# 5 Appliances You May Want to Unplug When You’re Done Using Them
The viral advice to unplug *everything* isn’t necessary. Most modern appliances are designed to remain plugged in safely, and the electricity consumed while idle is often relatively small. But some appliances are worth unplugging because of **fire risk, standby energy use, or both**.
### 1. 🔥 Portable space heaters
These are among the appliances that deserve the most caution. **Turn them off and unplug them when you’re leaving the room or going to bed.** Don’t use them with an extension cord or power strip. ([cpsc.gov](https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/PortableHeaterSafetyTips.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
### 2. ☕ Coffee makers
If your coffee maker has a heating element or warming plate, unplugging it after use eliminates the possibility of the appliance remaining energized unnecessarily.
### 3. 🍞 Toasters and toaster ovens
These contain heating elements and should be switched off after use. Unplugging them when you’re finished is a reasonable additional precaution, particularly if the appliance is old or damaged.
### 4. 🍳 Countertop cooking appliances
Things such as **electric griddles, hot plates and similar heating appliances** should be turned off after use and can be unplugged once they’ve cooled. Never leave them operating unattended.
### 5. 🔌 Chargers and small electronics you rarely use
Phone chargers and other electronics can draw a small amount of standby electricity when left connected. Unplugging unused chargers can reduce this “standby” consumption, although **the savings from a single charger are generally small**. ([energy.gov](https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/standby-power?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
### What about refrigerators, TVs and computers?
You generally **shouldn’t unplug your refrigerator or freezer** simply to save electricity. They need continuous power.
For TVs, computers, game consoles and similar electronics, using a **properly rated power strip with an on/off switch** can make it easier to disconnect several devices at once and reduce standby consumption. ([energy.gov](https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/standby-power?utm_source=chatgpt.com))
### ⚠️ More important than unplugging
Inspect appliances and cords for **fraying, melting, cracked plugs, unusual smells, sparks or excessive heat**. Stop using damaged equipment. And don’t overload outlets or power strips.
**Bottom line:** Unplugging high-heat appliances after use is a sensible safety habit. But you don’t need to run around the house unplugging every appliance—the biggest benefits come from **safe use, properly maintained equipment and avoiding unattended heating appliances**.
