The Best Electric Blankets of 2021 for Exceptional Warmth and Comfort

Electric blankets are practically a necessity for people who get cold in bed at night. It’s impossible to get a good night’s sleep when you’re shivering. Most modern electric blankets have a variety of heat settings. This way owners can easily set their blanket at the right heat level to keep them comfortable. Also, electric blankets in Queen and King sizes usually come with dual settings for couples that need different temperature settings.  

Along with keeping you comfortably warm throughout the night, electric blankets offer other benefits. All of us are regulated by a circadian rhythm that makes us feel alert when we get up in the morning and tired at bedtime. Proper body temperature regulation is crucial for our circadian rhythm to work and this is how an electric blanket can help.

The heat that electric blankets provide can also relieve the painful symptoms of arthritis, fibromyalgia, and menstrual cycles. Although there are variations in price depending on the brand, model and size, you can usually find a good one for $150 or even less. 

This article will discuss the features and functions of most electric blankets currently on the market. Below we’ve listed what we consider to be the best electric blankets available today. We’ve made our selections based on extensive research, analyzing verified customer experiences and user surveys. 

Electric Blankets Comparison Table

Electric Blankets Reviews

Sunbeam Heated Blanket Review: Best Microplush Option

Sunbeam is a highly regarded brand with many great products, including this electric blanket. This microplush 100% polyester heated blanket is extremely soft and fluffy and could be just what you need to keep you warm on cold nights. It comes in all standard bed sizes and a nice range of colors, so you should have no trouble finding one that fits your décor. 

Patented Thermofine technology automatically adjusts the heat level so it’s consistent and evenly distributed. The digital controller has a pre-heat setting so you can warm up your bed before crawling in. If you forget to turn your blanket off in the morning, the auto-off function will automatically turn it off after 10 hours. 

The Queen and King-sized electric blankets come with two controllers that offer 10 heat settings on each side of the blanket. This way, you and your significant other get to choose different heat levels, so both of you can be comfortable. Some users have noticed their blanket having cold and hot areas simultaneously, which means they could have a defective blanket. However, this blanket comes with a 5-year Limited Warranty, which protects your investment.  

If you tend to get cold in bed at night and are thinking about getting an electric blanket, we can give this Sunbeam Heated Blanket our highest recommendation. This is one of the best electric blankets currently on the market in our opinion. It’s soft and plush, has 10 different heat settings and comes with dual controls in the larger sizes. What more could you want?

SoftHeat by Perfect Fit Review: Softest Option

The SoftHeat electric blanket is made of thick ultra-soft 100% polyester micro-fleece covering very thin flat wires to create an incredibly comfortable heated blanket. No matter how warm it gets, it will never feel hot. You have a choice of 10 different heat settings, and if the blanket somehow overheats it will automatically turn off after 10 hours as a safety precaution. 

Constructed with patented low-voltage technology, this electric blanket is safe to use in the presence of moisture, does not produce an electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions, and won’t harm your pets. 

The ultra-thin wires distribute the heat evenly without adding any bulkiness. Even when the heating element is turned off, the insulation in this blanket is still enough to keep you toasty warm. A large backlit display that automatically dims at night, lets you see the settings in the dark. 

As with any product, some users have reported receiving defective blankets. Because this blanket comes with a 5-year warranty, you can easily return it should you discover manufacturer defects in your blanket. 

We had no trouble deciding to put the SoftHeat by Perfect Fit electric blanket on our list of this year’s best electric blankets. It is so well constructed with wires so thin that you can’t even feel them through the soft fluffy fleece. This is what makes it one of the best heated blankets on the market. 

Biddeford Review: Most Affordable Option

Biddeford makes a number of different electric blankets, but this is one of the best heated blankets out there today. It’s easy to use, comfortably warm with 10 heat settings, has dual controls on Queen and King sizes, lightweight, machine washable and affordable. So, you get a lot for your money when you buy this polyester knit electric blanket. Polyester blankets are often quite soft, but not this one. In fact, many users say it feels a little like felt and that it tends to shed. But they love that it’s comfortably lightweight and not overwhelming.

The best electric blankets have 10 heat settings, as does this one, so you can set it on slightly warm to really toasty. Some users love that it takes its time heating up, while others claim it’s just too slow and doesn’t really get hot enough for them. Because the dual controllers don’t have an LCD display, they may be hard to see and adjust in the dark. The auto-shut off after 10 hours gives you peace-of-mind in case you forget to turn it off before leaving the house. Biddeford stands behind this heated blanket with a 5-year warranty. 

If you’re looking for a lightweight, machine-washable electric blanket to keep you comfortably warm at night, and need something affordable, this could be the perfect option. 

