How to use your hair dryer in Moldova

Moldovan power outlet

Can I use my blowdryer in Moldova?

Check your hair dryer can work in Moldova:

  • If your hair dryer can run on 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how to tell) then you will only need to use the right power adapter listed below 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) - this will enable you to use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 220 volt Moldovan power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer changes the voltage but won't change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Moldova, therefore check that the voltage transformer includes the correct power adapter for Moldova otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Please be aware that your own domestic hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle the 220 volts used in Moldova you run the potential risk of a blown fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Prior to using your hair dryer in Moldova read the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Moldova

Will my hair dryer work in Moldova?

That depends on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 220 volts as used in Moldova. If you're using either a dual voltage hair dryer or your hair dryer is designed to handle 220 volts and you have the appropriate power adapter then you'll be able to use the hair dryer in Moldova. If not then you will need to consider using either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read the guide on can you use a voltage converter with a hair dryer in Moldova for help deciding which solution is more suitable. [7] [AD]

Best travel hair dryers for Moldova

How to choose the best blow dryer

A hair dryer cool shot button

How to choose the best blow dryer

When choosing the best travel hair dryer for Moldova look for a strong but lightweight dual voltage model which will work with a 220 volt Moldovan power outlet power outlet with a safety plug, long cord and folding handle. For drying thicker hair look for one which includes a bundled diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt motor.

9 tips for buying a blow dryer

  1. Buying the cheapest dryer available could be risky, as well as concerns with safety there is also a greater chance that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to a flimsy construction.
  2. To work with a 220 volt Moldovan power outlet a travel hair dryer has to support dual voltage.
  3. The cool shot button on modern blow dryers can quickly cool down hair after drying to hold a style but this option is missing in more compact dryers.
  4. Safe travel hair dryers include 'ALCI' safety plugs which will minimise the risk of the motor overloading and starting electrical fires - models are identified with the two 'test' and 'reset' switches found on the plug.
  5. If you have thicker hair then you may need a hair dryer which has a stronger motor, a high wattage ceramic dryer which includes a diffuser will dry hair much faster to avoid damage.
  6. Try to look for lightweight travel hair dryers which are durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers which have a folding handle will mean more room.
  7. Depending on the hotel room you could find they have a mirror installed too far away from a convenient outlet which makes it difficult to dry hair, therefore when buying a travel hair dryer look for the model with the longest power cord available.
  8. Rather than scouring shops to look for more expensive third party attachments which fit the unique dryer barrel size perfectly it could be cheaper and more convenient to buy a new hair dryer which is supplied with a concentrator and diffuser.
  9. The best travel hair dryers for styling should give control of both temperature and speed with 2 options; lower temperatures with slower speeds reduce damage to hair whereas a faster hotter speed will quickly dry thicker hair.
Which is the best folding travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with folding handle

Which is the best folding travel ionic hair dryer with a diffuser attachment?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic is a 1600 watt travel blow dryer with a 1.65m electric power cable, it includes a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have cool shot.
  • The Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a generous 1.82 metre power cord for greater flexibility when styling with an ALCI power plug and removable filter to clean. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot option making it perfect for drying thicker hair.

Both ionic travel hair dryers include a diffuser and concentrator attachment with powerful enough motors to make them the best hair dryers for thick hair. Each dryer is light and folds up to pack in a carry-on bag and only require a power adapter for Moldova to fit into a Moldovan power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

Which is the best mini folding travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium with folding handle and concentrator

Which is the best mini folding travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

  • The Conair MiniPRO is the best value small ionic hair dryer available to buy, the ceramic 1200 watt dryer is suitable for quickly drying fine and thin hair on the go.
  • The BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is both small and lightweight enough to carry in a purse due to it's 10.5 ounce body with folding handle that also includes features found on larger blow dryers such as a removable filter and a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage during use which results in a shinier finish.

Both of these mini hair dryers support dual voltage and when used in combination with the right plug adapter for a Moldovan power outlet they should work in Moldova and fold conveniently making them small enough to be carried for styling on the go. Both have a twin speed motor, have a 1.5 metre power cord and include a concentrator.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

Which is a good blow dryer for thick or curly hair?

