How to use hair straighteners in Cambodia

Cambodian power outlet

Will my hair straighteners work in Cambodia?

Check that your hair straighteners can work in Cambodia:

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

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair straighteners and other applicances with a 230 volt Cambodian power outlet, however this is considerably heavier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the types of wall outlet used in Cambodia, therefore check that your voltage transformer includes a suitable power adapter for Cambodia otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Be aware that your own personal hair straighteners might not be suitable for travelling and you risk damage in your suitcase. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 230 volts used in Cambodia you run the potential risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair straighteners or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your hair straighteners in Cambodia please read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using hair straighteners in Cambodia

Will my hair straighteners work in Cambodia?

It depends on if your hair straighteners can operate using the 230 volt power outlets used in Cambodia. If you're using either dual voltage hair straighteners or your hair straighteners is designed to handle 230 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you'll be able to use the hair straighteners in Cambodia. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read the guide on do you need a power converter to use a hair straighteners for help deciding which option is more suitable. [9] [AD]

Will my US hair straighteners work in Cambodia?

The guides on this page assume that you're a reader from the US visiting Cambodia and provide guidance for using your US hair straighteners with a Cambodian power outlet.

Cambodia power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Cambodia?

The standard residential voltage in Cambodia is 230 volts.

What electrical frequency is used in Cambodia?

The frequency from a Cambodian power outlet is 50Hz. [10]

Which travel adapter do you need when using  hair straighteners in Cambodia?

Type A, C and G power outlets

Which travel adapter do you need when using hair straighteners in Cambodia?

There are three different types of power outlets used in Cambodia, types G, A and C with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type A - You can identify this plug socket by two adjacent slots.
  • Plug Type C - You can recognise this wall socket by the two circular holes next to each other where the live and neutral plug socket pins sit.
  • Plug Type G - The wall outlet, technically called a type G power outlet, can be identified by the three holes containing shutters forming a triangle shape.

A suitable power adapter to bring when using 230 volt hair straighteners in Cambodia is a Type G power adapter, read the simple guide below for full details of using a power adapter for Cambodia. Please be aware that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you will need to check if you need to use a power converter.  [6] [11] [AD]

Dual voltage hair straighteners

Are my hair straighteners dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair straighteners

Are my hair straighteners dual voltage?

A simple method to tell if your hair straighteners supports a dual voltage power outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or handle. The location might vary depending on the make or model of your hair straighteners, it should also state in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically but other models will feature a button or switch which allows you to toggle between different regions depending on which country you are in.

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

Is it safe to bring my hair straighteners to Cambodia?

Bringing dual voltage travel hair straighteners are preferable to packing your existing hair straighteners as it ensures that they will operate correctly with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Cambodian power outlet, as long as you use the correct plug adapter for Cambodia.

Please be aware that packing expensive domestic hair straighteners could put them at risk due to potential loss or damage in transit by a baggage handlers in Cambodia. The inconvenience and costs involved in repairing expensive specialised hair straighteners in Cambodia might overshadow the cost of purchasing cheaper dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] before travelling to bring along with you. If you intend to bring along your own personal hair straighteners in your luggage either slide them inside a sneaker or boot to protect from light damage, or 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.   [12] [13] [AD]

Can I pack hair straighteners in my hand luggage?

Travel hair straighteners with heat protective cap

Can I pack hair straighteners in my hand luggage?

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 US. The TSA recommends that you should verify that your airline that is flying you to Cambodia 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 by airport security, they can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cords tightly around hair straighteners). 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 offers the most protection against drops and knocks during your journey.    [2] [12] [14] [15] [AD]

Power converters for Cambodia

What is the difference between a power converter and a power adapter for Cambodia?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power converter and a power adapter for Cambodia?

An expensive and heavy power converter transforms the voltage of 230 volts from a Cambodian 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 Cambodia. [9] [AD]

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

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) allows your hair straighteners using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Cambodia. A power converter is suitable for travellers who want to bring along their own hair straighteners, but it could be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy dedicated dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2]. Also, a power converter is considerably bulkier and heavier than travel hair straighteners making a power converter less suitable when packing compared to travel hair straighteners. [9] [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.    [12] [13] [16] [17] [18] [19] [AD]
How can I add a safety timer to my existing hair straighteners?

Energy saving outlet with timer

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.
  [18] [20] [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 Cambodia using a type C power adapter

How to power hair straighteners in Cambodia using a 2 pin Type C power adapter.

  1. Please ensure that your hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply; if not then don't continue as you may damage your straighteners, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel straighteners make sure you have set it to the 230 volt setting, consult the manufacturers instructions to find out how to do this.
  2. If the type of power outlet which is used in Cambodia isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair straighteners you will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4]. The power adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet used in Cambodia simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by taking the Type C plug adapter and inserting it in the Cambodian power outlet. This ungrounded power outlet is recognised by 2 round adjacent holes next to each other where the pins go.
  4. Next plug in your hair straighteners into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Cambodian power outlet. You can now switch on your straighteners in Cambodia. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Cambodia using a type C power adapter

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

How to use hair straighteners in Cambodia with a 3 pinned Type G power charger.

  1. Ensure that your straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then do not attempt these instructions because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Some travel hair straighteners will usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using your hair straighteners make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting to use in Cambodia; please consult the user guide for more information 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 Cambodia you will need to bring a Type G plug adapter [6]. This Type G plug adapter will help convert different plugs from other countries into a power outlet found in Cambodia 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. Firstly plug the Type G plug adapter into the Cambodian power outlet. You can recognise this power outlet by three vertical holes containing shutters forming a triangular configuration.
  4. Then plug in your hair straighteners into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Cambodian power outlet. The hair straighteners can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Cambodia using a type G power adapter

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

A guide showing how to power your hair straighteners in Cambodia using a Type A power adapter.

  1. Make sure that your straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet; but if not then do not continue because you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair straighteners which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting; please consult the instructions to find out how to do this.
  2. Please 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 please check that your hair straighteners will work with a 230 volt power outlet). You will need to buy a Type A plug adapter [8] if the shape of the power outlet used in Cambodia doesn't accomodate the plug shape on your hair straighteners. The power adapter is designed to fit plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet used in Cambodia simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by taking the Type A plug adapter and inserting it in the Cambodian power outlet. You can recognise the wall supply by the 2 thin slots parallel to each other. Please note that power cables used with type A plugs which are rated at 125 V shouldn't be used in Cambodia so we suggest checking prior to proceeding.
  4. Plug in your hair straighteners into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Cambodian power outlet. Your hair straighteners can now be used in Cambodia. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Cambodia using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia page about Cambodia
  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 G power outlet
  6. 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..
  7. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
  8. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  11. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  12. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  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. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair straighteners -
  15. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
  16. 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.
  17. Heat protectant spray - Thermal protector spray used prior to styling with heated tools such as blow dryers and flat irons.
  18. Energy saving outlet with timer - Automatic power shut down of a connected appliance after a preset length of time.
  19. Flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag - Example of hair straighteners with a protective bag suitable for travel.
  20. 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..