Using your hair dryer in Switzerland

Swiss power outlet

Will my hairdryer work in Switzerland?

Check that your hair dryer can work in Switzerland:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can tell) then you'll only need to use an appropriate power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Swiss power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Switzerland, therefore please check that the power converter comes with the right power adapter for Switzerland otherwise you will still need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Please be aware your existing hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts used in Switzerland you run a risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Prior to using your hair dryer in Switzerland please read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Switzerland

Will my hair dryer work in Switzerland?

That will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 230 volt power outlets used in Switzerland:

Best travel hair dryers for Switzerland

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

An ALCI safety plug

Choosing the best travel blow dryer

When looking for the best hair dryer for Switzerland choose a strong but light dual voltage dryer which operates with a 230 volt Swiss power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, an ALCI safety plug and a long cable. If drying thick hair buy one with a bundled diffuser that has a stronger 1600+ watt dryer.

Nine tips for purchasing a travel blow dryer

  1. Buying the cheapest travel dryer on the market is risky - as well as concerns with safety there is a greater chance that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to a poor construction.
  2. In order to work with a 230 volt Swiss power outlet a travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
  3. The 'cool shot' option will quickly cool down the hair after drying which will hold the style but this option might be lacking in more compact models.
  4. The safest travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will reduce the danger of the motor overloading and starting a fire; models can be recognised by 'test' and 'reset' buttons.
  5. Thicker or curlier hair might require a blow dryer which has a more powerful motor, a higher wattage ceramic model that includes a diffuser will dry hair faster, thereby avoiding damage.
  6. Try looking for a lightweight travel dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a folding handle will mean more space.
  7. Depending on your hotel room in Switzerland there could be a fixed mirror installed some distance away from a convenient power outlet making it hard to use the hair dryer, therefore look for the longest power cord possible.
  8. Rather than looking for more expensive 3rd party attachments it could be more convenient and cheaper to buy a hair dryer that is supplied with a concentrator and diffuser from the manufacturer as these will fit perfectly.
  9. Ideal travel hair dryers will give control of the temperature and speed settings with two options - lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair whilst a faster hotter speed can dry wet hair quicker.
What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Switzerland?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with diffuser attachment for Switzerland?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it comes with a tourmaline diffuser however lacks cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a long 1.82 metre electric power cord for more flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean easily. It also utilises a strong 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it ideal for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers include both concentrator and diffuser attachments with powerful motors to make them the best travel hair dryers suitable for thick hair. They are both lightweight and fold up to pack into carry-on luggage, only requiring a suitable plug adapter for Switzerland to work with a Swiss power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Switzerland?

The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

What is the best mini travel hair dryer with dual voltage for Switzerland?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic blow dryer available on the market, this ceramic 1200 watt dryer will be best suited for quickly drying fine or thin hair on the go.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is small enough to transport in a purse then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that emits infrared heat to protect against heat damage this dryer manages to incorporate options which are typically reserved for larger dryers.

Both of these mini hair dryers have dual voltage when used in combination with a suitable plug adapter for a Swiss power outlet they will work in Switzerland and fold conveniently enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both are two speed, have a 1.5 metre electric power cord and include a concentrator attachment.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is a good hair dryer for thick hair?

Thick hair can take longer to dry and will be hard to do so without hair turning frizzy, so the best option will be an ionic dryer, if the hair is curly we suggest a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Either 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 that is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [8] [9] [AD]

What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

What is a good dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  • With a strong twin speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features cool shot which can will rapidly cool hair down to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, uses a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in safer and faster drying, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8m power cable and comes with a concentrator.

Each model is folding, has an ALCI plug which prevents overloading and support dual voltage making them perfect for travel to Switzerland in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for a Swiss power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best travel blow dryer to buy for Switzerland?

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 Switzerland 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.

Switzerland power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Switzerland?

Power outlets in Switzerland are 230 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in Switzerland?

The frequency of the current from a Swiss power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

Which travel adapter do you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Switzerland?

Type C and J power outlets

Which travel adapter do you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Switzerland?

There are two types of power outlets used in Switzerland, these are type J and C with the primary power outlets being type J:

  • Plug Type C - The wall socket is identified by the 2 round holes next to each other where the twin plug socket pins slide into.
  • Plug Type J - You can recognise this flattened hexagon shaped plug outlet by the three round holes in a flattened triangle pattern.

