How to use your hair dryer in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe power outlet

Can I use my hairdryer in Zimbabwe?

Check that your hair dryer can handle the voltage in Zimbabwe:

If not then you can either:

Buy a travel hair dryer for Zimbabwe
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Zimbabwe power outlet, however this is substantially heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter will change the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the types of wall outlet used in Zimbabwe, so check that the voltage transformer comes with a suitable power adapter for Zimbabwe otherwise you will also need to bring another power adapter. Please be aware your personal hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk potential damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 220 volts used in Zimbabwe you run the potential risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Zimbabwe read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Zimbabwe

Will my hair dryer work in Zimbabwe?

This will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 220 volt power outlets in Zimbabwe:

Best travel hair dryers for Zimbabwe

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

A hair dryer cool shot button

How to choose the best travel hair dryer

When choosing the best hair dryer look for a robust but light dual-voltage model which will work with a 220 volt Zimbabwe power outlet power outlet, has ALCI safety plug, a folding handle and a long power cord. For drying thick hair look for a higher 1600+ watt dryer and bundled diffuser.

9 tips for buying a new travel hair dryer

  1. The best hair dryers allow you to change both temperature and speed with high and low options - lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to your hair whilst a hotter faster speed will quickly dry thicker wet hair.
  2. Look for a lightweight travel hair dryer that is durable enough to survive being transported in baggage, models which have folding handles will mean more space.
  3. It could be cheaper and more convenient to purchase a dryer which is supplied with both a concentrator and diffuser instead of scouring shops to look for more expensive 3rd party attachments.
  4. The cool shot option on modern travel dryers will rapidly cool down the hair after drying to hold the style but this feature might be lacking in more compact dryers.
  5. Depending on the hotel room you might find they have a wall mirror positioned some distance away from a outlet making it awkward to dry hair, so when buying a hair dryer find the longest power cord available or use either a power extension cable or a pocket mirror.
  6. To operate with a 220 volt Zimbabwe power outlet your travel hair dryer needs to be dual voltage.
  7. 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 which has a diffuser will dry hair faster to prevent damage.
  8. Don't risk buying the cheapest travel dryer; as well as safety issues there is a greater risk that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper parts.
  9. Safe travel hair dryers include ALCI safety plugs which will minimise the danger of the motor overloading and starting a fire, you can idenfity these models with the two 'test' and 'reset' switches.
Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

Which is a good mini travel hair dryer?

  • If you want to dry thin or fine hair on the go then a ceramic 1200 watt Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic hairdryer available on the market.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is compact enough to transport in a handbag due to it's 10.5oz body and folding handle and also includes features reserved for larger dryers including a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage during use for a shinier finish.

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

Which is a good hair dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair can take much longer to dry and could be hard to dry without the hair turning frizzy. The best option is an ionic blow dryer, if the hair is curly use a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer will be suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and bundled diffusers - avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [10] [11] [AD]

Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

Which is a good dual voltage hair dryer?

  • The Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, has a removable filter and features a cool shot setting which can be used to quickly cool hair down which gives it a longer 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 power cable and also includes a concentrator.

Both models can fold, include an ALCI plug to prevent power overloads and support dual voltage making both ideal for travel to Zimbabwe in carry on luggage if used along with a power adapter for a Zimbabwe power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is a good folding dual voltage travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser for Zimbabwe?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser and concentrator

What is a good folding dual voltage travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser for Zimbabwe?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer includes a long 1.82 metre power cord for more freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and removable filter for cleaning. With a strong 1875 watt motor it also has cool shot making it more suited for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers feature both concentrator and diffuser with powerful enough motors to make them the most suitable travel hair dryers for thick hair. They are both lightweight and fold up to fit into a carry-on bag, only requiring a power adapter for Zimbabwe to fit into a Zimbabwe power outlet.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for 2020

What is the best travel blow dryer for Zimbabwe?

