When the weather is too cold, a blanket alone may not be enough to keep you warm. If you want extra heat to keep you really cozy and snug, then an electric blanket may be a great investment to make. You can use these while you’re asleep or lounging on your couch.
There are several models of electric blankets out there, many offering adjustable heat settings that make them suitable for use all year long. You can keep yourself warm and comfortable by adjusting the heat dial to the right setting. Some electric blankets are affordable while some other high-end models have features that make it worth the money.
So, do you actually need an electric blanket? Well, there may be many reasons why you may decide you need one. The most important reason is that electric blankets can keep you really warm when it’s very cold outside. You can use a thick comforter and blankets to keep warm but sometimes, these may not be enough.
An electric blanket essentially makes use of an insulated wire which is between the blanket’s fabric. The heat generated directly will keep you warmer and do the job faster when compared to the heat generated by your body.
Benefits of Using an Electric Blanket
Some of the main reasons for using an electric blanket are:
Cost-Saving
Using an electric blanket instead of turning on the central heating is definitely more cost-effective and you’re sure to see a reduction in your electricity bills. An electric blanket used on every bed in your home will definitely consume less energy and if you are able to lower the thermostat of your heating system by just 10o, you will see a significantly lower electricity bill.
Relief from Pain
A high-quality electric blanket can have the same effects as an electric pad and can help to reduce aches and pains, which get worse during the cold winter months. This works especially if you suffer from fibromyalgia, arthritis or menstrual cramps. The heat from the blanket can help improve the flow of blood in your, help you relax, reduce stiffness and increase flexibility and the range of motion. It can also soothe any tension and help you rest a little better.
Greater Comfort
Sometimes, no matter how tightly you wrap your comforter around you, it just doesn’t do the trick. An electric comforter will keep you as warm as you need and give you a full eight hours’ sleep. Here is a little tip: turn on the electric blanket a little while before you retire for the day. It will have your bed cozy and ready for when you decide to crawl in and you can just fall asleep instead of waiting to get warmer.
What to Look for When Buying an Electric Blanket
Essentially, an electric blanket heats up and helps you keep warm. Many electric blanket models come with a host of features that make it an excellent companion on cold nights. Here are some things you should look for when shopping for an electric blanket.
Heat Settings
The best electric blanket models have heat settings that are adjustable and allow you to choose the temperature that keeps you most comfortable.
Dual Controls
Look for an electric blanket that has a temperature controller on both sides of the blanket, especially if it is a king or queen-sized one. This way, both you and your partner can adjust the temperature settings according to your individual preference.
Auto Shut-Off
Choose an electric blanket that has an auto shut-off feature. This makes the blanket very safe and does not overheat while you are asleep.
Machine Washable
Look for an electric blanket that you can clean in your washing machine. The blanket should come with a facility which allows you to remove the electric controls, plug, and all other components. In short, it should be safe for machine washing.
Thick and Soft
Most electric blankets available in the market have fire-resistant polyester material. Look for a blanket that is thick and soft so that you are not able to feel the electric wire through the fabric; this can make it quite uncomfortable.
LCD Screen
Look for an electric blanket that is equipped with an electric controller and an LCD screen that will allow you to see the readings even in the dark. This way, you can adjust the temperature as you require.
Thin Wires
Look for an electric blanket with thin wires as this makes it easier to wrap around yourself while sleeping, giving you a more relaxed and comfortable night’s sleep (or afternoon nap). Thinner wires add to your comfort and they also make it easier to store the blanket when not in use.
Ease of Use
The electric blanket you buy should be easy to use and should not have complicated settings. Blankets with lighted dials that allow you to see at night, cords which are long enough to reach your electric sockets, simple settings, etc. add to the ease of use of the electric blanket.
Programmable Settings
Some electric blanket models have programmable pre-heating settings that let you warm up your electric blanket a few minutes before you retire for the day. This way, your bed is warm and toasty when you get in.
Warranty
Buy an electric blanket that has a manufacturer’s warranty; this will give you peace of mind. In the case the blanket, controller or cords malfunction, the warranty will help you replace the blanket or its parts at no extra cost. However, the warranty usually does not cover any damage or accidents.
In this article, we will be reviewing some of the best electric blankets in the market, so that you make an informed decision about what suits yours and your family’s needs the best.
Reviews of the Top Electric Blankets
Sunbeam Microplush Heated Electric Throw Blanket
If you are looking for a way to stay warm but also don’t really want to spend a lot of money on an expensive electric blanket, you could choose a budget option like the Microplush Heated Electric Throw Blanket from Sunbeam. The imported Sunbeam Microplush electric throw blanket is made of 100% polyester microplush fabric that keeps you warm and cozy.
