How do I use a hair dryer in Sierra Leone?

Sierra Leonean power outlet

Will my blowdryer work in Sierra Leone?

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

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to use the correct power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit in the outlet.

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Sierra Leonean power outlet, however this is noticeably bulkier 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 power outlet used in Sierra Leone, therefore check that the power converter has a suitable power adapter for Sierra Leone otherwise you will also need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Also worth noting that your existing hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run a risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair dryer. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Sierra Leone please read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Sierra Leone

Will my hair dryer work in Sierra Leone?

That depends on if your hair dryer is designed to operate using the 230 volt power outlets in Sierra Leone. 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 Sierra Leone. If not then you will need to consider using either a power converter or a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2], read the guide on can you use a power converter with a hair dryer in Sierra Leone for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Will my American hair dryer work in Sierra Leone?

The guides on this page assume that you are a reader from America visiting Sierra Leone and provide advice on using your American hair dryer with a Sierra Leonean power outlet.

Best travel hair dryers for Sierra Leone

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

A dual voltage switch on a hair dryer

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

When looking for the best hair dryer choose a sturdy but light dual voltage model which will work with a 230 volt Sierra Leonean power outlet power outlet, has an ALCI safety plug, a folding handle and a long cord. If drying thicker hair buy one which includes a bundled diffuser that uses a higher 1600+ watt dryer.

Things to consider when purchasing a new blow dryer

  1. Buying the cheapest hair dryer on the market might be risky, as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could break during your trip abroad due to a poor build.
  2. Safe travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the danger of the motor overloading that could lead to fires - you can idenfity these models with the 2 'reset' and 'test' switches found on the plug.
  3. In order to function with a 230 volt Sierra Leonean power outlet your travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
  4. Thicker hair could require a travel blow dryer which has a stronger motor. A high wattage ceramic dryer which includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
  5. The cool shot button can rapidly cool hair down after drying which will hold in the style but this option is missing in more compact dryers.
  6. Depending on the hotel room in Sierra Leone there might be a mirror installed too far away from a convenient outlet which makes it hard to dry hair, so search for a model with the longest power cord available or use either a hand mirror or extension cord.
  7. Rather than looking for expensive 3rd party attachments which fit the unique dryer barrel size perfectly it might be more convenient and cheaper purchasing a dryer which is supplied with both a diffuser and a concentrator.
  8. Try to look for a lighter travel dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models which have folding handles will mean more room.
  9. The most suitable hair dryers give control of the speed and temperature settings with low and high options, lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to hair and a hotter faster speed can quickly dry thicker hair.
Which is the best folding travel hair dryer with diffuser for Sierra Leone?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

Which is the best folding travel hair dryer with diffuser for Sierra Leone?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel hair dryer with a 1.65m electric power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but lacks cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a long 1.82m electric power cable for greater flexibility when styling with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for cleaning. It also has a powerful 1875 watt motor including cool shot making it suitable for drying thicker hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer features a concentrator and diffuser with powerful enough motors to make them the best hair dryers for thick hair. They will require a power adapter for Sierra Leone to work with a Sierra Leonean power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to fit in a carry-on bag.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best mini ionic travel hair dryer for Sierra Leone?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle and concentrator

Which is the best mini ionic travel hair dryer for Sierra Leone?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable mini ionic hair dryer available to buy, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer will be suitable for quickly drying fine and thin hair whilst on the go.
  • For a folding hairdryer which is compact enough to transport in a handbag then the 10.5 ounce BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. Featuring a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat for a glossier finish this dryer has options normally found with larger blow dryers.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers when used along with the right plug adapter for a Sierra Leonean power outlet they should work in Sierra Leone and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for styling on the go. They include a concentrator attachment, have 1.5m electric power cords and a twin speed motor.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer for Sierra Leone?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer

Which is the best dual voltage hair dryer for Sierra Leone?

  • A Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful 2 speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and features cool shot which can be used to rapidly cool down hair.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has cool shot, a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions resulting in faster drying, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and also comes with a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, have an ALCI power plug which prevents power overloads and support dual voltage making both perfect for visiting Sierra Leone in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Sierra Leonean power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Which is the best hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thick hair takes longer to dry and can be difficult to do so without your hair turning frizzy, the best option is an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are suitable to dry and manage hair smoothly without frizz. Both 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 that is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best blow dryer for Sierra Leone?

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 Sierra Leone 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.

Sierra Leone power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Sierra Leone?

The typical voltage used in Sierra Leone is 230 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in Sierra Leone?

The frequency from a Sierra Leonean power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Sierra Leone?

Type D and G power outlets

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using a hair dryer in Sierra Leone?