Thicker hair will take longer to dry and could be hard to dry without hair going frizzy, so the best option is an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair we suggest a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly. Either an Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer or the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic will be suitable as they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a hair dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Moldova?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

Which is a good folding travel hair dryer with cool shot for Moldova?

  • The Conair Compact Styler has a powerful twin speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and features cool shot that can will quickly cool hair down.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot button, uses a ceramic tourmaline air outlet for negative ions resulting in quicker and safer styling, two heat options, a longer 1.8m electric power cable and also comes with a concentrator attachment.

Both models fold, have an ALCI plug to prevent overloading and has dual voltage making them ideal for travel to Moldova in carry on luggage if plugged into a power adapter for a Moldovan power outlet.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best travel hair dryer for Moldova?

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.ca/BaBylissPRO-Tourmaline-Titanium-Hairdryer-folding/dp/B085J6ZSMQ?dchild=1&keywords=BaBylissPRO+Tourmaline+Titanium+Travel+Dryer&qid=1623245596&sr=8-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=faef8b868c67fbce2f88ad461e3009b9&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Conair
Compact
https://www.amazon.ca/Conair-Travel-Smart-Voltage-Silver/dp/B002B8VE4U?crid=9HWAYUNS9B55&keywords=Conair+1875+Watt+Compact+Folding+Handle+Hair+Dryer+with+Dual+Voltage&qid=1695416197&s=beauty&sprefix=conair+1875+watt+compact+folding+handle+hair+dryer+with+dual+voltage%2Cbeauty%2C153&sr=1-11&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.b06bdbbe-20fd-4ebc-88cf-fa04f1ca0da8&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=39c8d488fb25e9e724fe535436892bd0&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Berta
Folding
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01LWIYQSS?&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=3744f6d1ac5af63e085818f40332a34b&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
X5
Superlite
https://www.amazon.ca/Revlon-Ceramic-Folding-Handle-Travel/dp/B01ITPVH8G?crid=2DDJ5B92DFABR&keywords=1600W+Dual+Voltage+Ceramic-Ionic+Travel+Dryer&qid=1657296342&sprefix=1600w+dual+voltage+ceramic-ionic+travel+dryer%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-5&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=e17e207600762e53ec89a32b36628172&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Hot Tools
1044
https://www.amazon.ca/Hot-Tools-Professional-Ht1044-Folding/dp/B003A1DWRO?keywords=Hot+Tools+Professional+Ht1044+Ionic+1875+Watt+Travel+Dryer&qid=1695069527&s=beauty&sr=1-1&linkCode=ll1&tag=wikiconnectio-20&linkId=cbfcfd8ce5309dac7c34a8ed0f4ebc87&language=en_CA&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
Class Mini Compact Compact with diffuser
Works in Moldova 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.

Moldova power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Moldova?

Power outlets in Moldova are 220 volts.

What electrical frequency is used with a Moldovan power outlet?

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

Which power adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Moldova?

Type C and F power outlets

Which power adapter do you need to bring for using a hair dryer in Moldova?

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

  • Plug Type C - You can identify this wall outlet by 2 holes next to each other.
  • Plug Type F - You can identify this wall outlet by two holes 19 mm apart from each other, plus a pair of two thin metal grounding clips above and below.

A Type F plug adapter allows you to use a 220 volt hair dryer in Moldova; read the simple guide below for full details of how to use a plug adapter for Moldova. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you will need to confirm if you need to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

One way to tell if your hair dryer supports dual voltage is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle, base or the plug of your hair dryer. This location might vary depending on the make or model of your hair dryer and could also state in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage models might change automatically, however other hair dryer models will have a switch which allows you to operate between different regions.

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

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

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have some type of switch which toggles between two types of voltages although some dryers can automatically detect the voltage from a Moldovan power outlet.
  2. This dial or switch needs a screwdriver or coin to change the dryer to the right voltage between a 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. Also it is worth noting down the 2 switch positions because the painted numbers can occasionally rub off on certain models of travel hair dryer.

