7 Things You Should Always Unplug When You Go on Vacation and 3 Things That Should Stay Plugged in, According to Experts

As you pack your bags and prepare for a well-deserved vacation, it can be easy to forget a small but important task: unplugging stuff. While it may seem trivial, knowing which items to unplug and which to leave plugged in can save you money, reduce your environmental impact and — perhaps most importantly — keep your home safe.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, approximately 23,700 residential fires were caused by home electronics in 2023 alone, resulting in 305 deaths and $1,501,600,000 in damages.

Here’s a breakdown of things you should always unplug — and the items that are better left on.

Things You Should Always Unplug

TVs, Gaming Consoles and Computers

We all love our gadgets, but they can be major energy drains if left plugged in. While devices like TVs, gaming consoles and computers may seem harmless when powered off, they still consume electricity in standby mode, according to the Department of Energy. Unplugging these electronics before you leave can help cut down on unnecessary energy use.

Small Kitchen Appliances

It’s easy to forget about small kitchen appliances, but these can serve as a power drain when left plugged in. Items such as toasters, blenders, microwaves and coffee makers should all be unplugged, according to Amanda Nelson, co-owner of Young Cardinal Electric, per Homes & Gardens. Not only does this save energy, but it also eliminates the risk of an accidental malfunction while you’re away. 

Hair Tools and Beauty Appliances 

Hair dryers, straighteners, curling irons and electric razors should never be left plugged in when you’re not around, per Nelson. These items can pose a fire hazard if there’s a malfunction or if they are accidentally turned on. Always unplug these items when you are finished using them, whether you are leaving for vacation or just a trip to the grocery store.

Lamps and Lights 

Leaving the lights on to make it look like someone’s home is a common home safety trick, but it’s likely not worth the risk if you’re gone for more than a day. Turning off lights and unplugging them prevents both overuse and risk of fire, per the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).

Space Heaters 

According to CPSC, space heaters are involved in more than 1,000 home fires every year, and the National Fire Protection Association notes that they account for about 46% of home heating-related fires. Because space heaters can pose a fire risk even when you’re home, it’s critical to make sure they are unplugged when you leave the house for any duration of time. 

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Electric Blankets (Especially Older Ones)

According to Electrical Safety Foundation International, electric blankets cause about 500 house fires per year — and almost all of them involve blankets that are more than 10 years old. Because of this, it’s important to make sure they are unplugged when you leave the house and to also always be sure someone is there to supervise when they are actively in use.

Washers and Dryers 

Though they don’t use as much power as some other devices, washers and dryers should also be unplugged when you’re heading out for an extended trip. Not only will this save energy, but unplugging these appliances can reduce the risk of a malfunction or fire, especially if you’re leaving them idle for an extended period, per Better Homes & Gardens.

Things to Leave Plugged In

Refrigerator and Freezer 

This one may seem obvious, but your fridge and freezer need to stay plugged in to keep your food safe. However, you may want to consider adjusting the temperature to energy-saving settings. Additionally, if you plan to be gone for more than a month, General Electric recommends clearing out your fridge and freezer and unplugging it to save on your energy bill.

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Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide Alarms 

These safety features need to stay plugged in and fully operational while you’re away. They help keep your home safe from smoke, fire and gas leaks, so it’s critical to ensure that these devices are always powered on.

Security Systems and Smart Devices 

If you have a home security system, cameras or smart home devices, they should stay plugged in and powered on. These systems help protect your home and keep you connected to what’s happening inside while you’re away, and can alert you to anything that needs your immediate attention.