Which plug adapter will you need when using a hair dryer in Netherlands?

Dutch power outlet

Can I use my hair dryer in Netherlands?

First check your hair dryer can work in Netherlands:

  • If your hair dryer can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how to check) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed below if the plug on your hair dryer will not fit.

If not then either:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Dutch power outlet, however this is significantly heavier, bulkier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but won't change the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the wall outlet used in Netherlands, so check that your voltage transformer comes with a suitable power adapter for Netherlands otherwise you will need to purchase a seperate power adapter. Please note that your own personal hair dryer might not be suitable for travelling and you risk potential damage in a suitcase. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run the risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your hair dryer or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your hair dryer in Netherlands check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Netherlands

Will my hair dryer work in Netherlands?

That will depend on if your hair dryer can handle the 230 volts used in Netherlands:

Best travel hair dryers for Netherlands

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer

Bundled diffuser and concentrator attachments

What to look for when choosing a hair dryer

When choosing the best hair dryer for Netherlands look for a sturdy but lightweight dual voltage dryer which will operate with a 230 volt Dutch power outlet power outlet, has a folding handle, long power cord and ALCI safety plug. If drying thick hair look for a model which includes a diffuser that has a stronger 1600+ watt dryer.

The top 9 things to consider when purchasing a travel hair dryer

  1. If you have curlier or thicker hair then you could require a blow dryer which has a stronger motor - a high wattage ceramic model which has a diffuser will dry hair much faster to prevent damage.
  2. The safest travel hair dryers will include an 'ALCI' safety plug which minimises the danger of the motor overloading that could start a fire - you can recognise models by the two test and reset buttons.
  3. Some hotel rooms might have a wall mirror installed some distance away from a outlet which could make it cumbersome to operate the blow dryer, therefore when buying a blow dryer search for the longest power cord possible or bring either a power extension cord or a hand mirror.
  4. Rather than scouring stores looking for expensive third party attachments which fit the dryer barrel exactly it might be cheaper buying a hair dryer that includes both a diffuser and concentrator.
  5. Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer might be risky - as well as safety concerns there is also a greater risk that the dryer could fail during travelling abroad due to cheaper parts.
  6. Suitable hair dryers for styling give control of the temperature and speed with low and high options; lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to hair whereas hotter faster speeds will quickly dry thicker hair.
  7. To function in Netherlands a travel hair dryer needs to support dual voltage.
  8. Modern hair dryers could include a 'cool shot' option for rapidly cooling down the hair after drying to hold in a style but this option could be lacking in more compact models.
  9. Try looking for a lighter travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, models which have a folding handle mean more room.
Which is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

Which is the best compact dual voltage hair dryer?

  • With a strong 2 speed 1875 watt motor and removable filter the Conair Compact Styler features a cool shot button that can be used to quickly cool hair down to give a long lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also features a cool shot setting, a tourmaline ceramic air outlet resulting in quicker and safer drying, 2 heat options, a longer 1.8 metre electric power cable and comes with a concentrator.

Each model folds, includes an ALCI plug which prevents overloading and has dual voltage making both ideal for visiting Netherlands in carry on luggage when used with a power adapter for a Dutch power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best blow dryer for thick curly hair?

Thicker hair can take longer to dry and will be hard to dry without your hair going frizzy, the best option will be an ionic blow dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are able to manage and dry hair smoothly without frizz. Either 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 included diffusers - avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor which is less powerful than 1600 watts as it will struggle to dry thicker hair.  [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best small folding dual voltage hair dryer?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium

What is the best small folding dual voltage hair dryer?

  • For quickly drying thin or fine hair on the go then a 1200 watt ceramic Conair MiniPRO is the most affordable small ionic hairdryer available to buy.
  • For a hairdryer which is small enough to carry in a handbag then the 10.5oz BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is recommend. With a removable filter and tourmaline outlet that can emit infrared heat to protect from heat damage this dryer manages to incorporate options normally found on larger dryers.

Both are dual voltage mini hair dryers and when used in combination with a suitable plug adapter for a Dutch power outlet they will work in Netherlands folding conveniently making them small enough to be carried for drying on the go. Both have a 1.5m electric power cord, have a twin speed motor and include a concentrator.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser

What is the best dual voltage ionic hair dryer with diffuser attachment?

  • The X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65 metre electric power cord, it includes a tourmaline diffuser but it is missing cool shot.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer features a longer 1.82m power cable for greater flexibility when drying with an ALCI power plug and a removable filter for easy cleaning. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it also has a cool shot feature making it ideal for styling thicker hair.

Both ionic hair dryers feature both diffuser and concentrator with powerful motors to make them the best blow dryers for thick hair. They only require a suitable cheap power adapter for Netherlands to plug into a Dutch power outlet, they are lightweight and will fold up to pack into carry-on luggage.  [10] [11] [11] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

What is the best hair dryer for Netherlands?

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 Netherlands 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.

Netherlands power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Netherlands?

Power outlets in Netherlands are 230 volts.

What frequency is used in a Dutch power outlet?

The frequency of the alternating current in a Dutch power outlet is 50 Hz. [14]

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Netherlands?

Type C and F power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a hair dryer in Netherlands?

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

  • Plug Type C - The wall socket is identified by 2 adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral.
  • Plug Type F - The sunken round plug outlet, also known as a Schuko plug, can be identified by two 4.8mm round adjacent holes for live and neutral, plus thin grounding clips above and below.