Conair
MiniPRO
Budget mini ionic hair dryer with 1200 watt 2 speed motor and bundled concentrator attachment		 BaByliss
PRO
https://www.amazon.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1520000711&sr=8-1&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Tourmaline+Titanium+Travel+Dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=b63332fd20a821dec0b5e56af0330da8		 Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.co.uk/BaByliss-Travel-2000-Hair-Dryer/dp/B0056FXFRO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&qid=1532458776&sr=8-1&keywords=Conair+dual+voltage+hair+dryer&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=f9cccd664854ebe2be03a43f6a0c7cce&language=en_GB		 Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Remington-Thermacare-Compact-Concentrator-Diffuser/dp/B07M92P5TT/ref=as_li_ss_tl?dchild=1&keywords=dual+voltage+Hair+Dryer+cool+shot&qid=1604613164&sr=8-4&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=1d741cb448bf224f584df685e046984a&language=en_GB		 X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Red-Hot-37070-Professional-Settings/dp/B01G3E9R46?dchild=1&keywords=X5%2BSuperlite%2B1600W%2BDual%2BVoltage%2BCeramic%2BIonic%2BTravel%2BDryer&qid=1623853478&sr=8-9&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=dac34b2236e4574360f73c2fbe82110d&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl		 Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Compact-Foldable-Lightweight-Portable-Technology/dp/B07HTWRMW5?crid=GOV3SFXX8LUZ&keywords=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+voltage&qid=1668535844&sprefix=1875+watt+travel+dryer+with+folding+handle+and+dual+votage%2Caps%2C49&sr=8-42&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-21&linkId=c1c76abbfb0ab79c7b377ec225918f66&language=en_GB&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Zimbabwe 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 April 2022.

Zimbabwe power outlets and plug sockets

What is the frequency used in a Zimbabwe power outlet?

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

What mains voltage is used in Zimbabwe?

The voltage used in Zimbabwe is 220 volts.

Which travel adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Zimbabwe?

Type D and G power outlets

Which travel adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Zimbabwe?

There are two different types of power outlets used in Zimbabwe, these are type G and D with the primary power outlets being type G:

  • Plug Type D - This wall socket (also called a type D power outlet) can be recognised by the 3 holes in a triangular pattern.
  • Plug Type G - You can identify the plug socket by 3 vertical rectangular holes forming a triangular shape.

A Type G plug adapter allows you to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Zimbabwe, read the simple guide below for full details of how to use a plug adapter for Zimbabwe. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you have to use a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Buy a plug adapter for Zimbabwe

Dual voltage hair dryers

How can I use a dual voltage blow dryer in Zimbabwe?

  1. Check that you are have a dual voltage hair dryer and it works with a 220 volt power outlet.
  2. If your dryer is dual voltage then ensure that it is set to the 220-240 volt range. The switch is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to switch.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the power adapter for Zimbabwe and also plug in the power adapter into the Zimbabwe power outlet.
  4. It's common on a majority of dual voltage hair dryer models operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting - but this temperature and speed should still be sufficient for drying hair. We recommend checking the hair dryer instructions to find out if this is appropriate for your model of hair dryer to prevent the risk of overheating.
  5. Your dryer can now be operated with a Zimbabwe power outlet.

How do I change the voltage on a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Most models of dual voltage hair dryers have a switch or dial which changes between 2 voltages although some models are capable of automatically detecting the voltage from a Zimbabwe power outlet.
  2. This switch or dial requires a coin or screwdriver to set the hair dryer to the right voltage between a 110v-120v range or a 220v-240v range.
  3. In addition to changing this it is worth making a note of both switch positions as the painted numbers can sometimes rub off on some models of dryer.
How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

How can I tell if my hair dryer is dual voltage?

One way to tell if your hair dryer can support dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or 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 might change automatically but other hair dryers will feature a switch which allows you to operate between different voltages.

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

Travelling to Zimbabwe with a hair dryer

Is it safe to bring a domestic blow dryer to Zimbabwe?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than packing your existing domestic hair dryer to Zimbabwe as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Zimbabwe power outlet (provided that you bring the correct power adapter for Zimbabwe). Travel hair dryers typically feature a collapsing handle and are much lighter, this helps in reducing the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

Note that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer could place it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by an airport baggage handler in Zimbabwe. The cost and inconvenience involved in repairing or replacing an expensive specialised hair dryer in Zimbabwe might be more than buying a much cheaper dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] and a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring with you .  [16] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Zimbabwe?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Zimbabwe?

