How do I use my hair straighteners in Niger?

Nigerien power outlet

Will my hair straighteners work in Niger?

First check your hair straighteners can work in Niger:

  • If your hair straighteners can run using 220 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you will only need to bring the correct power adapter for Niger listed below if the plug on your hair straighteners won't fit in the outlet.

If not then 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 Nigerien power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than dedicated travel hair straighteners. A power converter changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit in the types of power outlet used in Niger, so check that your voltage transformer has the correct power adapter for Niger otherwise you will still need to purchase another power adapter. Also worth noting that your own existing hair straighteners might not be suitable for travelling and you risk potential damage in transit. [14] [AD]
Warning: If your hair straighteners won't handle 220 volts used in Niger you run the risk of an electrical fire hazard, blowing a fuse or damage to your hair straighteners. Before using your hair straighteners in Niger check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using hair straighteners in Niger

Will my hair straighteners work in Niger?

That will depend on if your hair straighteners is designed to operate using the 220 volt power outlets in Niger:

Niger power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Niger?

The residential voltage in Niger is 220 volts.

What is the electrical frequency used in a Nigerien power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current from a Nigerien power outlet is 50 Hz. [15]

Which power adapter do you need to bring to use hair straighteners in Niger?

There are six types of power outlets used in Niger, these are type D, A, B, C, E and F with the primary power outlets being type D:

  • Plug Type A - This unearthed plug outlet, technically called a type A power outlet, can be identified by the two adjacent slots next to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type B - The power outlet, technically called a type B power outlet, can be identified by the 2 slots for live and neutral blades with a single semicircular shaped hole below for the earth pin.
  • Plug Type C - You can recognise this plug outlet by the 2 round holes next to each other where the two plug socket pins sit.
  • Plug Type D - You can recognise this plug outlet by the three circular holes forming a triangular configuration for live, neutral and earth.
  • Plug Type E - You can recognise this plug outlet by the two 4.8mm round holes 19mm apart from each other for live and neutral pins plus a long metal earth pin protruding in the top in a triangular shape.
  • Plug Type F - You can identify the wall socket by the two large adjacent holes for live and neutral pins along with a pair of thin grounding clips at the top and bottom.

A suitable power adapter to bring to use 220 volt hair straighteners in Niger is a Type D plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use hair straighteners in Niger using a power adapter. Note that unless you that have dual voltage hair straighteners you will need to check if you have to bring a power converter.  [8] [16] [AD]

Which power adapter do you need to bring to use  hair straighteners in Niger?

Dual voltage hair straighteners

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

Single 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 look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or the handle of your hair straighteners. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair straighteners, it could also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage hair straighteners can change automatically but other straighteners will have a button or switch which allows you to change between different voltage ranges.

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

Travelling to Niger with hair straighteners

Is it safe to bring my hair straighteners to Niger?

Packing dual voltage travel hair straighteners are preferable to bringing your existing hair straighteners as it ensures that they'll work with the 220 volt power outlets used with a Nigerien power outlet, provided that you use the correct power adapter for Niger.

It is also worth bearing in mind that bringing your expensive domestic hair straighteners could put them at risk because of potential loss or damage in your check in luggage by airline baggage handlers. The costs of repairing or replacing expensive quality hair straighteners in Niger might overshadow the costs of buying cheaper dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] before setting off. If you intend to bring along your own personal hair straighteners in your luggage either slot them inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light damage, or use a heat resistant and shockproof hot tools travel case or heat resistant mat pouch for hair straighteners and curling irons which will also allow the hair straighteners to be packed immediately after use without waiting to cool down.   [17] [18] [AD]

Can I take hair straighteners in my carry on?

Travel hair straighteners with heat protective cap

Can I take hair straighteners in my carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair straighteners there is no restriction on carrying mains powered hair straighteners in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should verify that your airline who is taking you to Niger 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 when going through airport security, they can be packed away quickly and should avoid a tangle of wires in your carry on luggage (the TSA advices wrapping wires tightly around hair straighteners). If you do intend to bring fragile or expensive hair straighteners in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against drops and knocks during your journey.    [2] [17] [19] [20] [AD]

Power converters for Niger

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your hair straighteners to fit into a power outlet in Niger, however a heavier and more expensive power converter converts the voltage of 220 volts from a Nigerien power outlet to work with non-220 volt hair straighteners. [14] [AD]

Can you use your hair straighteners with a converter for Niger?

A suitable voltage transformer (or power converter) will allow your hair straighteners using a different voltage to work with the 220 volt power outlet used in Niger. Travellers wishing to bring their own hair straighteners can use a power converter, however it might be more costly to purchase a power converter than it is to buy dedicated dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2]. Also, travel hair straighteners can be substantially lighter than a power converter making travel hair straighteners more suitable for packing. [14] [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.    [17] [18] [21] [22] [23] [24] [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.
  [23] [25] [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 Niger using a type B power adapter

Instructions showing how to use hair straighteners in Niger using a three pinned Type B power adapter.

  1. Please check that your straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or works with a 220 volt power outlet - if not then do not attempt these instructions as you might create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage hair straighteners will usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using your straighteners ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Niger, please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. If the type of power outlet used in Niger won't accomodate the plug shape on your hair straighteners you will need to use a Type B plug adapter [4]. The Type B plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries into a power outlet in Niger simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Insert the Type B plug adapter in the power outlet. The wall outlet, sometimes known as the Type B power outlet [3], can be recognised by 2 thin slots where the live and neutral blades slide into with a single hole below for the earth pin. Please note power cords with type B sockets which are rated at 125 V shouldn't be used so we recommend checking first.
  4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type B plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Nigerien power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the straighteners to use in Niger. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Niger using a type B power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Niger using a type C power adapter

A guide showing how to use hair straighteners in Niger using a two pronged Type C power adapter.

