Reviewing the Best Electric Heated Blankets to Buy in 2020
Winter is here and that means it’s time to break out that massive pile of blankets you’ve been saving in the back of your closet, so you don’t freeze to death. If only there was a better way…
Well, there is and it’s called an electric blanket!
So, say goodbye to your annual blanket pile and get ready to learn everything you ever wanted to know about heated blankets.
How do Heated Blankets Work?
Electric blankets contain a system of insulated wires woven throughout the fabric layers of the blanket allowing them to heat up when plugged into an outlet. There is then a temperature control unit attached to the exterior of the blanket that allows users to adjust the amount of heat the blanket produces.
With many modern heated blankets, you will find other luxury features as well such as:
- Multiple Heat Settings (In some cases up to 20!)
- Dual Heat Settings (Each half can be different)
- Automatic Shut Off (Keeping you warm, and safe!)
But the general idea is still the same. Simply plug in your electric blanket and enjoy being warm and cozy.
The 3 Best Electric Blankets for 2020
To compile our list of the best electric blankets we reviewed nearly a hundred potential candidates and decided that the blankets we’re about to talk about are just a cut above the rest.
I’ll break down the pros and cons of each heated blanket in the remainder of this article, so you know exactly what you’re shopping for.
Best Electric Blanket – SoftHeat by Perfect Fit
A best-seller on Amazon and our personal favorite, this heated blanket has it all!
It’s well made, comfortable, and comes with a 5-year warranty! It’s also made with Soft Heat ultra-thin wires that are significantly less noticeable than their competitor’s thick, bulky wiring systems. This allows for maximum comfort and flexibility for an electric blanket you can use anywhere in the house.
Here are a few other things we love about this heated blanket:
- Comfort – The plush fabric used in these blankets is the softest on the market.
- Efficiency – Low Voltage technology means using this blanket could cost you only a penny a night!
- Safety – Safe for you and your pets with the lowest EMF frequency on the market and automatic 10 hour shut off.
- Advanced Comfort Settings – This blanket has 2 heating zones and duel controllers to go with it, making it perfect for couples.
After looking at all these factors we decided that the SoftHeat Electric blanket had to be our number 1 recommendation. Click this link to check Amazon for available sizes and current pricing:
One Size Fits All – Beautyrest Microlight to Berber Electric Blanket
This was a close second, and honestly depending on personal preference it may slip into first place. That’s why we dubbed it the “One size fits all” heated blanket.
This blanket is not quite as soft as our top heated blanket, but if you want options this baby has options!
- 20 Heat Settings
- Reversible Microlight Plush to Sherpa Berber fabric
- Dual Control on King and Queen Sizes.
The Beautyrest Microlight to Berber electric blanket uses a lightweight design similar to the SoftHeat blanket, accompanied by all the safety features you would expect to see. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. And did I mention this blanket has an astounding 20 heat settings?!?
So why wasn’t this ranked #1?
Though this blanket checks a ton of the right boxes we had just a few complaints:
- It consumes 4 times as much electricity as the SoftHeat
- The insulated cords are just a bit more noticeable when not being used in bed.
Still this is a great blanket and often runs just a tad cheaper than our top choice. If you’re interested, you can check it out on Amazon here:
Perfect Couch Blanket – iTeknic Electric Blanket
Last, but not least we have the iTeknic Electric Throw Blanket. This is the perfect blanket for cuddling up on the couch and watching a movie.
It’s ridiculously soft and with 10 heat settings, it gives you more than enough temperature flexibility to be comfortable year-round. If you’re not getting your blanket strictly for the bedroom, then the iTeknic is the obvious choice.
Why is this ranked below the other 2?
There are a few major reasons this blanket received the bronze in the electric blanket Olympics, but here are the major ones:
- Not enough sizing options – Only available in 61” by 50” size
- Quick shutoff – This blanket is designed to automatically shut off after 3 hours (as opposed to 10 with the 2 above.)
