Which travel adapter will I need when using hair straighteners in Mali?

Malian power outlet

Will my hair straighteners work in Mali?

Check that your hair straighteners can handle the voltage in Mali:

  • If your hair straighteners can run on 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you'll only need to bring the correct power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair straighteners will not fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this enables you to use your existing hair straighteners and other applicances with a 220 volt Malian power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the wall outlet used in Mali, so check that the voltage transformer has an appropriate power adapter for Mali otherwise you will need to bring a seperate power adapter. Note - your own domestic hair straighteners might not be suited for travel and you risk potential damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 220 volts used in Mali you run the potential risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair straighteners. Prior to using your hair straighteners in Mali read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using hair straighteners in Mali

Will my hair straighteners work in Mali?

It depends on if your hair straighteners is designed to handle the 220 volts used in Mali. If you're using either dual voltage hair straighteners or your hair straighteners is designed to operate using 220 volts and you have the correct plug adapter then you'll be able to use the hair straighteners in Mali. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2]. Read our section on can you use a voltage converter to use your hair straighteners in Mali for help deciding which option is more suitable. [7] [AD]

How can I use my American hair straighteners in Mali?

The instructions on this page assume that you are an America reader travelling to Mali and will provide guidance for using your US hair straighteners with a Malian power outlet.

Mali power outlets and plug sockets

What mains voltage is used in Mali?

The residential voltage used in Mali is 220 volts.

What is the frequency used with a Malian power outlet?

The frequency found in a Malian power outlet is 50 Hz. [8]

Which power adapter do you need when using  hair straighteners in Mali?

Type C and E power outlets

Which power adapter do you need when using hair straighteners in Mali?

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

  • Plug Type C - This unearthed wall socket (known as the Europlug) can be identified by the 2 round adjacent holes next to each other where the plug socket pins go.
  • Plug Type E - You can identify this power socket by the two circular adjacent holes plus a metal grounding pin protruding in the top forming a triangular shape.

A recommended travel adapter to bring for using 220 volt hair straighteners in Mali is a Type E power adapter, read the step-by-step guide below for full details of how to use hair straighteners in Mali with a travel adapter. Be aware that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you might also need to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [9] [AD]

Dual voltage hair straighteners

Are my hair straighteners dual voltage?

Single voltage hair straighteners

Are my hair straighteners dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair straighteners supports a dual voltage outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or handle of the hair straighteners. The location will depend on the make and model of your hair straighteners, it could also state in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage models can change automatically but other straighteners will have a button which allows you to change between different regions depending on which country you are in.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Mali then you should be able to use your hair straighteners with a Malian 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 220 volts used in a Malian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair straighteners then you should be able to use it in Mali.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a large voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your hair straighteners will be capable of being used in Mali or any other country if these numbers are shown.
 [2] [AD]

Travelling to Mali with hair straighteners

Should I bring my travel hair straighteners or domestic hair straighteners to Mali?

Packing dual voltage travel hair straighteners are preferable to bringing your existing hair straighteners as it ensures that they will operate correctly with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Malian power outlet, provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Mali. It is also worth concidering that bringing expensive domestic hair straighteners could put them at risk due to potential loss or damage in transit by an airline baggage handler. The costs involved in repairing or replacing expensive specialised hair straighteners in Mali might outweigh the cost of buying cheap dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] before travelling to bring with you. If you intend to bring your own hair straighteners in your luggage it is recommended to either slide them inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light damage, alternatively use a heat resistant and shockproof hot tools travel case or heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons which will also allow the hair straighteners to be transported whilst hot without risk of burning.   [10] [11] [AD]

Can hair straighteners go in your carry on luggage?

Travel hair straighteners with heat protective cap

Can hair straighteners go in your carry on luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair straighteners there are no restrictions when carrying mains powered hair straighteners in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA recommends that you should verify that your airline which is taking you to Mali will allow hair straighteners onboard and that they will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

Packing the hair straighteners in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves them easily accessible when going through airport security, they can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around electric items such as hair straighteners). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive hair straighteners 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.    [2] [10] [12] [13] [AD]

Power converters for Mali

Do I need a converter in Mali to use my hair straighteners?

A power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow hair straighteners using a different voltage to operate with the 220 volt power outlet used in Mali. A power converter is more suited for travellers who want to bring along their own domestic hair straighteners, however it could be a lot less expensive to purchase dedicated dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] than it will be to purchase a power converter. Also, a power converter is noticeably bulkier and heavier than travel hair straighteners making a power converter less suitable for travelling compared to travel hair straighteners. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter will convert a 220 volt Malian power outlet to work with non-220 volt hair straighteners, whereas a cheaper and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit into a power outlet in Mali. [7] [AD]

Hair straightener safety

Are hair straighteners dangerous?

The temperature of the ceramic plates used in hair straighteners can reach over 200 degrees with the potential to burn hair, skin, and even start a fire if not used correctly. According to figures from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service electrical beauty products have been responsible for an estimated 650,000 fires in the United Kingdom alone.

