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Do you feel the cold when you get into bed? Do you hate the chill and a duvet just isn't enough? If the idea of being sent a hefty heating bill gives you the heebie-jeebies or you feel the cold more than most, it might be worth investing in an electric blanket to help you beat the chill.
They're also perfect for lounging on the sofa, taking the edge off on a cool evening or for treating your guests to, when you have people over.
How does an electric blanket work?
Electric blankets have insulated wires within the fabric, which when activated, heat up the blanket and then the bed. Think of it a little bit like a hot water bottle - except it won't cool down during the night, unless you want it to.
Which electric blanket is right for you? We’ve pulled together some of the best heated blankets on the web to make your decision easier.
If you're looking for an electric over-blanket that also looks stylish, the Dreamcatcher Deluxe Luxurious Faux Fur Electric Heated Throw could be the one for you.
| Size: | 160 x 130cm |
| Running costs: | 2p per hour |
| Manufacturer's guarantee: | 2 years |
- Soft faux fur material
- Quick heat-up time
- Nine heat settings
- Timer function (1-9 hours)
- Advanced overheat protection
- Fully machine washable
If you're on the lookout for a simple to use and budget-friendly under blanket, this one from CosiHome ticks all the boxes.
| Sizes: | Available in single (65 x 135cm), double (120 x 135cm) and king size (137cm x 165cm) |
- Easy to operate controls
- Comfortable and durable
- Integrated corner ties to secure
- Three heat settings
- Overheat protection
- Fully machine washable
The LIVIVO Heated Electric Over Blanket brings you warmth and comfort for a fraction of the price of a heating system. The ultra-soft micro-fleece throw is luxurious and cosy, perfect for relaxing on the sofa in a winter evening.
| Size: | 160 x 120cm |
| Running costs: | 1p per hour |
- Stylish micro-fibre fleece material
- Ultra-fast heat-up time
- 10 heat settings
- Timer function (1-9 hours)
- Advanced overheat protection
- Automatic safety shut off system
- Fully machine washable
Affordable but high-quality, it's no wonder the Dreamcatcher Electric Blanket scores highly when it comes to ratings. With the ability to control each side's temperature separately, it's easy to reach your ideal temperature without disturbing your partner.
| Sizes: | Available in single (90 x 190cm), double (190 x 137cm), king-size (203 x 152cm) and super king-size (203 x 182cm). |
| Running costs: | 2p per hour |
| Manufacturer's guarantee: | 2 years |
- Equipped with dual control heating technology
- Fitted to keep it in place on your mattress
- Soft polyester finish and ultra-thin wires
- Quick heat-up time
- Three heat settings
- Advanced overheat protection
- Fully machine washable
If you're a tech lover, even your electric blanket can be synced up to your smart devices. This Alexa-Enabled blanket allows you to control your blanket by voice command or the free Silentnight app, giving you flexibility and peace of mind. Seriously cool.
| Sizes: | Available in single (65 x 35cm), double (120 x 135cm) and king-size (137 x 165cm). |
| Running costs: | 2p per hour |
| Manufacturer's guarantee: | 3 years |
- Silentnight Smart Wi-Fi plug, compatible with Alexa and for use with the free Silentnight app to control your electric blanket
- Scheduling capabilities with the smart plug
- Dual control technology
- Tie tape fitting
- Fully machine washable
- 100% polyester
- Three heat settings
- Overheat protection
- Memory foam compatible
For the ultimate flexibility with your heat settings, the Sweet Dreams Electric Blanket gives you a whopping nine separate body and feet settings, as well as 10 individual timer settings.
| Sizes: | Available in double (193 x 137cm), king-size (203 x 152cm) and super king-size (203 x 182cm) |
- Diamond-quilted plush finish
- Ultra-thin non-obtrusive wires
- Nine separate body and feet heat settings
- 10 individual timer settings
- Generous elasticated skirt to fit all mattress types
- Easy to use LCD dual controls
- Safe for all night use
- CE certified and RoHS compliant
- Advanced Overheat Protection System
- Automatic Safety Shut Off
- Fleece material
For another purse-friendly option this Silentnight Comfort Control Electric Fleece Blanket is perfect for someone who wants a no-frills, does what it says on the tin blanket. It can also be upgraded by adding a Silentnight Alexa-Enabled Smart Wi-Fi Plug to give you voice control capabilities, smartphone and tablet use, and timer options.
| Sizes: | Available in single (65 x 135cm), double (120 x 135cm) and king size (137cm x 165cm) |
| Manufacturer's guarantee: | 3 years |
- Three heat settings
- Ultra-fast heat up
- Polyester fleece material
- Overheat protection technology
- Fully machine washable
- Single control heat technology
On the lookout for a throw that gives you more than just a few options? The Homefront Electric Throw/Over Blanket is both plush and technologically advanced.
| Size: | 160 x 120cm |
| Running costs: | 2p an hour |
- Super soft, plush chocolate finish
- Nine heat and timer settings
- Ultra-fast 15 minute heat-up time
- User-friendly, digital control
- Fully machine washable
- Fleece material
- Automatic safety shut off
- Comes with a zip-up storage bag
- Advanced overheat protection system
What are the benefits of an electric blanket?
As well as keeping your feet nice and toasty, heated blankets can also help with arthritis, sciatica, other types of pain conditions and inflammation. Just like using a heating pad or taking a warm bath, heat increases circulation around the body and helps the muscles relax.
Costing just a few pence per night to run, electric blankets and throws are an efficient way to save on your heating bills. Needing only to keep your body warm, rather than your room, it can easily pay for itself with the money you'll save.
Electric blankets help you sleep better. Being at a consistent temperature while you’re sleeping means your circadian rhythm isn’t disrupted, helping you to get a full night’s sleep. What’s more, your body uses less energy to keep itself warm with an electric blanket, sending happy and positive signals to your brain. You’ll feel relaxed, content and wake up feeling refreshed.
Tips for using your electric blankets
According to Silentnight, there are some things you should bear in mind when using your electric blanket:
• Buy new
• Read the instructions
• Replace it every ten years
• Be clued up on the safety of your specific blanket
• Check the cord length to ensure it's suitable for your needs
You can see more about their top tips, here.
Jade Moscrop is a Content Writer and bargain hunter for What's The Best, specialising in lifestyle topics. She also writes for Closer, Heat, and Mother&Baby.
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