What is the number one rated electric blanket?

Apr. 29, 2024

The 9 Best Electric Blankets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

March also suggests investing in a blanket with an automatic shut-off or a timer feature. “Use the automatic shut-off setting or timer on your heated blanket to defend against chilly nights and high energy bills,” adds March. “Newer electric blankets heat up in minutes, and for fire safety, should not be used all night.”

For more information, please visit Fangang.

Everyone but your four-legged friends, that is. “Sadly, experts advise that pets should be kept off your bed when your heated blanket is in use, so that they don’t damage the coils,” adds March. Humans, however, can enjoy all the benefits of electric blankets, both in keeping warm, and in keeping costs down as you may be able to set your smart thermostat to a lower nighttime temperature.

“There are a few ways to identify a high-quality heated blanket," Laurie March , a project manager, remodeling pro, and digital host for HGTV, tells PEOPLE. "Look for a UL certification and a warranty on the product for at least one year. Heated blankets can come in an array of soft synthetic fabrics, as well as natural fibers, so a comfortable texture and feel can be found for just about everyone."

Are you a lover of all things cozy? Grab a book or the remote, because your lounging space is about to get a whole lot more toasty with our favorite electric blankets. These aren’t your grandmother’s heated blankets, though. Today’s electric blankets are designed to fit into a variety of home aesthetics, and PEOPLE is here to guide you on what to look for when making your choice.

Best Overall

Shavel Home Products Micro Flannel Heated Blanket

Amazon

View On Amazon

$200

View On Walmart

$198

View On QVC

$152

Our Ratings

Quality

5
/5
Feel

5
/5
Effectiveness

5
/5
Heat

5
/5
Durability

4
/5

Pros

Took just five minutes to warm up to a cozy temperature without us feeling overheated
Two-zone heating for queen and king sizes; ideal if you sleep with a partner
Material is soft, has a nice weight, and doesn't shed
Machine washable and easy to spot clean if you spill food or drink on it

Cons

We couldn't figure out how to work the programmable features that are advertised, such as the timer

This is a beautiful, effective electric blanket that kept us cozy and calm within just five minutes of use. It warmed quickly without overheating, and combined with the luxurious weight, we almost fell asleep while resting under this electric blanket. The materials are high quality — quilted stitching offers that durable feel, and the addition of the sherpa adds so much softness (without leaving any of those annoying fuzzies behind). We could not feel any of the wires inside, and the cords are minimal.

In the king size version (the one we tested), as well as the queen size, there are two controllers included — so if you sleep with a partner, each person can attain their desired temperature. In our spilled coffee spot treatment test, we were able to easily remove most of the stain, though the flannel side might take an extra spot cleaning. Given the quality and durability of this blanket, we were pleasantly surprised by the price point.

The only downside was the lack of programming capabilities — we couldn’t find any instructions on how to program beyond the auto shut-off feature. That aside, we think this is a cozy, comfortable, and durable electric blanket that offers the user total control over the heat settings and provides important safety features.

How it’s held up:
Beyond our lab tests, we put this electric blanket to use in a tester’s home for six months to see how well it performed over time. Our tester loved snuggling under this blanket. It’s super soft and being a king size, very spacious to wrap up in. They did wish the cords were spaced out a little more because they tended to get twisted up in one another. That said it, heats up quickly and stays warm for a while (with an auto shut-off safety feature). On laundry day, just remove the cords and wash it on a gentle cycle before tumble drying on low. The quality has remained consistent during use, and our tester said it’s the best heated blanket they’ve ever had.

Better Homes & Gardens / Dera Burreson
People / Dera Burreson

Best Budget

CureCure Heated Blanket

Amazon

View On Amazon

$34

Our Ratings

Quality

3.5
/5
Feel

4
/5
Effectiveness

4
/5
Heat

5
/5
Durability

4
/5

Pros

Undetectable wires evenly distribute heat throughout
We found the controller to be very user-friendly
Features a six-hour automatic shut-off

Cons

Needs to soak before machine washing, making cleaning a bit more complicated
Smaller in size compared to other blankets we tested

Here’s a simple, no-frills product that does what it promises and does it well — the epitome of a great budget choice. The velour fabric is soft (as is the sherpa underside) and the wires are not particularly evident while in use. The controller is very easy to use and the wires are also well-distributed, which makes the blanket more comfortable and provides good, thoroughly distributed heat.

This blanket features a six-hour shut-off and did well in our spot-cleaning test. Though we wish the throw was longer, we would recommend it to those who want a basic heated throw. It would be nice if the cleaning instructions were easier, too — they include pre-soaking before putting in the washing machine.