Beautyrest Review: Most Stylish Looking Electric Throw

You never expect an electric blanket to look stylish, but this heated throw from Beautyrest breaks all the rules. This soft comfy electric throw blanket can complement any décor, especially since it comes in 9 different colors. It feels like velvet and heats up quickly at the push of a button on the controller. 

Utilizing cutting-edge Secure Comfort heat technology adjusts the warmth of your throw based on 3 factors: spot temperature, overall temperature and the room’s ambient temperature. This ensures a continuous flow of warmth. And this technology produces no EMF emissions, so there are no health risks. 

There are only 3 heat settings on this electric throw. But that should certainly be enough to keep you nice and toasty while you watch TV or relax on your sofa, no matter how chilly your home is inside. It comes with a 6-foot cord, which should be long enough to reach a nearby outlet. 

Because this is just a throw blanket, it won’t be large enough to cover an entire bed. However, if you just want to warm up one side of the bed before crawling in, it should be just fine. This electric throw measures 60” x 70” so it is quite a bit larger than a standard size 50” x 60” throw. The blanket has an automatic shut-off feature that turns it off after 2 hours as a safety precaution. Beautyrest backs this throw with a 5-year warranty, promising you 5 years of service. 

If you want to spruce up your living room with an inexpensive, stylish-looking electric throw to keep you warm while relaxing on your sofa, this would be a great choice. 

Serta Review: Most Luxurious Faux Fur Choice

Soft luxurious faux fur tops this ultra-soft heated throw. This 100% polyester blanket looks as great as it feels. Many users claim that this is the softest electric blanket they’ve ever felt. 

Since this is not a full-sized electric blanket, its 5 heat settings should be more than adequate. It comes with an automatic shut-off feature that activates after 4 hours as a safety precaution. It has a power cord more than 8 feet long, which is ample. This electric throw blanket measures 50” x 60” so it’s perfect for your sofa, easy chair or on one side of the bed. 

Because of its luxurious look and feel, the fact that it’s machine washable, ETL certified for safety and comes with a 3-year manufacturer warranty, we think that this is one of the best electric blankets on the market today. 

Biddeford Review: Best Sherpa-Lined Option

Biddeford is renowned for making some of the best electric blankets in the industry. Their micro-plush Sherpa-lined electric blanket is exactly what you need to keep you warm in bed on cold nights. The Queen and King sizes come with two controllers, which is great for couples. With 10 different heat settings, each partner can select their own warmth level. 

The best electric blankets have an auto shut-off as a safety precaution, which this one does. Once it’s been on for 10 hours, it simply shuts off. This blanket has ultra-soft micro-plush polyester on one side and a fluffy Sherpa lining on the other with very thin wires in the middle. All this would make you think that it must be a fairly heavy blanket, but it’s surprisingly lightweight. The controllers have an easy-to-see LCD display, so you can adjust them in the dark. What makes this electric blanket even better is that it’s machine washable and dryable, so it’s very easy to keep clean. 

One issue that has come up regarding this blanket is that many users have claimed theirs came with defective controllers. They either didn’t work, provided inconsistent heating or posed a fire hazard. All Biddeford blankets have been tested by a third-party lab (ETK Intertek or UL) that certifies they meet industry safety standards. Fortunately, these blankets have a 5-year warranty should there be any issues. 

If you’re looking for an ultra-soft plushy electric blanket lined in Sherpa, you certainly can’t go wrong with the Biddeford. 

Sunbeam Review: Best Quilted Fleece Option

It’s not unusual for people to need a little extra warmth while they relax watching TV or reading a magazine on their sofa. Why not get a nice soft electric throw? This soft quilted fleece electrical throw from Sunbeam offers the perfect solution. This 100% polyester is advertised as extra soft, although some may not agree. Since it’s machine washable and dryable, it may soften up after being washed a few times. We put this our list of the best electric blankets because it has a proprietary ThermoFine warming system that automatically senses when the heat needs to be adjusted to keep the warmth at a consistent level. 

This is a very affordable electric throw blanket that comes in 6 different colors and/or patterns. The controller works on a dial with 3 heat settings: low, medium and high. After being on for 3 continuous hours it will automatically shut off for safety. We have read reviews that say that the heat is uneven and some even said it didn’t heat up at all. Fortunately, this electric throw has a 5-year warranty, so your investment is safe should you discover any defects. The blanket measures 50” x 60” which is standard for a throw. 

If you’re looking for a soft, lightweight and affordable electric throw blanket, we recommend that you give the Sunbeam your consideration. 

