How do I use a hair dryer in Mali?

Malian power outlet

Will my blowdryer work in Mali?

First check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Mali:

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Malian power outlet, however this is noticeably heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Mali, therefore check that the voltage transformer includes a power adapter for Mali otherwise you will need to bring another power adapter. Please note - your own existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 220 volts used in Mali you run the potential risk of an electrical fire hazard, a blown fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Mali please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Mali

Will my hair dryer work in Mali?

This depends on if your hair dryer can operate using the 220 volt power outlets in Mali:

Will my American hair dryer work in Mali?

The instructions on this page assume that you're a reader from America visiting Mali and will provide guidance for using your US hair dryer with a Malian power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Mali

Choosing the best blow dryer for Mali

A hair dryer cool shot button

Choosing the best blow dryer for Mali

When looking for the best hair dryer choose a sturdy but light dual-voltage dryer that will operate with a 220 volt Malian power outlet power outlet, has a long power cable, a folding handle and an ALCI safety plug. For drying thicker hair buy a dryer with a faster 1600+ watt dryer and included diffuser.

9 tips for buying a blow dryer

  1. If you have thicker hair then you might need a travel blow dryer with a more powerful motor - a higher wattage ceramic model which includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
  2. Hotel rooms in Mali might have a fixed mirror positioned some distance away from the nearest power outlet which could make it hard to style hair, therefore when buying a travel hair dryer find the lengthiest power cord possible.
  3. Safe travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will minimise the risk of overloading and starting electrical fires - models are identified with the two 'test' and 'reset' switches found on the plug.
  4. Rather than looking for expensive 3rd party attachments it might be more convenient and cheaper purchasing a dryer that includes a concentrator and diffuser.
  5. Don't get the cheapest dryer; as well as safety concerns there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to a flimsy construction.
  6. The best travel hair dryers for styling will allow you to change the speed and temperature settings with high and low options - slower speeds with lower temperatures prevent damage to hair and faster hotter speeds will quickly dry hair.
  7. A hair dryer needs to be dual voltage to operate in Mali.
  8. Modern blow dryers could feature a 'cool shot' button for quickly cooling down the hair after drying to hold a style but this option is missing in more compact models.
  9. Try to look for lightweight travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models with a folding handle mean more space.
Which is a good compact dual voltage travel hair dryer with cool shot?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with attached concentrator

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

  • Using a strong two speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler includes a cool shot button which can will quickly cool hair down.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, a tourmaline ceramic outlet meaning safer drying, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre power cord and comes with a concentrator attachment.

Each model is folding, includes an ALCI safety plug which prevents power overloads and support dual voltage making both perfect for visiting Mali in carry on luggage when used along with a power adapter for a Malian power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick hair?

Thicker hair can take much longer to dry and will be difficult to do so without your hair turning frizzy. The best option for thick hair will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic are suitable because 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.  [10] [11] [AD]

Which is the best mini folding travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with concentrator and folding handle

Which is the best mini folding travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

  • If you want to dry fine and thin hair on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic blowdryer available on the market.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is lightweight 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 has options typically reserved for bulkier models.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used along with the right plug adapter for a Malian power outlet they should work in Mali and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried around all day for drying on the go. Both include a concentrator, have 1.5 metre power cords and a twin speed motor.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser for Mali?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer with diffuser for Mali?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser but lacks cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a generous 1.82 metre power cord for greater freedom when drying with an ALCI safety plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it includes a cool shot button making it perfect for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers include both concentrator and diffuser with strong motors to make them the best hair dryers for thick hair. Each dryer is light and folds up to pack in a carry-on bag and only require a cheap plug adapter for Mali to fit into a Malian power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer to buy for Mali?

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 Mali 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.

Mali power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Mali?

The normal residential voltage used in Mali is 220 volts.

What electrical frequency is used with a Malian power outlet?

The frequency used in a Malian power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

Which travel adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Mali?

Type C and E power outlets

Which travel adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Mali?