How it’s held up:
This electric blanket was another tester favorite. Our tester used it for six months at home and said they frequently came home to their dog snuggled under it while it was off (to echo our expert, pets shouldn’t lie on them when heated). The cord is quite versatile: Its length allows you to plug it in while sitting in a variety of places, whether on the couch, a chair, or even in bed. The controller is also user-friendly, and the blanket heats up quickly (with an auto-shut off function). Over the course of our test period, there was also no damage despite many washes.

People / Dera Burreson
Dera Burreson
Better Homes & Gardens / Dera Burreson

Best for Camping

Eddie Bauer Portable Heated Blanket

Amazon

View On Amazon

$85

View On Walmart

$77

Our Ratings

Quality

4
/5
Feel

4
/5
Effectiveness

4
/5
Heat

5
/5
Durability

1.5
/5

Pros

Big enough to use outdoors for camping or sporting events
One side of the fabric is water-resistant
Relatively affordable compared to other electric blankets we tested

Cons

We were able to feel the wires during use (although the blanket still remained flexible)
Did not perform properly after machine washing, so we would only suggest spot cleaning

If you’re looking for extra warmth while camping or watching sports outdoors this fall and winter, look no further than Eddie Bauer’s portable electric throw. A pocket for the battery with a velcro closure means you can take this blanket with you, and the fabric itself is weather-resistant.

We were able to feel the wires, but it did not detract from the blanket’s flexibility. It’s an easy size to manage on the go, even with the weight of the battery, and provides four to six hours of heat and three heat settings. It warmed immediately, and the heat is focused in the hand pouch area which is ideal for camping, sporting events and more. This blanket did not work well after machine-washing it, so we would only recommend spot-cleaning.

Heat settings: 3 | Material: Polyester and nylon | Dimensions: 50 x 40 inches | Weight: 3.03 lbs. | Machine wash: No

People / Dera Burreson
People / Dera Burreson

Best Flannel

Shavel Micro Flannel Electric Blanket

Amazon

View On Amazon

$180

View On Wayfair

$95

View On Wayfair

Our Ratings

Quality

4
/5
Feel

4
/5
Effectiveness

4.5
/5
Heat

4
/5
Durability

5
/5

Pros

Intuitive controls make this blanket easy to use and adjust
17-foot-long cord provides flexibility in where you use this blanket
Two-zone heating is ideal if you sleep with a partner

Cons

Flannel may eventually pill; additional testing may be needed

You can adjust the temperature and timer to your heart’s content with this blanket, designed with a mainly flannel feel and a silky border. The blanket heated up as expected, and the controls were intuitive to use, with up and down arrow buttons for the temperature and timer.

We started with the blanket at room-temperature 70 degrees. On a low setting, we measured the blanket at 76 degrees, and on a high setting, 81 degrees. The wires (which are not overly obvious but still noticeable) were evenly spaced throughout the blanket, which also has dual settings so two people can use at once. The flannel feels soft, and would be a great pairing to your seasonal flannel sheets and a cozy comforter. Overall, this blanket is easy to use and effective, if a bit pricey.

How it’s held up:
Our tester never experienced any issues with the blanket in the six months they tested it at home. The tester and their partner appreciated the dual controls and how well the blanket fit their king-sized bed. Plus the material was a good texture (soft and not too scratchy), the cord was long enough to reach the closest plug, and the controls were user-friendly. When in use, the electric blanket heated up quickly, maintained a consistent temperature, and automatically shut-off after extended use. For the best experience, we suggest turning the blanket on while you’re doing your skincare routine or getting ready for bed so you can immediately feel the warmth once it's time to go to sleep.

People / Dera Burreson
People / Dera Burreson
People / Dera Burreson

Best with Thin Wires

Perfect Fit SoftHeat Electric Blanket

Amazon

View On Amazon

$99

Our Ratings

Quality

5
/5
Feel

4
/5
Effectiveness

4
/5
Heat

4
/5
Durability

4
/5

Pros

Wires are not noticeable or crinkly when shifting under the blanket
All programmed settings are user-friendly
Built to last with machine-washable fabric and a 5-year warranty

Cons

Does not get as warm as some of the other models we tested
Fabric slightly matted after spot-cleaning
A bit heavy, but if you like weighted blankets, it’s not necessarily a con

If you’re interested in sleeping with an electric blanket that won’t take over the bed or couch, the Perfect Fit SoftHeat Luxury blanket is a contender. With a 10-hour shut-off and a non-bulky feel, it’s a nice addition to a bed if you run cold at night.

We did not notice discernible wires on this blanket, nor did the insides produce any crinkling sound. It was just the right feel and weight as an addition to your other bedding, too. We found this blanket to get comfortably warm, but less so than others we tested — probably not the best choice for truly frigid nights.

Spot cleaning was successful, though the fabric did get a bit matted in the process. We were able to fluff it back up as it dried after spot cleaning. This electric blanket would be good for someone who wants light warmth and a no-fuss setup. It’s a good value and would make a nice gift for a relative or friend.

