Best Heated Electric Blankets 2024

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Electric blankets are a great way to keep warm and cozy in cold weather, whether you have one spread out on your bed or tucked around you on the sofa while you watch TV.

Modern electric blankets are safe, effective, and comfortable. They range from basic models with simple dials, to those with multiple settings and automatic shut-off features, to extra-large versions with two controllers for couples. As well as keeping you warm, electric blankets can act as giant heating pads to help soothe aches, pains, and even symptoms caused by medical conditions like fibromyalgia.

With so many options, choosing the best electric blanket can involve a headache-inducing array of considerations. To make the process easier for our readers, we’ve put together a list of our top picks as well as a guide to buying, using, and caring for an electric blanket. Whether you’re looking for the best value or a luxury model, we’ll help you find the best electric blanket for your needs.

In-Depth Reviews

Best Overall

Zonli Heated Weighted Blanket

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Zonli pairs the adjustable comfort of a heated blanket with the soothing compression of a weighted blanket. The result is the best of both worlds for anyone who wants to feel warm and fall asleep more quickly.

• Pros

  1. Flannel fleece shell and glass microbead fill make the blanket exceptionally cozy

  2. Choose from 10 heat settings with a shutoff timer up to 12 hours

  3. Free duvet cover included with each purchase

• Cons

  1. Only available in one size

  2. Not ideal for people who dislike weighted blankets

Price

$129

Material

Flannel fleece

Sizes

60″ x 80″

The Zonli Heated Weighted Blanket combines the calming effect of weighted compression with the coziness of electric heat. A shell made of flannel fleece gives the exterior a touchably plush hand-feel. The blanket contains glass microbeads to supply the weight and heating wires for customizable warmth. You can adjust the heat to 10 different levels, and the shutoff timer can be set in 1-hour increments anywhere from 1 to 12 hours.

The blanket is available in one size, which corresponds to a standard queen. You can choose between weights of 15 or 20 pounds. Based on the “10% rule” for weighted blankets, this makes the Heated Weighted Blanket best suited to people between 150 and 200 pounds, though there’s some wiggle room in either direction.

This blanket is ideal for “cold sleepers” and anyone else who needs extra insulation while they sleep. Our testing team found the blanket both easy to use and fast-acting — after turning the dial, the heat level adjusts almost instantaneously. The blanket’s channeled design also ensures you won’t feel wires protruding through the shell. To clean the blanket, simply detach the wired controller and hand wash, then hang to dry. Zonli provides a free duvet cover to safeguard your blanket from stains and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.

The Heated Weighted Blanket is competitively priced and Zonli offers free shipping throughout North America. You may return the blanket within 30 days, provided it is in decent condition and shipped back to the company in its original packaging. Those who keep their blanket also receive a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Most Comfortable

Shavel Home Products Thermee Micro Flannel Electric Blanket

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The Thermee from Shavel Home Products is a hefty heated blanket with a plush fleece face for added coziness. An extensive temperature range and adjustable shutoff timer make this blanket well-suited to anyone who needs specific conditions for comfortable sleep.

• Pros

  1. Heat settings range from 77 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit

  2. Dual-heating option for larger sizes

  3. Blanket is machine-washable and resistant to pilling

• Cons

  1. May not be practical during hot or humid times of the year

  2. No sleep trial available

Material

Micro-flannel fleece

Sizes

62″ x 84″ 72″ x 84″ 84″ x 90″ 100″ x 90″

The Thermee Micro Flannel Electric Blanket from Shavel Home Products ups the ante when it comes to keeping you comfy and cozy. You can program the blanket to 10 heat levels ranging from 77 and 114 degrees, so you can opt for anything between lightly warm and extra toasty. The blanket is also equipped with a customizable timer, allowing you to set it up to 12 hours in one-hour increments, and the automatic shutoff kicks in at 10 hours.

The shell consists of micro-flannel fleece intended to mimic the luxurious softness of real shearling without using animal-based materials or carrying a hefty price tag. Down alternative fibers line the interior, adding extra plushness to the design. Even if your local climate is prone to extreme conditions during colder times of the year, the Thermee should keep you comfortable throughout the night.

As an added bonus for couples, queen and king size blankets can be programmed for a different temperature on each side. You can also select presets based on your favorite heating levels. When the blanket needs to be cleaned, simply toss it in your household washer — the outer fabric resists pilling and should retain its softness even after numerous laundry cycles. Ten styles are available, including solid colors and stripe patterns.

