How to use your hair straighteners in Mozambique

Mozambican power outlet

Will my hair straighteners work in Mozambique?

Check your hair straighteners can work in Mozambique:

If not then you can either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing hair straighteners and other applicances with a 220 volt Mozambican power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the power outlet used in Mozambique, therefore check that the power converter comes with an appropriate power adapter for Mozambique otherwise you will also need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Be aware that your own domestic hair straighteners might not be suitable for travelling and you risk damage in your luggage. [9] [AD]
Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 220 volts you run a risk of damage to your hair straighteners, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Prior to using your hair straighteners in Mozambique check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using hair straighteners in Mozambique

Will my hair straighteners work in Mozambique?

That depends on if your hair straighteners is designed to handle the 220 volts as used in Mozambique. If you're using either dual voltage hair straighteners or your hair straighteners is designed to handle 220 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you should be able to use the hair straighteners in Mozambique. If not then you will need to consider purchasing either a power converter or dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2], read the guide on do you need a voltage converter to use a hair straighteners for help deciding which option is more suitable. [9] [AD]

Mozambique power outlets and plug sockets

What electrical frequency is used with a Mozambican power outlet?

The frequency from a Mozambican power outlet is 50 Hz. [10]

What voltage is used in Mozambique?

Power outlets in Mozambique are 220 volts.

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using  hair straighteners in Mozambique?

Type C, F and M power outlets

Which power adapter will you need to bring when using hair straighteners in Mozambique?

There are three different types of power outlets used in Mozambique, these are type F, C and M with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - The plug socket can be identified by two round adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral plug socket pins slide into.
  • Plug Type F - You can recognise the power socket by the two 4.8mm holes 19 mm apart from each other, plus a pair of two thin metal grounding clips above and below.
  • Plug Type M - You can identify this wall outlet by 3 circular holes forming a triangular pattern for live, neutral and earth pins.

A Type F plug adapter allows you to use 220 volt hair straighteners in Mozambique; read the simple guide below for full details of how to use a plug adapter for Mozambique. Note that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you might also need to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [11] [AD]

Dual voltage hair straighteners

How can I tell if my hair straighteners are dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair straighteners

How can I tell if my hair straighteners are dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your hair straighteners supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or the plug of your hair straighteners. This location might depend on the make and model of your hair straighteners and could also state in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models might change automatically, however other models will have a switch which allows you to toggle between different voltages depending on which country you are visiting.

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

Travelling to Mozambique with hair straighteners

Can hair straighteners go in your hand luggage to Mozambique?

Travel hair straighteners with heat protective cap

Can hair straighteners go in your hand luggage to Mozambique?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair straighteners there is no restriction on bringing mains powered hair straighteners in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should check that your airline that is flying you to Mozambique will allow hair straighteners onboard and that they will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft.

Packing your hair straighteners in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves them easily accessible for airport security, they can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around hair straighteners). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive hair straighteners in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to bring hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against bumps and knocks during your journey.    [2] [12] [13] [14] [AD]

Is it safer to bring your domestic hair straighteners or travel hair straighteners to Mozambique?

Packing dual voltage travel hair straighteners are preferable to packing your existing hair straighteners as it is safer to assume that they'll operate correctly with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Mozambican power outlet, as long as you use the correct power adapter for Mozambique. Note that bringing expensive domestic hair straighteners could place them at risk because of potential loss or damage in your check in suitcase by airport baggage handlers in Mozambique. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing expensive quality domestic hair straighteners in Mozambique might outweigh the costs of buying cheap dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] before setting off. If you intend to bring your own hair straighteners in your suitcase either slide them inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light knocks, or use a heat resistant and shockproof hot tools travel case or heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons which also allows the hair straighteners to be packed whilst hot without waiting to cool down.   [13] [15] [AD]

Power converters for Mozambique

Do I need a power converter for Mozambique to use my hair straighteners?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow hair straighteners using a different voltage to work using a 220 volt power outlet used in Mozambique. A power converter is more suitable for travellers who want to use their own domestic hair straighteners, but it might be considerably cheaper to purchase dedicated dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] than it will be to buy a power converter. A power converter is substantially bulkier and heavier than travel hair straighteners making a power converter less suited for packing in luggage compared to travel hair straighteners. [9] [AD]

What is the difference between a power converter and a power adapter for Mozambique?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a power converter and a power adapter for Mozambique?

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to slot into a power outlet in Mozambique, whereas a heavy and bulkier power converter transforms a 220 volt Mozambican power outlet to work with non-220 volt hair straighteners. [9] [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.    [13] [15] [16] [17] [18] [19] [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.
  [18] [20] [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 Mozambique using a type C power adapter

How to use your hair straighteners in Mozambique with a Type C power charger.

  1. Make sure 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 proceed because you may blow a fuse, damage your straighteners or create an electrical fire hazard. Dual voltage straighteners usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating your straighteners make sure you have set it to accept 220 volts - please consult the owners manual to find out where the switch is found.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4] if the type of plug on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Mozambique. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Mozambique simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by plugging the Type C plug adapter in the Mozambican power outlet. You can identify this wall supply by 2 round holes next to each other for live and neutral.
  4. Next plug in the hair straighteners into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Mozambican power outlet. You can now turn on the straighteners in Mozambique. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Mozambique using a type C power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Mozambique using a type F power adapter

How to use your hair straighteners in Mozambique using a 2 pinned Type F travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that the straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power supply but if not then don't proceed because you may damage your hair straighteners, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel straighteners which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 220 volt setting - please consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. You'll need to use a Type F plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug used on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Mozambique. This power adapter will convert plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet found in Mozambique simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type F plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can identify this wall supply by two 4.8mm round holes 19 mm next to each other for live and neutral pins along with grounding clips on the top and bottom.
  4. Plug in your hair straighteners into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Mozambican power outlet.
  6. The straighteners can now be used in Mozambique. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Mozambique using a type F power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Mozambique using a type M power adapter

A step-by-step guide showing you how to power hair straighteners in Mozambique by using a Type M power charger.

  1. Make sure that your hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet but if not then don't proceed because you may create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair straighteners. Dual voltage straighteners usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating your straighteners make sure you have set it to accept 220 volts - please consult the user guide to find out where this switch is found.
  2. You will need to buy a Type M plug adapter [8] if the type of plug on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Mozambique. This power adapter helps fit different plugs from other countries for a power outlet used in Mozambique simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type M plug adapter in the Mozambican power outlet. You can identify this wall supply by 3 holes in a triangle shape for live, neutral and earth pins.
  4. Next plug in the hair straighteners into the Type M plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Mozambican power outlet. The straighteners can now be used in Mozambique. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Mozambique using a type M power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Mozambican page on wikipedia.org
  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 F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  7. iec.ch - Type M power outlet
  8. Type M plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type M travel adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in African countries like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Swaziland, as well as in parts of India..
  9. 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..
  10. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  11. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  12. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair straighteners -
  13. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  14. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
  15. 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.
  16. 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.
  17. Heat protectant spray - Thermal protector spray used prior to styling with heated tools such as blow dryers and flat irons.
  18. Energy saving outlet with timer - Automatic power shut down of a connected appliance after a preset length of time.
  19. Flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag - Example of hair straighteners with a protective bag suitable for travel.
  20. 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..