How it’s held up:
After using this blanket for six months, our tester still appreciates its performance. It heats up quickly without getting too hot, and provides a cozy experience with a soft fleece material. We found it can feel heavy at times, which could be good or bad depending on if you like weighted blankets. The cord length was long enough to be versatile in various spots around the tester’s home and the control button was user-friendly.

People / Dera Burreson
People / Dera Burreson
People / Dera Burreson

Softest

Brookstone N-A-P Heated Blanket

Amazon

View On Amazon

$70

View On Target

$41

Our Ratings

Contact us to discuss your requirements of Electric Shawl Blanket. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.

Quality

5
/5
Feel

4.5
/5
Effectiveness

5
/5
Heat

5
/5
Durability

4
/5

Pros

Plush fabric feels soft and luxurious, and is machine washable
User-friendly controller
Super discreet wires that aren’t visible and don’t crinkle when you move around
19-foot-long cord provides flexible seating

Cons

Controller screen is not backlit, making it hard to see in the dark
Dual-controller is more work if you’re using the blanket by yourself

There are lots of thoughtful touches in the design and manufacture of this blanket. The wires are so discreet that this could even pass as a regular blanket. The dual controls (on the larger sizes) are well-designed, too: The control panel is angled upward, which makes it easier to see. The cords are also flatter than some others we tested, which makes them easy to maneuver, and less likely to get tangled.

The thin, plush fabric has a very soft, warm, and luxurious feel, and you have a lot of control when it comes to warmth with a variety of settings. In our tests, the temperature went up 10 degrees on the high setting, and four degrees on the low setting. You can also program the shut-off time, anywhere from 30 minutes to 12 hours.

After washing, the blanket still looked and felt good, and performed to the level of its original capabilities. We found it to be an overall solid value, though we do wish the controller had a backlit screen for better visibility at night.

How it’s held up:
After our two-month testing period, we still appreciated the plushness this blanket offered. The dual controls are really designed for two-person use, so if you’re one person using the blanket, having to set both controls could be a setback; otherwise, it’s a neat feature. The auto-shut off function kicks on after 10 hours, so you can sleep with this blanket and be warm all night (the lowest warmth setting was our tester’s most-used, except on especially cold nights).

People / Dera Burreson
People / Dera Burreson
People / Dera Burreson

Best with Foot Pockets

Degrees of Comfort Micro-Plush Heated Blanket

Amazon

View On Amazon

$50

Our Ratings

Quality

4
/5
Feel

4
/5
Effectiveness

5
/5
Heat

5
/5
Durability

4
/5

Pros

Heats up quickly; warmed up 14 degrees in just 15 minutes
Will last you a while as it’s machine washable and has a 5-year warranty
Foot pocket to keep your toes warm (so they won’t stick out as often happens with blankets)

Cons

Only has three temperature settings
Plug feels large given the size of the blanket
We found loose threads around the plug

If you’re coming inside on a rainy day and want to get warm fast, this blanket is a great choice. We loved how fast it warmed up, and on the high setting, it warmed to a toasty 82 degrees. The size makes this electric blanket a good choice as a throw blanket for the couch, and the fabric is rather thin but soft. It also has a heated foot pocket so your toes won’t stick out from under the blanket (say less).

However, some loose threads around the plug (and the disproportionately large size of the plug itself) were the drawbacks for us on this one. It wasn’t the easiest to unplug, either. There are just three temperature settings on this model — low, medium, and high. On the high setting, the blanket warmed up 14 degrees from its starting temperature in our test, and in just 15 minutes. Overall, we appreciated the soft feel and quick heat time of this electric blanket.

How it’s held up:
This blanket easily covered two people sitting on the couch. We were surprised with how well the blanket performed — with its quick heat-up time, comfortable material, and snug foot pocket to keep toes from being exposed. In general, it was intuitive to use, but we wished it had a longer shut-off time and that the cord wasn’t as bulky. Overall, we enjoyed using this blanket for over the course of six months.

People / Dera Burreson
People / Dera Burreson

Best Faux Fur

BeautyRest Heated Faux Fur Wrap

Pottery Barn

View On Pottery Barn

$89

Our Ratings

Quality

5
/5
Feel

4.5
/5
Effectiveness

4
/5
Heat

4
/5
Durability

3
/5

Pros

Large enough to completely wrap up in or spread out across a couch or bed
Wires are barely noticeable, so it feels like you’re under a regular blanket (that’s just really warm)
Faux fur is extremely soft and perfect to cozy up in
Heats up quickly (around 21 degrees in just a few minutes)

Cons

Heat seemed to fade after around 10 minutes as our bodies adjusted to the temperature
Doesn’t repel liquids; it did have a stain after we spilled coffee on it

This plush faux fur electric blanket from Beautyrest made a moment of rest that much more peaceful for our team. It’s so large we’re calling it a wrap blanket, as you can lounge in your favorite chair or on the couch and be enveloped (literally) by warmth. We barely noticed the heat wires, and while there is technically only one correct way to wear the wrap (which is comfier than even your favorite robe), both sides are equally soft and comfortable. You’ll immediately feel how cozy the faux fur material is when snuggling under this blanket.