A recommended power adapter to bring for using a 230 volt hair dryer in Switzerland is a Type J power adapter; read the simple instructions below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Switzerland. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to check if you have to bring a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

How can you tell if your hair dryer is dual voltage?

One method to tell if your hair dryer can accept a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or the handle of your hair dryer. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer and should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models will change automatically, however other hair dryers will have a button or switch which allows you to toggle between different voltage ranges.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Switzerland then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Swiss power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage hair dryer which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 230 volts used in a Swiss power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Switzerland.
  • A larger voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Switzerland or any other country.

How should you change the voltage on a travel hair dryer?

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch or dial which changes between two types of voltages however some models can automatically detect the voltage used in Switzerland.
  2. This switch or dial needs either a coin or screwdriver to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. In addition to switching this it's worth noting down both switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on some models of travel dryer.

How do you use your dual voltage hair dryer in Switzerland?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and that it will work with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If the hair dryer is dual voltage please make sure that it is set to work in the 220-240V range. The switch is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug your dryer into the correct power adapter for Switzerland and then plug in the power adapter into the Swiss power outlet.
  4. It is common on most travel hair dryer models operating within the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on their lowest setting; but the temperature should still be adequate enough for drying hair. We recommend checking the hair dryer guidelines to find out if this is applicable for your model of hair dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer is now ready to be used with a Swiss power outlet.

Travelling to Switzerland with a hair dryer

Can you pack a blow dryer in your hand luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer

Can you pack a blow dryer in your hand luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline which is flying you to Switzerland will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing your hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security, it can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and bumps during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Switzerland?

It is preferable to packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of packing an existing domestic hair dryer to Switzerland (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Swiss power outlet (provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Switzerland). A travel hair dryer will typically feature a collapsing handle and will be lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight in travellers luggage compared to packing a domestic hair dryer. Note that packing an expensive domestic hair dryer could put it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by an airline baggage handler in Switzerland. The cost involved in repairing or replacing an expensive quality hair dryer in Switzerland could overshadow the costs of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [17] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Switzerland?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Switzerland?

Depending on the individual hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer could be available in the room, either packed away in a bedroom drawer, cupboard or wardrobe, found in the bathroom or could potentially be a slower air hose variety.

When staying in budget hostels, hotels and motels a communal hair dryer could be offered at the reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain as to hotel hairdryer policy then either telephone your hotel in Switzerland or look on the hotel web site to find out what is available to guests. Hair dryers found in hotels are usable but typically rudimentary models with no diffuser and notorious for providing slow air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene should check for the burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

For guests who aren't sure that a suitable or hygienic hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Switzerland

Can you use your hair dryer with a converter for Switzerland?

A voltage transformer (or power converter) allows a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 230 volt power outlet used in Switzerland. Travellers wishing to bring their own hair dryer can use a power converter, however it can be a lot less expensive to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. Also worth noting, a power converter is substantially heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable for packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter will convert a 230 volt Swiss power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, but a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet found in Switzerland. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Switzerland using a type C power adapter

Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in Switzerland using a Type C travel charger.

  1. Check that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet - if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts for use in Switzerland, consult the user guide to find out where this switch is.
  2. You will need to use a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of power outlet used in Switzerland isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair dryer. This plug adapter will help fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Switzerland simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by taking the Type C plug adapter and plugging it in the Swiss power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the two holes adjacent to each other.
  4. After that plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Swiss power outlet. You can now turn on your blow dryer for use in Switzerland. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Switzerland using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Switzerland using a type J power adapter

A page showing how to use a hair dryer in Switzerland using a three pinned Type J power adapter.

  1. Make sure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't continue because you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Some travel blow dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer ensure you have set it to the 230 volt setting to use in Switzerland, consult the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Switzerland you'll need to buy a Type J plug adapter [6]. This plug adapter will help fit different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet found in Switzerland by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type J plug adapter into the power outlet. You can recognise this squashed hexagon shaped power supply by the three round holes in a flattened triangle pattern.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type J plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Swiss power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the hair dryer for use in Switzerland. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Switzerland using a type J power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Switzerland Wikipedia page
  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 J power outlet
  6. Type J plug adapter - This 3-pin Type J travel adapter adheres to the Swiss SN 441011 standard, offering grounded connectivity for safe electrical use in Switzerland and Liechtenstein..
  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. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair dryers -
  17. Hard case for travel hair dryer - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a hair dryer safely during travel in luggage.
  18. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.