The Sunbeam Microplush features three warming settings, it heats up very quickly and the ThermoFine technology enables it to auto-adjust itself to deliver steady heat. The electric throw blanket also has a 3-hour auto shut-off feature, which makes it extremely safe to use. The extra-soft electric blanket is extremely easy to clean and maintain. You can simply wash and dry it in the washing machine. The Sunbeam Microplush blanket comes with a 5-year limited warranty.
One drawback of the Sunbeam electric blanket is that the location of the control and electrical attachment in the center and bottom edge makes it a bit difficult to plug into an electric socket. However, even though the Sunbeam Microplush may offer fewer features while compared to its high-end alternatives, it still provides excellent warmth and comfort. All in all, it offers great value for money.
Sunbeam Reversible Royal Mink/ Sherpa Heated Throw Blanket
If you are looking for something to keep you cozy while lounging on the couch on the weekends, then you may not really want a full-sized blanket. This is where the Sunbeam Reversible heated throw blanket comes in as an excellent alternative. The throw blanket offers all the features of a larger blanket but in a smaller size.
The warm and fluffy throw blanket is reversible and has plush Royal Mink on one side, while the other is a soft and snug Sherpa; you can decide which side you want to use depending on your mood. The throw blanket features an EliteStyle II controller and you can choose from three heat settings depending on the level of warmth you are looking for.
The auto-adjusting, dual-side ThermoFine technology of the Sunbeam Reversible heated throw blanket ensures that you get consistent heat throughout the night. It also has the 3-hour auto shut-off feature that makes it a safe option and offers you complete peace of mind while you sleep. The 6-foot cord of the throw is sufficient to plug into a 110-120-volt electric source.
Made of 100% soft polyester fabric, the throw blanket can be washed and dried in the machine. The Sunbeam Reversible heated throw blanket comes with a 5-year limited warranty and is extremely durable. It is sure to keep you warm for a very long time to come.
SoftHeat MicroPlush Electric Heated Queen Mattress Pad
If you want to keep your mattress consistently warm from the bottom of the bed, an electric heated mattress pad is an excellent buy when compared to a regular blanket. Made of 100% polyester fabric with a soft micro-velour top, the SoftHeat MicroPlush Electric Heated Mattress Pad is washer and dryer safe without any stretching, shrinking or pilling.
The SoftHeat heated mattress pad makes use of low-voltage heating technology to warm your bed and also saves energy while it is being used. The mattress pad has a pre-heating feature and built-in protection that prevents overheating. In addition, the 10-hour auto shut-off feature is designed to keep you safe and give you complete peace of mind while you sleep.
The mattress pad is equipped with ultra-thin wires inside the soft heat pads; this means you just cannot feel the wires. It provides uniform and gentle warmth, preventing any annoying cold or hot spots on the bed. The SoftHeat mattress pad has two different zones and comes with dual lit controls which let you adjust the temperature individually according to your comfort.
SoftHeat Luxury Microfleece Electric Heated Blanket, Queen Size
If you are looking for the perfect accessory to keep your bed warm and cozy in the winter, then the SoftHeat Microfleece Electric Heated Blanket is definitely a great option to consider. Made of brushed super-soft polyester microfleece, the electric heated blanket can be conveniently washed and dried in your washing machine without the risk of shrinking, stretching or pilling.
The SoftHeat electric blanket has low-voltage technology that is non-hazardous and safe. It helps save energy and keeps you warm so that you can sleep more comfortably on particularly brutal winter nights. The electric blanket also features the automatic shut-off mode after 10 hours and the overheating protection keeps you safe and at peace. The electric blanket has separate dual heating zones with two controls that allow individual adjustment according to your comfort.
You just cannot feel the ultra-thin wires of the electric blanket, and the 3-inch heating grid design of the SoftHeat blanket helps eliminate all cold and hot spots. The electric blanket has an automatic pre-heat and holds feature that makes it very easy to use. The pre-heat and hold feature is extremely convenient and lets you heat up your bed and keep it warm before you get in for the night.
The blanket is available in different sizes – twin, full, queen and king and a choice of colors. The thick and cozy microfleece, thin wires and a host of other features makes the SoftHeat electric blanket among the best in the market.
Which Best Electric Blanket Is Right For You?
Buying an electric blanket can make a real difference to your cold winter nights while making sure your electricity bill isn’t too high. Remember to consider your preferences and pick the ones that work best for you.
Last update on 2024-02-27 at 19:01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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