Using a hair dryer in Sweden

Swedish power outlet

Can I use my hairdryer in Sweden?

First check that your hair dryer can work in Sweden:

If not then:

  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - you can then use your existing hair dryer and other applicances with a 230 volt Swedish power outlet, however this is substantially heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel hair dryer. A power converter changes the voltage but won't change the actual physical shape of the plug on your hair dryer to fit in the power outlet used in Sweden, so please check that the voltage transformer has a suitable power adapter for Sweden otherwise you will need to bring a seperate power adapter. Please be aware that your own personal hair dryer might not be suited for travelling and you could risk damage in transit. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your hair dryer won't handle 230 volts you run a risk of damage to your hair dryer, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Before attempting to use your hair dryer in Sweden read the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a hair dryer in Sweden

Will my hair dryer work in Sweden?

This will depend on if your hair dryer is designed to handle the 230 volts which are used in Sweden:

Best travel hair dryers for Sweden

What to look for when buying a blow dryer

A hair dryer cool shot button

What to look for when buying a blow dryer

When choosing the best travel hair dryer look for a sturdy but light dual voltage model that operates with a 230 volt Swedish power outlet power outlet with a folding handle, an ALCI safety plug and a long power cord. If drying thicker hair look for one with a diffuser that uses a stronger 1600+ watt dryer.

Things to look for when purchasing a hair dryer

  1. Safe travel hair dryers will include an ALCI safety plug which reduces the danger of overloading and starting a fire; you can recognise these models by the 2 'test' and 'reset' switches.
  2. If you have thicker or curlier hair then you could require a hair dryer with a more powerful motor. A high wattage ceramic model which has a diffuser will dry hair faster to avoid damage.
  3. Buying the cheapest travel hair dryer is risky, as well as issues with safety there is also a greater risk that the dryer could break during travelling abroad due to a flimsy build.
  4. Hotel rooms in Sweden might have a wall mirror installed away from the nearest outlet making it awkward to operate the blow dryer, therefore find the longest power cord available.
  5. A travel hair dryer has to be dual voltage to function with a 230 volt Swedish power outlet.
  6. It might be more convenient to buy a new dryer that is supplied with both a concentrator and diffuser rather than scouring shops looking for expensive third party attachments.
  7. Modern blow dryers could include a 'cool shot' button for rapidly cooling hair down after drying to hold a style but this feature could be lacking in smaller or cheaper models.
  8. Suitable hair dryers for styling will let you to alter the temperature and speed with high and low options - a hotter faster speed can quickly dry thicker hair and lower temperatures with slower speeds prevent damage to your hair.
  9. Look for a lightweight travel hair dryer which is durable enough to survive being transported in luggage, dryers with a folding handle will mean more room.
Which is a good travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser?

Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer with bundled diffuser

Which is a good travel ionic hair dryer with diffuser?

  • A X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic has a 1600 watt motor with a 1.65m electric power cord, it is supplied with a tourmaline diffuser however doesn't have a cool shot feature.
  • A Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer has a generous 1.82m electric power cord for greater freedom when drying with an ALCI power plug and removable filter to clean easily. With a powerful 1875 watt motor it includes cool shot making it more suited for drying thicker hair.

Each ionic travel hair dryer includes both diffuser and concentrator with powerful enough motors to make them the best travel blow dryers for thick hair. They are both lightweight and will fold up to fit in carry-on luggage and will only require a suitable cheap power adapter for Sweden to work with a Swedish power outlet.  [8] [8] [9] [AD]

What is the best compact dual voltage travel hair dryer for Sweden?

Berta Folding Hair Dryer with folding handle

What is the best compact dual voltage travel hair dryer for Sweden?

  • The Conair Compact Styler uses a powerful two speed 1875 watt motor, removable filter and includes cool shot that can be used to rapidly cool hair down which gives it a longer lasting hold.
  • The Berta Folding Hair Dryer also has a cool shot setting, uses a tourmaline ceramic outlet for negative ions resulting in faster and safer styling, twin heat settings, a longer 1.8m electric power cord and comes with a concentrator attachment.

Both models can fold, include an ALCI plug which prevents power overloads and has dual voltage making them perfect for visiting Sweden in carry on luggage if used with a power adapter for a Swedish power outlet.  [10] [10] [11] [AD]

What is the best blow dryer for thick hair?

