If you’re anything like me, you probably have a few habits you’d like to change. They don’t have to be extreme—most people have small behaviors they wish they could improve. Sometimes it’s something more serious like smoking, drinking, or overeating, but other times it’s just everyday absentminded habits that stick simply because we don’t think about them.

One of mine was leaving my phone charger plugged into the wall even when it wasn’t in use. It sounds trivial, and honestly, it is. There’s nothing difficult about unplugging a charger once your phone is fully charged. Still, despite frequent reminders, I kept forgetting. I never really considered it a problem and assumed it didn’t make much difference.

That changed when I came across information explaining the potential downsides. Even when not in use, chargers can draw a small amount of electricity. Over time, leaving them plugged in can also contribute to wear and tear, and in rare cases, power surges may cause overheating. There’s also added risk if the charger comes into contact with metal or water.

While the overall danger is considered very low thanks to modern safety standards, it’s still worth being mindful. Unplugging unused chargers can save a bit of energy, reduce wear, and eliminate unnecessary risks—especially in homes with children or pets who might tamper with outlets.