Serta Review: Best for Patented Safety Features

Serta’s fluffy fleece electric blanket has so many features that it’s almost a technological wonder. Like all the best heated blankets, this one comes with 10 heat settings, starting with low to very warm. In the larger Queen and King sizes you get dual controls, so each person can control the warmth on their side of the bed. 

The Luxe Plush Fleece Electric Blanket by Serta is made of soft fluffy polyester microfiber with very thin built-in wires that evenly distribute the heat. This is an exceptionally lightweight heated blanket, which can be used in bed or on the sofa when relaxing in front of the TV. The preheat feature works well for people who hate crawling into a cold bed. Turn this on and your bed will be nicely warmed up ahead of time.  

Serta’s patented Safe & Warm low-voltage non-hazardous technology is what makes this one of the best electric blankets on the market. It can safely be used where there’s moisture, does not produce any EMFs, and is safe for pets. With auto shut-off technology, the blanket will turn off automatically after 10 hours for safety. Large backlit display allows you to adjust the controls in the dark. 

This heated blanket comes in 3 fairly neutral colors, Cloud, Pearl and Sapphire and has a 5-year warranty. You can machine wash and tumble dry this blanket without worrying about shrinkage, stretching or pilling. 

Hyde Lane Review: Best Decorative Heated Throw

If you want some added warmth lounging on your sofa and are looking for an attractive option that would enhance your décor, why not get a decorative electric throw? The Heated Faux Fur Throw by Hyde Lane is amazingly soft with a wavy texture that looks just like real fur. 

The low-voltage wires are well hidden inside the blanket, which is necessary if you’re going to drape it across a living room chair or sofa. It comes with a small silver remote LED controller, which is equally discreet. We think this heated throw is among the best electric blankets on the market because of its versatility and decorative appearance. It even comes beautifully packaged, making it a great gift idea. It comes in a variety of colors, including snow leopard and wild fox. 

This blanket also heats up quite quickly and the 3 heat settings are comfortably warm, without getting too hot. You do not have to worry about this blanket shedding or having any loose threads because Hyde Lane carefully inspects every single blanket before shipping. 

How An Electric Blanket Can Help You Sleep & Feel Better Overall

Thermoregulation

The human body undergoes a thermoregulation process in order to maintain a healthy temperature range, which can get as low as 96.8° or as high as 100.4° throughout the day. As long as your body maintains itself in this range, you are able to function at optimum levels and get a good night’s sleep.

Your body’s internal temperature goes up in the morning, so you’re more energized to do the things that need to get done. As the day continues, your body will begin cooling down in preparation for bedtime. While you’re sleeping your body will keep cooling down, reaching its lowest point several hours before it’s time to wake up.  

Sometimes people are unable to sleep comfortably because the room the room may be too cold, or their thermoregulatory process is not working properly. If you are finding that you’re not warm enough in bed at night and are having trouble sleeping, an electric blanket may be just what you need. It can provide you with the warmth you need to sleep comfortably and soundly. 

How Electric Blankets Work

A bedroom that’s comfortably cool is vital if you expect to have a good night’s sleep. But if you live in a cold climate, or cannot get to sleep if you’re too cold, you should try an electric blanket. They can quickly warm your bed up to a comfortable temperature to help you get to sleep. 

Electric blankets are made with a network of insulated wires that are safely placed between layers of fabric. When the blanket is turned on, the wires heat up the fabric to warm you up. This way you can get nice and warm more quickly than you could with just your regular bedding. Electric blankets come with an adjustable heat controller, so you can choose the level of warmth you want. You will likely get at least three heat levels to choose from – low, medium or high. But the best electric blankets provide you with up to 10 heat level options, controlled with a remote device. Most electric blankets come in a full range of sizes, including Queen and King. 

More Than One Type of Electric Blanket

You may not know it, but not all electric blankets are the same. Several different types of electric blankets have been developed to address specific needs:  

Electric Over Blankets 

This type of electric blanket is designed to be placed on top of your bed, over your other bedding to keep you toasty warm throughout the night. These blankets are usually lightweight, with some even feeling like a top sheet. In the larger sizes, these blankets typically come with dual controls, so the heat level can be adjusted differently for each side of the bed. The cords are usually placed between the mattress and box springs and plug into a nearby outlet. 

Electric Under Blankets

An electric under blanket is designed to be placed on top of your mattress, where a mattress pad would usually go. It’s under the bottom sheet, generating warmth from beneath you. The heat is trapped by the sheet and other bedding on top of you, which keeps you warm throughout the night. Electric under blankets usually have dual controls on the larger Queen and King sizes. 

