These days, electronic devices surround us everywhere—along with their chargers, adapters, and cables. Many people leave chargers plugged into outlets even when they’re not charging anything.

While this may seem harmless, experts warn that it could bring both health and safety risks. Continuous heat, chemical release, and low-level electromagnetic radiation not only raise the risk of fire but may also contribute to long-term health problems. Keeping chargers plugged in when idle can potentially lead to these three issues.

1. Respiratory Problems and Allergies

Even when not in use, chargers still draw a small amount of current, causing their internal parts to warm slightly. Cheap or counterfeit chargers are especially prone to overheating. Over time, this can cause the plastic casing and insulation to break down, releasing harmful gases such as formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Breathing in these chemicals—even in low amounts—can irritate the airways and cause sneezing, coughing, or sore throats. For people with asthma or sinus conditions, symptoms may worsen. Prolonged exposure, spanning months or years, could lead to allergic rhinitis, bronchitis, or in severe cases, permanent lung damage.