That headline is a little misleading: you generally don’t need to unplug every appliance after each use. But some devices can reduce standby electricity use when switched off or unplugged, and a few deserve extra attention for safety.
5 appliances/devices worth considering
- Space heaters — Unplug when not in use, especially portable heaters. Don’t leave them operating unattended.
- Toasters and toaster ovens — Unplugging after use can reduce electrical risk, particularly with older or damaged equipment.
- Hair straighteners/curling irons — These can become extremely hot, so unplugging them after use is a sensible safety habit.
- Coffee makers — Many continue drawing a small amount of electricity in standby or keep-warm mode. Unplugging can save a little energy.
- Chargers and small electronics — Phone/laptop chargers and similar devices can consume small amounts of standby power when left connected, although the savings from unplugging individual modern chargers are usually modest.
The bigger energy-saving opportunity
For electricity savings, focus on devices that spend substantial time in standby, such as TVs, game consoles, computers, and entertainment systems. A switched power strip can make it easier to disconnect several devices at once.
And don’t unplug appliances by pulling the cord—grip the plug itself. Replace cords or plugs that are damaged, frayed, hot, or sparking.
The best takeaway isn’t “unplug everything.” It’s unplug heat-producing appliances when finished and use smart power management for electronics that sit in standby.
