How to use your hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire

Ivorian power outlet

Will my blow dryer work in Cote d Ivoire?

First check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Cote d Ivoire:

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with an 230 volt Ivorian power outlet, however this is significantly heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of power outlet used in Cote d Ivoire, therefore check that the voltage transformer includes a power adapter for Cote d Ivoire otherwise you will need to bring a seperate power adapter. Be aware that your own domestic hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run a risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire

Will my hair dryer work in Cote d Ivoire?

This will depend on if your hair dryer can operate using the 230 volt power outlets in Cote d Ivoire. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer can operate using 230 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you'll be able to use it in Cote d Ivoire. If not then you will need to consider bringing either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read our section on will a voltage converter work with a hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Cote d Ivoire

Choosing the best blow dryer for Cote d Ivoire

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

Choosing the best blow dryer for Cote d Ivoire

When choosing the best hair dryer look for a strong but lightweight dual voltage model which works with an 230 volt Ivorian power outlet power outlet, has ALCI safety plug, folding handle and long cord. If drying thicker hair buy a dryer with a stronger 1600+ watt motor and included diffuser.

What should I look for when purchasing a travel hair dryer?

  1. Modern travel dryers feature a 'cool shot' button for quickly cooling down the hair after drying to hold in the style but this feature could be lacking in smaller models.
  2. To operate in Cote d Ivoire the hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
  3. Try to look for a lighter travel dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models with a handle which folds mean more room to pack other items.
  4. Buying the cheapest dryer is risky, as well as safety issues there is a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper parts.
  5. The best travel hair dryers for styling will give control of both temperature and speed with two options; a lower temperature with a slower speed should prevent damage to your hair whilst hotter faster speeds can quickly dry thicker wet hair.
  6. Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the danger of overloading the motor and starting an electrical fire, these can be recognised by the two 'test' and 'reset' switches found on the plug.
  7. Thicker hair could require a travel blow dryer with a more powerful motor; a high wattage ceramic dryer that has a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby preventing damage.
  8. Rather than scouring shops to look for more expensive third party attachments it might be more convenient and cheaper purchasing a dryer which is supplied with both a diffuser and a concentrator from the manufacturer as these are designed to fit perfectly.
  9. Depending on your accommodation in Cote d Ivoire there might be a mirror installed too far away from a convenient outlet making it cumbersome to dry hair, therefore when buying a travel hair dryer look for the model with the lengthiest power cord possible or bring either a pocket mirror or extension cord.
Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser for Cote d Ivoire?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser for Cote d Ivoire?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65m electric power cable, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however is missing a cool shot option.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a generous 1.82 metre power cord for greater flexibility when styling with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. It also has a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it more suited for styling thick hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature a diffuser and concentrator attachment with powerful enough motors to make them the best hair dryers for thick hair. Each dryer is light and folds up to fit into carry-on baggage, only requiring a suitable cheap power adapter for Cote d Ivoire to work with an Ivorian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best mini ionic dual voltage travel hair dryer for Cote d Ivoire?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

Which is the best mini ionic dual voltage travel hair dryer for Cote d Ivoire?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic blowdryer available on the market, the ceramic 1200 watt dryer will be best suited for quickly drying thin or fine hair whilst on the go.
  • For a folding blow dryer which is small enough to transport in a handbag then a 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat for a shinier finish this dryer manages to incorporate features which are normally found with larger blow dryers.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used with a suitable power adapter for an Ivorian power outlet they will work in Cote d Ivoire folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. They are two speed, have a 1.5m electric power cord and include a concentrator.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and could be hard to dry without hair going frizzy, so the best option is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good compact dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

Which is a good compact dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot?

  • The Conair Compact Styler has a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and features a cool shot setting which can be used to rapidly cool down hair to give a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, a tourmaline ceramic outlet meaning faster styling, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8m electric power cable and also comes with a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, have an ALCI plug to prevent overloading and has dual voltage making them ideal for visiting Cote d Ivoire in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for an Ivorian power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer to buy for Cote d Ivoire?