While the blanket heated up quickly, and jumped a staggering 21 degrees in temperature, it didn’t feel that hot for more than 10 minutes or so (almost like a heating pad, where you feel the intensity of the heat at first and then it sort of fades the longer you have it on your body). Being a fur-like material, it will absorb water more often than it repels, but this isn’t a dealbreaker for us considering there are few cozy blankets that are actually water-resistant. A word of caution when making your morning coffee or winding down with a glass of wine: We spilled coffee on it, and it left a stain even after cleaning. That said, it is technically machine-washable and can be spot-cleaned well for most types of stains (other than coffee, of course).

This electric blanket has user-friendly settings with five heat levels and an automatic shut-off feature after two hours should you fall asleep while wearing it. We think this would be a great electric blanket for a senior, and it’s pretty affordable compared to others on our list. As soon as we took off this blanket, we wanted to put it back on — and we expect you will too.

People / Dera Burreson
People / Dera Burreson

Best for Extra Warmth

Medical King Heated Blanket

Amazon

View On Amazon

$43

View On Walmart

$50

Our Ratings

Quality

5
/5
Feel

4
/5
Effectiveness

5
/5
Heat

3
/5
Durability

3
/5

Pros

Wires were quiet when adjusting the blanket around us, no crinkly sounds
Backlit screen makes it easy to adjust the settings in the dark
Comes with 10 heat settings with an 11-degree range

Cons

Harder to spot-clean compared to other blankets we tested
Non-adjustable auto shut-off (after 4 hours), so not ideal for sleeping

Two materials often means double the comfort, and that’s certainly the case here. The inside of this throw is a fluffy sherpa fabric, and the outside is a soft, velour type. A light-up screen makes it easy to adjust the temperature and heating time. The highest setting was quite warm, but with a wide range of 10 heat settings, there’s an option for everyone. The 11-degree change in our test felt like a huge jump in temperature. There was definitely a noticeable shift, but it was nice and cozy once heated. The cord is a generous length, and the auto shut-off kicks in at four hours.

While the wires inside the blanket were silent (no crinkling here), they were noticeable. Still, it does not diminish the soft, delicate feel, which was our favorite thing about this particular model. The downsides? A wet rag didn’t tackle the stain well in our spot testing. And it’s unclear whether the blanket will feel the same after machine washing. We’d recommend it as a smaller throw to use while relaxing, but not for sleeping due to the smaller size and auto shut-off time.

Heat settings: 10 | Auto shut-off: Yes, after 4 hours | Material: Polyester | Dimensions: 60 x 50 inches | Weight: 3.74 lbs.

People / Dera Burreson
People / Dera Burreson
The Spruce / Dera Burreson

The Best Heated Blankets, Based On Extensive Testing

The best heated blankets keep you toasty on bitterly cold nights, the kind of nights that somehow creep under your covers. If you’ve considered adding an electric blanket to your bedding rotation for instant warmth but struggled to narrow it down, I have a few recommendations. After a year of extensively testing some of the most popular brands on the market, I found the Beautyrest Plush Electric Blanket to be the best among the products I tried, due to its luxurious feel and superior performance.

We tested the best electric blankets and narrowed it down to our top favorite four picks.

ILLUSTRATION: FORBES / PHOTO: RETAILERS

A blanket that radiates heat during the night has become a must-have in my drafty New England house, especially as we work to save money by avoiding turning up our thermostat. Unlike the wiry, fuzzy electric blankets of yore that weren’t safe to leave on overnight, heated blankets these days are actually designed to be taken to bed. In fact, the risk of fire hazard from these products has greatly diminished over the years.

“Now we have smart wires that detect if there is an abnormal condition occurring anywhere along the wire, and it’s going to go back to your controller,” says Joel Hawk, a principal engineer manager at UL Solutions. So no matter the style or color you choose, the best heated blankets should always have a seal of approval from a third-party testing agency like UL or Intertek. Read on for details about the best heated blankets and throws according to my testing.

Best Heated Blanket Overall

A Silky Feel With A Wide Range Of Heat Settings

Amazon

Beautyrest Plush Electric Blanket (Queen)

Dimensions: Four sizes | Number of heat settings: 20 | Auto shut-off feature: 10 hours | Warranty: Limited 5-year warranty

Best for:

Those who want a lightweight throw for the bed or couch
Folks who prefer a wide range of heat settings
Someone who needs a controller that’s easy to operate

Skip if:

You want a thick and heavy blanket

This product tops the list of best heated blankets, thanks to its lightweight material and wide range of heat settings. This silky blanket spread easily over my comforter and could pass for a coverlet (an extra layer of bedding often used to boost a room’s decor). It’s made of microlight, plush polyester and has a luscious feel. It comes in 10 colors, and the design looks attractive.