Electric Throw Blankets

Electric throw blankets are smaller than the over and under electric blankets and are designed to be used anywhere in the house. They are not necessarily meant to go on the bed like the others, but you can still put them there. An electric throw comes with a basic control unit and a cord that plugs into a nearby outlet. You can use this at the office, when you’re travelling, or when you’re just sitting on the sofa in front of the TV. 

Advantages & Disadvantages of Electric Blankets

Using an electric blanket has many wonderful advantages, but just like most products they do have some drawbacks. We’ll discuss both the pros and the cons below: 

Pros

Therapeutic Heat 

If you suffer from arthritic pain, fibromyalgia, a condition affecting joint and muscle movement, or post-polio syndrome, an electric or heated blanket can give you a measure of therapeutic relief. 

Medical research has found that heat is the most effective remedy to relieve the pain associated with stiff joints and muscle tension. The heat that electric blankets generate can provide therapeutic relief by improving blood flow to the skin and muscles that surround the affected areas. Patients with the above conditions are usually advised to frequently sit in a sauna and take warm baths and showers to increase their circulation and blood flow to promote pain relief and healing. 

Unfortunately, these undertakings can take up a lot of time, are not necessarily enjoyable and most people do not have access to a sauna. This is why electric blankets are such a great option. You can use a bed-size electric blanket while you’re sleeping at night, an electric throw while travelling, at the office when you’re working and when you’re relaxing at home on the sofa watching TV.  

Saves Energy

Most of us are concerned about rising energy bills during the cold winter months. It’s expensive to heat an entire home. Rather than heating the whole house you may want to use electric blankets and lower your utility bills. Electric blankets are made with low-voltage wires that use less energy. Instead of using electricity directly from the outlet, these blankets contain tiny transformers that convert the AC (alternating current) to DC (direct current) with much lower voltage. Therefore, it uses less energy and saves on your electricity bill. 

Perfect Level of Warmth

Another benefit of using a heated blanket is that you’re able to set to the exact level of warmth that keeps you most comfortable. The best electric blankets have at least 10 different heat settings, but some even have as many as 20. With this many heat settings you can definitely find the perfect one. Electric blankets are made with wiring technology keeps track of the amount of heat that the body is generating as well as the blanket. It then adjusts the warmth to ensure that it falls within the desired setting. It also makes sure that the heat is distributed evenly across the blanket. 

If you and your partner prefer different levels of warmth there is no need to worry. Electric blankets in the larger sizes usually have dual controls. This allows each of you to set the heat level on your side of the blanket to whatever temperature keeps you most comfortable. 

Relieves Sinus Problems

People who sleep in an overly warm room over a prolonged period of time often develop sinus problems. To avoid this, you can lower the heat in your home and still stay comfortably warm in bed at night by using an electric blanket. 

Reduces Dust Mites

You may be surprised to learn that electric blankets reduce the number of dust mites that gather on mattresses. The heat has a way of eliminating many of the allergens commonly found on the surface of mattresses.

Lightweight

By using an electric blanket, you can eliminate the need for layers of heavy blankets on your bed just to keep you warm. People often sleep under a sheet, a heavy blanket with a down comforter on top. Some even top this off with a knitted quilt. All of this can get fairly heavy on top of you at night, not to mention all the excess work on laundry day just to keep all this bedding clean. A lightweight electric blanket can keep you toasty warm without all these blankets. The best electric blankets are fairly thin and lightweight, taking the place of layers of bedding. 

Cons

While a heated blanket can certainly enhance your sleep, it may not be right for everyone since there are some drawbacks, which include the following: 

Price 

Electric blankets are typically more expensive than regular blankets, so if you’re on a tight budget this may be out of your price range. But, if you’re using a lot of energy heating your home, you could save on that if family members used electric blankets at night. This is something may want to consider. 

Limited Fabric Choices 

The vast majority of electric blankets are made of polyester because this material is fireproof, and safety is top priority. Because of this, electric blankets do not come in a wide range of fabrics.

Some Risk of Burns 

Even the very best electric blankets that are working perfectly, can cause burns if the heat setting is way too high. Under these circumstances, if you don’t move around enough or switch positions, you could get burned. Adults suffering from mental problems or dementia, people with diabetes and small children are more at risk and should not use an electric blanket.  

Pets Can Cause Damage 

Many people enjoy sleeping with their pets, but this is too risky if you’ve got an electric blanket. Your cat can easily claw the blanket, causing holes. Dogs can jump around and damage the transformer and delicate wiring, making the blanket useless. Many manufacturers advise people not to use them if they sleep with their pet(s). 

