Hairdryer, don't wrap the cord like everyone else does: it's a big risk.

The hair dryer is one of the most essential household appliances: no home is truly complete without one. It's not just a beauty tool, but a daily necessity for many people. Whether it's winter or summer, people use it not only to dry their hair, but often also to warm up on cold mornings. However, few people realize that this everyday item can quickly become dangerous if handled or stored incorrectly.

The daily mistake we all make

Using a hair dryer is part of most people's routine: you shower, dry your hair, style it, and put it back together. Simple, right? But there's a very common and risky habit that affects almost everyone: tightly wrapping the power cord around the body of the hair dryer immediately after using it.

This action seems harmless, even neat, but it can actually cause serious damage over time. When you wrap the cord tightly, especially when the appliance is still hot, the internal wires can bend, twist, or even break. This not only shortens the lifespan of the hairdryer, but can also create electrical hazards such as short circuits or sparks.

What's worse is that many people do this immediately after turning off the appliance, while it's still hot. The nozzle area of ​​the hair dryer stays hot much longer than the rest of the appliance. When the hot air continues to radiate, it can overheat the tightly wound cord, melting the insulation and damaging the internal wiring. The result? A malfunctioning or completely dead hair dryer, posing a potential fire hazard.

The right way to store a hair dryer

Proper storage is essential to keep your appliance safe and functional for years to come. First, always let your hair dryer cool completely before storing it. It usually only takes a few minutes for it to return to room temperature.

Once cooled, avoid wrapping the cord around the hair dryer. Instead, loosely wrap it in a circular pattern or hang it freely to avoid tension on the wires. If possible, store it on a wall hook or, even better, in a dedicated hair dryer holder.

Hair dryer holders come in a variety of sizes and styles, from compact wall-mounted models to larger countertop versions. They hold the appliance in place, allow air to circulate, and prevent the cord from tangling or overheating.

Cleaning and maintenance: the often overlooked step

Another common mistake is neglecting hair dryer maintenance. Many people think it doesn't need cleaning, but regular maintenance is essential for both performance and safety.

The most important part to clean is the filter , usually located on the back of the dryer. Over time, this filter collects dust, lint, hair, and other debris that blocks airflow. When air cannot circulate properly, the motor overheats, reducing efficiency and potentially causing the appliance to burn out.

To safely clean the filter, always unplug the dryer and wait until it has completely cooled. Remove the filter cover: most models allow you to easily remove it by twisting or snapping it off. Use a small brush, a dry cloth, or even a soft toothbrush to remove any buildup. Avoid using water or chemical cleaners, as they can damage internal parts or leave traces of moisture. Once finished, let it air dry before reassembling it and using the dryer again.

When to repair or replace

If you notice unusual noises, strange odors, or irregular airflow, stop using the hair dryer immediately. These are often signs of internal damage or electrical failure. If the device is still under warranty, return it to the retailer or manufacturer for repair or replacement.

Never attempt to repair a hair dryer yourself unless you are a qualified technician. It is an electrical appliance and improper use could cause electric shock or even fire. In most cases, professional repair or replacement is the safest option.

How to use a hair dryer without damaging your hair

Beyond electrical safety, using a hair dryer incorrectly can also damage your hair. Many people make the mistake of drying their hair when it's only slightly damp instead of wet. This can actually "cook" the hair, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to split ends.

The correct method is to start drying your hair while it's still quite wet, after gently removing excess water with a clean, soft towel. Avoid rubbing your hair too vigorously: pat or squeeze gently to absorb moisture.

Before using a hair dryer, detangle your hair with your fingers instead of a comb to avoid breakage. Divide your hair into small sections for faster and more even drying.

Helpful tip: flip your head while drying to add natural volume. If you have curly hair, use a diffuser to maintain the shape of your curls and prevent frizz.

Always maintain a safe distance between the hairdryer and your scalp, about 25 centimeters. Holding it too close can irritate the skin, overheat the roots, and damage the hair shaft. Move the hairdryer constantly to distribute the heat evenly, and use your fingers to lift and separate strands while drying.

The conclusion

A hair dryer may seem like one of the simplest tools in your home, but how you handle, store, and care for it makes all the difference. Avoid wrapping the cord around a hot hair dryer, clean the filter regularly, and let it cool before putting it away.

With these small but important precautions, you'll extend the life of your appliance, prevent electrical hazards, and keep your hair healthy and shiny. Sometimes, it's not the product that fails: it's how we use it that determines its lifespan.