- No dual control options
Other Quality Electric Blankets to Consider
The following blankets didn’t quite make our top 3, but we still think these runners-up deserve an honorable mention. If you’re looking for a gift or you’re hesitant to become an electric blanket user, then one of these may be your best option:
Basically Beautyrest – Sunbeam Heated Throw Blanket – Reversible Sherpa
If you like the sounds of the Beautyrest Electric blanket, but not the cost, this may be the electric blanket for you! It has the same reversible design, just way less heat settings.
Budget Electric Blanket – Pure Warmth Heated Electric Throw
Not quite as soft as the top-ranking electric blankets, not as many heat settings, and not as many sizing options. But on a budget, this is still a great blanket!
Best for Gifting – Sunbeam Heated Throw Blanket
At around half the price of our top-ranking heated blankets, this throw is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a thoughtful, yet inexpensive gift.
Electric Blanket FAQs
Are Heated Blankets Safe?
Yes! As long as you’re following the manufacturer’s usage guidelines there is no risk to using an electric blanket. They’re built to withstand machine washing and the daily wear of being bunched up and folded.
They are also designed with people in mind, so they don’t get too hot or stay on for too long. In addition to keeping you comfortable, you can rest easy knowing your heated blanket is 100% safe.
Are Electric Blankets Worth It?
They definitely can be! Most modern heated blankets are extremely energy efficient. As a result, over time they will cost you way less than bumping up your thermostat.
Even with the most eco-efficient heating systems you could be looking at a 3% monthly increase to your heating bill just to bump the temperature of your home up 1 or 2 degrees on a cold night. With that in mind it’s easy to see how your electric blanket could pay for itself.
Are Heated Blankets Bad for You?
No. And, in many cases, they can be good for you. Getting a good night’s sleep has a huge impact on your overall health the following day, so if an electric blanket allows you to wake up feeling rested then it’s worth every cent.
Using electric blankets can also be a great remedy for soreness and muscle discomfort whether you’re in bed or just relaxing on the couch after a long day. They have also been known to provide much needed relief to people dealing with arthritis, fibromyalgia and painful menstruation cycles.
How Long Do Electric Blankets Last?
In most cases about 10 years, but this will really depend on the quality of the electric blank you purchase. To quote the old adage, “You get what you pay for”.
That being said, many high-quality heated blankets also come with a limited warranty if any malfunctions should occur.
Can Heated Blankets Catch on Fire?
Technically yes, but it’s extremely unlikely if you’re using a newer model.
Older electric blankets may not have safety features such as automatic shut-offs or fully flexible insulated wires. This can result in the blanket overheating or electrical components breaking if they are folded, bunched, or tucked beyond their limits. For more details about this check out this page on what causes electric blanket fires.
In short, as long as you have a modern heated blanket, you’re perfectly safe!
Are Heated Blankets Safe for Pets?
This depends on multiple factors. Electric blankets shouldn’t hurt your pets as long as you take the same precautions you would for yourself.
Make sure it’s low voltage, equipped with an automatic shut off system, doesn’t get too hot, etc… but if your dog or cat has a tendency to chew on things this could present a hazard if the wires were to become exposed.
In the end, it’s probably better to get your furry friend something that’s specifically designed to meet his (or her) needs.
Should I Buy Used Heated Blankets?
No! Please don’t! Buying an electric blanket from a garage sale or secondhand shop could cost you much more than you saved by buying used in the first place.
You don’t know if the electrical components are fully intact and you don’t’ know if the technology is up to today’s safety standards. The extra money you may have to spend on a new heated blanket is worth every cent if it spares you, your loved ones, or your personal belongings from tragedy.
Final Thoughts on Electric Blankets
If you’ve made it this far, you’re clearly interested, so why not try for yourself?
- Heated blankets are safer than ever before
- They come in a wide variety of styles and comfort options
- Machine washable and easy to care for
- And can provide the warmth and comfort you long for during the winter months
With so many pros and no real cons, it seems like a no brainer. As Tom Haverford would say, “Treat yo self!”
