Guide to buying the best electric blanket and heated throw
Get cosy and warm with our detailed guide to finding the right electric blanket and heated throw for you.
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How do electric blankets work?
Want to be toasty warm without a heater? An electric blanket does just that - heat the person not the room. Electric blankets contain a series of thin electrical wires embedded inside the fabric. When the blanket is plugged in and switched on, these wires activate and heat the surrounding fabric and bed.
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Which type of electric blanket is best for you?
There are a range of different types of electric blankets, each designed to keep you warm and cosy, without having to heat the room. Explore and pick the best blanket for you to hunker down with.
Electric underblankets
- Heats the surface of your bed.
- Covers the mattress up to the pillow area.
- Fixes to mattress with ties or elasticated straps.
- Available in a variety of fabrics, including polyester and cosy fleece.
- Needs covering with a bottom sheet for protection.
Electric overblankets
- Can be used like a normal blanket under your duvet.
- Can be placed inside your duvet cover.
- Helps you maintain a constant bed temperature during the night.
- Come in sizes to match bed dimensions.
Heated mattress covers and protectors
- Covers the entire mattress, but there is no wiring underneath the pillow.
- Fitted by an elasticated skirt.
- Doesn't have to be switched on all the time, so can be used in the same way as a normal mattress protector.
Heated throws
- The most versatile electric blanket.
- Use to keep warm when laying on the sofa, or add an extra cosiness to your bed.
- Come in a variety of different patterns, materials and colours.
- Adds to your home décor so there's no need to hide away in the summer.
Electric blanket features
Each type of electric blanket has some unique features to offer. Make sure you check the product details to find what suits you best. Here are some features to look out for:
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Timer programmes
You choose when your blanket turns on and off without having to be there, or be awake to do it.
Heat settings
Most blankets will have variable heat settings that will generally range from 18 to 56 degrees.
Dual controls
Each side of a double blanket can be heated separately so couples can choose their own preferences.
Overheat protection
All blankets in the UK will have this. The blanket automatically shuts off when it senses any overheating to keep you safe.
Temperature sensors
The sensors detect your body and room temperatures to adjust the heat of the blanket accordingly.
Extra foot warmth
Some blankets have slightly higher temperature at the bottom to keep your toes toasty warm.
Electric blanket reviews
Reviews Carousel
Very good purchase
Bought this for our static caravan to use in winter months. Tested it and are very pleased.
Lena
Shropshire, 18/09/2024
So glad I bought this
So glad I bought this as the weather is on the change. Really like the fact that by having 2 switches we can have the heat that we both like.
Lizzy
REDRUTH, 11/09/2024
Great. Heats up very fast
Heats up very fast, great to be able to have feet and body at different temperatures and to be able to pick how long it stays on for. Very comfortable...
paul
Stoke-on-Trent, UK, 20/09/2024
Frequently asked questions about electric blankets
How much does an electric blanket cost to run?
Most blankets are energy efficient, costing very little to run. Simply prep your bed for a few minutes before you call it a day and you'll be set for the night. Using an electric blanket or a heated throw can also reduce your heating bills because you're not having to heat the whole house.
What are the health benefits of electric blankets?
Close proximity to heat allows blood flow to increase around sore areas, which can alleviate pain associated with arthritis, backache and muscle soreness. Some allergy sufferers also benefit as the heat reduces moisture in your bed, lessening the likelihood of dust mites.
Are electric blankets safe?
Yes, when used correctly. Here are some safety tips:
- Carefully roll blankets up for storage to avoid damaging wiring.
- Check your blanket regularly for wear and tear, such as fraying fabric, damp patches or loose connections.
- Don't use while wet or damp and don't turn on your blanket to dry it.
- Don't use an electric blanket and hot water bottle together.
Can you wash an electric blanket? If yes, how?
Yes, but it's important that you follow all manufacturers' instructions when washing or tumble drying your blanket, but generally you should wash and dry on gentle, cold settings. If you don't have a dryer, you can air dry your blanket but make sure not to place clothes pegs on wired sections.
Is it OK to sleep with an electric blanket on?
As a rule of thumb, electric blankets should not be left unattended when they are on. Most of the electric blanket brands do not recommend sleeping with an electric blanket or a heated throw all night or for a longer duration. You should use a thermostatic control or timer if you want to keep the blanket on all night. Make sure to read all the instructions thoroughly before you use your electric blanket, to prevent any hazards.
Keep things energy efficient with these energy saving ideas
Dehumidifiers
While not using central heating saves electricity, it can also cause damp in homes. In that case, getting a dehumidifier is a good idea as it removes excess water from the air. It can also help reduce mould, pollutants, and mildew.
Don't dry your clothes on radiators
When you cover a radiator with clothes, it has to work harder to reach the right temperature, wasting lots of valuable energy. Choose a heated clothes airer instead.
Clothes airers
The easiest way to dry clothes is with a clothes airer. Easy to set up and hassle-free, they come in different shapes and sizes to suit your needs. All without drying up your pocket!
Heat pads and pods
Coming in cushion style and wrap forms, these are useful if you want heat concentrated to a specific area of your body.
Electric blanket vs space heater
Electric blankets heat the bed, while portable space heaters make the entire room warm.
More inspiration
Best electric heaters
Stay warm and cosy, and beat the winter chill with our electric heater guide.
Bed linen guide
Find the best style, texture and quality of bed linen for you.
Duvet and pillow guide.
Discover which bedding is the best for your sleep style.
100% renewable electricity
Choosing Sainsbury's Energy means you can power your blanket with 100% renewable electricity+.
Sign up to a fixed tariff and you'll get:
- Bonus Nectar points
- Dedicated customer service
- No exit fees
Ready to make the switch?