Quick answer: First, switch off your IQOS ILUMA and let it cool down completely. Try pulling out the broken TEREA stick gently with your fingers. If that doesn't work, use a wooden toothpick or the official ILUMA Stick Remover tool to carefully extract the remaining piece. Never use metal objects or excessive force, as this can damage the heating chamber.

Why Do TEREA Sticks Break Inside the Device?

TEREA sticks can break inside your IQOS ILUMA for several reasons. The most common cause is removing the stick at an angle or with a twisting motion instead of pulling it straight out. Sudden movements while the stick is inserted can also cause breakage. Sometimes, sticks stored in humid or overly dry conditions become brittle and break more easily.

The good news is that this is a fixable problem. With the right approach, you can remove the broken piece without damaging your device.

Step-by-Step Guide to Remove a Broken TEREA Stick

Step 1: Switch Off Your Device

Before attempting to remove anything, switch off your IQOS ILUMA completely. For ILUMA and ILUMA Prime, insert the holder into the pocket charger and press the power button for 4 seconds until the LEDs turn off. For ILUMA One, press and hold the button for 4 seconds.

After switching off, press the button quickly to confirm the device is off. If no lights appear, you're good to proceed.

Step 2: Let It Cool Down

Wait for the device to cool down completely before touching the inside of the holder. This prevents burns and makes the extraction safer. Give it at least 30 seconds to a minute after your last use.

Step 3: Try Removing with Your Fingers

If enough of the TEREA stick is visible, try pulling it out gently with your fingers. Grip it firmly and pull straight up without twisting. If the stick comes out easily, check inside the holder for any debris and you're done.

Step 4: Use a Wooden Toothpick

If you can't grip the broken piece with your fingers, use a wooden toothpick. Gently insert the toothpick into the holder and try to hook or push out the stuck piece. Be careful not to apply excessive force or scratch the inside of the heating chamber.

Important: Never use metal objects like pins, needles, or metal tweezers. Metal can damage the internal surface of the heating chamber and affect device performance.

Step 5: Use the Official ILUMA Stick Remover (If Available)

IQOS offers an official ILUMA Stick Remover tool designed specifically for this situation. If you have one, here's how to use it:

Remove the cap from the Stick Remover tool. Insert the hook end carefully into the holder until the plastic top touches the holder. Rotate the tool approximately 90 degrees, then pull out slowly to extract the broken piece.

Note: Do not remove the holder ring when using the Stick Remover tool. This prevents scratching of the heating chamber.

Step 6: Check for Debris

After removing the broken stick, inspect the inside of the heating chamber. Make sure no small pieces of tobacco or filter material are left behind. A gentle tap on the device can help dislodge any loose debris.

Step 7: Turn Your Device Back On

Once the holder is clear, place it back into the pocket charger (for ILUMA/ILUMA Prime) and press the power button for 4 seconds to turn the system back on. Your device should now be ready to use normally.

What NOT to Do

Don't use metal objects. Pins, needles, knives, or metal tweezers can scratch and damage the internal surface of the heating chamber.

Don't force it. If the broken piece is stuck firmly, applying excessive force can cause more damage. Try different angles or contact IQOS customer support.

Don't use the device with debris inside. Operating your ILUMA with broken TEREA pieces still inside can affect performance and potentially damage the device.

Don't remove the stick while the device is heating. Always wait for the session to end or switch off the device before attempting removal.

How to Prevent TEREA Sticks from Breaking

Insert correctly: Push the TEREA stick straight into the holder until the curved line on the filter aligns with the top of the holder. Don't force it or insert at an angle.

Remove straight: After use, pull the stick straight out without twisting or bending. A gentle, steady pull works best.

Store TEREA properly: Keep your TEREA packs in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in environments that are too humid or too dry, as this can make the sticks brittle.

Avoid sudden movements: While using your ILUMA, avoid sudden jerky movements that could stress the TEREA stick and cause it to break.

When to Contact IQOS Customer Support

If you've tried all the steps above and the broken piece is still stuck, it's time to contact IQOS customer support. Also reach out if you notice any damage to the heating chamber, if your device shows error lights after the incident, or if it's not heating properly after removal.

IQOS has customer care teams available through their website, phone support, and retail stores. If your device is under warranty, they may offer repair or replacement options.

Final Thoughts

A broken TEREA stick inside your IQOS ILUMA is a common issue that's usually easy to fix. The key is to stay calm, switch off the device, let it cool, and use the right tools. Wooden toothpicks work well for most situations, and the official ILUMA Stick Remover is a worthwhile investment if this happens frequently.

With proper insertion and removal technique, you can prevent this from happening in the future. And if all else fails, IQOS customer support is there to help.