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How to Remove Rust From a Flat Iron

Julie Christensen

Flat irons create perfectly smooth or flipped hair styles by heating the hair between two ceramic or titanium-coated pads. The mainstay of many girls' beauty routines, these appliances range in cost from $20 to more than $200, as of 2010. Rust stains caused by moisture may mar the surface or even leave brown streaks in your hair. Remove the rust carefully to avoid ruining the appliance. Keep the flat iron away from water and apply hair products after you've finished using the iron to prevent rust.

Water and styling products cause rust on your flat iron.

Step 1

Unplug the flat iron and allow it to cool completely. Dip a cotton swab in vinegar.

Step 2

Dab the rust stains with the cotton swab. The acid in the vinegar breaks down rust and hard water spots. Don't allow vinegar to run inside the flat iron where it might damage electrical parts.

Step 3

Rub the metal parts of the flat iron with fine steel wool to remove any remaining rust residue. Don't use steel wool on the ceramic pads because it can scratch the surface.

Step 4

Dry the flat iron with a dry cloth. Store it away from the sink or moisture.