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

  • Plug Type C - You can identify this wall outlet by 2 holes next to each other where the twin pins slide into.
  • Plug Type E - You can identify this wall outlet by two holes 19mm apart from each other where the two pins sit plus a single long metal grounding pin protruding from the top to form a triangular pattern.

A Type E plug adapter allows you to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Mali; read the simple guide below for full details of how to use a plug adapter for Mali. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you need to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which selects between 2 voltages however some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a Malian power outlet.
  2. This dial or switch needs a screwdriver or coin to change the dryer to the correct voltage between the 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. As well as switching this over it is worth noting down the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers can occasionally rub off on certain models of travel hair dryer.

How can you use your dual voltage blow dryer in Mali?

  1. First check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or that it operates with a 220 volt power outlet.
  2. If the dryer is dual voltage then make sure it is set to the 220-240 volt range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the dryer into the power adapter for Mali and also plug in the power adapter into the Malian power outlet.
  4. It is normal for most dual voltage hair dryers operating within the 220-240V range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting; however the temperature and speed should still be sufficient enough for drying hair. Always check the hair dryer instructions to find out if this rule is applicable for your model of dual voltage hair dryer to avoid the risk of overheating.
  5. The hair dryer is now ready to operate in Mali.
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?

An easy way how to tell if your hair dryer can support a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, base or handle. The location will vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it should also be written on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage hair dryers will change automatically but other hair dryers will feature a button which allows you to change between different voltages depending on which country you are visiting.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 220 volts used in Mali then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Malian 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 220 volts used in a Malian power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Mali.
  • A larger range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Mali or any other country.

Travelling to Mali with a hair dryer

Can I pack a hair dryer in my carry on to Mali?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I pack a hair dryer in my carry on to Mali?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also recommends that you should verify that your airline that is taking you to Mali will allow hair dryers onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing the hair 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 avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping cords tightly around 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 Mali?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Mali?

Depending on the hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the room, either packed in a bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer, found in the bathroom or could be a slower air hose type. If staying in budget motels, hotels and hostels a communal hair dryer might be offered at reception, however that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If you are uncertain about the hotel hairdryer policy then either check on the hotel web site or call ahead to your hotel in Mali to find out what is available for guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but are typically basic models with no diffuser, notorious for low heat and slow air speeds. Those worried about hygiene should remove grime from other guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed it when cleaning the room.

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 or telephone the hotel in Mali to check before packing.  [2] [AD]

Is it better to bring a domestic hair dryer or a travel hair dryer to Mali?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of bringing an existing domestic blow dryer to Mali as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Malian power outlet (as long as you use the correct power adapter for Mali). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsible handle and are lighter which helps reduce the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

It is also worth concidering that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer might put it at risk due to potential damage or loss in transit by airline baggage handlers in Mali. The costs involved in replacing an expensive specialised blow dryer in Mali could be more than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before setting off .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Mali

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 transforms a 220 volt Malian power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer, whereas a more lightweight and cheaper power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Mali. [7] [AD]

Do you need a converter in Mali to use a hair dryer?

The correct type voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 220 volt power outlet used in Mali. A power converter is more suited for travellers wishing to bring along their existing hair dryer, but it might be a lot cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it is to buy a power converter. 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]

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

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

  1. Check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 220 volt power outlet but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 220 volt setting for use in Mali, refer to the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. You will need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Mali. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet found in Mali simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Plug in the Type C plug adapter in the wall outlet. This wall supply can be identified by two round holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Malian power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Mali. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Mali using a type C power adapter

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

A step-by-step guide showing you how to power a hair dryer in Mali by using a Type E power charger.

  1. Please make sure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power supply - but if it doesn't then do not continue as you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Some travel blow dryers will sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to accept 220 volts - please consult the user guide to find out where the switch is found.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the outlet used in Mali you will need to bring a Type E plug adapter [6]. The Type E plug adapter is designed to adapt different plugs from other countries for a power outlet found in Mali 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 220 volt supply.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type E plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can recognise the power supply by two 4.8mm adjacent holes and a metal earth pin protruding from the top forming a triangular pattern.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Malian power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Mali. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Mali using a type E power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia entry about Mali
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. 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..
  13. 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..
  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.