What You Should Keep Unplugged When Not in Use - And What You Shouldn’t Unplug at All

Keeping your home safe takes only a few simple habits that can make a big difference in preventing fires, protecting your appliances, and even lowering your energy bill. Below is a guide to help you understand which items should be unplugged when not in use, which ones can stay plugged in, and as a bonus, we've included a list of what needs to be unplugged during a storm.

Things You Should Unplug When Not in Use

These everyday household items can pose unnecessary risks—or quietly siphon energy—even when they’re turned off. Unplugging them is an easy way to boost safety and efficiency.

Toasters

Toasters naturally collect crumbs and oils, which can create a fire hazard if left plugged in. A quick unplug after breakfast helps keep your kitchen safer.

Microwaves

This appliance may be up for debate with some - mainly because of the convenience factor as those who have one use them frequently - but you can save on energy and reduce the risk of power surge damage if you keep this unplugged when not in use.

Air Fryers

Even models with built-in safety features can overheat. Because they generate such high heat, unplugging them is the safest choice.

Hair Heat Tools

Hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can still overheat—even those with automatic shutoff. Always unplug after styling.

Space Heaters

These are one of the top culprits of home fires. They can overheat or malfunction even in the “off” position, so unplug after every use.

Fans

Fans should be unplugged when not in use. They can overheat and catch fire like any other appliance.

Electric Blankets

Especially older models. They can develop internal wire damage over time, increasing fire risk. Unplug the moment you're done using them.

Chargers

Phone, tablet, or laptop chargers continually draw energy. Cheap, off-brand, or damaged chargers especially pose fire risks.

Laptops & Desktop Computers

Leaving them plugged in can degrade the battery over time and generate unnecessary heat. If you’re not using them, unplug.

Power Strips

These convenient helpers can overheat, overload, or cause overcharging if left plugged in. It's best to unplug the entire strip when not in use. If you have your router or wifi plugged into a power strip, make sure you have one with surge protection, and in the future, look for powerstrips such as the S.O.V. that will have automatic shut-off and flame retardant features.

Electric Kettles

They heat rapidly, and leftover heat or internal malfunctions can create hazards. Unplugging them after pouring your drink is a safe, smart habit.

DVD Players & Televisions

While the fire risk is lower, these devices still draw phantom energy even when turned off. Unplugging them saves energy and adds a small safety boost.

What You Don’t Need to Unplug (and Probably Shouldn’t)

Some appliances are designed to stay plugged in—or are simply too large or powerful to safely unplug on a daily basis.

Washer & Dryer

Large, high-current appliances that are safer left alone.

Refrigerator

Unplugging can cause spoilage and stress the compressor. Keep it plugged in continuously, even when cleaning the interior. It takes far more energy to re-cool the appliance than to keep the doors open while cleaning.

Dishwasher

Like fridges, they’re wired for continuous connection, and getting to the power source is complicated and may require more than one person.

Wi-Fi Router & Modem

Restarting constantly is inconvenient and can disrupt your network setup.

Oven & Electric Stove

These are hardwired or use high-voltage plugs. Frequent unplugging can be unsafe.

HVAC System

Your heating and cooling system needs to remain connected for safe, reliable operation. It also uses much more energy to reheat or re-cool a house as it isn't just the air that is affected, but the walls, flooring, draperies, furniture, and entire contents of the house that adjust and slow the heating and cooling process.

Water Heater

Frequently unplugging it can shorten the life of the heating elements and disrupt home hot-water needs.

Things That Must Be Unplugged Before a Storm

Lightning-induced power surges can fry delicate electronics and create dangerous malfunctions. If a storm is approaching, unplug these items to avoid expensive damage or safety risks:

• Coffee makers

• Desktop computers

• Gaming consoles

• Hair-styling tools

• Microwaves

• Toasters

• Televisions

• Air fryers

• Any smart appliances

If you can see lightning or hear thunder, it's good to act quickly.

Final Thoughts: Safe Home, Peaceful Mind

Taking a few seconds to unplug the right appliances can prevent hazards and help reduce energy waste. You don’t need to unplug every single thing in your home—just the items most prone to overheating, power surges, or slow energy drain.

A little awareness goes a long way toward keeping your home safe, efficient, and worry-free.

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Sources: Southern Living, Bob Vila, Martha Stewart