Setup was easy: You place it on the bed with the warning label facing out at the feet and the cords trailing under the bed in the direction of your head. The paper instructions are also clear and concise. I really appreciated that the UL certification is explained thoroughly in the FAQ section.

With 20 adjustable heat settings, it has the most heat options of all the top blankets on this list. I started warming the bed at 20, the highest setting, and the blanket produced a warm, cozy feel in about 25 minutes (there’s also a preheat feature that heats the product faster or can be used as a boost when you need extra heat). The surface thermometer readings were pretty consistent, ranging mostly from 80 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit. While having 20 heat options is great, I clicked around a bit and wasn’t able to differentiate between 7 and, say, 13, so I started at 20, then reduced the temperature to 4 for most nights’ sleep.

Because it’s so thin, I felt comfortable washing it on my washing machine’s delicate cycle as the instructions suggest. I hung it to dry in my laundry room, and it was as soft and silky as before about a day later.

(You can read our in-depth review of the Beautyrest Plush Electric Blanket for more details, too.)

The 2024 Forbes Vetted Best Product Awards are here: Explore our 150 top-recommended items across categories after extensive research and testing.

Best Cozy Heated Blanket

Thick, Luxurious And Provides Long-Lasting Heat

Amazon

Westinghouse Heated Blanket (Queen)

Dimensions: Four sizes | Number of heat settings: 10 | Auto shut-off feature: 12 hours | Warranty: Limited 5-year warranty

Best for:

Cozy heat for a full 12 hours
Those who prefer simple controls
People who need longer cords

Skip if:

You’d like an ultra thin blanket for your bed
You want a wide range of heat settings

The Westinghouse Warming Blanket is a welcome replacement for the L.L. Bean electric blanket that has been recalled (much to my dismay). I love its extra cozy feel, and it’s best suited for a person who prefers to drape something a little heavier over their bed.

This blanket provides a snug, mellow heat whether it’s on or off. Unlike the Beautyrest, it has just 10 heat settings, with “H” (a.k.a. 10) being the hottest. The controller is basic, with one set of arrows for heat, another set for duration and an on/off button. It has a digital display that can be a little difficult to read during the day and could be challenging for someone with vision issues to decipher. I found the digital numbers easier to read in the dark. On frigid 16-degree nights, my preference was the maximum level of heat.

I love that you can set this blanket to warm your bed for a full 12 hours, too. That’s the perfect duration for those slow snow days when school is canceled and you get a few extra hours of sleep (true story).

After 20 minutes of warming time, the Westinghouse’s readings were between 72 and 91 degrees F and not terribly consistent across the surface, but that warmth felt even on my body when I cozied up underneath. The controller’s triangular shape is also worth a mention. It sits securely on a surface, thanks to rubber grips on the bottom. And because it’s secure on my table, it’s very easy for me to roll over at night to adjust the temperature and duration.

The Westinghouse Weighted Blanket’s cord, which runs from the bottom of the bed to the controller, is about 7 inches longer than that of the Beautyrest. Users will find this to be either annoying, if you hate lengthy wires, or a nice feature, because it could allow the controller to sit more firmly at your bedside. Longer cords can also be helpful if you make wild movements in your sleep, which can cause tugging on the controller.

Finally, this weighted blanket was easy to spot-clean when I spilled coffee on it, and it quickly air dried. See my full Westinghouse Electric Blanket Review for more details.

Best Velvet Heated Throw

A Heavyweight Option Suitable For A Twin Bed

Shavel Home Products

Thermee Premier Throw (Twin)

Dimensions: 84 x 62 inches | Number of heat settings: 10 | Auto shut-off feature: 10 hours | Warranty: Limited 5-year warranty

Best for:

Folks who want an oversized, versatile throw for couch or bed
Those who prefer a thick electric blanket

Skip if:

You want something small and lightweight
You prefer short cords

The Thermee blanket became a favorite in my household for several reasons: It’s heavy, soft and warms up to a toasty temperature (an average of 80 to 84 degrees F in about 30 minutes). While it’s categorized as a throw, it also fits a twin bed—an ideal size for people who want something for the couch but also possibly for a guest bed.

When I’m seated with it on the couch, it’s definitely long—84 inches, to be exact—and it overflows around my feet onto the floor. The 17-foot cords are also long and extend nicely from the bottom of my twin-sized trundle bed to a nearby wall outlet.

The plush, non-wiry feel of the Thermee is its standout feature. Made with 100-percent woven and knit polyester fabric, it has micro flannel on one side (which they claim is shrink, pill, wrinkle and fade resistant) and ultra velvet on the other. Because it’s a heavier blanket, too, it even warms you when the heating element is off.