The Thermee Micro Flannel Electric Blanket is available through various retailers. If you make your purchase through Amazon.com and hold an Amazon Prime membership, you’ll qualify for free expedited shipping. Shavel Home Products backs the blanket with a five-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Best for Couples

Sleep Number Warming Blanket

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If you enjoy snuggling up with your partner beneath a heated blanket, this cozy option from Sleep Number is available in a queen or king — both oversized to ensure you both get plenty of coverage. A plush fleece shell, 10 temperature settings, and an automatic shutoff timer add to the appealing design.

• Pros

  1. Adjustable heat levels with 10 different settings

  2. Automatic shutoff after 10 hours to ensure safety

  3. Fleece shell makes the blanket feel exceptionally plush

• Cons

  1. The company is the world’s best fleece electric heated throw supplier supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

     Not sold in twin or twin XL sizes

  2. Much more expensive than the average electric blanket

Price

$230

Material

100% polyester

Sizes

90″ x 94″ 90″ x 100″

Many electric blankets sold today are intended for single-person use. The Sleep Number Warming Blanket is available in two sizes, both of which are ideal for two people. The queen measures 90 inches by 84 inches while the king is 90 inches by 100 inches. Either way, you and your partner should get plenty of coverage.

A built-in knob lets you adjust the blanket to 10 different heat settings. The display shows the current level. Internal copper wires distribute heat throughout the entire blanket. These wires are ultra-thin, so you won’t feel them poking through the surface. A plush fleece shell encases the wires for extra coziness. Three shell colors are available. If you fall asleep while the blanket is in use, the heat will automatically shut off after 10 hours.

The Warming Blanket is fairly expensive, and this may be a dealbreaker for shoppers with limited budgets, but shipping is free of charge for customers in the contiguous U.S. Your order comes with a generous sleep trial spanning 100 nights in length. If you are ultimately satisfied with the blanket, your purchase is further covered under a one-year warranty against workmanship defects.

How to Choose a Heated Blanket

Choosing a heated blanket can be more difficult than it appears at first glance. No matter your budget, it’s important to consider your needs, as well as factors like controls, voltage, and ease of care.

Heated blankets can last for many years, and carefully considering these factors ensures you’ll choose one that you’ll be happy to use each time the weather cools.

What to Consider When Purchasing a Heated Blanket

Purchasing an electric blanket is only superficially like choosing an ordinary blanket. While the usual considerations like materials and looks do apply, there are other crucial factors ranging from settings and features to safety concerns like voltage and wiring construction. There is no universal ideal of an electric blanket, and each customer should carefully consider what combination of features will work best for their needs.

Modern electric blankets are safer than older models but much more complex, so the wide range of models on offer today may be overwhelming if you haven’t purchased one in many years. Some considerations are deeply important, while others may or may not be of interest to you depending on your preferences. We’ll cover what to keep in mind and which factors are among the most important when purchasing a safe and comfortable electric blanket.

Size
Electric blankets are available in a wide range of sizes, from sofa-friendly throw blankets to large queen or king size models. Smaller blankets are easier to move and store, while the larger sizes often have two heating zones and dials to adjust the heat separately for each side of the bed.

Heat Settings
Most electric blankets have a similar heat range between their lowest and highest settings, but the number of settings in between can vary dramatically. Less expensive models tend to have fewer options, while luxury blankets may have a large number of settings or even the ability to program your own temperature options.

Control
The majority of electric blankets feature wired controls with dials to choose among the different settings. Modern blankets tend to have safety features like automatic shut-off mechanisms, and some models offer timers for either turning on the blanket before you climb into bed or turning it off after a set period.

Voltage
Electric blankets can be regular or low-voltage. The former uses the voltage coming from your outlet, while the latter uses a transformer to lower the voltage used by the electrical components inside the blanket. Low-voltage options are generally considered to be safer than regular voltage, though they do take longer to heat up.

Plug Cord
The position and length of an electric blanket’s plug cord can make a massive difference in its usefulness and safety. While extension cords can make up for a shorter plug cord, the best option is to choose a blanket whose plug can easily reach an outlet near your bed. Similarly, the best-designed blankets generally have the cord located in an area which will not rest on or near your body during sleep.

Materials
Unlike ordinary blankets, electric blankets are generally made out of a small number of fire-resistant materials. Most electric blankets are now made of polyester, which can be exceptionally soft. Acrylic, once a popular choice, tends to be scratchier and much less comfortable. Cotton is rarely used due to its flammability.

Care
Most electric blankets are made out of easily washable materials, and the majority can be machine washed after removing their plug and controller. Still, not all electric blankets are washable. Even spot cleaning can be a concern, as excessive moisture can damage the wiring. Before purchasing a blanket, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to determine whether the blanket can be easily cleaned.