Thick hair takes much longer to dry and will be hard to dry without your hair turning frizzy, so the best option for this type of hair will be an ionic dryer and for curly thick hair use a diffuser as both are suitable to manage and dry hair smoothly. Both the X5 Superlite Ceramic Ionic or a Hot Tools 1044 Ionic Travel Dryer are suitable because they both have powerful motors, ionic outlets and included diffusers, avoid buying a blow dryer with a motor less powerful than 1600 watts as this won't be strong enough.  [8] [9] [AD]

Which is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium travel hair dryer

Which is a good mini ionic travel hair dryer with dual voltage?

  • A Conair MiniPRO is the cheapest small ionic hairdryer available on the market, this 1200 watt ceramic dryer is best suited for quickly drying fine and thin hair whilst on the go.
  • A BaBylissPRO Tourmaline Titanium is small enough to transport in a handbag due to a 10.5oz body and folding handle that also has options found on larger blow dryers including a tourmaline outlet which can emit infrared heat to protect against heat damage which results in a glossy finish.

Both mini hair dryers are dual voltage and when used with a suitable plug adapter for a Swedish power outlet they should work in Sweden folding conveniently enough to be carried around all day for styling on the go. Both have a 1.5m electric power cord, a two speed motor and include a concentrator attachment.  [12] [12] [13] [AD]

Best hair dryers for travel

Which is the best hair dryer to buy for Sweden?

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 Sweden 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.

Sweden power outlets and plug sockets

What is the voltage in Sweden?

The common voltage used in Sweden is 230 volts.

What frequency is used in Sweden?

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

Which travel adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Sweden?

Type C and F power outlets

Which travel adapter do you need for using a hair dryer in Sweden?

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

  • Plug Type C - This unearthed power socket (technically called a Europlug) is identified by 2 holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins.
  • Plug Type F - The sunken round power socket (also called a type F power outlet or Schuko socket) can be recognised by two large round adjacent holes next to each other where the plug socket pins go along with a pair of metal grounding clips at the top and bottom.

A Type F power adapter will allow you to use a 230 volt hair dryer in Sweden; read the step by step instructions below for full details of using a power adapter for Sweden. Please be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage hair dryer you might also have to bring a voltage converter.  [6] [15] [AD]

Dual voltage hair dryers

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

  1. Most dual voltage hair dryers have either a dial or switch which toggles between two voltages although some models can automatically detect the voltage from a Swedish power outlet.
  2. The switch or dial will typically require either a screwdriver or coin to set the hair dryer to the right voltage between the 220v-240v range or a 110v-120v range.
  3. Also, it is worth noting down both switch positions as the painted numbers are prone to fading on certain models.
Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

Dual voltage hair dryer

Is my hair dryer dual voltage?

A simple method to tell if your hair dryer will support dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug, handle or the base. The location might depend on the make or model of your hair dryer and should also be written on the box. Some dual voltage hair dryers might change automatically, however other hair dryers will feature a switch which allows you to change between different regions depending on which country you are in.

  • A specific number such as 110V indicates a single voltage hair dryer. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Sweden then you should be able to use your hair dryer with a Swedish 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 Swedish power outlet falls within the range shown on your hair dryer then you should be able to use it in Sweden.
  • A large voltage range separated with a slash such as 100/240V indicates a dual voltage hair dryer capable of being used in Sweden or any other country.

How do you use a dual voltage hair dryer in Sweden?

  1. Check that you are using a dual voltage hair dryer and it operates with a 230 volt power outlet.
  2. If the dryer supports dual voltage please make sure it is switched to operate within the 220-240V range. This is usually found on the handle or base of the blow dryer and may require a coin or screwdriver to switch.
  3. Plug the dryer into the correct power adapter for Sweden, also plug in the power adapter into the Swedish power outlet.
  4. It is common on a majority of dual voltage hair dryer models operating within the 220-240v range to only work safely on a low setting, however this temperature should still be sufficient for drying hair. We recommend checking the hair dryer instructions to see if this is relevant for your model of dual voltage dryer to stop the risk of overheating.
  5. The dryer can now be operated in Sweden.

Travelling to Sweden with a hair dryer

Can you take a hair dryer in your carry on?

Folding travel hair dryer with cord wrapped for carry on

Can you take a hair dryer in your carry on?