How can I minimise risk using hair straighteners?

A heat resistant glove

How can I minimise risk using hair straighteners?

  • Skin protection: Wear heat resistant gloves during styling to protect hands from heat.
  • Children's protection: With 10% of children's burns being caused by hair straighteners it is recommended to look for flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag to keep the plates closed shut when not in use, making it easier to store out of reach of children.
  • Luggage protection: Placing hair straighteners directly into luggage without allowing them to cool down can risk damage to clothes and heating up combustible or flammable packed items. If your hair straighteners weren't supplied with a heat protective cap then wrap them in a heat resistant mat or use a hot tools travel case to pack them into luggage whilst warm. A travel case will also keep expensive hair straighteners protected from damage during transit.
  • Hair protection: Applying a heat protectant spray prior to using hair straighteners is essential to prevent burning, as well as using the correct technique for your hair type - read our guide on how to use hair straighteners for comprehensive information.
  • Fire protection: It can take up to 40 minutes for hair straighteners to cool down so resting your straighteners on a heat resistant mat could reduce the risk of setting fire to furniture. Forgetting to turn off hot domestic appliances can also cause fires. This risk can be reduced by using a model of straightener with a timer socket which will turn itself off automatically after a certain length of time, you can also add this feature to any basic straighteners by using a timer socket in a power outlet.    [10] [11] [14] [15] [16] [17] [AD]
How can I add a safety timer to my existing hair straighteners?

Hair straighteners connected to a timer power outlet

How can I add a safety timer to my existing hair straighteners?

1 in 12 owners of hair straighteners admit to forgetting to turn them off after use, unless your hair straighteners have a built in automatic timer then leaving them on could potentially start a fire. However you can add this functionality to any model even if it doesn't have an integrated timer:

  1. Add an automatic timer to any hair straighteners by plugging them into a timer socket then plugging the timer into a power outlet.
  2. Turn on the timer and use the hair straighteners as normal.
  3. After you have finishing using the hair straighteners turn off the power at the outlet.
  4. However if you forget to turn the power outlet off then the timer will automatically switch off the straighteners after a pre-set length of time. Depending on the model of timer this could be 15, 30, 60 or 120 minutes - ideally pick the shortest length of time possible.
  5. For added peace of mind use a power outlet splitter to share the outlet from the timer with both your hair straighteners and a lamp. When the timer is running both the straighteners and the lamp will be turned on, making the lamp a clear indicator that the straighteners are still being heated. When leaving a room it is second nature to ensure all lights are turned off, if the lamp is still on then this acts as a reminder to switch off the straighteners.
  [16] [18] [AD]

How to treat a hot iron burn

If you accidentally burn yourself run cold water under your burn and if it is severe it is advised to seek medical attention from a doctor or hospital.

How to use hair straighteners in Mali using a type C power adapter

A guide showing you how to use your hair straighteners in Mali by using a 2 pin Type C power charger.

  1. Make sure that your hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or works with a 220 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions because you might damage your straighteners, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel straighteners ensure the switch is set to accept 220 volts to use in Mali; please consult the manufacturers instructions to find out where the switch is found.
  2. If the type of power outlet which is used in Mali isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair straighteners you will need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4]. The plug adapter will adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Mali by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Firstly you'll need to insert the Type C plug adapter in the Malian power outlet. You can identify the plug outlet by two circular holes next to each other.
  4. Plug in your hair straighteners into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Malian power outlet. You can now switch on the straighteners in Mali. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Mali using a type C power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Mali using a type E power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Mali with a Type E power adapter.

  1. Check that the straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet; but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your straighteners or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel straighteners which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to the 220 volt setting - please refer to the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet used in Mali doesn't accomodate the plug on your hair straighteners you will need to use a Type E plug adapter [6]. This Type E plug adapter is designed to fit plugs on appliances from other countries for an electrical outlet in Mali simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start by taking the Type E plug adapter and inserting it into the power outlet. You can identify this power outlet by the two round adjacent holes plus a metal grounding pin protruding in the top forming a triangular pattern.
  4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Malian power outlet.
  6. The hair straighteners are now ready to be used in Mali. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Mali using a type E power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Malian wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair straighteners
  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. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  9. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  10. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  11. Heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons - Protects surfaces from hot hair irons and wraps around the appliance allowing instant packing into baggage.
  12. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair straighteners -
  13. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
  14. Heat resistant gloves for hair styling - Heat resistant glove recommended to protect skin against the risk of heat from a curling iron, flat iron or hair dryer.
  15. Heat protectant spray - Thermal protector spray used prior to styling with heated tools such as blow dryers and flat irons.
  16. Energy saving outlet with timer - Automatic power shut down of a connected appliance after a preset length of time.
  17. Flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag - Example of hair straighteners with a protective bag suitable for travel.
  18. Power outlet splitter - A power outlet splitter transforms a single wall outlet into multiple AC outlets which is a practical solution for using multiple appliances in locations with limited access to power outlets, such as hotels or airports..