair straighteners as opposed to packing your existing domestic hair straighteners to Saint Kitts as it ensures that they will operate correctly with the 230 volt power outlets used with a St Kitts power outlet, provided that you use the correct power adapter for Saint Kitts.

Be aware that bringing your expensive domestic hair straighteners might place them at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by a baggage handlers in Saint Kitts. The cost of replacing expensive quality domestic hair straighteners in Saint Kitts could be higher than purchasing much cheaper dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] . 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 also allows the hair straighteners to be transported whilst hot without waiting to cool down.   [14] [15] [AD]

Can hair straighteners go in my carry on luggage to Saint Kitts?

Travel hair straighteners with heat protective cap

Can hair straighteners go in my carry on luggage to Saint Kitts?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair straighteners there are no restrictions when bringing mains powered hair straighteners in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also recommends that you should check that your airline who is flying you to Saint Kitts 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 when going through airport security checks, they can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around electronic items). If you intend to pack 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 knocks and bumps during your journey.    [2] [14] [16] [17] [AD]

Power converters for Saint Kitts

Do I need a converter to use my hair straighteners in Saint Kitts?

A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair straighteners using a different voltage to operate using a 230 volt power outlet used in Saint Kitts. Travellers who wish to bring their existing domestic hair straighteners can use a power converter, but it might be more expensive to buy 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. [11] [AD]

What is the difference between a power adapter and a voltage converter for Saint Kitts?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power adapter and a voltage converter for Saint Kitts?

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit into a power outlet found in Saint Kitts, whereas a heavy and bulkier power converter converts a 230 volt St Kitts power outlet to work with non-230 volt hair straighteners. [11] [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.    [14] [15] [18] [19] [20] [21] [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.
  [20] [22] [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 Saint Kitts using a type B power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Saint Kitts with a Type B power adapter.

  1. 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 because you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Dual voltage straighteners sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using your straighteners make sure you have set it to the 230 volt setting - refer to the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Saint Kitts you'll need to buy a Type B plug adapter [4]. The power adapter will help adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet in Saint Kitts by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by taking the Type B plug adapter and inserting it into the wall outlet. The plug outlet, sometimes called the Type B power outlet [3], is identified by two slots parallel to each other for live and neutral blades with a semicircular shaped hole below for the long earth pin.
  4. After that plug in the hair straighteners into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the St Kitts power outlet. Your straighteners can now be switched on. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Saint Kitts using a type B power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Saint Kitts using a type D power adapter

A guide showing you how to use your hair straighteners in Saint Kitts by using a Type D power charger.

  1. Check that the straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet - but if not then don't continue as you may blow a fuse, damage your straighteners or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage travel hair straighteners usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating your hair straighteners ensure the switch is set to accept 230 volts to use in Saint Kitts; please consult the manufacturers instructions to find out where the switch is located.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type D plug adapter [6] if the type of power outlet which is used in Saint Kitts isn't the same shape as the plug shape of your hair straighteners. This Type D plug adapter will help convert plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet found in Saint Kitts simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Firstly you'll need to insert the Type D plug adapter in the St Kitts power outlet. You can recognise this wall outlet by the 3 circular holes forming a triangular configuration for live, neutral and ground pins.
  4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the St Kitts power outlet.
  6. Your hair straighteners can now be used in Saint Kitts. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Saint Kitts using a type D power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Saint Kitts using a type G power adapter

Instructions on how to power your hair straighteners in Saint Kitts using a 3 pin Type G travel charger.

  1. 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 because you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Dual voltage straighteners sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using your straighteners make sure you have set it to the 230 volt setting - refer to the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Saint Kitts you'll need to buy a Type G plug adapter [8]. The power adapter will help adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet in Saint Kitts by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by taking the Type G plug adapter and inserting it into the wall outlet. The plug outlet, sometimes called the Type G power outlet [7], looks like three holes in a triangular pattern for live, neutral and ground.
  4. Plug in your hair straighteners into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the St Kitts power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the straighteners in Saint Kitts. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Saint Kitts using a type G power adapter

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

How to power hair straighteners in Saint Kitts with a Type A travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that your hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not proceed because you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair straighteners. Before using a dual voltage travel hair straighteners which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to the 230 volt setting - refer to the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
  2. Check that you are not already using 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 can work with a 230 volt power supply). If the type of power outlet used in Saint Kitts isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair straighteners you will need to bring a Type A plug adapter [10]. This Type A plug adapter is designed to convert plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet found in Saint Kitts 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. First you'll need to insert the Type A plug adapter into the St Kitts power outlet. The power supply, technically known as the Type A power outlet [9], can be identified by the 2 slots.
  4. Then plug in your hair straighteners into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the St Kitts power outlet. You can now switch on the straighteners in Saint Kitts. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Saint Kitts using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org entry about Saint Kitts
  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 D power outlet
  6. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  7. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  8. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  9. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  13. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  14. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  15. 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.
  16. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair straighteners -
  17. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
  18. 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.
  19. Heat protectant spray - Thermal protector spray used prior to styling with heated tools such as blow dryers and flat irons.
  20. Energy saving outlet with timer - Automatic power shut down of a connected appliance after a preset length of time.
  21. Flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag - Example of hair straighteners with a protective bag suitable for travel.
  22. 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..