How do I use my hair dryer in Poland?

Polish power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in Poland?

Check your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Poland:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to bring a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer won't fit in the outlet.

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Polish power outlet, however this is significantly heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Poland, so please check that your voltage transformer includes an appropriate power adapter for Poland otherwise you will also need to purchase another power adapter. Please be aware your personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 230 volts used in Poland you run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Prior to using your hair dryer in Poland check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Poland

Will my hair dryer work in Poland?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volt power outlets used in Poland:

Will my US hair dryer work in Poland?

The instructions on this page assume that you're a reader from America visiting Poland and provide advice on using your American hair dryer with a Polish power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Poland

What to look for when buying a travel blow dryer for Poland

Multiple speed options on a travel hair dryer

What to look for when buying a travel blow dryer for Poland

When looking for the best travel hair dryer choose a robust but lightweight dual voltage dryer that works with a 230 volt Polish power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, ALCI safety plug and a long power cable. When drying thick hair buy a model which includes a bundled diffuser that uses a faster 1600+ watt dryer.

What to look for when purchasing a travel hair dryer?

  1. Try to look for a lighter travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models which have folding handles mean more space for packing other items.
  2. Modern hair dryers feature a cool shot option for quickly cooling down the hair after drying to hold the style but this feature is lacking in more compact models.
  3. Suitable hair dryers will give control of both speed and temperature settings with different options; a slower speed with a lower temperature should prevent damage to hair whereas a hotter faster speed can dry thicker hair quickly.
  4. A hair dryer needs to support dual voltage in order to work in Poland.
  5. Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer available is risky; as well as issues with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to cheaper parts.
  6. Instead of scouring stores to look for expensive 3rd party attachments it could be cheaper and more convenient buying a dryer which is supplied with both a diffuser and concentrator from the manufacturer.
  7. Depending on your hotel room there could be a mirror positioned some distance away from a outlet making it awkward to operate the blow dryer, so when buying a travel hair dryer search for a unit with the longest power cord possible.
  8. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the danger of the motor overloading leading to an electrical fire; models are identified with the 2 reset and test buttons found on the plug.
  9. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you may require a travel blow dryer which has a stronger motor, a higher wattage ceramic model that has a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

  • For quickly drying fine and thin hair whilst on the go the 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic hair dryer available to buy.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is small enough to carry in a purse then a 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a shinier finish this dryer manages to include features typically found on larger models.

Both of these are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used along with the right plug adapter for a Polish power outlet they will work in Poland folding conveniently enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. They have a 1.5m power cord, have a two speed motor and include a concentrator attachment.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Poland?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment for Poland?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65m power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a lengthy 1.82 metre power cable for more freedom when styling with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter to clean easily. It also has a powerful 1875 watt motor including a cool shot option making it perfect for styling thick hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer features both diffuser and concentrator with strong enough motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. Both require a suitable power adapter for Poland to work with a Polish power outlet, each hair dryer is light and folds up to pack into a carry-on bag.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best hair dryer for thick hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and might be difficult to do so without the hair going frizzy, so the best option for thick hair will be an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly. Either the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are recommended because of their powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot for Poland?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

What is the best folding dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot for Poland?

  • With a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes cool shot that can be used to rapidly cool down hair which gives it a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features cool shot, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions meaning faster and safer styling, 2 heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and includes a concentrator.

Both models fold, have an ALCI safety plug which prevents power overloads and has dual voltage making them perfect for visiting Poland in carry on luggage when plugged into a power adapter for a Polish power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best hair dryer to buy for Poland?

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 Poland 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.

Poland power outlets and plug sockets

What is the frequency used with a Polish power outlet?

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

What is the voltage in Poland?

Power outlets in Poland are 230 volts.

Which plug adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Poland?

Type C and E power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Poland?

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

  • Plug Type C - This power socket (known as the Europlug) can be identified by the two holes next to each other.
  • Plug Type E - You can identify this power socket by the two round adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral with a single long metal earth pin protruding the top forming a triangle configuration.

