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 1. Rooms
 2. Kitchens
 3. Appliances


5 SMALL APPLIANCES YOU SHOULD ALWAYS UNPLUG BEFORE GOING ON VACATION

Design and appliance pros say to switch these off to save energy and money

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When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate
commission. Here’s how it works.

(Image credit: Dualit)

Jump to category:
 * 1. Coffee makers
 * 2. Toasters
 * 3. Plug-in fragrances
 * 4. Microwaves and air fryers
 * 5. Hair tools
 * Our favorite small appliances

By Eve Smallman
published 29 July 2024

Whether you're hopping on a plane for a long trip or simply are heading away for
the weekend, it's a smart idea to find out the appliances you should switch off
during this time.



“This will avoid any risk of a fire or damage to the appliance that could be
caused by a fault — be it with the electrics or a power surge,” says Mathew
Shelley, appliance expert and Customer Service Manager at Dualit. “Unlike larger
appliances like fridge-freezers, there is no downside to doing this and it also
then brings peace of mind for while you’re away enjoying your vacation!”



From small kitchen appliances to fragrance emitters, there are different ones
throughout the house that are worth unplugging before wheeling your suitcase out
of your home.





1. COFFEE MAKERS



(Image credit: Magnet Kitchens / Powerhouse Agency)

If you’re not bringing your best coffee maker away with you, it’s important to
make sure this brewing machine is switched off.



“These devices often have clocks and timers that consume power even when not in
use,” explains Tommy Mello, design expert and founder of A1 Garage Door Service.



Unplugging this will ensure you prevent any risk of electrical fires, which you
definitely don’t want to have to deal with when you’re lounging in the sun.


2. TOASTERS



(Image credit: Dualit)

While you might take your coffee machine with you (especially if it’s a small
coffee maker), you’re definitely not going to take a toaster away.

Tommy explains, “These can be a fire hazard if left plugged in — especially
older models without automatic shut-off features.”

When it comes to finding the best toasters, I always make sure to find ones that
won’t cause any hassle and that will last ages. For example, the Dualit Classic
4-Slice Toaster from Williams Sonoma pictured above has a mechanical toaster,
fast warm-up, and extra wide slots.


3. PLUG-IN FRAGRANCES



(Image credit: Getty Images / Smikey26)

This might not be an obvious small appliance to unplug when you’re on vacation,
but it’s an important one to remember, as you may have a few of them around the
house.

“Plug-in air fresheners and fragrance diffusers always be unplugged,” explains
Nick Chatzigeorgakis, interior designer at Intrabuild. “The heat and motors can
fail, and strong scents may linger for days unattended.”

I’m actually slightly terrified of having these in my house, so instead I opt
for having the best reed diffusers, flipping them before I go on holiday so they
fill the house with delicious fragrance when I’m back.


4. MICROWAVES AND AIR FRYERS



(Image credit: Getty Images / John Keeble)

You’re probably dreaming of having cool drinks and nibbly foods on vacation, so
your hot and heavy microwave likely hasn’t even crossed your mind. But, it’s a
big small appliance one to unplug.

“While they might seem harmless, microwaves draw power continuously for their
displays and clocks,” Tommy says.

Make sure to switch this off, as they can help reduce your electricity bill
slightly. The same goes for the best air fryers, as these often have electrical
displays and timers, too.


5. HAIR TOOLS



(Image credit: Getty Images / Kristen Prahl)

I always pack my hairdryer when I go on staycations, but if you don’t and are
prone to leaving yours in, unplug this and all your other hair devices.

Tommy explains, “These can pose a significant fire risk if left plugged in, so I
always recommend unplugging them before leaving for an extended period.”

Even if you haven’t used your straighteners for a while, it’s still a good idea
to unplug them, just in case you accidentally flick the switch while you’re
moving and packing.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

While simple mechanical timers (such as the best-selling BN-LINK Indoor Mini
Outlet Timer from Amazon) can provide security, if you’re going away for a long
while, it’s best to unplug and be safe rather than sorry.

If you’re looking for more ways to take care of your home during the summer,
learning how to cool down a room without AC will also be handy.


OUR FAVORITE SMALL APPLIANCES

Thermal protection

Vitamix E310 Explorian Blender
£429 at John Lewis
£429 at ManoMano UK
£433.75 at Amazon



Size (in.): H17 x W8 x D11
Capacity: 48 oz.
Price: Was $379.95 Now $329.95 at Amazon

Blend up shakes and smoothies in style with this appliance that's also Hailey
Bieber's Vitamix. It's available in three different colors, including black,
red, and slate, so you can match it to your decor perfectly. I also love the
fact it's self-cleaning, just needing a drop of liquid soap, warm water, and 60
seconds to sort itself out.



Tested by us

Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine

Check Amazon
Shop at Amazon



Size (in): H13.5 x W11 x D12
Coffee type: Ground coffee, espresso, and whole beans
Price: Was $749.95 Now $682.99 at Amazon

This luxe Breville Barista Express that we have reviewed will make strong brews
you'll want to come home to. It is a splurge, but it is our most highly-rated
coffee and espresso machine. Our reviewer Christina Chrysostomou says that it’s
simple to use, has a useful temperature regulator, and creates delish frothy
coffee.

Real Homes rating: 4.5/5 stars



Extra-long slots

Smeg 2-Slice Toaster
Shop at Nordstrom



Size (in.): H10 x W15 x D9
Power: 950W
Price: $199.95

I have seen retro home decor everywhere at the moment, and retro-style toasters
are a great way to quickly add the style without having to revamp the whole
space. This one is not only cute, but it has anti-slip feet, six browning
options, and a built-in wrap cord.






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Policy and are aged 16 or over.
Eve Smallman
Social Links Navigation
Content Editor

Hi there! I’m a content editor at Real Homes. I've been a lifestyle journalist
for over five years, previously working as an editor across regional magazines.
Before this, I graduated from Nottingham Trent University a degree in
journalism, along with an NCTJ gold diploma. I love running, decorating my
rented Victorian home, and discovering new cheeses. For Real Homes, I specialize
in interior design, trends and finding the best viral buys.






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