Price
Electric blankets are available at a wide range of price points. Lower-priced models are still likely to be cozy and safe, as long as they have an automatic shut-off feature. However, higher-priced models are more likely to have features like multiple settings and timers that may make a blanket more useful and comfortable.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Electric Blankets?

While electric blankets can be a great — and green — way to keep warm in cold weather, safety concerns and other potential downsides mean that they’re not right for everyone.

ProsConsEnergy-efficient: Instead of raising the thermostat to heat your entire room, heated blankets concentrate their warmth exactly where it’s needed. This makes them a green option, while also potentially saving you money.

Thermoregulation: Temperature is an important part of sleep hygiene. If you’ve been kept awake or woken up because you can’t stay warm, you’ll recognize the comfort an electric blanket can provide.

Keeps couples at their preferred temperature: Most queen size or larger heated blankets offer dual heating zones with two dials. This feature allows both members of a couple to stay at their ideal temperature all night long.

Soothes aches and pains: Heat can help reduce the pain of everything from sore muscles, to menstrual pain, to conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia. Heated blankets function like oversize heating pads, delivering soothing warmth where it’s needed most.

Lightweight warmth: Although some people enjoy the feeling of heavy layers of blankets, others can feel trapped by the weight. Electric blankets offer winter-friendly warmth without any extra heft.Safety concerns: Modern electric blankets are far safer than older models, with automatic shut-off features and low-voltage wiring. All the same, there is still a risk of fire or burns.

Not pet or child-safe: Even the most well-constructed electric items are easily destroyed by sharp claws or curious fingers, and electric blankets are no different. If you have pets or young children who spend time in your bedroom, an electric blanket may not be right for you.

Comparatively expensive: Using an electric blanket to reduce the use of central heating might save you money in the long run, but electric blankets also cost more than comparable traditional blankets.

Limited fabric choice: Electric blanket fabric must be fire-resistant yet affordable, meaning that the majority are made from polyester.

May not be suitable for your bed: While electric blankets work well on most beds, they are unsuitable for use on waterbeds and some adjustable beds. The cord may also be unable to reach loft or bunk beds.

Not great for warm weather: Even when you’re not using the heating feature on these blankets, they are often made with less breathable materials. If you live somewhere with hot summers, consider a summer blanket.

Who Should Use a Heated Blanket?

Heated blankets can seem like an extravagance, but for some people they can make sleep a far easier and more comfortable experience. This is especially true for people who struggle to stay warm at night, or those who live in frigid climates, since electric blankets are able to keep sleepers at the ideal temperature regardless of the weather outside. Couples with opposing temperature preferences can also benefit immensely, since larger models often come with dual heating zones that allow each person to choose their own temperature.

If you find that heat helps soothe your pain, chronic or otherwise, then an electric blanket might be an excellent choice for reasons outside of winter comfort. They function in much the same way as an electric heating pad, but their ability to deliver soothing warmth to the entire body can be much more effective for people with widespread pain.

Of course, electric blankets aren’t the right choice for everyone. Young children should not use heated blankets, nor should adults without the ability to move or turn off the blanket as necessary. People with limited sensation in any area of their body should also consult their doctor before purchasing an electric blanket, as this condition may prevent them from sensing burns or other injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do electric blankets work?

Electric blankets use electricity taken in through a household outlet to heat wires that are coiled within the blanket itself, which then heat the blanket's fabric for an even, comfortable warmth. These wires are protected by a heat-resistant plastic coating, and in some modern blankets may be made of the thin carbon fiber used in high-end heated car seats. Depending on the model, the wires may carry the same voltage brought in through the outlet, or the voltage may be lowered by a transformer in the control mechanism.

How do I use an electric blanket?

Electric blankets can be used in three ways: while awake, to heat up your bed before climbing in and while you are falling asleep, and throughout the night. While most modern electric blankets are safe to use in all three ways, some are not intended to be used throughout the night and may automatically shut off for safety reasons. Electric blankets should lay flat over the body, with no creasing or folding, and owners should not lay on top of their blanket. This is particularly true on foam mattresses, which trap heat and can become damaged.

Are electric blankets safe?

Modern electric blankets are far safer than older models once were. Even lower-priced options tend to have a wide range of safety features, including automatic shut-off capabilities based on time or heat levels and low-voltage options. However, old or damaged blankets can still pose a fire risk. Always purchase new electric blankets rather than secondhand. Inspect the blanket before use to ensure it is working correctly, and do not hesitate to replace your blanket as necessary.

Can you wash a heated blanket?

Most electric blankets are safe to wash, as their internal wiring must be waterproof in order to cope with sweat and moisture produced during sleep. The cleaning process is usually easy, with owners removing the plug and control device before washing. However, it's critical to read all instructions carefully before washing, and particularly before putting the electrical components back together. Some electric blankets are not washable, so be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before making your purchase or cleaning the blanket.

