Buying guide for best electric blankets
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I know that many people aren't fans of the cold winter weather, but there are few things I enjoy more than curling up in bed and feeling wonderfully cozy when there's a chill in the air. Of course, the fact that I keep an electric blanket on my bed for frosty winter nights probably has me feeling a bit more charitable about the season than most.
But considering how pricey heating costs have gotten, cranking up your heat at night isn't your most affordable option. An electric blanket is a budget-friendly way to feel cozy and sleep better in colder weather. It can even save you money, which it's done for me because I don't have to run my heater at a higher temperature all night.
The best electric blankets are made of thick material, such as fleece, so the blanket can be effective without power, if needed. You want a low-voltage blanket with dual controls, a thermostat and automatic temperature control that can help keep you from overheating at night.
At BestReviews, we've researched and analyzed dozens of electric blankets to find the best models. Our top pick, the Westinghouse Electric Heated Blanket, stands out for generous coverage and double-layer flannel fabric that provides plenty of cozy warmth on its own. The 10 heating levels let you use it in various types of weather, while the auto-off feature provides important peace of mind.
Editors' picks
Dueelala Wearable Heated Blanket
Material: Flannel, sherpa | Color: 5 options | Heat Settings: 8 heat settings (86-122°F) | Special Features: Wearable design with foot pocket and hood, portable controls with overheat and overload protection, machine washable for easy cleaning
When it comes to keeping warm during those chilly nights, the Dueelala Wearable Heated Blanket is an obvious choice. From the cozy hood and sleeves to the heated foot pocket that keeps your toes toasty, this is one blanket you'll love to lounge in.
You can easily adjust the warmth to your liking with its eight heat settings. There's also a one- to 10-hour timer and auto-shutoff feature for extra peace of mind.
The blanket's inner layer is made of thick sherpa and the exterior is flannel for superior softness. All in all, if you’re looking for a robe-style blanket to provide warmth and comfort, this one is tough to beat.
Westinghouse Electric Heated Throw Blanket
Material: Flannel, polyester, sherpa | Color: 13 options | Heat Settings: 6 heat settings | Special Features: Quick and consistent warmth with high-quality heating wires, dual-sided design and overheat protection system
The affordable Westinghouse Electric Heated Throw Blanket stood out in our tests for its easy-to-use design and even heating. It also heats quickly, warming up to the maximum temperature in just one minute.
The user-friendly controller makes adjusting the six heat levels a breeze. On top of that, the ability to set timers between two to 10 hours means you can relax without worry.
Our tester raved about its comfort and warmth, with cozy flannel on one side and sherpa on the other. "The fabrics are sewn together well, and either side offers warmth and comfort — even without the heat turned on," our tester said. Overall, if you’re on the hunt for a reliable, modern electric blanket to keep you toasty, this one is a great pick.
Bedsure Heated Blanket Electric Throw
Material: Polyester | Color: 30 options | Heat Settings: 6 heat settings | Special Features: 3 hours auto-off, 4 time settings, 6 heating levels
The Bedsure Heated Blanket Electric Throw wraps you in plush polyester fabric that feels soft against the skin, offering six heating levels and four timer settings.
The three-hour auto-off helps out with energy efficiency and safety, and the 220 GSM flannel face and 200 GSM sherpa backing feel plush without being bulky.
It’s machine-washable, runs on standard 120 volts with a modest 100-watt draw, and arrives with a simple single controller, so any member of the household can use it without a learning curve.
Is an electric blanket right for you?
Why buy an electric blanket? There are several compelling reasons.
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An electric blanket can help you stay warm without adding significant weight.
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Some people get more restful sleep because of their electric blanket’s consistent warmth.
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With dual temperature controls, a cold-natured bed partner can choose their preferred heat level without disturbing a hot-natured sleeper.
Electric blankets are not ideal for everyone. Some people worry about their safety.
The power cords, connectors, and rheostat controllers used to control temperature can feel uncomfortable.
What’s more, the blankets can be difficult to care for, and they’re not designed for sleepers who like to wrap themselves up in their blankets.
Factors to consider
Construction and design
The electric blankets of the past were thin and poorly insulated, but today's electric blankets are different.
