Final Verdict
Our top pick is the Shavel Micro Flannel Sherpa Electric Blanket for its plush shearling underside, 10 heat settings, dual controller function, programmable timer, and memory function. In our lab testing this electric blanket received a nearly perfect score, making it a great addition to just about any home.
Our Testing Process
To find the best electric blankets on the market, we acquired 27 models and tested them in our Lab. We first evaluated the quality and construction of the blanket by spreading it out on a bed and inspecting it for loose threads, separated seams, snags, or other flaws. Then, we touched the blanket to gauge the quality of the materials, as well as whether it was smooth, scratchy, stiff, or had noticeable wires.
Next, we laid under the blanket and took note of the feel, comparing it to a regular blanket in terms of stiffness, heft, and comfortability. We also shook the blanket to see if it created any noise.
While powering on their blanket, we evaluated features like screens, buttons, brightness or display controls, and indicator lights, to determine overall ease of use. Each blanket has unique characteristics and controls, so we evaluated them based on their particular type.
For blankets with a single controller, we used an IR thermometer to take a temperature reading under the blanket before heating and again in 15 minutes after setting it to its highest temperature. We assessed whether the blanket successfully reached its highest temperature setting in 15 minutes or if the temperature was below the manufacturer’s specifications.
For blankets with dual controllers, we set one side to its lowest heat setting and the other to its highest heat setting. After 15 minutes, we recorded the temperature under each side of the blanket and laid underneath to see if the difference was noteworthy. We also laid in the middle of the blanket to see if there was any gap between the heating zones. Like with the single controller testing, we also noted whether the blanket reached its highest temperature within 15 minutes.
Blankets with a programmable shut-off timer were assessed on whether the function worked as expected by setting the timer to its lowest period alongside a separate timer on their phone. We noted whether the blanket turned off or stayed on after the elapsed period.
We also tested machine-washable blankets for durability after a wash and dry, looking for loose threads, separating seams, snags, holes, pilling, or any other signs of damage. After inspecting the blanket for wear, we turned on the heating function to compare its pre-wash performance. We also measured the blanket before and after washing to see if any shrinkage occurred.
For blankets that were spot clean only, we poured one tablespoon of coffee on the blanket and let it sit for 30 seconds. We then blotted the area with a cool, wet towel to see if the stain lifted—if it didn’t, we proceeded to treat it with a Tide pen.
After the lab tests were completed, we looked at the retail price of their product. We evaluated the price in conjunction with the electric blanket’s performance during tests to assess the overall value of the product.
How to Shop for Electric Blankets Like a Pro
Size
Do you plan to use an electric blanket as a cozy throw on your living room couch? Or do you plan to snuggle up in bed with your blanket during the most frigid months? Depending on how you want to use your electric blanket, consider the size that would be most effective for your purposes. For beds, we recommend finding a duvet-sized option that can cover the entirety of your mattress. If you only want an electric blanket for late-night movie marathons or to drape over your lounge chair, then a throw-size blanket fits the bill.
Material
We’ve rounded up a range of comfortable and cozy materials including plush microfiber, shearling, fleece, and flannel blankets. You can tailor your final selection based on your existing decor and comfort preferences—some blankets are thinner, while other, more downy options are prime for a fuzzy and toasty electric blanket.
Cleaning
Finding an electric blanket that is machine-washable is much easier than it used to be—many options can be tossed in the laundry (after detaching cords and carefully reading the manufacturer’s instructions, of course). That said, some electric blankets are still spot clean only, so if you’re prone to messes or like to frequently launder your bedding, a machine-washable option might be best for you.
Certifications
The two most common certifications are UL and ETL—both ensure that your electric blanket is safe to use, as both ratings are Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories (NRTL). “When purchasing electronics, including electric blankets, be sure to only purchase those which have been certified and tested by an NRTL,” says Brianne Deerwester, communications coordinator for the Electrical Safety Foundation International. “NRTLs test and certify electrical equipment and other products to ensure that they meet current safety standards and are safe with proper use.”
Safety should be a primary concern when selecting your electric blanket, and the best way to find a reliable, tested product is to search for these two safety ratings. All of the electric blankets we recommend have one of these certifications.
Bonus Features
- Automatic Shutoff: This feature is built into most electric blankets as an additional safety precaution—it assures that the blanket won’t overheat or run through electricity. Some shutoff features have timers designed for those who want to sleep with their blanket, though the most common time capacity is one hour.
- Dual-Temperature Control: No two sleepers are the same, which is why the additional feature of dual temperature control can come in handy for those who share a bed. Each side of the blanket can be individually controlled, so nobody faces a case of night sweats or frigid toes.
More Electric Blankets to Consider
True North by Sleep Philosophy Arielle Electric Metallic Print Throw: We were impressed by this throw’s thorough heat distribution and intuitive, sleek controls. The fabric felt a bit thin, though, and the sparkly, metallic design may be an acquired taste.
Westinghouse Silky Flannel Lined Electric Blanket: This ETL-certified blanket feels high-quality, but we didn’t love the long and easily tangled cords. While the high heat settings were very effective, the lower heat settings felt barely noticeable.
Questions You Might Ask
Is it ok to leave my electric blanket on all night?
Experts agree that electric blankets should not be left on all night—which is why timer functions and auto-off features come in handy. If you plan on falling asleep with your electric blanket we recommend ensuring that it has one of these two features for safety. According to Deerwester: “Heating appliances should never be left unattended or used while sleeping.”
Can you put a blanket on top of an electric blanket?
To avoid any fire and safety hazards, do not put anything on top of your electric blanket when it’s in use. “When covered by anything, including other blankets or pets, electric blankets may overheat,” says Deerwester. “Heating appliances should never be left unattended or used while sleeping.”
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Quinn Gawronski, associate commerce editor for Real Simple, who has three years of experience writing and editing product reviews and roundups, and updated by Jamie Fischer, a commerce writer for Real Simple. To find the best electric blankets we tested 27 popular models over a span of six months, and evaluated them on quality, feel, effectiveness, heat, durability, ease of use, value, and bonus features like programmable timers and dual controllers. For expert tips, we consulted Brianne Deerwester, communications coordinator for the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI).
What Is Real Simple Selects?
Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.
Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.