Here are the top 6 reasons you shouldn’t leave a charger plugged into the outlet when no phone is attached 🔌
- Fire risk (even if small)
Chargers still draw power when plugged in. Cheap, damaged, or overheating chargers can short-circuit and, in rare cases, start fires—especially overnight. - Wastes electricity
An unplugged charger uses zero power. A plugged-in one continues to sip energy (called “vampire power”), which adds up over time. - Overheating damages the charger
Without a phone regulating the flow, some chargers heat up unnecessarily, shortening their lifespan. - Higher risk of power surges
Lightning strikes or sudden voltage spikes can damage chargers left plugged in—and sometimes the outlet itself. - Safer around kids and pets
Loose cords can be pulled, chewed, tripped over, or stuck into mouths or paws—unplugging removes the risk entirely. - It’s just a good safety habit
Unplugging chargers reduces clutter, saves money long-term, and lowers the chance of electrical problems in your home.
Bottom line:
If you’re not charging a device, unplug the charger. It’s a small habit that makes your home safer and more efficient.