Electric blankets have been keeping sleepers cosy for decades. As the nights get chilly, there’s nothing quite like snuggling up under a warm, toasty blanket.
These clever gadgets use wires woven into the fabric to heat up, creating a cocoon of warmth that’s perfect for cold winter evenings.
I’ve spent years testing and reviewing bedding, and electric blankets are a brilliant way to stay warm without cranking up the heating. They’re energy-efficient too, using less power than central heating to keep you snug.
Plus, many modern electric blankets have handy features like dual controls for couples and auto shut-off for peace of mind.
When choosing an electric blanket, there are a few key things to look out for. Safety is top priority, so check for certifications and overheat protection.
The fabric should be soft and cosy against your skin. Controls need to be easy to use, even in the dark. And washability is important for keeping your blanket fresh.
I’ve tested loads of electric blankets over the years to find the ones that tick all these boxes. Let’s dive into my top picks for staying toasty this winter.
Best Electric Blankets
I’ve spent years testing and recommending bedding products, and I’m excited to share my top picks for electric blankets with you.
These cosy warmers can be real game-changers for chilly nights. I’ve put together a list of the best options to suit different needs and budgets, so you can find the perfect one to keep you toasty.
Silentnight Cosy Fleece Warmer
This electric blanket is a top pick for chilly nights, offering great value and reliable warmth.
Pros
- Super soft fleece material
- Quick heat-up with 3 settings
- Safe with overheat protection
Cons
- Smaller size may not suit all beds
- Manual controls might not appeal to everyone
- Limited heat settings compared to pricier models
I’ve been testing out this Silentnight electric blanket, and I’m quite impressed.
The fleece material feels lovely against the skin – it’s like being wrapped in a warm hug! I found it heated up quickly, which was brilliant on those nippy evenings when I just wanted to dive into bed.
The three heat settings give a nice range of warmth. I usually stick to the lowest setting, which takes the chill off nicely.
On the coldest nights, cranking it up to 3 turns my bed into a cosy haven. It’s dead simple to use too – just a straightforward dial to twist.
One thing I really like is how it sits on the bed. The straps keep it in place well, so I’m not wrestling with a bunched-up blanket in the middle of the night.
And it’s a relief knowing it has overheat protection – I can drift off without worrying about safety.
I must say, it’s been a game-changer for my energy bills. Warming just the bed instead of the whole room has saved me a packet.
And when it needs a clean, I can bung it in the washing machine – no fuss, no bother.
The only niggle I have is the size. It’s a bit smaller than my mattress, which means the edges of my bed don’t get the same toasty treatment.
But for the price, I reckon it’s a cracking bit of kit. If you’re after a budget-friendly way to stay warm this winter, give this Silentnight blanket a go. Your toes will thank you!
Lyssiefeel Cosy Blanket
I reckon this Lyssiefeel heated throw is a cracking choice for anyone after a bit of extra warmth without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Super soft flannel and sherpa material
- Four heat settings for customised comfort
- Machine washable for easy care
Cons
- Timer function can be a bit fiddly
- Might be too warm for some in warmer months
- Needs to be placed on top, not slept on directly
I’ve been snuggling up with this Lyssiefeel blanket for a few weeks now, and I’m chuffed to bits with it.
The moment I took it out of the box, I was impressed by how plush it felt. It’s got this lovely flannel top and a sherpa underside that’s proper cosy even when it’s not switched on.
When I fired it up, I was pleased to find four different heat settings.
I’ve been using the lowest one most nights, and it’s spot on for taking the chill off.
The higher settings are grand for those really nippy evenings when you want to warm up quickly. Just remember to pop it over you rather than lying on it – it’s not meant to be a heated mattress topper.
One thing I really like is how easy it is to clean.
I was a bit worried about washing an electric blanket, but you just unplug the controls and bung it in the machine. No fuss, no bother.
It’s a decent size too – plenty big enough to share on the sofa for a bit of telly watching.
Lillo Cosy Heated Throw
I reckon this heated blanket is a top choice for anyone wanting to stay toasty without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Heats up quickly in 30 seconds
- Soft and fluffy fabric
- Loads of heat settings
Cons
- Might be too small for tall folks
- Controls take a bit of getting used to
- Can’t be tumble dried
I’ve just had the pleasure of snuggling up with the Lillo heated throw, and I must say, it’s a game-changer for chilly evenings.
As soon as I plugged it in, I was impressed by how quickly it warmed up. Within half a minute, I was wrapped in a cocoon of warmth.
The flannel and sherpa combo feels like a dream against the skin – it’s so soft, I almost didn’t want to get up!
One thing I really love about this blanket is the range of heat settings.
With 25 levels to choose from, I found it dead easy to get the temperature just right.
Whether I wanted a gentle warmth or something more toasty, this blanket delivered.
The timer function is a brilliant touch too.
I’ve been setting it for a couple of hours before bed, and it switches off automatically, so I don’t have to worry about overheating in my sleep.
Now, it’s not all roses.
The controls took me a bit of fiddling to get the hang of, but once I did, it was smooth sailing.
And while the size is perfect for curling up on the sofa, taller folks might find it a tad short.
But for me, it’s just the ticket for those nippy nights when I don’t fancy cranking up the central heating.
Plus, being able to bung it in the washing machine is a real bonus – though remember to unplug the controller first!
