Electric Blanket - Analysis and Buying Guide - 2023
If you get a little chilly at night, one strategy is to turn up the heat. A more affordable option is to get an electric blanket. An electric blanket keeps you comfortable in cold weather, helps you sleep better, and is an affordable option compared to running your heater at a higher temperature all night.
The best electric blankets are made from a thick material like fleece so that the blanket can be effective without power, if necessary. You want a low-wattage blanket with dual controls, a thermostat, and automatic temperature control that can help prevent overheating at night. Having an electric blanket that is washable is the only way to go.
Consider reading the rest of this article for safety tips along with the pros and cons of using an electric blanket. When you're ready to buy one, we're sure you'll agree with our opinion on what's best.
We've reviewed dozens of electric blankets currently on the market, and we're confident we can help you find one that's perfect for you.
Each of the contenders on our list, above, delivers on the promise of a full night's sleep under a warm blanket. Please click on the product name for more information.
And if you' want to learn more about electric blankets in general, please continue reading this buying guide.
Is an electric blanket right for you?
Why buy an electric blanket? There are several compelling reasons.
An electric blanket can help keep you warm without adding significant weight.
Some people have a more restful sleep thanks to their electric blanket and constant warmth.
With dual temperature controls, a cold-natured bedmate 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.
Power cords, connectors, and rheostat controllers used to control temperature can be awkward.
Also, blankets can be difficult to care for, and they're not designed for sleepers who like to wrap themselves in their blankets.
Factors to Consider
- Construction and Design
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 the product's material of construction, GSM rating, 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 washed along with sheets and pillowcases.
If machine washability is important to you, pay special attention to this feature in the spec list.
- Price
One of the biggest differences between low-end and high-end electric blankets is the level of control they provide to the user.
Some consumers are satisfied with a cheaper blanket that offers minimal adjustment options.
Others prefer an electric blanket with dual temperature controls, an automatic timer, and a self-adjusting thermostat.
- Security
Due to the electrical nature of this type of blanket, safety is an important consideration that deserves its own section in our buying guide.
Please read on to learn more about electric blanket safety.
- Electric Safety Blanket
Manufacturers of modern electric blankets 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 be careful when using an electric blanket. A damaged electric blanket could be dangerous, so it's important to inspect the blanket, power cord, and connector.
Here are some Safety Tips for Electric Blanket Owners.
Avoid placing heavy objects on an electric blanket, including your own body. The heating network cables are flexible and insulated, but they are not designed to withstand great pressure or weight. Do not jump or sit on the blanket (this includes pets), and keep heavy objects (such as suitcases) off the blanket. Excessive weight or pressure on the blanket can cause wires to break, posing a shock and fire hazard.
Resist the urge to "redline" an electric blanket. In other words, don't keep it at the highest temperature. If it gets too hot, you could have health problems.
Avoid buying old/used electric blankets. A new electric blanket has the latest safety and design features. Old and/or used blankets may not be safe and are not worth the cost savings.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Electric Blankets
Manufacturers of electric blankets have made significant improvements to their products, especially in the areas of safety and temperature control.
The lightweight, insulated cables used to form the heating network are much more flexible, improving their resistance against damage.
Here are some of the other "pros" of modern electric blankets.
Pro :
- Electric blankets provide a consistent and easily adjustable level of heat. This often leads to better sleep.
- Electric blankets allow you to comfortably lower your thermostat by 10 or 15 degrees at night, thus saving money on utility bills.
- An electric blanket might help keep a cold person comfortable when the air conditioner is on.
- Electric blankets reduce the amount of bedding needed by providing the same warmth as two traditional blankets.
However, there are still some issues to consider. Let's take a look at the potential of electric blankets.
Con :
- What feels comfortable at first may be too hot later. You may have to spend a little time adjusting and readjusting the temperature of your blanket.
- Some models don't have an automatic shut-off system, so if you forget to turn the blanket off, it could drain power and/or pose a fire hazard.
- Due to their electrical elements, electric blankets can be difficult to maintain. Some are not machine washable, while others are washable but must be air dried.
FAQ
Que. Can I use an electric blanket on my memory foam mattress?
Ans. 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 in an electric blanket could melt the surface of a foam mattress.
Que. Is it safe to snuggle up with an electric blanket on a couch or chair?
Ans. Modern electric blankets use a much more flexible heating network than earlier models. Therefore, it is safe – but within reason. It could still result in broken wires and potential electrical shock, so be careful when handling and folding your electric blanket.
Que. Are electric blankets safe for use by children or pets?
Ans. We generally do not recommend electric blankets for children or pets, although some exceptions could be made if they follow the safety tips above. Pets that chew on the blanket could damage it, so it would be safer to get them a fortified heating pad or heated pet bed.
Que. Why is the use of an electric blanket controversial among health experts?
Ans. Some health experts recommend extreme caution when using an electric blanket, and some recommend not using it at all. One reason is the potential health effects of EMF exposure. Another concern is that they could raise one's body temperature. at unsafe levels.