How much electricity does an electric blanket use?

The average electric blanket comes in at approximately 40 to 60 watts when used on a medium setting, though some larger varieties with dual heating zones are rated at 100 to 200 watts. Using the 100-watt variety as a baseline, powering a heating blanket for eight hours uses only 0.8 kilowatt-hours of energy. The average cost of energy per kilowatt-hour in the USA is currently $0.13, meaning that a 100-watt electric blanket costs approximately $0.10 to run per night. While an electric blanket will not replace central heating, it may result in a significant savings in heating costs over the winter.

How long do heated blankets last?

Electric blankets can have widely varying lifespans depending on the model, as well as how often they are used and for how long each night. A high-quality blanket used to warm up the bed for several months a year may last for over a decade, while the same blanket used for eight hours a night may need replacing in less than half that time. Most people can expect their blanket to last at least five years, but it's deeply important to inspect your blanket regularly and to replace it whenever it shows signs of damage. Electric blankets can be expensive, but health and safety is of utmost importance.

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How do electric blankets work?

Electric blankets work by using integrated electrical heating wires which have been placed into the fabric. When the blanket is switched on, this activates the wires which then heat the fabric and bed.

How hot do electric blankets get?

Electric blankets vary as to how hot they become and will usually include changeable heat settings to allow you to select different temperatures.

The lowest heat generally starts between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius, rising to between 48 and 56 degrees Celsius.

You may be asking yourself why it wouldn’t just be easier and probably cheaper to use a hot water bottle over an electric blanket. The answer is that they differ quite a bit in how they work.

Not only do electric blankets heat the whole of the bed as opposed to just one area, but the heat will continue until the blanket is switched off. A hot water bottle instantly loses heat as soon as you’ve poured the water into the bottle.

Can I leave my electric blanket on overnight?

Electric blankets generally shouldn’t be left on overnight unless your blanket includes a special thermostatic control for safe use overnight. Always check the blanket’s guidelines ideally before purchasing it to check if it allows for use during the night.

Safety tips when using your electric blanket

Electric blankets are a great investment, but only if they are used correctly. To help ensure that yours is used safely, here are some of our top tips worth knowing first:

Buy yourself a new one

Whilst the cheaper option might be to go for something second-hand, this might not be safe. We would always recommend purchasing a brand-new electric blanket.

Follow the instructions

You should always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using yours. When it comes to washing the blanket, consult the instructions to see what the guidelines suggest.

Replace yours every 10 years

You should ideally change your blanket every 10 years. However, if your electric blanket is showing signs of wear and tear, then you should look to replace it straight away.

Roll, don’t fold

Whilst your electric blanket can be left on your bed whilst not in use, as the warmer seasons approach, you may want to store your electric blanket. 

If you do wish to pack the blanket away, it’s always best to roll it, as folding the blanket could cause damage to the wires.

Keep it flat

Ensuring that your electric blanket is kept flat whilst on the bed is another way of preventing the wires from becoming damaged. Our Silentnight electric blankets all include corner straps to prevent the blanket from moving throughout the night.

Check for damage

Regularly checking for wear and tear is essential. Here is a list of danger signs to be aware of:

 

• Fraying fabric

• Scorch marks

• Exposed parts of the blanket

• Creasing or folding.

• Damp patches

• Tie tapes damaged or missing

• Worn flex

• Loose connections

 

If you notice any of the above, you should look to replace yours as soon as possible.

Shopping tips when picking your electric blanket

Here are some of our top tips when it comes to selecting and purchasing the best electric blanket for you and your bed.

Some like it hot

Consider what temperature settings would be best for you. 

Electric blankets vary hugely, and each one will include different heating options. Which one you go for will depend completely on what style of blanket is best for you.

Our Silentnight Teddy Fleece Electric Blanket with soft fleece fabric is a comfortable as well as cosy option making it perfect for staying warm for less on those frosty winter nights.

So, our advice is to consider how warm you want your bed to be and check for features such as an overnight heating option.

Always check the cord length

Having unpacked your new heated blanket and set it up on your bed only to find that the wire doesn’t reach your plug socket would be frustrating. When purchasing your electric blanket, it’s always best to ensure that the cord is long enough to reach your nearest plug socket.

Stay snug in bed for less

There is no better feeling than climbing into a bed that’s already toasty and warm on a cold winter’s night. Our best advice is to simply turn on the blanket as you start to get ready for bed and by the time you climb in, it will be the perfect cosy sanctuary. So, what are you waiting for?

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