Electric blanket FAQs

Which is the right electric blanket for you?

The type of electric blanket you choose is totally up to you — but our advice would be to think about how and when you intend to use it, as this’ll likely help you narrow down the selection.

Are you looking for something to drape over yourself at your desk during those extra cold work from home afternoons when you just can’t quite justify whacking up the thermostat? Or perhaps you’re swapping out your standard sofa throw or blanket for a heated one to make evenings in front of the TV even more snuggly? Either way, you’ll probably want to stick to overblankets and throws that are easy to use whatever the time of day, and can be carried around with you.

On the contrary, if nippy night times are your primary concern, you may be better off going for a classic electric blanket that sits between your mattress and bed sheets, and will keep you cosy when the heating goes off at night. Looking to ditch the extra layers and hot water bottle, and climb into a pre-warmed bed instead? Look for an electric blanket with a pre-heat function, and multiple temperature settings.

How does an electric blanket 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 safe is an electric blanket?

If your mum instilled the fear of an early demise by means of an electric blanket overheating because it’s been left on overnight, you’re not alone. But with new technology, these little warmth wonders are safer than ever. Modern versions come with overheat protection so you don’t haver to worry about it catching fire. Phew. If you’re still unsure, look out for the BEAB approval safety features, which means, if used correctly, your new heated blanket won’t cause the house to go up in flames.

How do you use an electric blanket properly?

As you’d expect, electric throw blankets should just be whipped out and plugged in as and when you need to warm up. But to get the most out of a traditional heated underblanket, Sleep Expert at Silentnight, Sally Bonser, recommends getting it ready to go ahead of time. “Once it’s strapped to your mattress, you’ll want to switch on your electric blanket up to an hour before you’re going to bed so it’ll be nice and toasty for when you go to sleep.” Then, ideally, it’ll automatically shut-off once you’re asleep so you don’t wake up far too warm in the middle of the night.

What makes a good electric blanket?

“The features of an electric blanket completely depend on the user’s needs — with different blankets offering different benefits,” Sally explains. But in terms of the basics, you’re looking for something that’s easy to use, and preferably has multiple heat and timer settings — including an auto shut-off feature to avoid any unnecessary energy consumption if you ever forget to turn it off.

Looking for something a little more impressive? If you share a bed, an electric blanket with dual control will give you and your significant other individual control over your own sides of the bed. Similarly, if you like the sound of warming your toes — but not your torso — it might be worth looking for an underblanket that has different heating zones. Just remember that the more features and functions an electric blanket has, the pricier it will likely be.