According to the TSA guidelines for hair dryers there is no restriction on carrying a mains powered blow dryer in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also recommends that you should check that your airline that is flying you to Sweden will allow a hair dryer onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing the blow dryer in a dedicated heat resistant protective travel hair dryer case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly and will avoid a tangle of cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA suggests wrapping wires tightly around hair dryers). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive hair dryers in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to use hard carry on luggage as this offers the most protection against drops and knocks during your journey.   [16] [17] [18] [AD]

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Sweden?

Hotel hair dryer

Is there a hair dryer in your hotel room in Sweden?

Depending on the individual hotel and class of the accommodation a hair dryer might be available in the hotel room, either packed away in a bedroom cupboard, drawer or wardrobe, found in the bathroom or could be of a slower air hose variety. In cheaper motels, hotels and hostels a communal hair dryer could be available at reception but could involve waiting in turn for other guests. If in doubt as to hotel hairdryer policy you can either telephone your hotel in Sweden or check on the booking web site to find out what is available for guests. Hair dryers in hotels are usable but are normally rudimentary models with no diffuser, notorious for low heat and providing slower air speeds. Those concerned with hygiene might want to remove burnt hair cuticles from other guests on a communal hair dryer as the hotel room service might not have scraped this off when cleaning the room.

Remember, if in doubt either telephone ahead to the hotel in Sweden or use a suitable dual voltage travel hair dryer [2].  [2] [AD]

Should you bring a travel hair dryer or domestic hair dryer to Sweden?

It is preferable to bring a dual voltage travel hair dryer instead of packing your existing domestic blow dryer to Sweden (typically marked with 'For domestic use only') as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Swedish power outlet (as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Sweden). Travel hair dryers normally feature a folding handle and will be lighter which helps reduce the size and weight in luggage compared to bringing a domestic hair dryer. It is also worth bearing in mind that packing an expensive domestic blow dryer might put it at risk because of potential loss or damage in transit by a baggage handlers in Sweden. The inconvenience and costs of repairing an expensive quality blow dryer in Sweden might outweigh the cost of buying a cheap dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] with a suitable travel hair dryer case .  [17] [AD]

Power converters for Sweden

Do you need a converter for Sweden to use your hair dryer?

A power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a hair dryer using a different voltage to operate with the 230 volt power outlet used in Sweden. Travellers who wish to bring their existing domestic hair dryer can use a power converter, but it might be considerably less expensive to buy a dedicated dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] than it will be to purchase a power converter. Also worth noting, a travel hair dryer can be substantially smaller and lighter than a power converter making a travel hair dryer more suitable when packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your hair dryer to slot into a power outlet in Sweden, but a more expensive and heavier power converter will transform the voltage of 230 volts from a Swedish power outlet to work with a non-230 volt hair dryer. [7] [AD]

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

How to use a hair dryer in Sweden with a Type C travel adapter.

  1. Ensure that your blow dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet; but if not then don't attempt these instructions as you might damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Travel hair dryers typically have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting; consult the manufacturers instructions to find out where the switch is located.
  2. If the shape of the power outlet used in Sweden doesn't accomodate the plug on your hair dryer you'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter will help convert plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet used in Sweden simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by inserting the Type C plug adapter into the wall outlet. The wall supply, sometimes known as a Europlug or Type C power outlet [3], is identified by 2 round holes adjacent to each other where the two pins go.
  4. Plug in your hair dryer into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Swedish power outlet. The hair dryer can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Sweden using a type C power adapter

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

How to power a hair dryer in Sweden with a 2 prong Type F travel charger.

  1. Please make sure that your hair dryer is either a dual voltage travel hair dryer [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power supply; if it doesn't then don't proceed as you could damage your hair dryer, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Travel hair dryers usually have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the hair dryer make sure the switch is set to the 230 volt setting; consult the manufacturers instructions to find out where the switch is located.
  2. If the plug shape on your hair dryer isn't the same type of outlet used in Sweden you will need to use a Type F plug adapter [6]. This Type F plug adapter is designed to convert plugs from other countries for use in an electrical outlet used in Sweden simply by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your hair dryer to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Begin the process by inserting the Type F plug adapter into the wall outlet. You can identify this plug outlet by two large circular adjacent holes next to each other for live and neutral pins and a pair of two grounding clips above and below.
  4. Plug in the hair dryer into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Swedish power outlet.
  6. Your hair dryer can now be switched on. [AD]
How to use a hair dryer in Sweden using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Sweden Wikipedia web page
  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. 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..
  11. 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..
  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.