Many everyday appliances and devices are designed to be convenient, but leaving them plugged in can sometimes create risks you might not expect. From safety concerns to unnecessary energy use, it’s important to know which items you should always unplug when they’re not in use.
Understanding what you should never leave plugged in helps protect your home and save energy without adding hassle. Knowing this can give you peace of mind and simplify your routine.
Hair dryer
You should never leave your hair dryer plugged in when not in use. It generates heat quickly, which can damage electrical parts over time.
This heat buildup increases the risk of fire, especially if there are any frayed cords or internal faults in your device.
Unplugging your hair dryer keeps your home safer and helps prevent unnecessary energy use. It’s a simple habit that protects both you and your appliance.
Space heater
You should never leave your space heater plugged in when it’s not in use. Even if you plan to return soon, unplugging it reduces the risk of fire.
Avoid leaving your space heater on when you leave the room, go to sleep, or leave the house. Always keep an eye on it while it’s running.
Make sure your space heater is placed away from doorways and moisture to stay safe.
Air fryer
You should avoid leaving your air fryer plugged in when it’s not in use. While many models have safety features that shut them off automatically, electrical issues like power surges could still cause damage.
Keep your air fryer away from walls and vents to ensure proper air circulation. Unplugging it after use helps reduce any fire risks and protects your appliance.
Laptop charger
You should avoid leaving your laptop charger plugged in all the time. Constantly charging can cause the battery to stay at full capacity, which may reduce its lifespan over time.
Many modern laptops have smart charging features that help protect your battery. Still, it’s a good habit to unplug the charger once your laptop reaches 100% to keep the battery healthy.
Microwave oven
You should avoid leaving your microwave oven plugged in when it’s not in use for long periods. Though it’s convenient, microwaves can still draw small amounts of power, contributing to unnecessary energy use.
Unplugging your microwave also helps reduce the risk of electrical faults. If a problem occurs while you’re away, unplugging prevents potential hazards like short circuits or fires.
Toaster
You should avoid leaving your toaster plugged in when it’s not in use. Electrical appliances like toasters can sometimes overheat and create a fire risk.
Unplugging your toaster helps reduce this risk and can also save a little energy. It’s a simple habit that keeps your kitchen safer.
Regularly check your toaster’s power cord for damage. If you notice any frayed wires, unplug it immediately and consider replacing it.
Electric kettle
You should avoid leaving your electric kettle plugged in when it’s not in use. Kettles draw a lot of power and can pose a fire risk if left on or plugged into a damaged outlet.
Always unplug your kettle before cleaning to prevent electrical hazards. Also, check the cord regularly for wear or damage to keep things safe.
Blender
You should avoid leaving your blender plugged in when it’s not in use. Blenders can draw a small amount of power even when turned off, which adds up over time.
Plugging your blender directly into a wall outlet is safer than using a power strip. This helps prevent electrical issues and reduces the risk of damage from power surges.
Unplugging your blender also protects it from unexpected power spikes that could harm the motor or electronics. It’s a simple step to keep your kitchen safe.
Vacuum cleaner
You should avoid leaving your vacuum cleaner plugged in all the time. Keeping it charging nonstop can reduce the battery’s lifespan, especially for cordless models.
Try unplugging it after use and letting the battery drain occasionally. This helps maintain its performance over time.
Also, regularly check the power cord for damage. A faulty cord can be a safety risk, so unplugging when not in use is safer for you and your home.