A Type E plug adapter allows you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Poland; read the step by step guide below for full details of using a hair dryer in Poland with a travel adapter. Be aware 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 you use a dual voltage blow dryer in Poland?

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or that it works with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If the dryer supports dual voltage please make sure it is set to operate within the 220-240v range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the hair dryer and requires a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Poland, also plug in the power adapter into the Polish power outlet.
  4. It is common on a majority of travel hair dryer models operating in the 220-240V range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting - but the temperature and speed should still be adequate for drying hair. Check the hair dryer instructions to see if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to avoid overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer is now ready to operate in Poland.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer will accept a dual voltage outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the base, handle or the plug. The location might depend on the make and model of your hair dryer and could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other hair dryers will have a switch which allows you to change between different regions.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Poland then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Polish 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 Polish power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Poland.
  • A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Poland or any other country.

How can you switch a travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have a dial or switch which changes between 2 ranges of voltages although some models can automatically detect the voltage from a Polish power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial needs a small coin or screwdriver to change the dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. Also, it's worth making a note of the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers can sometimes fade on certain models of dryer.

Travelling to Poland with a hair dryer

Is it safe to bring my domestic blow dryer to Poland?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer as opposed to packing an existing domestic blow dryer to Poland (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Polish power outlet (as long as you use the correct plug adapter for Poland). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a collapsible handle and are lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

Note that bringing your expensive domestic hair dryer could place it at risk because of potential damage or loss in your luggage by a baggage handlers in Poland. The cost of replacing or repairing an expensive quality domestic hair dryer in Poland could overshadow the costs of purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [16] [AD]

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

Hair dryer attached to hotel desk

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

Depending on the individual hotel or bed and breakfast and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the room, either packed away in the bedroom drawer, cupboard or wardrobe, found on a bathroom wall or could potentially be of a slower air hose type. In cheaper motels, hostels and hotels a communal hair dryer might be available at the reception, however that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer availability you should either telephone your hotel in Poland or check on the hotel web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but typically basic models with no diffuser and notorious for low heat and providing slower air speeds. Those worried about hygiene might want to check for the grime from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

Guests who are uncertain that a suitable and clean hair dryer is available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer or phone their hotel in Poland to check beforehand.  [2] [AD]

Is a hairdryer allowed on a plane in Poland?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a hairdryer allowed on a plane in Poland?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should verify that your airline which is taking you to Poland will allow blow dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing your blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cables tightly around electronic items such as blow dryers). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against drops and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Poland

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Poland?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Poland?

A heavy and bulky power converter will transform the voltage of 230 volts from a Polish power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, whereas a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet found in Poland. [7] [AD]

Do I need a converter for Poland to use my hair dryer?

A power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Poland. Travellers who want to bring along their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it might be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. A power converter is also substantially bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when packing in luggage compared to a travel hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

How to use a hair dryer in Poland with a Type C power charger.

  1. Please ensure that the hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply but if not then do not continue as you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure you have set it to accept 230 volts to use in Poland; consult the user guide for more details on where the switch is.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Poland you'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. The power adapter helps adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for use with a power outlet used in Poland simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by taking the Type C plug adapter and plugging it in the power outlet. You can identify the plug outlet by two circular adjacent holes where the twin plug outlet pins go.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Polish power outlet. The hair dryer can now be used in Poland. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Poland using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Poland using a type E power adapter

How to power a hair dryer in Poland with a Type E power charger.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet; but if it doesn't then don't proceed because you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers will sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting - refer to the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
  2. You'll need to use a Type E plug adapter [6] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of power outlet used in Poland. This Type E plug adapter helps convert plugs from other countries into an electrical outlet in Poland simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Firstly insert the Type E plug adapter in the Polish power outlet. You can identify this power outlet by the two round holes 19mm adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins and a long metal earth pin protruding the top forming a triangle configuration.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Polish power outlet. You can now turn on your hair dryer for use in Poland. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Poland using a type E power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - wikipedia.org entry about Poland
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  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.