Depending on the hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the hotel room, either packed away in the bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe, found on a bathroom wall or could potentially be of a slower air hose type. In cheaper hostels, hotels and motels a communal hair dryer might be offered at the reception but that might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer policy you can either look on the booking web site or call ahead to your hotel in Zimbabwe to find out what is available for guests. Hair dryers in hotels are adequate but are typically basic models lacking a 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 the hotel room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

Remember, if you are in doubt either telephone ahead to your hotel in Zimbabwe or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Can you pack a hair dryer in your carry on luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer

Can you pack a hair dryer in your carry on luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered hair dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also recommends that you should verify that your airline which is taking you to Zimbabwe will allow a blow dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. Packing the 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 power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping cords 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 use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against bumps and knocks during transit.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Power converters for Zimbabwe

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 converts a 220 volt Zimbabwe power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer, however a smaller and more lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit into a power outlet in Zimbabwe. [7] [AD]

Do I need a converter to use a hair dryer in Zimbabwe?

The correct voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 220 volt power outlet used in Zimbabwe. Travellers who want to bring along their existing domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, however it might be less expensive to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it will be to purchase 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 suitable when travelling. [7] [AD]

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

A step by step guide showing you how to power your hair dryer in Zimbabwe with a Type D travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that the 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 could blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Some dual voltage travel blow dryers will sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure you have set it to the 220 volt setting for use in Zimbabwe - please consult the instructions to find out where the switch is found.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet which is used in Zimbabwe doesn't accomodate the plug on your hair dryer you will need to buy a Type D plug adapter [4]. This power adapter is designed to adapt plugs on appliances from other countries into a power outlet used in Zimbabwe by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. First plug the Type D plug adapter into the Zimbabwe power outlet. The plug supply (technically known as a Type D power outlet [3]) can be identified by the three holes in a triangle pattern.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Zimbabwe power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the blow dryer to use in Zimbabwe. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Zimbabwe using a type D power adapter

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

How to use a hair dryer in Zimbabwe by using a three pin Type G travel charger.

  1. Check that the blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet; if it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions because you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer ensure the switch is set to accept 220 volts to use in Zimbabwe; consult the owners manual for more details on how to do this.
  2. If the type of power outlet used in Zimbabwe isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair dryer you'll need to bring a Type G plug adapter [6]. The plug adapter will fit different plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet found in Zimbabwe 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. Start the process by inserting the Type G plug adapter into the power outlet. You can recognise the plug supply by three vertical rectangular slots containing shutters forming a triangular configuration for live, neutral and ground.
  4. Next plug in your hair dryer into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Zimbabwe power outlet. The hair dryer can now be used in Zimbabwe. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Zimbabwe using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Zimbabwe Wikipedia web page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  3. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  4. Type D plug adapter - The three pinned earthed Type D plug adapter has large rounded pins placed in a triangular shape.
  5. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  6. Type G plug adapter - A Type G power adapter has three thick rectangular blades in a triangular shape with the longer top blade acting as the earthing pin.
  7. Power converter - A step up step down power converter converts 110-120 volts up to 220-240 volts and 220-240 volts down to 110-120 Volts.
  8. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer - 10.5 ounce dual voltage travel blow dryer small enough to carry in a purse including concentrator.
  9. Conair MiniPRO Folding Handle Tourmaline Ceramic Styler - Budget mini ionic hair dryer with 1200 watt 2 speed motor and bundled concentrator attachment.
  10. X5 Superlite 1600W Dual Voltage Ceramic Ionic Travel Dryer - 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65 metre power cable, tourmaline diffuser and concentrator.
  11. Hot Tools Professional Ht1044 Ionic 1875 Watt Travel Dryer with Folding Handle and Dual Voltage - 1875 watt travel hair dryer with 1.82m power cord, an ALCI power plug, removable filter and cool shot.
  12. Berta 1875W Folding Hair Dryer Dual Voltage Blow dryer Negative Ions Travel Dryer - Ceramic tourmaline hair dryer with cool shot, two heat settings, 1.8m power cord and bundled concentrator.
  13. Conair 1875 Watt Compact Folding Handle Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage - Budget 1875 watt 2 speed travel hair dryer, ALCI safety plug, removable filter and cool shot.
  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.