The Ultimate Guide to Buying an Electric Blanket

Your Guide to buying the best Electric blankets

Overview

Electric blankets are a great way to stay warm and cozy during cold winter months. They provide a gentle heat that can be adjusted to your desired level of comfort, and come in a variety of sizes and materials to suit all needs. This buying guide will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision when purchasing an electric blanket, from the type of material to the safety features and care instructions. With the right electric blanket, you'll be able to stay warm and comfortable all winter long.

Key features

  1. Power Source: Determine whether you need a battery-powered electric blanket or one that plugs into the wall. Battery-powered blankets are more portable, but may need to be replaced more often.
  2. Size: Consider the size of the blanket, as well as the size of the bed or other surface you plan to use it on.
  3. Heat Settings: Look for a blanket that offers adjustable heat settings so you can find the optimal level of warmth.
  4. Safety Features: Many electric blankets are designed with safety features to prevent overheating. Check to see if the blanket you are considering has an auto-shutoff timer, temperature-regulating technology, or other safety features.
  5. Durability: Consider the material of the blanket and the manufacturer’s warranties and guarantees.
  6. Price: Evaluate the price of the product versus its features and performance.

See the most popular Electric blankets on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Energy Efficiency - Electric blankets are an energy efficient way to keep warm since they use less energy than a space heater, making them a cost effective way to stay warm.
  • Temperature Control - Electric blankets provide great temperature control because they come with adjustable settings that enable you to choose the level of warmth you need.
  • Safety - Electric blankets are designed to automatically shut off after a certain amount of time, ensuring that you won't overheat or risk a fire due to excessive heat.
  • Comfort - Electric blankets provide a great level of comfort because they are soft and cozy. They also come in various materials such as fleece and cotton, providing a variety of options for comfort.
  • Durability - Electric blankets are typically designed to last for years, so you won't have to worry about replacing them as often as you would with a regular blanket.

Cons

  • Safety: Electric blankets can be hazardous if not used properly. They should not be used by children or pets. Additionally, they should be avoided if the user has a pacemaker.
  • Maintenance: Electric blankets require maintenance and should be checked often for any frayed wires, tears, or other signs of wear.
  • Cost: Electric blankets can be expensive, especially higher quality models.
  • Heat Settings: Many electric blankets come with a range of temperature settings, however, it can be difficult to find the right setting for comfort.
  • Size: Electric blankets come in a limited range of sizes, making it hard to find one that fits properly.
  • Durability: Electric blankets can be quite fragile and may not last as long as traditional blankets.
  • Heat Intensity: Electric blankets can be quite hot, which can make them uncomfortable for some users.

Best alternatives

  1. Heated mattress pads - Mattress pads that warm the bed and are an alternative to electric blankets.
  2. Heated throws - A type of blanket that plugs into the wall to provide a warming effect.
  3. Electric comforters - Comforters that are powered and provide a heating effect.
  4. Electric bases - Bases that are equipped with heating coils to keep a bed warm.

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Common questions

  1. What materials are electric blankets made of? Electric blankets are typically made of cotton, polyester, fleece, or acrylic.
  2. Are electric blankets safe to use? Yes, electric blankets are typically safe to use as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and don't leave them on for long periods of time.
  3. How do I clean my electric blanket? Most electric blankets can be machine washed on a gentle cycle. Always follow the instructions on the care label.
  4. How much do electric blankets cost? Electric blankets range in price from around $30 to over $100, depending on the material, size, and features.
  5. Are electric blankets energy efficient? Yes, electric blankets are energy efficient. They use significantly less energy than other heating methods such as space heaters.

Trivia

In the 1950s, electric blankets were considered a "luxury appliance" that had to be sold with a permission slip from a physician! This was due to the fact that many people were skeptical about the safety of these products and the potential risk of electric shock. However, since then, electric blankets have come a long way and are now a common household item. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.