Not Recommended for Infants 

Electric blankets are also not good for infants who already may have difficulty regulating their heat, especially during the night. There is a risk of overheating if you use an electric blanket with your baby, which could keep him/her from sleeping. We recommend that you use bedding designed for infants, not an electric blanket.  

Must be Carefully Washed

For health reason, bedding must be thoroughly washed on a regular basis. The best electric blankets are machine washable and dryable, but this needs to be done very carefully. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions precisely. Many electric blankets have difficulty withstanding repeated washings. Some may even need to be washed by hand. If heated blankets are not washed carefully the wires can become disconnected or damaged, which would ruin the blanket. 

Who Benefits Most from Using an Electric Blanket?

People Who Sleep Cold

People who can’t seem to get warm enough under the covers would benefit greatly with an electric blanket. When you set the heat level to just warm enough, you can easily fall into a nice deep sleep. Anyone who has problems with thermoregulation should consider getting a good electric blanket. 

Couples 

Couples often prefer different levels of heat at night. A good electric blanket with dual controls can prevent arguments about room temperature. Each person can decide which heat setting to use on their side of the bed. 

People in Pain

It’s a medical fact that heat therapy can relax muscles and increase pain tolerance. People suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia and painful menstrual cramps can find relief by wrapping themselves up in a nice warm electric blanket.

People Who Should Avoid Using an Electric Blanket

Even with all the benefits electric blankets offer, you need to be aware that people with certain medical or health conditions should not use a heated blanket, as follows: 

People with Diabetes

People suffering from diabetes have to be extremely careful when using an electric blanked. This condition causes a decrease in sensitivity, which could make it difficult to feel the blanket getting too hot and result in a burn. 

Children & Elderly Adults

Electric blankets could be very risky for children and the elderly because the temperature must be controlled very carefully. These would not make appropriate gifts for people who may not be able to figure out how to work the controls properly.  

Cancer Patients

If you are suffering from cancer, you should not use a heated blanket. While there is no proof that they cause cancer, why take any risks with everything you’re already dealing with?

Pregnant Women

Pregnant women and those trying to get pregnant should never use electric blankets. First of all, a developing baby is extremely sensitive to any changes in its environment. And secondly, you should not take the risk of becoming overheated during pregnancy.  

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Heated Blanket

It’s always smart to take your time when buying a new product. You want to be sure you’re getting exactly what you want and need. Heated blankets use electricity so you want to be especially careful that you get a high-quality electric blanket that will be safe to use. It’s important to know the features included on each model, so you end up choosing the best electric blanket for your needs. 

Design Features

Like most modern products, electric blankets are a lot more sophisticated than when they were first introduced. They have much more than just an on/off switch. Below we’ve listed some of the features on the electric blankets of today. Make note of the ones that appeal most to you so that you can look for those on the electric blankets you’re considering: 

Heat Range

You need to get an electric blanket that can give you the level of warmth you want, so if you live in a cold climate, make sure you determine whether the maximum heat will be enough. 

You need to also consider how many heat settings you get. The less expensive options only have 3 settings, whereas the best heated blankets have at least 10 and some even have 20 different options.

The heat settings on most models range from 80°F to 108°F. Do you know what you need?

Materials

It’s important to consider the type of materials used in most products you buy, but with electric blankets there are very few fabric choices. The purpose is to keep you warm, but the manufacturer must put safety over all other considerations. 

The shells are usually made of polyester or acrylic, which are fireproof. Some electric blankets are fleece, which is warmer and softer than other fabrics, but it can pill in time. If you want the very best, you may want to choose acrylic because it’s the softest and the most durable option, plus it won’t pill. You may also be able to find heated blankets with a cotton outer layer. 

Thin Element Wires

The earliest electric blankets were made with heating element that were quite bulky. These were not only bulky, but they weren’t very safe either. The good news is that the heating elements in the newest models are quite small. However, some electric blankets have thicker wires than others. But the best electric blankets are made with ultra-thin wires, which are more comfortable. 

Size 

Electric blankets come in all standard mattress sizes: Twin, Double, Queen and King. The larger sizes usually have dual controls so the heat settings can be adjusted separately for each side of the bed. This works well for couples. Special sizes, like a Twin XL or a short Queen, can probably be found with a diligent search. 

It is best to buy the size that matches the size of your bed, otherwise there is a risk of more wear and tear and damaged cords, due to additional friction. 

Weight

You will also want to consider the weight of the blanket before buying. A heavier blanket will retain your body heat better than a lightweight electric blanket. This means you would not have to turn the heat setting up as much as you would with a lightweight blanket. In the end this would save energy, making it a better blanket. 