Operating the Thermee is simple. You turn it on and adjust temperature and duration using two sets of up and down arrows. It has two special features that kick in automatically: a 10-hour automatic shut off and a “quick heat” function that warms the blanket to maximum heat in 30 minutes then reduces to your last programmed time/heat setting. From the moment you turn it on, the digital numbers on the controller are backlit so you can more easily select settings. The numbers turn off after 40 seconds if the controller is not being used.

Since it’s a thicker, longer blanket and I have a temperamental washing machine that doesn’t respond well to thick blankets, I opted to spot-clean this blanket rather than machine washing it on the gentle cycle as the instructions suggest. I poured coffee on a corner of the blanket, and it washed out easily with warm water and mild soap, then I hung it to dry overnight. It looked brand new.

Best Lightweight Heated Throw

Ultra Light Flannel That’s Quick To Heat Up

Amazon

Westinghouse Heated Throw (Throw)

The Westinghouse Warming Throw is perfect for the severe winter weather we’ve had this season. This lightweight throw, which has flannel on one side and sherpa on the other, heats up extremely quickly: In approximately 10 minutes, it reached its maximum heat of 80 to 84 degrees (measured via infrared thermometer).

The Warming Throw is pretty much the exact opposite of the Thermee Micro Flannel, in terms of design. It weighs just 3 pounds and doesn’t do much to warm the body when it’s off since its construction is pretty thin. Unlike the Thermee, you can definitely feel the wires when you touch the surface, which isn’t something everyone likes.

At 50 x 60 inches, this throw is about half the size of the Thermee. The controller has a digital number display that is operated by just three buttons: one button for heat, one for time, and the third is an on/off switch. It has six heat settings and four different time settings (of 2, 4, 8 and 10 hours). The cord is approximately 9 feet long, so you need a plug nearby to wherever you plan to use it.

As for special features, when you turn the blanket off and then turn it on again, it automatically reverts to the last comfort level setting used. Luckily, I found that it evenly distributes that heat.

The blanket fully covers the bottom half of a tall body, so consider your height and what exactly you want in a throw. I’ve been using this blanket for the better part of a year, and it’s held up really well. The sherpa side has developed a few pills and collected random debris from my floors (and from my kids), but I haven’t experienced any shedding.

You can machine wash this product if you follow the specific instructions in the manual, but I opted to spot-clean it instead, due to the design of my machine. This ended up being easy, and it looked good as new.

Other Heated Blankets I Tested

I tested five other heated blankets that didn’t make the cut.

The SoftHeat Electric Blanket: This polyester blanket is super cozy and soft, and its wires are nearly undetectable. It definitely would have been a contender if it didn’t have a few drawbacks. A rectangular adapter at the wall-end of the lengthy wires make the wiring system clunky. The controller is an old-fashioned dial, which functions fine but feels a bit archaic compared to others. There were also reviews citing issues with customer service. After digging, there have been 23 consumer complaints filed to the Better Business Bureau since the manufacturer dissolved in 2020.

The Warmee Smart Heated Throw: The biggest splurge of the bunch with a retail price of $249, this heavyweight blanket topped my list of throws when I originally wrote this review last year. Sadly, it wasn’t able to keep that spot. I really love this blanket for its soft, thick construction, its cute patterns and colors, and its smart method of operation—an app that sets it apart from other blankets. I was really bummed when the throw I evaluated died over the course of this year. I originally suspected my switch to a 5G network was the issue, but the brand sent me a new one that works fine. If you purchased this blanket after reading my review and yours died too, know that the blanket has a 3-year limited warranty that offers protection against defects.

The Biddeford Comfort Knit Electric Heated Blanket: Two things I noticed right off the bat with the Biddeford: The blanket can be operated by an old-fashioned dial controller on either side; and despite marketing verbiage that touts “ultra-thin” wires for “added comfort,” I wasn’t blown away by its design at all. I could feel wires throughout the blanket, and the construction in its feel and color reminded me of the old-school electric blankets I grew up with.

The Cozee Battery Powered Heating Blanket: This battery-operated portable blanket is perfect for outdoor use at sporting events, but it won’t provide the continuous warmth of the other picks on this list. There are two ways to wear the Cozee—like a cape or wrapped around you under your arms. Depending on how tall you are, your feet may not be covered. If you charge the battery for 6 hours, it provides nearly 3 hours of continuous heat. Even without heat it’s a high-quality, thick blanket that has a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. I wore it as I worked at my desk, and it really warmed me up.

Bedsure Fleece Electric Blanket: The fluffy sherpa underside of this blanket definitely brings on the heat. However, you can feel the wires on top and underneath the blanket. The Bedsure has lengthy 16 feet cords, easy-to-operate controls that illuminate at night and one-click preheating that warms the blanket to level 10 automatically. The blanket, which has a 5-year warranty, shuts off at 8 hours, which is less than some of the other blankets I tried.