A Type F power adapter allows you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Netherlands, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Netherlands. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a power converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

How should you switch a dual voltage travel hair dryer?

  1. Normal dual voltage hair dryers have either a switch or dial which selects between two voltages although some hair dryers are capable of automatically detecting the voltage used in Netherlands.
  2. This switch or dial will typically require a small coin or screwdriver to change the hair dryer to the right voltage between a 110v-120v range or the 220v-240v range.
  3. Also it is worth jotting down the two switch positions because the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models of hair dryer.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

A simple way to tell if your hair dryer can accept dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or base. This location might vary depending on the make and model of your hair dryer, it could also be written on the box. Some dual voltage models will change automatically but other hair dryer models will feature a switch which allows you to change between different voltage ranges.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Netherlands then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Dutch power outlet.
  • A small voltage range with a dash such as 100-120V also indicates a single voltage hair dryer which can accomodate small voltage fluctuations. If the 230 volts used in a Dutch power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you can use it in Netherlands.
  • A larger voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Netherlands or any other country.

How do I use my dual voltage blow dryer in Netherlands?

  1. Ensure that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and it works with a 230 volt power socket.
  2. If your hair dryer is dual voltage please make sure it is switched to the 220-240V range. The switch is normally found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to turn.
  3. Plug your hair dryer into the power adapter for Netherlands, also plug in the power adapter into the Dutch power outlet.
  4. It is common on most travel hair dryers operating in the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low setting; but the temperature and speed should be sufficient for drying hair. We recommend checking the hair dryer guidelines to find out if this rule is appropriate for your model of dual voltage dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
  5. Your hair dryer can now be used with a Dutch power outlet.

Travelling to Netherlands with a hair dryer

Can I bring a hair dryer in my carry on luggage to Netherlands?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can I bring a hair dryer in my carry on luggage to Netherlands?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA suggests that you should verify that your airline that is flying you to Netherlands will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing the hair dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible by airport security, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping wires tightly around hair dryers). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the greatest protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Do hotel rooms in Netherlands have hair dryers?

Hotel hair dryer

Do hotel rooms in Netherlands have hair dryers?

This will all depend on the hotel and the class of the room. Hair dryers in hotel rooms are typically found on a bathroom wall, these could be a slower air hose variety, or could be found in a bedroom drawer, wardrobe or cupboard. In budget motels, hostels and hotels a shared hair dryer might be available at the reception but might involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt about the hotel hairdryer availability then either call ahead to the hotel in Netherlands or check on the hotel web site to find out what is available to guests. Hotel hair dryers are adequate but typically rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for slower air speeds and low heat. Those concerned with hygiene might want to remove any grime from previous guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have removed this when cleaning the room.

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

Is it safe to bring my domestic hair dryer to Netherlands?

Packing a dual voltage travel hair dryer is preferable to packing an existing hair dryer to Netherlands (marked with 'For domestic use only') as it is safer to assume that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Dutch power outlet (as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Netherlands). Travel hair dryers typically feature a folding handle and are lighter, this will help reduce the size and weight when packed in luggage compared to bringing a domestic blow dryer. Note that packing your expensive domestic blow dryer might place it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by airport baggage handlers. The inconvenience and costs involved in replacing or repairing an expensive quality domestic blow dryer in Netherlands might be higher than buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case before travelling to bring along .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Netherlands

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter?

A lightweight, cheap and small power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Netherlands, but a heavy and bulkier power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from a Dutch power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

Do you need a voltage converter in Netherlands to use your hair dryer?

The correct type power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your hair dryer using a different voltage to operate using a 230 volt power outlet used in Netherlands. A power converter is suitable for travellers who want to use their existing hair dryer, but it could be more expensive to buy a power converter than it is to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2]. Also, a power converter is substantially heavier and bulkier than a travel hair dryer making a power converter less suited for travelling. [7] [AD]

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

Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in Netherlands with a Type C travel adapter.

  1. Please check that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then do not proceed as you may blow a fuse, damage your hair dryer or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a dual voltage travel hair dryer which can toggle between different voltages make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts to use in Netherlands - refer to the manufacturers instructions to find out where this switch is.
  2. If the plug on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Netherlands you'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter will adapt different plugs on appliances from other countries for use in an electrical outlet used in Netherlands by changing the shape of the plug, however the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Plug the Type C plug adapter into the Dutch power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the two circular holes next to each other.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Dutch power outlet. The hair dryer can now be switched on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Netherlands using a type C power adapter

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

Instructions showing how to use a hair dryer in Netherlands with a Type F travel adapter.

  1. Please check that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your hair dryer or blow a fuse. Travel hair dryers sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts for use in Netherlands - consult the manufacturers instructions for more information on where this switch is.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Netherlands you'll need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6]. This plug adapter will adapt plugs on appliances from other countries for use in a power outlet found in Netherlands by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Plug the Type F plug adapter into the power outlet. This recessed round power outlet (sometimes called the Type F power outlet [5] or Schuko plug) can be recognised by two large adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral along with a pair of thin metal grounding clips above and below.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Dutch power outlet. The hair dryer can now be switched on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Netherlands using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Netherlands entry on wikipedia
  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. 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..
  9. 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..
  10. 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..
  11. 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..
  12. 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..
  13. 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..
  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.