Conair
MiniPRO
This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers.
BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.com/BaBylissPRO-Titanium-Bambino-Compact-Dryer/dp/B0068SZ7UG?crid=2DINB36JPL4Y8&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Nano+Titanium+Travel&qid=1695049039&s=beauty&sprefix=babylisspro+nano+titanium+travel%2Cbeauty%2C159&sr=1-8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e8c6666d23ce4b94dacd3eebe6ee2e52&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07HB2ZRNJ?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=0d63bbe1932e337ac284cff97127f87f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B06XWV3K4L?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=8917b03d1d32d516d8d91e80a2c879c3&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.com/Revlon-Technolgy-Convenience-Worldwide-Included/dp/B00M8BDQXW?dchild=1&keywords=X5+Superlite+1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic+Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1624444396&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=1d77c57773d2348052a5461909efc53b&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1506767312&sr=1-1&keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer+with+Folding+Handle+and+Dual+Votage&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnections-20&linkId=e4d6cd8511a014951b16d43f9ec3a809
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Cote d Ivoire Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Works in US Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Dual voltage Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Watts 1200 1000 1875 1875 1600 1875
Folds Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ceramic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Ionic Yes Yes Yes Yes
Tourmaline Yes Yes Yes
Infrared Yes
Speed settings 2 2 2 2 2 2
Heat settings 1 1 1 2 1 1
Cool shot Yes Yes Yes
Removable filter Yes Yes
Concentrator Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Diffuser Yes Yes
ALCI safety plug Yes Yes Yes Yes
Cord length 1.52m 1.52m 1.52m 1.8m 1.65m 1.82m
Color
Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy Buy

Original testing and suitability of hair dryer models was compiled 2017, subsequent updates performed monthly - last updated September 2023.

Cote d Ivoire power outlets and plug sockets

What electrical frequency is used with an Ivorian power outlet?

The frequency of the current from an Ivorian power outlet is 50Hz. [14]

What is the mains voltage in Cote d Ivoire?

The standard residential voltage used in Cote d Ivoire is 230 volts.

Which plug adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire?

Type C and E power outlets

Which plug adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Cote d Ivoire, these are type E and C with the primary power outlets being type E:

  • Plug Type C - The plug socket can be identified by two circular holes adjacent to each other.
  • Plug Type E - The recessed circular plug socket (called a CEE 7/7 socket or type E power outlet) can be recognised by the two 4.8mm round holes 19mm apart from each other plus a single long metal earth pin protruding in the top in a triangle configuration.

A Type E power adapter will allow you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire, read the step-by-step instructions below for full details of how to use a plug adapter for Cote d Ivoire. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also need to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer can support dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or the plug. The location will vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also state on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically but other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to toggle between different regions.

  • Single voltage could say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Cote d Ivoire then you should be able to use your hair dryer with an Ivorian power outlet.
  • Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in an Ivorian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Cote d Ivoire.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a larger range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair dryer will be capable of being used in Cote d Ivoire or any other country if these numbers are shown.

How do I switch a dual voltage hair dryer?

  1. Most dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which changes between two sets of voltages although some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Cote d Ivoire.
  2. The switch or dial needs a screwdriver or coin to change the dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also it is worth making a note of both switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to fading on some models of hair dryer.

How can you use your dual voltage blow dryer in Cote d Ivoire?

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and it will work with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If the dryer supports dual voltage please ensure that it is switched to operate within the 220-240v range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the dryer into the power adapter for Cote d Ivoire and also plug in the power adapter into the Ivorian power outlet.
  4. It's common on a majority of travel hair dryers operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting, but this temperature should be adequate for drying hair. We recommend checking the manufacturers guidelines to find out if this rule is applicable for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
  5. The hair dryer is now ready to operate in Cote d Ivoire.

Travelling to Cote d Ivoire with a hair dryer

Is it safe to bring my domestic blow dryer to Cote d Ivoire?