How I Tested The Best Heated Blankets

In general, heated blankets work in largely the same way: They contain an insulated wire covered with fabric that creates heat when it’s plugged in. When you’re shopping for one, you’ll notice right away they come in a range of sizes that correspond to your bed size—king, queen or twin. If you select a size larger than a twin, it will typically come with two controllers, one for each side of the bed, which allows two people to be in the driver’s seat when it comes to controlling heat output. If you’re looking for a heated blanket for a couch or office chair, a throw is more appropriate because it’s smaller and usually designed for one person to use. As an example, the throws I tested usually measured around 60 x 70 inches, while king-size blankets measured 90 x 100 inches. Throws typically come with one controller to be operated by one person who drapes it over their lap. Here’s what I looked for while testing:

Performance

First, I evaluated the feel, style and weight of each blanket, since comfort is a high priority. Then, I tried the blankets with their heating elements. I read the instructions and powered on the blankets on my king-size bed. I considered how warm they made me feel, noting any cold spots. I also tested the consistency of the heat on the surface—how evenly it is distributed—with an infrared thermometer. Since some electric blankets can feel lumpy instead of smooth, I noted whether I could feel wires on the top and underneath.

Intuitive Design

I found there’s a learning curve when you try out any heated blanket. Each controller has different buttons for adjusting the heat level and timer. After reading the instructions, and in some cases watching instructional videos several times, I evaluated how easy it was to turn the blankets on and adjust the heat levels in daylight and in the dark. I also took note of the length of the cords, which ran from the bottom of the bed to the plugs behind my bedside tables, since a longer cord will give you more leeway for how far your bed can be from an outlet.

Safety Features

All the blankets I tested had auto shut-off, whether that was over 8, 10 or 12 hours. Each product I tested also had an accredited third-party certification logo, either from UL Solutions (UL) or for Intertek (ETL), on their instructions or tag. Read on for why you should look for that logo and auto shut-off while shopping.

Ease Of Cleaning

I had intended to wash each blanket in my washing machine, but I discovered pretty quickly that with larger king-size blankets—even though the instructions say you can wash each of them in the gentle cycle of a standard washing machine—their weight and size were major factors.

In my testing, I found that my 6-year-old washing machine couldn’t handle a king-size blanket, and most brands advise against washing blankets at a laundromat. Instead, I spilled Starbucks coffee on each of them and focused on spot cleaning with soap and water, noting the ease of removing the liquid from all the fabrics.

Warranty

I learned from reading ratings and reviews and from my own testing experience that heated blankets can be fussy. Sometimes they suddenly stop working for a variety of unclear reasons like a thermostat breaking down, loose connections or power surges that can cause overheating, so a good warranty is key. Lifetime limited warranties, 5-, 3- and 1-year warranties were among the best protections I found.

When I started testing these products, the winter chill was definitely moving in. I unboxed the blankets, read the instructions and set them up on top of my comforter and top sheet. I learned how to operate the controls and slept with the blanket for a night or in some cases two or three. I have a sore back and have difficulty finding a good sleep position, so I woke up in the dark to look at the controller, adjust the temperature and then go back to sleep. As a homeowner and parent, and because I’m one of those people who checks a straightening iron twice to make sure it’s off, I unplugged each one after use to be sure it was off.

I chose the best heated blankets based on all these key elements and more.

How To Pick A Heated Blanket

A Third-Party Certifier’s Seal

Only buy blankets that have been approved by nationally recognized testing agencies, such as UL Solutions (UL) or Intertek (ETL). The Beautyrest blanket had an entire section in the manual dedicated to its UL certification, which I appreciated.

This means that the product has not only gone through a full protocol and battery of tests but also that the third party periodically asks the manufacturer to demonstrate that the unit is being built with the right components. This reinforces that quality assurance processes are in place. “What you should see is that it has a third-party logo, and it should say the word ‘listed,’” explains Hawk. “Sometimes you have manufacturers who like to play games and say it’s compliant with the UL standard. That doesn’t mean anything. That’s a false or misleading advertisement.”

A Reputable Retailer

Never buy a heated blanket at a garage sale or secondhand. Purchase your product from a reputable retail store or online retailer, which often have safety protocols and do random spot checks of their own. “I think with blankets it’s a little different than clothing. I don’t know how many people try to resell it, but it’s always best to get it from a retailer,” Hawk notes.

Auto Shut-Off Feature

While it’s not required by the UL 964 Standard, Hawk says choosing a blanket with the auto shut-off feature—meaning the unit automatically shuts off in 8, 10 or 12 hours—is good practice just in case you ever forget to turn it off. “Auto shut-off is a nice safety feature. Again, not required by the standard, but that’s a nice feature to look for, and that usually is advertised. Even online you’ll usually see that called out,” he notes.