  1. Check that the hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't continue because you could blow a fuse, damage your straighteners or create an electrical fire hazard. Some travel hair straighteners typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating your hair straighteners ensure the switch is set to accept 220 volts; please refer to the user guide to find out where this switch is.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type C plug adapter [6] if the type of plug on your hair straighteners isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Niger. The Type C plug adapter helps fit different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Niger simply by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the power outlet. The wall outlet, also known as a Europlug, can be recognised by 2 circular adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins slide into.
  4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Nigerien power outlet.
  6. The straighteners can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Niger using a type C power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Niger using a type D power adapter

How to power your hair straighteners in Niger using a Type D travel adapter.

  1. Ensure that the straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you may damage your straighteners, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel hair straighteners make sure the switch is set to accept 220 volts for use in Niger, consult the owners manual to find out how to do this.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet used in Niger isn't the same shape as the plug on your hair straighteners you'll need to bring a Type D plug adapter [8]. This plug adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries into an electrical outlet used in Niger by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start by taking the Type D plug adapter and plugging it in the Nigerien power outlet. You can recognise this plug supply by the three circular holes in a triangular configuration for live, neutral and earth.
  4. After that plug in your hair straighteners into the Type D plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Nigerien power outlet. The straighteners can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Niger using a type D power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Niger using a type E power adapter

How to power your hair straighteners in Niger by using a Type E travel charger.

  1. Please check that your straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or can work with a 220 volt power supply - if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Dual voltage hair straighteners typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using your straighteners ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Niger - consult the manufacturers instructions for more information on how to do this.
  2. If the plug on your hair straighteners isn't the same type of outlet which is used in Niger you will need to use a Type E plug adapter [10]. This Type E plug adapter helps adapt plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Niger simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type E plug adapter into the wall outlet. The circular wall outlet can be recognised by two circular adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins go and a single metal earth pin protruding in the top to form a triangle pattern.
  4. After that plug in your hair straighteners into the Type E plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Nigerien power outlet. The straighteners can now be turned on. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Niger using a type E power adapter

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

A page showing how to use hair straighteners in Niger with a 2 pronged Type F power adapter.

  1. Ensure that the hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet - if not then don't continue because you could create an electrical fire hazard, blow a fuse or damage your straighteners. Some dual voltage travel hair straighteners usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using your straighteners ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting; please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where this switch is.
  2. You'll need to bring a Type F plug adapter [10] if the type of plug used on your hair straighteners isn't the same shape as the plug outlet which is used in Niger. The Type F plug adapter will fit plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet in Niger simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Start by plugging the Type F plug adapter into the power outlet. The sunken round power supply (sometimes called the Type F power outlet [11]) can be identified by the two 4.8mm round adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral pins, plus two thin grounding clips at the top and bottom.
  4. Plug in the hair straighteners into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Nigerien power outlet.
  6. The straighteners can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Niger using a type F power adapter

How to use hair straighteners in Niger using a type A power adapter

A page showing how to use your hair straighteners in Niger with a 2 pronged Type A travel charger.

  1. Make sure that your hair straighteners are either dual voltage travel hair straighteners [2] or is compatible with a 220 volt power outlet - if not then do not attempt these instructions because you could create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair straighteners or blow a fuse. Some dual voltage hair straighteners will usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using your straighteners ensure you have set it to the 220 volt setting to use in Niger, please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where the switch is found.
  2. This guide assumes that you are not already using hair straighteners with a Type A plug - if it does then you won't need a power adapter (but you will still need to check that your hair straighteners can work with a 220 volt power supply). You'll need to buy a Type A plug adapter [13] if the shape of plug on your hair straighteners isn't the same type of plug outlet which is used in Niger. The power adapter is designed to convert different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Niger by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the hair straighteners to work with a 220 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type A plug adapter into the Nigerien power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the two slots adjacent to each other for live and neutral blades. Please be aware that power cables used with type A outlets which are rated at only 125 volts should not be used in Niger so please check prior to turning the power on.
  4. Plug in your hair straighteners into the Type A plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Nigerien power outlet. The hair straighteners can now be used in Niger. [AD]
How to use  hair straighteners in Niger using a type A power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia entry about Niger
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel hair straighteners
  3. iec.ch - Type B power outlet
  4. Type B plug adapter - A Type B adapter, rated at 15 A and 125 V, featuring two parallel flat blades and a longer grounding pin, in compliance with NEMA 5-15 specifications. Suitable for travel to the US plug types and Canadian plugs..
  5. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  6. 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..
  7. iec.ch - Type D power outlet
  8. Type D plug adapter - A BS-546 compliant, Type D electrical adapter featuring a grounded 3-prong plug, widely used in South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal and Sri Lanka..
  9. iec.ch - Type E power outlet
  10. Type E plug adapter - A CEE 7/5 socket and CEE 7/6 plug compliant Type E adapter designed with a focus on safety, featuring two round pins and an earthing hole. Ideal for use in the France, Belgium, Poland and several African nations..
  11. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  12. iec.ch - Type A power outlet
  13. Type A plug adapter - A two-blade, ungrounded electrical plug adapter for US plug types, Canadian power outlets, Thailand sockets, Mexico plug types, and select Asian power outlets..
  14. 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..
  15. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  16. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  17. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  18. 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.
  19. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for hair straighteners -
  20. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.
  21. 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.
  22. Heat protectant spray - Thermal protector spray used prior to styling with heated tools such as blow dryers and flat irons.
  23. Energy saving outlet with timer - Automatic power shut down of a connected appliance after a preset length of time.
  24. Flat iron hair straighteners which include a heat resistant bag - Example of hair straighteners with a protective bag suitable for travel.
  25. 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..