Electric Heating Blanket
Electric blankets sell at home stores and online. Safety features matter most.
Updated . Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.
Where to buy
- Search AmazonLive search · amazon.com
- Search WalmartLive search · walmart.com
- Search TargetLive search · target.com
- Google ShoppingLive search · google.com
Department stores and bedding shops stock them from fall to early spring. Buy new rather than secondhand, since older blankets may lack shutoff protection.
Professional insight
Bedding buyers check the safety listing and shutoff timer first. Fabric and color come after that.
- Look for a UL or ETL mark on the tag.
- Dual controls suit couples with different heat needs.
- Detachable controllers make machine washing possible.
- Underblankets heat the mattress; overblankets heat from above.
Check the label
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Types
| Type | Where it goes | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Overblanket | Over the top sheet | Warmth from above |
| Underblanket or mattress pad | Under the bottom sheet | Prewarming the bed |
| Heated throw | Sofa or chair | Reading or TV time |
| 12 V travel blanket | Car or RV outlet | Road trips and camping |
Safe use
- Keep the blanket flat, never folded or bunched.
- Do not tuck wires under the mattress.
- Never let pets chew or claw it.
- Do not sit or lie on an overblanket.
- Unplug it when not in use.
Signs it needs replacing
- Scorch marks or dark spots on the fabric.
- Frayed cord or cracked controller.
- Wires you can feel out of place.
- Uneven heat or hot spots.
- No automatic shutoff feature.
Care
Unplug and detach the controller before washing. Follow the care tag exactly. Most need a gentle cycle and air drying or low heat.
Common questions
- Can I leave it on all night?
- Follow the maker's instructions. Many models shut off after a set time.
- Is a heated throw the same thing?
- It works the same way but is smaller and meant for sitting.
- How do I check for a recall?
- Enter the blanket's model number at cpsc.gov/Recalls.