There are two types of power outlets used in Sierra Leone, types G and D with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type D - This power socket (technically known as a type D power outlet) looks like three circular holes in a triangle configuration for live, neutral and ground.
  • Plug Type G - You can recognise the plug socket by 3 slots with plastic shutters forming a triangular shape.

A Type G power adapter will allow you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Sierra Leone; read the step by step guide below for full details of how to use a hair dryer in Sierra Leone using a power adapter. Please 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

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Single voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

The way to tell if your hair dryer can support a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or the plug. The location will vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it should also be written in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models might change automatically, however other hair dryer models will feature a button 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 Sierra Leone then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Sierra Leonean 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 Sierra Leonean power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Sierra Leone.
  • A large range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Sierra Leone or any other country.

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

  1. Most dual voltage hair dryers have a switch or dial which toggles between two sets of voltages however some hair dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a Sierra Leonean power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial will normally require either a small screwdriver or coin to change the dryer to the right voltage between a 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also, it's worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers can occasionally rub off on certain models.

How can I use a dual voltage hair dryer in Sierra Leone?

  1. Ensure that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer or that it works with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If your dryer is dual voltage then make sure it is set to work in 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 correct power adapter for Sierra Leone, then plug in the power adapter into the Sierra Leonean power outlet.
  4. It's common on most dual voltage hair dryer models operating in the 220-240 volt range to only work safely on a low speed setting; however the speed and 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 avoid overheating.
  5. Your dryer can now be operated with a Sierra Leonean power outlet.

Travelling to Sierra Leone with a hair dryer

Is a blowdryer allowed on a plane in Sierra Leone?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Is a blowdryer allowed on a plane in Sierra Leone?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA also recommends that you should verify that the airline that is taking you to Sierra Leone will allow hair 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 when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cables tightly around electronic items). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against knocks and drops during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic blow dryer to Sierra Leone?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than bringing an existing domestic blow dryer to Sierra Leone (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 a Sierra Leonean power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Sierra Leone). A travel hair dryer will normally feature a folding handle and will be much lighter, this will help in reducing the size and weight in luggage compared to packing a domestic blow dryer.

It is also worth concidering that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer could place it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by airline baggage handlers in Sierra Leone. The cost of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised blow dryer in Sierra Leone might outweigh the costs of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [17] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Sierra Leone have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Sierra Leone have hair dryers?

This depends on the hotel and the quality of the accommodation. Hotel room hair dryers are typically found in the bathroom, these could be a slower air hose variety, or might be located in the bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard.

When staying in budget motels, hotels and hostels a communal hair dryer might 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 call ahead to your hotel in Sierra Leone or check on the booking web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are usable but are typically basic models with no diffuser and notorious for slow air speeds and low heat. For those concerned with hygiene might want to check for the grime from other guests on a communal hair dryer as room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

For travellers who are uncertain that a suitable and hygienic hair dryer is readily available should put their mind at rest by bringing their own dual voltage travel hair dryer.  [2] [AD]

Power converters for Sierra Leone

Do you need a power converter to use your hair dryer in Sierra Leone?

A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Sierra Leone. A power converter is more suited for travellers wishing to bring along their existing domestic hair dryer, but it might be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be significantly lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suited for packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A heavy and bulky power converter will transform the voltage of 230 volts from a Sierra Leonean power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer, but a cheaper and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Sierra Leone. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Sierra Leone using a type D power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Sierra Leone by using a Type D power charger.

  1. Please ensure that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts, refer to the instructions to find out how to do this.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Sierra Leone you will need to bring a Type D plug adapter [4]. The power adapter will convert plugs from other countries for a power outlet used in Sierra Leone simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Plug the Type D plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can recognise the plug outlet by the 3 holes in a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth pins.
  4. Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Sierra Leonean power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Sierra Leone. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Sierra Leone using a type D power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Sierra Leone using a type G power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Sierra Leone by using a Type G power charger.

  1. Ensure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or can work with a 230 volt power outlet - but if it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions because you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse 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 the switch is set to the 230 volt setting for use in Sierra Leone; consult the owners manual to find out where this switch is located.
  2. You'll need to use a Type G plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug used on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Sierra Leone. This Type G plug adapter is designed to adapt different plugs from other countries for use with an electrical outlet in Sierra Leone by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start by inserting the Type G plug adapter in the Sierra Leonean power outlet. You can identify this wall supply by three vertical rectangular holes in a triangle configuration for live, neutral and ground pins.
  4. Next plug in the hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Sierra Leonean power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Sierra Leone. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Sierra Leone using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Sierra Leone Wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  4. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  5. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  6. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  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.