We’re always told to keep electrical tools away from water, and to avoid touching outlets with wet hands, as this can cause electric shock (and even be fatal). But with all of today’s technological advancements, do we still have to worry about that?
If you use a hair straightener, trimmer, shaver or any other grooming device that needs to be plugged in, should you avoid using the outlet near your bathroom sink? HuffPost spoke to electrical safety experts to find out.
The Issue With Water And Electricity
Plugging in a device creates a live electrical current that can make a direct path for electricity to pass through water and through the body should the tool come in contact with a water source.
Modern tools are safer than they used to be, thanks to their technology, which generally includes an automatic shut-off after periods of inactivity or more robust insulation in their internal wiring. “Some have built-in protection against electric shock,” said Daniel Majano, program director of Electrical Safety Foundation International.
To check if your tool has built-in protection, look for a UL certification (if you are in the U.S.), an ETL mark on the plug or a grounded (three-prong) plug. Older or off-brand devices may not have the necessary built-in protection, so beware of that when buying your tools.
However, they aren’t waterproof, and the danger is very real, explained Alex Atkinson, an HVAC and electrical expert at Super Brothers, a California-based company.
Safety Precautions You Still Need To Take
“Make sure all devices being used have been listed and approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory like UL (for the USA) and CSA (for Canada),” Majano said. This is true for tools like hair dryers and rechargeable devices such as shavers or clippers. For the latter, you should use a manufacturer-provided (or approved) charger and cable.
Additionally, using GFCI-protected outlets is very important, said the experts.
“The National Electrical Code (NEC) stipulates that GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets must be installed in any location with a source of water: bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms and even garages,” Atkinson said.
These trip and turn off quickly as they detect an issue with electricity flow. They do a great job but aren’t 100% safe: “If your bathroom still has regular outlets, it is time to replace them. It’s a basic, but very important, protective measure,” Atkinson said.
“Since GFCIs were first required in new and renovated homes in the 1970s [in the U.S.], they have contributed to an 80% drop in electrocutions, and a 93% drop in consumer product electrocutions,” Majano said.
Next, you should keep your tools away from water, don’t use them over the sink or near a filled tub and always check your hands and the cord for moisture before plugging them in, Atkinson said.
What’s The Worst That Can Happen?
Should you drop a plugged-in tool into a partially filled tub or sink, anything from electric shock, electrocution, burns, unconsciousness or cardiac arrest could occur, depending on the voltage and how the current travels through your body, Atkinson said.
A voltage of 110 to 120, which is the most common supply in the U.S. for straighteners and curling irons, can be deadly, he added.
Other Dangers To Look Out For
Leaving them plugged in
The stress of leaving a hot tool on after having left the house is a real one. Although modern tools have an auto shutdown function, leaving them plugged in is an issue, experts said.
Even when turned off, plugged-in appliances can draw residual power or malfunction, which can lead to overheating or even an electrical fire. This can occur when the internal switch fails or there is a surge in electricity.
To be safe, unplug your devices when not in use, and don’t leave them charging unattended.
“Unplugging your tools should be your standard operation as soon as you’re done with them. Just that one-second habit could save your life,” Atkinson said.
Extension cords
“I always stress this: Do not use extension cords in bathrooms. I have seen setups where people use extension cords to reach a good mirror or have several tools working simultaneously. Most extension cords are not rated for bathroom conditions and thus raise tripping hazards or short-circuiting when wet,” Atkinson warned.
Exposed wires
Frayed or broken cords can create issues, which applies to all electricals. If you repeatedly wrap or bend your cords, be careful of this one. When the casing breaks or peels off, this exposes live wires.
“When this cord meets water or a countertop or even your skin, it’s an instant shock hazard. Often, wear and tear on cords is overlooked, but even the smallest damage can pose dangers in a humid environment such as that found in a bathroom. If the cord feels warm or you hear buzzing near the plug, that’s the sign that it should be replaced or the tool retired,” Atkinson said.
Irregular storage
Storing your tools in a drawer or on towels while they are still hot is a big no, according to the experts. This can cause accidents, including burning and melting of surfaces and, in rare cases, fires.
It’s best to use a heat-safe mat or a stand, and only store them after they’ve cooled down.
Humidity and condensation
Issues with tools in the bathroom may also occur due to the inherently humid environment.
For example, if you take hot showers and store your tools in the bathroom, this could lead to items like dryers or shavers taking in that moisture, which will eventually cause internal issues.
“Over time, this could result in corrosion of internal parts, short circuiting or, in some instances, overheating or sparking of the tool. Scents coming off devices when turned on or erratic functioning may be initial signs of moisture damage,” Atkinson said.
How To Make Sure Your Bathroom Is Safe
It’s essential for a qualified electrician to inspect your home to ensure you have proper GFCI protection, Majano said. You will have to test these outlets monthly. Here’s how: Plug in a device like a nightlight and turn it on. Press the test button on the GFCI outlet, and the device should turn off. Then, press the reset button and the device should turn on again. If the device is not working, it should be replaced.
“If you are unsure if the device is plugged into a GFCI-protected outlet, do not attempt to retrieve the device from a water-filled tub or sink. Turn off the appropriate breaker and call 911,” Majano said.
Overall, despite modern technology and devices, it’s advised to keep any electrical items away from the sink while washing your face or brushing your teeth.
The experts couldn’t be clearer: “All electronic devices should be kept clear of areas near water,” Majano said. Also, make sure the devices are unplugged when not in use. To be extra safe, don’t leave charging devices unattended to avoid the possibility of fires.
“Most accidents are not the result of reckless behavior but rather hasty actions,” Atkinson said.