Voltage 

There are two basic types of electric blankets: standard and low voltage. Both are completely safe, but the low-voltage ones are safer and use less electricity. The downside is that they take a little longer to heat up. 

Safety 

Any electrical device or product must be completely safe for use, and this applies to electric blankets as well. Look on the label for UL or ETL certifications, which will tell you that the blanket has all the necessary safety features. Because the electric outlets differ depending on the country, so make sure the blanket you buy will work where you live. 

Washing & Drying

The manufacturer will provide you with proper care instructions, which are usually spelled out on a tag attached to the blanket. It’s important that you follow these instructions, so you don’t ruin your blanket. Most electric blankets can be machine washed and dried on low heat once the plug and controls are removed. 

Price

Most electric blankets are very affordable. Plus, you shouldn’t notice an uptick in charges on your electric bill either, so they are much less expensive to use than space heaters. However, make sure you do not prioritize price over safety. It’s important to get certain safety features, like auto shut-off, which turns the blanket off automatically after so many hours. Also, the larger the blanket the more it will cost. 

Energy Efficiency 

Since a heated blanket is going to use electricity while keeping you warm, you’ll be lowering the heat in your home in any case, saving some energy. But if would be smart to look for an energy efficient blanket. Try to find one that costs 7 cents/night. Which would be much better than one that costs 11 cents/night. 

Location of Plug

The location of the plug shouldn’t be of too much concern unless your electrical outlet is in an odd location in your room. In most electric blankets the plug is on the bottom edge, either in the middle or on the corner. Manufacturers do not want you to use an extension cord on heated blankets. So, if your outlet is far from the base of your bed, you’ll need an electric blanket with a long power cord. 

Color

You can find a nice variety of colors while looking for electric blankets. Whether you’re going to use it on your bed or get an electric throw to drape over your soft, you should be able to find a color that will complement your décor. It is often best to stick with neutral colors, like off-white, grey, tan or brown. 

Warranty 

Manufacturers of the best heated blankets usually offer a warranty that protects your investment. If the blanket has defects, or burns within the warranty period, you may be entitled to a refund. 

Advanced Features

Electric blankets are now quite advanced technologically with features that include multiple heat settings, dual controls and timers. They’re also a lot safer than they were years ago. However, you should consider your specific requirements because you may not need a state-of-the-art heating blanket if your needs are quite simple. Before you start shopping, decide which features you need because you don’t want to pay for features that you’ll never use. 

Here are some of the more advanced features, so you can consider whether you need them or not:

Timer Programmes

This allows you to program your electric blanket to stay on for a given period of time, so that it shuts off while you’re still asleep. If you won’t need the additional heat, you can set the timer for when you want the heat turned off. 

Preheat Feature

This feature is also called pre-warming, and when it’s turned on the bed will warm up very quickly and stay warm until you’re in bed for the night. This way you never have to crawl into a cold bed because it will be all warmed up in advance. Once you’re in bed you can adjust the temperature if you wish. 

Temperature Sensors

Some electric blankets have sensors that adjust their temperature according to the body heat of the sleeper as well as the room temperature. The idea is to maintain a consistent heat level all night long across the entire blanket. These blankets usually have built-in overheating sensors that will turn off the heat if the blanket starts overheating. 

Dual Controls

The larger sized electric blankets usually have dual controls so that couples can each adjust the heat on their side of the bed. Dual controls are typically on Queen and King-sized electric blankets, but some Full-sized blankets have them as well. 

Automatic Shut-Off

Some heated blankets have overheat-protection with an auto shut-off feature that turns the blanket off after so many hours. For the smaller electric throws, the time limit is usually 2-3 hours, but for the larger full-sized electric blankets it’s usually 10 hours. This way you don’t have to worry if you forget to turn your blanket off in the morning when you leave for work. It will also turn off if the blanket gets too hot. 

Warm Feet Zones

It’s impossible to be comfortable in bed if your feet are cold. Some electric blankets have warm feet zones that increase the warmth at the bottom where your feet are, so they can stay nice and toasty. 

LCD Screen 

If you need to adjust the settings on your electric blanket in the middle of the night, it’s hard to see what you’re doing unless the controls have an illuminated LCD screen. The best electric blankets have illuminated screens to help you see it in the dark, but they’re dim so they do not keep you up.

Digital vs. Analog

When you’re looking for a heated blanket, you’re will have to decide whether the controller should be digital or analog. A digital controller will have buttons for the various settings, whereas an analog would have a dial that you turn to adjust the setting. 

This might not seem like an important decision, but if you have an analog style dial it makes a rather loud click when the heat setting is changed. If you’re a light sleeper and your partner changes the setting, would that sound wake you up? If so, it would be best if you chose a heated blanket with a digital controller because they don’t make any sounds. 