Often made of thick fleece or other quality materials, it's common to find an electric blanket with enough natural insulation (measured in grams per square meter, or "GSM") to provide warmth even without electricity.
When shopping for a new electric blanket, pay attention to a product’s construction material, GSM, control systems, and other design features.
Ease of maintenance
Twenty years ago, the idea of machine washing or drying an electric blanket seemed counterintuitive.
Fortunately, many of today's electric blankets can be laundered right along with sheets and pillowcases.
If machine washability is important to you, pay particular attention to this feature on the spec list.
Price
One of the biggest differences between low-end and high-end electric blankets is the level of user control they provide.
Some consumers are satisfied with a cheaper blanket that provides minimal adjustment options.
Others prefer an electric blanket with dual temperature controls, an automatic timer, and a self-adjusting thermostat.
Electric blanket safety
Modern electric blanket manufacturers have worked diligently to address concerns about the safety and durability of their products. Many companies have incorporated automatic temperature controls to prevent accidental overheating and improved wiring to eliminate shock hazards.
As with any electrical appliance, you should exercise care when using an electric blanket. A damaged electric blanket could be dangerous, so inspecting the blanket, power cord, and connector is important.
Here are some safety tips for electric blanket owners:
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Avoid placing heavy objects on top of an electric blanket, including your own body. The wires in the heating grid are flexible and insulated, but they aren’t designed to resist heavy pressure or weight. Don’t jump or sit on the blanket (this includes pets), and keep heavy objects (like suitcases) off the blanket. Excessive weight or pressure on the blanket could result in broken wiring, which poses both shock and fire hazards.
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Resist the temptation to “red line” an electric blanket. In other words, don’t keep it at the maximum heat setting. If it gets too hot, you could experience health issues.
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Avoid buying vintage/used electric blankets. A new electric blanket has the latest safety features and design. Old and/or used blankets might not be safe and are not worth the cost savings.
Pros and cons of electric blankets
Manufacturers of electric blankets have made significant improvements in their products, especially in the areas of safety and temperature control.
The insulated and lightweight wires used to form the heating grid are much more flexible, improving their resistance against damage.
Pros
Here are some of the other “pros” of modern electric blankets.
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An electric blanket could help keep cold-natured person comfortable when the air conditioner is on.
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Electric blankets reduce the amount of bedding needed by providing the same warmth as two traditional blankets.
Cons
However, there are still some issues to consider. Let’s take a look at the potential “cons” of electric blankets.
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Some models don’t have an auto shut-off feature, so if you forget to turn the blanket off, it could drain energy and/or pose a fire hazard.
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Because of their electrical elements, electric blankets can be challenging to maintain. Some cannot be machine washed, while others are washer-safe but must be air dried.
How we analyzed
We arrived at our picks by comparing the details that matter most for comfort, safety and day-to-day usability and conducting tests of our own.
First, we screened for core safety features: current UL/ETL compliance, overheat protection, automatic shutoff options, low-voltage designs, detachable connectors and clear care instructions. We then read spec sheets for heat levels, timer ranges, wattage, cord length, controller layout and whether the blanket is machine-washable.
Materials and construction were next: double-sided fabrics like flannel and sherpa, fabric weight (GSM) for passive warmth, stitching quality and size options for throws versus bed blankets. We weighed brand track record, warranty terms and the availability of customer support, since these become important after purchase.
FAQ
Q. Can I use an electric blanket on my memory foam mattress?
A. Many bedding experts do not recommend it. Memory foam mattresses are designed to conform to the user’s body, but the heat from an electric blanket could interfere with this. There is also a slight chance that the heating elements of an electric blanket could melt the surface of a foam mattress.
Q. Is it safe to snuggle with an electric blanket on a couch or recliner?
A. Modern electric blankets use a much more flexible heating grid than earlier models. So, it is safe — but within reason. It could still result in broken wiring and potential electrical shock, so be gentle when handling and folding your electric blanket.
Q. Are electric blankets safe for use by children or pets?
A. Generally, we don't recommend electric blankets for children or pets, although some exceptions could be made if they follow the safety tips listed above. Pets that chew the blanket could damage it, so it would be safer to get them a fortified heating pad or heated pet bed.