Bringing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to bringing an existing blow dryer to Cote d Ivoire (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Ivorian power outlet (provided that you use the correct power adapter for Cote d Ivoire). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsible handle and are much lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

Be aware that bringing an expensive domestic blow dryer could place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by airport baggage handlers in Cote d Ivoire. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing an expensive quality domestic blow dryer in Cote d Ivoire could be more than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case beforehand .  [16] [AD]

Can I carry on a hair dryer to Cote d Ivoire?

Folding travel hair dryer

Can I carry on a hair dryer to Cote d Ivoire?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should check that your airline which is taking you to Cote d Ivoire will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible for airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around electronic items such as hair dryers). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against knocks and drops during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Cote d Ivoire?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Cote d Ivoire?

Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the hotel room, either packed away in the bedroom wardrobe, drawer or cupboard, found in the bathroom or could be a slower air hose type. When staying in budget hostels, hotels and motels a shared hair dryer could be available at the reception but that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer availability you should either look on the booking web site or telephone the hotel in Cote d Ivoire to find out what is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but are typically rudimentary models lacking a diffuser and notorious for low heat and slow air speeds. Those concerned with hygiene might want to check for any burnt hair cuticles from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

For guests who don't want to take a chance that a suitable or germ-free hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Cote d Ivoire

Do you need a converter to use a hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Cote d Ivoire. A power converter is more suitable for travellers who want to use their existing hair dryer, however it can be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. In addition, a travel hair dryer can be substantially smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

What is the difference between a power adapter and a power converter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power adapter and a power converter?

A heavy and expensive power converter will convert the voltage of 230 volts from an Ivorian power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, but a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Cote d Ivoire. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire using a type C power adapter

A guide showing you how to power a hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire with a Type C power charger.

  1. Check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply - but if it doesn't then do not continue as you might blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting for use in Cote d Ivoire, please consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Cote d Ivoire you will need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4]. The Type C plug adapter is designed to fit plugs on appliances from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in Cote d Ivoire by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by taking the Type C plug adapter and plugging it into the Ivorian power outlet. The plug outlet can be identified by the two round holes adjacent to each other.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Ivorian power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on your hair dryer for use in Cote d Ivoire. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire using a type E power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire with a two pinned Type E travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply but if not then don't proceed because you may blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage blow dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts - please consult the user guide for more details on where this switch is located.
  2. You'll need to use a Type E plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same type of plug outlet used in Cote d Ivoire. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Cote d Ivoire simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type E plug adapter in the wall outlet. This round wall supply can be identified by two large circular adjacent holes with a long metal grounding pin protruding from the top to form a triangular shape.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Ivorian power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the blow dryer in Cote d Ivoire. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Cote d Ivoire using a type E power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia entry about Cote d Ivoire
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type E power outlet
  6. Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
  7. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  8. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - The appliance integrates a 1875-watt motor, targeting quick and effective hair drying. The folding handle is intended for easier storage and transport..
  9. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - This hair dryer boasts a 1600-watt motor intended for efficient hair drying. The long 1.65-meter cable provides an extra layer of convenience for users who require mobility during use..
  10. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - With dual heat and speed settings, the device aims to cater to a variety of hair types. Its dual voltage capability, folding handle and lightweight design make it suited for international travel..
  11. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - This compact hair dryer incorporates a folding handle, two heat settings, and two speed settings, aiming to accommodate various hair types. The long power cord and dual voltage make it convenient for travellers..
  12. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow Dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - This hair dryer features two speed and heat settings, dual-voltage and a foldable handle whilst equipped with an ALCI plug to help prevent electric shock..
  13. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - This travel-ready hair dryer uses a high 1875-watt motor for efficient and rapid hair drying. Smart voltage technology adjusts to foreign voltage, maintaining heat and speed settings for convenience..
  14. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  15. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  16. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  17. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.