Hi there - we still have Aust/NZ plugs which we just plug into adaptors no problem. I am not aware of major voltage differences here (as opposed to the US which I think provide more problems.)

Any reputable hardware store should have adaptors (eg Migro Bricolage/Jumbo etc.)

Hope this is of help.

Any item which are double-insulated can be used without grounding. They are idenified by having the symbol with two squares inseide each other. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Appliance_classes

They can be used with either a cheaper adapter, or fitted with the European small two-prong plugs, which are compatible with Swiss sockets.

Anything that uses high currents should be fitted with real Swiss plugs. I.e anything that generates heat.

You can buy adaptors in the Interdiscount, they cost around chf 10-20 per item.

And a small lifehack on how to save money on multiple adaptors. Think if you can connect maximum devices to one multi-socket. If you can do it - take the UK multi-socket, connect all your devices there and then connect only the multi-socket through the adaptor.

Dear All

Thank you all for your response and advise. So far I have used Fridge with an adapter and seems to work fine so does the washing machine, although I have only done short washes so far.  FUST in Balexert has the cheapest adapters.  So I am not sure whether  to change them permanetly or not.....

For safety reasons, you should NOT use a washing machine with an adapter, for two serious reasons:

- A washing machine uses large amounts of electricity (for warming the water). Therefore, a simple adapter may overheat, and cause a fire, since it is usually not constructed for heavy currents. Check how much current it is rated for, a washing machine typically uses 10A.

- A washing machine absolutely MUST be grounded, for safety reasons. Check that the apapter passes the ground cable.

I would strongly suggest changing the plug on the washing machine. The fridge also must be grounded, since it is made of metal, and used in the kitchen.

Well check that your UK plug has the 3 tits or 3 poles

then buy an adaptor that takes the UK standard and you got the Swiss 'tit' standard.

If so, you got the positive, negative, and ground. Does it look like the electric cable/cord had the 3 poles/tits?

but if you only got 2 tits/poles , then yeah you need to change the cord and plug end of your cord, to the 3. Get an electritian to do this to ensure you cord then had the (red, black, brown wiring).

Or just go to Conforama and get a LG Washer/dryer category A+++, CHF 522 (normally 999-) that holds 6kilo, they also deliver

http://www.conforama.ch/produit_f-1296-nda_lave-linge_235009_10051_10601_-16_42024_42050_861662__42049

or check out this link for a huge choice:

http://www.conforama.ch/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/SearchResultsView?inputSearchForm=lave-linge&x=21&y=7&storeId=10051&langId=-16&catalogId=10601&cyberedirect=no