PROALLER Cosy Electric Throw
I reckon this electric throw is a top choice for staying warm on chilly nights without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Soft, reversible fabric
- 10 heat settings for customised comfort
- 9-hour timer with auto-off feature
Cons
- May be too small for larger beds
- Cord placement could be awkward for some
- Takes a bit to heat up fully
I’ve been snuggling up with this PROALLER electric throw lately, and I must say, it’s been a game-changer for those nippy evenings.
The reversible design is a real treat – one side’s fleecy flannel, the other’s plush sherpa. It’s like having two blankets in one!
The size is spot on for curling up on the sofa or draping over a single bed. At 160x130cm, it’s generous enough to cover two of us while we’re binge-watching our favourite shows.
Mind you, if you’re after something for a king-size bed, you might want to look for a larger option.
I’m chuffed with the 10 heat settings.
Whether I fancy a gentle warmth or a toasty cocoon, I can dial it in just right.
The 9-hour timer is brilliant too – no more waking up in a sweat because I’ve forgotten to switch it off!
Safety-wise, this throw’s got us covered.
It cuts off automatically if it gets too hot, which puts my mind at ease.
Plus, it’s a proper energy-saver. I’ve been using it instead of cranking up the heating, and my energy bills are looking much healthier.
One small gripe – it does take a few minutes to warm up fully. But once it gets going, it’s proper cosy.
And when it needs a wash, I just unplug the controller and pop it in the machine. Easy peasy!
Mia&Coco Cosy Electric Throw
This brilliant heated throw is a must-have for chilly nights and cosy evenings in.
Pros
- Super soft flannel and sherpa material
- 10 heat settings for perfect warmth
- Handy auto-off timer for safety
Cons
- Cord placement can be a bit awkward
- May be too warm for some users
- Limited colour options
I recently got my hands on this Mia&Coco electric throw, and I’m chuffed to bits! The moment I wrapped myself up in it, I felt like I was being hugged by a warm cloud.
The flannel side is smooth and lovely, while the sherpa side feels like cuddling a fluffy sheep.
The controls are a doddle to use. I love having 10 heat settings to choose from – perfect for those nights when I’m feeling a bit Goldilocks about my temperature.
And let me tell you, it heats up faster than you can say “Bob’s your uncle”!
One thing that’s brilliant about this throw is the auto-off timer. I’m a bit of a worrier, so knowing it’ll switch off on its own gives me peace of mind. Plus, it’s a right energy-saver!
I’ve been using it instead of cranking up the heating, and my energy bills are thanking me.
Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The cord can be a bit of a faff – I sometimes feel like I’m playing Twister trying to get comfy without sitting on it.
And if you’re someone who runs hot, you might find even the lowest setting a tad warm. But for me, it’s just the ticket for those nippy evenings.
Buying Guide
When shopping for an electric blanket, there are a few key things I always look out for.
First up, safety features are a must. I recommend choosing a blanket with auto shut-off and overheat protection. These will give you peace of mind while you snooze.
Next, consider the size. Make sure to measure your bed and pick a blanket that fits properly. Nothing’s worse than a blanket that’s too small or hangs off the sides!
Heat settings are another biggie. I prefer blankets with at least 3 heat levels, so you can find your perfect toasty temperature.
Some even offer dual controls for couples who like different levels of warmth.
Here’s a quick checklist of features to look for:
- Auto shut-off
- Overheat protection
- Multiple heat settings
- Machine washable fabric
- Dual controls (for larger sizes)
- Soft, comfortable material
Don’t forget to check the cord length. You’ll want one that easily reaches your nearest outlet without stretching.
Lastly, think about your specific needs. Do you get cold feet? Look for a blanket with extra foot warmth. Struggle with arthritis? Some models have special settings to ease joint pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Electric blankets can be a cozy addition to your bedding, but they often come with questions. Let’s tackle some common queries to help you make the best choice for your needs.
How do I choose an electric blanket without feeling the wires inside?
Look for blankets with thinner, more flexible wires. I’ve found that models with micro-wires or carbon fiber elements tend to be less noticeable.
Some brands use special padding techniques to mask the feel of wires. It’s worth checking customer reviews to see what others say about wire comfort.
What’s the difference between a heated blanket and its electric counterpart, exactly?
There’s no real difference. The terms are often used interchangeably.
Both refer to blankets with built-in heating elements that warm up when plugged in. Some people prefer “heated blanket” as it sounds cosier, but they’re the same product.
Is it safe to layer a comforter over my electric blanket, or is that a no-go?
It’s generally safe to use a comforter over an electric blanket. Just make sure not to pile on too many layers, as this can lead to overheating.
I always recommend following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Some blankets are designed to be used under bedding, while others work best on top.
Could you suggest a top-notch alternative to the traditional electric blanket?
A heated mattress pad is a brilliant alternative. It sits on your mattress, under your sheets, providing warmth from below.
I find these are often more comfortable as you don’t feel any wires. They’re also great for couples with different temperature preferences, as many have dual controls.
Can you give me the lowdown on the most reliable brands for heated blankets?
From my experience, Sunbeam is a trusted name in the UK market. They offer a range of options and have been in the business for years.
Dreamland is another solid choice, known for their quality and innovative features. Homefront and Slumberdown also make reliable electric blankets that I’ve had good experiences with.
For the more mature crowd, which electric blanket would you say hits the mark for safety and comfort?
I’d recommend looking for a blanket with auto-shutoff features and easy-to-use controls.
The Dreamland Intelliheat+ range is a good shout. It has clear, large buttons and a digital display. The blanket also turns off automatically after 1-9 hours, which is great for peace of mind.
Sunbeam’s Quilted Heated Mattress Pad is another option, offering gentle, consistent heat and simple controls.