It might seem harmless to leave your chargers plugged into the wall after you’re done charging your devices, but it can actually have some serious consequences.

First, even when your charger is idle, it still draws a small amount of power. This constant power usage can generate heat and wear out components like capacitors more quickly. In some rare situations, a charger overheating could cause smoke or even catch fire, especially if there’s a sudden surge in voltage.

Secondly, keeping chargers plugged in can pose a safety hazard, particularly if you have young children or pets around. Loose or exposed cords can increase the risk of electric shocks, so it’s always safer to unplug chargers when they’re not in use.