Important Precautions When Using an Electric Blanket

Electric blankets are a great addition to almost any household, however it’s important to be aware of safety concerns regarding some users. People who cannot easily tell if the blanket is getting too hot could get burned. This would include those suffering from diabetes who have reduced sensitivity in their limbs. Also, you need to be very careful using these on children and the elderly who may have trouble adjusting the settings. They could get burned. Pregnant women should never use an electric blanket because the heat could be harmful to their baby. This is why they’re cautioned against taking hot baths or using a hot tub. These health precautions apply to women trying to get pregnant as well. 

When using an electric blanket or any electrical appliance or device, safety should always be your top priority. Manufacturers take extraordinary steps to make electric blankets as safe as possible, but owners must maintain them properly. If you do not handle your electric blanket carefully and precisely follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, you could damage your blanket without even realizing it. 

When using an electric blanket, keep the following in mind: 

Put Nothing on Top of an Electric Blanket When it is Turned On

If you place anything on top of an electric blanket when it’s turned on it will trap heat, which could cause combustion. Avoid putting an additional blanket or even a pillow on top of your electric blanket. You should never place an electric blanket beneath you either, for this same reason and why your pets can’t be allowed to sleep with you on top of the bed. Also, don’t let your heated blanket get all bunched up while it’s on, and don’t fold it up either because it could create a way too hot hotspot. 

It’s important to note that there is something called an Electric Under Blanket, which is specifically designed to go right on top of the mattress, under the bottom sheet. If you plan on having the heat come up from under you, you should limit your search to Electric Under Blankets. 

Regularly Check It for Damage

You need to check your electric blanket on a regular basis for wear and tear. If you find any damage in the cords or fabric or see any burn spots, it’s time to toss it out. Never keep your electric blanket switched on when it’s not being used. 

Store Loosely

When you’re not using your electric blanket and it’s time to store it away for the summer, it’s best to loosely place it on a shelf or in a cupboard. This keeps the wires from being damaged or pulled. It would be best to avoid placing anything on top of it. 

Avoid Spills

It’s always best to avoid having liquids in close proximity to an electric blanket. Try not to drink anything in bed because you don’t want to risk spilling liquids on the blanket. 

Unplug When Not in Use

To play it safe it is always best to switch your electric blanket OFF when you’re not using it and unplug it as well. 

Never Buy a Used Electric Blanket

It is never safe to buy a used electric blanket because you have no idea if it has been properly taken care of, what condition it’s really in or even if it is safe to use. 

Avoid Maximum Heat

The last thing you want is for your electric blanket to overheat. You can avoid this by never putting it on the maximum heat setting. 

Automatic Shut-Off Feature is Essential

The best electric blankets come with an auto shut-off feature, which we consider essential for safety reasons. If you forget to turn it off and unplug it when you leave the house in the morning, this feature will automatically switch it off after 3 hours for throws and 10 hours for full size electric blankets. 

Be Careful with The Cord

It is not safe to run your electric blanket’s power cord between your bed’s box spring and mattress and you should never run it between your sofa and the wall behind it. 

Not Recommended for Certain People

Electric blankets are not recommended for young children, the elderly, people with sensitive skin or rashes, those with dementia or who otherwise may not be able to use the controls on their own, and never use an electric blanket in a baby’s crib. 

Cleaning of an Electric Blanket

You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to cleaning your electric blanket. Those instructions will come in the package or be on a tag attached to the blanket. A general overview of washing instructions follows below: 

Today’s Electric Blankets are Washable

You may not know it, but the electric blankets on the market today are washable! This was not the case just a few years ago. At that time, you didn’t dare get them anywhere near water. Technology has now changed all that. The important thing is to follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely, so that you don’t ruin your blanket or cause any safety issues. 

Most manufacturers advise the following: 

• You can submerge your electric blanket in water only if you’ve already detached the cords.
• Older electric blankets cannot be entirely submerged in water, but they can be spot cleaned.
• When machine washing your blanket, use the delicate setting and put the dryer on low heat.
• Do not wash or even use an electric blanket with damaged wires.
• When machine washing and drying your blanket, do not use clothes pegs and make sure there is sufficient room in the machine, so the blanket doesn’t get bunched up or wound too tightly. 
• Do not use bleach or too much laundry detergent.
• Electric blankets should never be ironed. 
• After taking your blanket out of the dryer, carefully inspect it for any damage. Exposed wires can be extremely unsafe, so if you find any it’s time to toss your blanket out. 
• Review the manufacturer’s care instructions on a regular basis to make sure you’re doing everything you can to take good care of your electric blanket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Using an Electric Blanket Raise My Electric Bill?