Warranties

As I learned firsthand, heated blankets sometimes just stop working. No matter what appliance you purchase, it’s always a good idea to look for a warranty. Also bear in mind that heated blankets do not last forever. “We usually assume a 10-year cycle for most small appliances,” says Hawk.

My Expertise

I have more than two decades of experience writing about lifestyle, health, celebrity and pet content. I was the founding senior editor of People.com’s pets channel, and I frequently reviewed pet, baby and parenting gear for the website. More recently, I’ve been writing product reviews for brands like Consumer Reports and ScaryMommy.com. Paramount to all of that, I live in a very drafty house in New England that feels cold even in the summertime. Flannel sheets, slippers and space heaters are all staples around here, especially during the frigid winter months, which explains my enthusiasm for putting the best heated blankets to the test.

For the technical side of this piece, I consulted with Joel Hawk, a veteran of Illinois-based UL Solutions, who oversees the testing of heated blankets for the agency, for his insight into how to shop for and store these products. UL is an organization that created a nationally recognized safety standard called Electrically Heated Bedding UL 964 and independently tests electric blankets to ensure they meet the necessary requirements.To learn about the health benefits of heated blankets, I spoke with TPI Level 1 certified physical therapist Cindy Langer, founder and owner of BodyFit Physical Therapy in Connecticut.

When selecting blankets to test, I extensively studied online ratings and reviews. I considered heated blankets at a variety of price points and only chose products with an auto shut-off feature and warranty. I focused on blankets that were certified by one of the 21 Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTL) like UL Solutions or Intertek. I further established specific criteria to determine which blankets are best. For throws, I evaluated each on my couch or at my desk. For heated blankets intended for use on a bed, I evaluated each blanket before, during and after an approximately 8-hour sleep.

Should I Use A Heated Blanket?

Electric blankets can definitely give you the boost of warmth you need at night. For me, additional heat on my back has helped me find comfort when my back issues flare up. But heated blankets are not for everyone. If you suffer from a health condition and are unsure whether a heated blanket would be safe, consult with your doctor.

The morning can be a good time to apply heat to combat stiffness or aches. You can use heat—in the form of a blanket, heating pad, sauna, etc.—to help you get moving and warmed up for the day. Langer uses the analogy of taffy to describe what that kind of warmth can do for the body. “If it’s hard and cold and frozen in your freezer, you’re not going to be able to stretch it out,” she explains. “But if we put it out in the sun, it’s going to be all gooey and nice and flexible.”

The sensation of heat on the skin sends positive feedback to your brain that can distract from stiffness or pain, or from the fact that you need to get out of bed and start the day. It certainly did that for me. “Your brain gets overloaded with this nice comfortable sensation, and that can be very comforting,” she says.

How To Care For A Heated Blanket?

Once you’ve chosen a blanket, read the instructions and the safety label on the blanket thoroughly. As a next step, always monitor the condition of your blanket.“You should always be ready to what I call ‘retire the product’ before it gets to its end point,” says Hawk. If your fabric starts to wear out or discolor, or you see damage on the cords, it may be time to replace your blanket. When it comes to washing your blanket, follow the manufacturer instructions for washing and drying electric blankets. Using other methods such as dry-cleaning could damage the product. Lastly, store your heated blanket in a dry location. It should be folded loosely without stacking things on top of it. Detach supply cords and wind those up separately. “That way you’re not binding the product; you’re not wrapping the cord real tightly around the product,” he explains. “You don’t want to displace the internal wires.”

Should You Buy A Heated Blanket With Invisiwire Fibers?

Some brands, like the Warmee for instance, claim to make heated blankets with Invisiwire fibers that are cased in MFA, a “Teflon-like polymer material that is proven to have a very high temperature resistance in addition to good flexibility,” according to the website. And while there have been many advancements in technology that have reduced risks to consumers, product certifications are based on the minimum requirements of Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories, which do not grade or compare designs based on degree of safety. “This is a general claim by the manufacturer, and any manufacturer could make the same claim,” says Hawk.

Why Do Heated Blankets Stop Working?

A heated blanket could stop working due to a number of reasons. If you’re faced with a similar issue, unplug the blanket as a first step. Then make sure to check each of the connection points thoroughly, like the plug, temperature controller and cord connection that attaches to the blanket. If there is an issue with any of these connection points, your best option is to simply replace the blanket. Alternatively, you could also reach out to the manufacturer if your blanket is still under warranty.

For more information, please visit Electric Shawl for Elderly.

Comments

All Comments (0)

Previous: Pregnancy Belly Band: 5 Reasons You Need to Wear One

Next: none

Guest Posts

If you are interested in sending in a Guest Blogger Submission,welcome to write for us!