Every night, millions of people plug in their phones and tuck them next to their pillows without a second thought. It seems harmless — just a way to keep your device close for morning alarms or late-night messages.
But firefighters are warning that this common habit could lead to devastating house fires. The combination of overheating lithium-ion batteries, flammable bedding, and poor ventilation creates a serious fire risk — one that has already caused extensive damage in homes across the UK.
Many people assume their phones are designed to withstand long hours of charging, but the reality is different. When covered by a pillow or blanket, a charging phone can quickly overheat, increasing the chances of battery failure and even ignition. The Electrical Safety First reports that electrical fires now account for more than 50% of accidental house fires. Many of these fires are preventable by following basic safety precautions.
While phone manufacturers implement safety features to minimize these risks, improper charging habits can still lead to dangerous consequences. The risk is especially high at night when people are asleep and unable to react quickly if a fire starts. Without immediate action, flames can spread rapidly, turning a small spark into a life-threatening blaze.
How Lithium-Ion Batteries Can Catch Fire
Lithium-ion batteries power most modern devices, from smartphones to tablets and laptops. While they are efficient and compact, they are also highly sensitive to heat. When a phone is charged under a pillow or blanket, the trapped heat can cause the battery to overheat, expand, and, in extreme cases, ignite. Firefighters report that phone fires can start within minutes, reaching temperatures over 600°C. If this happens while you’re asleep, the flames can spread before you even wake up. In November 2022, a family in Buckinghamshire experienced this firsthand when a phone charger left on a bed caused a fire that severely damaged their bedroom.
Common Charging Mistakes That Increase Fire Risk
Beyond charging under a pillow, several everyday charging habits put homes at risk. Using cheap or unbranded chargers is a significant hazard. A study by Electrical Safety First found that 98% of fake Apple chargers failed basic safety tests. These knockoff chargers lack critical safety features, making them prone to overheating and short-circuiting.
Overloading plug sockets by plugging too many devices into one outlet can overheat wiring and increase fire risk. Firefighters recommend using surge-protected extension leads and adhering to the “one plug per socket” rule.
Leaving devices plugged in overnight, particularly with older chargers that lack smart technology, can also lead to overheating and fire. Additionally, charging on soft surfaces like beds, sofas, and carpets traps heat, which can lead to battery failure and ignition.
Using damaged or frayed cables is another major risk, as exposed wires increase the chance of sparks and electrical shorts, which can ignite nearby materials like curtains or furniture.
Safe Charging Practices to Prevent Fires
Experts at Clean Air UK recommend several precautions to prevent electrical fires. Never charge devices under pillows or bedding; always place them on a hard, non-flammable surface like a nightstand. Only use official or certified chargers: look for CE or UKCA certification and buy from reputable retailers.
Once devices are fully charged, unplug them and avoid overnight charging when possible. Check for heat or damage; if your charger feels hot, emits a buzzing noise, or has a burning smell, stop using it immediately. Install smoke alarms in bedrooms and charging areas: early detection can be life-saving in case of an overnight fire.
A Simple Habit That Can Save Lives
Electrical fires are on the rise, but they are entirely preventable with safe charging habits. Something as small as using the right charger and keeping your phone off soft surfaces can mean the difference between a peaceful night’s sleep and a dangerous fire.
A spokesperson from Clean Air UK urges, “Too many people ignore the risks of improper charging. Something as simple as using the wrong charger or placing a phone on a soft surface can be life-threatening. Fire prevention starts with small but vital safety habits.”
By making a few changes to your nightly routine, you can protect your home, your family, and yourself from an avoidable disaster.