No, you will actually spend less money on electricity because you won’t have to heat your whole house. Many users end up turning down their central heat settings by up to 10° once they start using a heated blanket. Electric blankets use approximately 200 watts of electricity, on average. If you keep yours turned on for 10 hours, it will cost you no more than 30 cents. Also, there are energy-efficient models. 

Furthermore, most electric blankets are made of fluffy plush materials, which keep you warm even if you don’t turn on the heat. The wires inside are very thin and flexible, so most electric blankets feel no different than a standard blanket. This means they’re perfectly comfortable to sleep with whether you turn the heat on or not. 

Can a Heated Blanket Keep Me from Sleeping?

To consistently get a good night’s sleep your body must be able to regulate its temperature. In other words, your body’s thermoregulation must be working properly. Our body temperature is aligned with our sleep-wake cycle, so it goes down towards bedtime and rises again in the morning to provide us with energy for the day ahead. 

When we’re able to maintain a consistent core body temperature during sleep, our brain can relax on that front. However, when the room temperature changes, or we become warmer from our partner’s body heat, our body temperature can fluctuate during the night. With the proper bedding we aren’t affected and can sleep peacefully. An electric blanket can be very helpful in this regard. 

Can an Electric Blanket Help Relieve Pain?

An electric blanket can certainly keep you warm, which improves blood flow throughout the body, and this can lead to pain relief for people suffering from arthritis, backache, and muscle strain. It would be a lot easier to use than a heating pad or sleeping with hot water bottle. 

How Safe are Electric Blankets?

Generally speaking, electric blankets are safe. People sometimes wonder what would happen if they left theirs on all night or forgot to turn it off in the morning. The best electric blankets have an Auto Shut-Off feature that automatically turns the blanket off after 2 to 10 hours, depending on the blanket.

To ensure your safety, always follow the manufacturer’s care and use instructions. Look in the User’s Manual to find out how many volts yours can handle and compare that with your power supply. Make sure you use a power adapter on any outlets with a higher voltage. This will keep your blanket from overheating or incurring some other type of damage. 

Would an Electric Blanket be Safe for My Dog or Cat?

Pets usually have a higher body temperature than humans, so they wouldn’t necessarily be comfortable. Plus, when you put something on top of an electric blanket it traps the heat, which isn’t safe. Do not let your pet on the bed when you’re using your electric blanket. Also, you don’t want your cat or dog to claw or chew the wires. 

What if I Have Allergies?

You can certainly find a hypoallergenic electric blanket that will not trigger your allergies. Look for one that is made of hypoallergenic fabrics that are dust mite resistant.  

Would it Make Sense to use an Electric Blanket on Top of a Memory Foam Mattress?

This would not be a good idea. First of all, a memory foam mattress is designed to conform to your body and the blanket would prevent this. Secondly, memory foam reacts to the sleeper’s body heat and tends to retain that heat. Most electric blankets are designed to be placed on top of the bedding not on top of the mattress, unless it’s an Electric Under Blanket. I would still discourage using this if you have a memory foam mattress as your bed may get too hot. 

What is The Temperature Range on Electric Blankets?

The temperature range on electric blankets can run from a low of 18°C and up to a high of 56°C. However, the average range is from 25°C to 48°C. 

What Do You Recommend, an Electric Blanket or a Heated Mattress Pad?

It really is a matter of personal preference. If you want something you can also use on the sofa or a chair, you would be better off with an electric blanket. But if you want something that does a better job of heating up the bed, then you may want to try a heated mattress pad. This is because with your body heat and the insulation from all the bedding on top of you, the bed would be warmer than if you used an electric blanket alone. 

Conclusion

Electric blankets do a great job of keeping us comfortably warm in bed at night. We can easily find one to meet our specific requirements, in the size we need and in a color that would complement our bedroom décor. They work well for just about everyone, especially for people who seem to never be warm enough. That either describes you or someone you know because so many people have this problem. 

After reading this article, you’ve learned how important it is to give careful thought before deciding which one to buy. There are so many factors to consider, which include heat settings, safety features, materials, return policy and warranty, price and more. Before you start shopping it’s important to determine what you need in an electric blanket and compare prices to ensure that you get the most for your money. 

We provided you with 9 outstanding electric blankets at the beginning of this article. We recommend that you give these blankets special consideration because we culled through a lot of heated blankets before we chose these final 9 for our list of the Best Electric Blankets of 2020. With all the information contained herein, we are confident that you can find the right blanket for you.