How can you use your dual voltage blow dryer in Moldova?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer or it will operate with a 220 volt power socket.
  2. If the dryer is dual voltage then make sure it is set to the 220-240 volt range. This is normally found on the base or handle of the blow dryer and may require a screwdriver or coin to turn.
  3. Plug the hair dryer into the correct power adapter for Moldova, then plug in the power adapter into the Moldovan power outlet.
  4. It's common on a majority of travel hair dryers operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on their lowest speed setting; however the temperature and speed should still be sufficient enough for drying hair. Please check the manufacturers guidelines to see if this is appropriate for your model of dryer to stop overheating.
  5. Your dryer is now ready to operate in Moldova.

Travelling to Moldova with a hair dryer

Can you carry on a blow dryer in your hand luggage?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can you carry on a blow dryer in your hand luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on bringing a mains powered hair dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should check that your airline which is taking you to Moldova will allow hair dryers 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, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of power wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping wires tightly around electronic items). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive blow dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against bumps and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is it better to bring a domestic hair dryer or a travel hair dryer to Moldova?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer rather than bringing an existing domestic blow dryer to Moldova as it ensures that it will work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Moldovan power outlet (as long as you use the correct power adapter for Moldova). Travel hair dryers normally feature a collapsible handle and will be much lighter, this helps reduce the size and weight when packed in travellers luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer.

It is also worth concidering that packing your expensive domestic hair dryer might put it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your suitcase by an airport baggage handler. The inconvenience and costs of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised blow dryer in Moldova could be more than purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before your trip .  [17] [AD]

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Moldova?

Hotel hair dryer

Are there hair dryers in hotel rooms in Moldova?

It will all depend on the individual hotel and the quality of the room. Hair dryers in hotels are normally found in the bathroom, these could be a slower air hose variety, or might be located in a bedroom cupboard, wardrobe or drawer.

In cheaper hotels, hostels and motels a shared hair dryer could be available at the reception but that could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer availability you could either telephone the hotel in Moldova or look on the booking web site to find out what type of hairdryer is available to guests. Hair dryers in hotels are adequate but normally basic models with no diffuser, notorious for providing slower air speeds and low heat. For those concerned with hygiene might want to check for any burnt hair cuticles from previous guests on a shared hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

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

Power converters for Moldova

Do I need a voltage converter to use a hair dryer in Moldova?

A power converter (or voltage transformer) allows your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 220 volt power outlet used in Moldova. Travellers who want to use their own domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, however it could be more costly to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also worth noting, a power converter is significantly heavier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suitable when travelling. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A lightweight, small and cheap power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Moldova, whereas a heavy and bulkier power converter transforms a 220 volt Moldovan power outlet to work with a non-220 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

How to use a hair dryer in Moldova using a type C power adapter

A step-by-step guide showing you how to power a hair dryer in Moldova by using a Type C power charger.

  1. Check that your 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 because you might create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your hair dryer. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 220 volt setting for use in Moldova, consult the user guide to find out how to do this.
  2. If the type of power outlet which is used in Moldova isn't the same shape as the plug shape on your hair dryer you'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. The Type C plug adapter is designed to adapt different plugs from other countries for a power outlet used in Moldova simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type C plug adapter in the wall outlet. This unearthed power outlet, sometimes known as the Europlug, is recognised by the 2 round adjacent holes.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Moldovan power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on your hair dryer for use in Moldova. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Moldova using a type C power adapter

How to use a hair dryer in Moldova using a type F power adapter

How to use your hair dryer in Moldova with a Type F power charger.

  1. Ensure that your 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 proceed because you may damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages ensure the switch is set to the 220 volt setting for use in Moldova; refer to the user guide for more details on how to do this.
  2. You will need to bring a Type F plug adapter [6] if the type of plug on your hair dryer isn't the same shape as the plug outlet used in Moldova. This power adapter helps fit different plugs from other countries for a power outlet used in Moldova simply by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by inserting the Type F plug adapter in the wall outlet. You can recognise the power outlet by the two 4.8mm round adjacent holes and metal grounding clips above and below.
  4. Then plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Moldovan power outlet.
  6. The hair dryer can now be used in Moldova. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Moldova using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia entry about Moldova
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair dryer
  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. 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.