The Bottom Line
Overall, the best heated blanket is the Micro Flannel Reverse to Sherpa Electric Heated Blanket for its quality, durability, and cozy feel. Our testers also loved that it heats up quickly and comes with an auto shut-off function for added safety.
Our Testing Process
To find the best heated blankets, we had 11 testers put 27 electric blankets to the test at our testing lab in Des Moines, Iowa. Using a pre-determined methodology, testers evaluated and scored each pick based on seven categories: quality, feel, effectiveness, heat, durability, ease of use, and value.
To determine quality, testers examine the blanket and noted its construction, the materials, and if there were any defects. They also compared the blanket to the manufacturer’s specifications to determine if it was aligned. In the same vein, testers scored feel based on the blanket’s quality and how soft, luxurious, and warm it felt.
Effectiveness was based on how quickly the blanket heated and how much heat it offered. The blankets lost points if testers had any critiques about any settings or features. To score the heat category, testers evaluated the range of heat levels, as well as any dual zones. They also tested any specific temperatures the manufacturer listed.
Durability was determined based on if the blanket was still in the same condition after all of the tests were performed. If the pick was machine washable, the blanket was evaluated to determine if the size and quality remained the same. If a blanket was spot-clean only, a tablespoon of coffee was poured on it. After 30 seconds, the area was blotted with a wet towel to see if it could be removed. If not, testers also tried to use a Tide pen to remove it.
Ease of use was determined by how easy it was to control the blanket, as well as if there were any innovative features. Overall value was then based on if the tester thought the price was appropriate, as well as if they recommend the blanket.
What to Know About Electric Blankets Before Shopping
Size
Electric blankets are available in various sizes ranging from throw blankets to queen and king-size blankets. If you’re looking for an electric blanket to keep you warm and cozy while lounging around the house, a smaller size throw should work just fine. However, you can also choose one to fit your bed and keep you warm throughout the night. If you and your partner prefer different temperatures while sleeping, look for an electric blanket with dual controls.
Material
The material can contribute to the warmth of a blanket, so it’s an important detail to keep in mind. In general, you’ll find that most options are polyester or flannel, two options that will keep you warm even without a heating element.
Auto Timer
Most of the electric blankets on our list come with auto timers, which means the blanket automatically shuts off after a set amount of time. Automatic timers can be as low as two hours and as high as 10.
“Electric blankets must always be unplugged or turned off when not in use,” says Jennifer Schallmoser, media relations specialist at the National Safety Council.
Cord Length
Cord length is an important feature to look at when shopping for a heated blanket, especially if you want to use it in bed or on your couch. The length of a cord can be one foot or six, so be mindful of where you want to use it and how far that is from an outlet. Otherwise, you may need to also use an extension cord.
Care
Many electric blankets are machine washable, but you’ll want to check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure. If it is, just make sure you remove the power cord and controller before washing or drying the blanket.
Other Heated Blankets We Tested
Tefici Electric Heated Blanket Throw
Although Tefici Electric Heated Blanket Throwwas soft and easy to use, the thin layers of fabric and low-quality stitching gave it an unfinished look. Testers could also see the wires and it didn’t heat up as much as the other electric blankets we tried.
Perfect Fit Ultra Soft Plush Electric Heated Warming Blanket
This Perfect Fit Ultra Soft Plush Electric Heated Warming Blanketis soft and comfortable, but the heat output is low. It has two controls with long cords that offer more plug-in options, but only one of the controls worked when it was tested. Plus, the cords can get easily tangled.
Lomitech Heated Blanket at Amazon
The Lomitech Heated Blanket is durable and easy to clean. However, the wires clumped together in one area, and testers found that it didn’t offer good heat distribution.
Your Questions, Answered
How long do electric blankets last?
Electric blankets can last up to 10 years with proper care. However, if you notice any brown spots, exposed wires, or uneven heat distribution it may be time to replace your blanket.
Can you put another blanket on top of an electric blanket?
Safety is a key consideration when using an electric blanket, so you’ll want to be mindful of any other bedding as well.
“Don’t put anything on top of an electric blanket, including other blankets or pets, as this can cause the devices to overheat, “ says Schallmoser.
Do electric blankets save money?
Electric blankets are a cost-effective way to keep warm since they do not consume very much energy. Depending on where you live, you may also need to use a full-home heater less, which could cut down costs.
Who We Are
Erica Reagle is a freelance writer for Better Homes & Gardens. To make this list, she used testing insights from our Des Moines, Iowa testing lab. She also consulted Jennifer Schallmoser, a media relations specialist at the National Safety Council, and Karen Sorbo-Gangola, a senior physical therapist at Pure Healthy Back Troy, for additional insight.
What Is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed our BHG Recommends seal of approval. Products that earn the seal have been put through rigorous testing to make sure they’re worth a spot in your home. We buy most of the products we test ourselves, but occasionally we are provided samples by companies if buying isn’t an option. In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.
Looking for more products that have earned our BHG Recommends seal of approval? Check out our picks for everything from picnic blankets to humidifiers.