The 6 Best Electric Blankets of 2023 | Tested by The Spruce

In light of the March 2023 recall , we no longer recommend any queen-sized models from Sunbeam. We will continue to monitor and update our recommendations accordingly.

After researching and testing dozens of electric blankets, we chose our favorites considering the material, size, certifications, and features of each.

To ensure you purchase a safe electric blanket, Daniel Majano , Program Manager for the Electrical Safety Foundation International, recommends only buying from reputable retailers and looking for products that have been certified for safety. “This helps you avoid counterfeits that may not have built-in safety features like those which have been certified and tested by a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL),” he says. NRTL-certified products are guaranteed to meet current safety standards and are proven to be safe with proper use. All of the below electric blankets are UL – or ETL -tested and certified, both of which are recognized as an NRTL in the US.

An electric blanket is ideal for those who sleep cold , want to cut down on heating costs , or like to be extra cozy at home.

For such an affordable price and great color options, this is a great option for kids or teens. It also comes backed with a UL certification, so you can guarantee it emits virtually no harmful radiation or emissions. In our testing, we did evaluate a similar wearable blanket from Beautyrest and noted that the chord and control panel on this model can be a bit bulky, but we loved the even heat distribution and ease of use. We did, however, find that the heat output does cycle. This means you’ll experience periods of high heat and lower heat, so be prepared for slight variations.

For an electric blanket that you can use completely hands-free, we love Beautyrest’s Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap. It’s like a heated shawl that you can use whether you’re working at your desk or lounging on your couch, with both style and plenty of warmth. The three heat levels provide even warmth without noticeable wires. The blanket wraps around your shoulders like a shawl to keep you warm when cuddling on the couch or walking around the house. It gets to work quickly; in our testing, we found this electric blanket heated up within nine minutes. Its controls are easy to use, and it’s simple enough to rely on day in and day out.

In our testing process, the blanket heated as expected, and the wires weren’t overly obvious when lying under it. We particularly liked the dual heat option, especially for partners sharing this blanket on a bed or while lounging on the couch together. It also includes a programmable timer with an automatic shutoff and eight heat settings to choose from, offering plenty of options for users of all temperatures and comfort levels. The flannel material feels thick and incredibly soft without noticeable wires. Though the price tag is a bit high, we love this blanket for its aesthetically pleasing, yet effective design.

One downside of electric blankets is that they can be bulky and an eyesore when not in use. Fortunately, this micro flannel pick from Shavel comes in multiple attractive patterns and colors to add a bit of color to your space while lounging around. While beautiful to look at, we love that this pick doesn’t sacrifice construction or effectiveness.

At 50 x 60 inches, it’s a standard throw size, though the relatively short power cord means you’ll need to have an outlet nearby for easy use. This machine-washable, reversible blanket is incredibly soft and cuddly, with PrimaLush polyester on one side and Loftmink on the other.

The best throw is undoubtedly the Wicked Cozy Heated Throw from L.L.Bean, which our testers found to be true to its name. This small blanket gives off ample heat with five different settings and an automatic shut-off feature for extra peace of mind. The ribbed material evenly disperses the heat so your whole body feels equally warm and snuggled. In our testing, we found that the throw delivered consistent, constant heat—and it automatically shuts off automatically after three hours, making it ideal for shorter-term use. When it comes to the fabric of this throw, we loved the rib detail, which gives it a luxurious feel, paired with a reverse side that feels densely silky and lush. We could hang out under this electric blanket all day!

We did find that the connection point between the power cord and blanket was a bit bulky, but it’s a minor pain point. In our testing, we also noted a few loose threads out of the package, but these didn’t detract from the overall construction or quality of the blanket—and it definitely didn’t deter us from loving the cozy feel of this blanket without being too warm!

What really stands out with this electric throw is the foot pocket, which offers a designated spot to tuck in your feet while working at a desk or cozying up on the couch. In our testing, we found that this pocket warmed up our cold feet fast (and if you’re too warm, you can easily pop your feet out!).

Cold toes? Reach for the Micro-Plush Heated Blanket from Degrees of Comfort. It earned perfect scores for effectiveness and durability in our testing, thanks to the machine-washable, dryer-safe design and a generous five-year warranty. The long power cord gives you plenty of space to use your blanket wherever you’d like, and we found the temperature settings to be warmer and more comfortable than anticipated. With plenty of room to curl up underneath its soft surface and easy-to-use controls, this electric blanket is an ideal pick for chilly nights.

The blanket is machine-washable on a cold cycle but should be air-dried, and it’s available in five colors and four sizes. We do wish that this pick came with more controls for a higher level of temperature customization, but for such an affordable price, it’s a great option. It’s extremely user-friendly and easy to spot clean.

Available at about half the price of the average electric blanket, the CURECURE Heated Blanket is a prime option for those on a budget. During testing, the soft-to-the-touch velour provided us with an undeniably comfortable experience without noticeable wires. Though it only has four heat settings, the blanket gave a consistent heating experience, warming up quickly and maintaining its heat. The handy auto-shutoff feature kills the heat after six hours, ensuring you don’t run into any potential dangers if you fall asleep. And, as an added bonus, we found that the control buttons are intuitive and easy to use.

In our testing, we did find that coffee and other liquids may leave small stains when spot-cleaning, but you can also put this blanket in the washing machine for an easy refresh.

While sherpa material often runs the risk of shedding, that’s not a problem with this micro-flannel blanket. The seven layers of fabric are filled with a down alternative fiber, so it’s hypoallergenic. We also love that the queen and king sizes include two controllers so each person can program their perfect temperature for up to 12 hours. The blanket will even remember your favorite settings with the memory function. Additionally, we like that this heated blanket has a 10-hour automatic shutoff feature. You can stay warm through the night without worrying about it turning off too soon or causing an electrical hazard .

For an all-around excellent option with ample settings, go with Shavel’s Micro Flannel Sherpa Electric Blanket. Whether you run hot or cold, we found that the warm sherpa added an extra layer of comfort without any risk of overheating. On low, this blanket feels cozy and luxurious, without overwhelming warmth. When you need a higher temp, it takes just a few minutes to reach the appropriate level of heat. It’s also a great option to layer under your sheets, comforter, and other layers of bedding.

Final Verdict

Our number one pick is the Micro Flannel Reverse to Sherpa Electric Heated Blanket, which scored a near-perfect score for its layers of comfort, multiple heat settings, and dual controls. For something a bit more affordable, we recommend the CURECURE Heated Blanket, which offers evenly distributed heat and maximum comfort at a budget-friendly price that makes it very worthwhile.

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

How We Tested

For this roundup, our editors researched the top electric blankets on the market. We then purchased almost 30 picks to put to the test at The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa, evaluating them on the basis of quality, feel, effectiveness, heat, durability, ease of use, and overall value. During the testing process, we assessed how quickly these blankets heated to temperature, working with their controls to understand how intuitive or challenging to use they were, and even put the fabrics through some wear. The blankets were stained with coffee to see how easy it is to spot-clean these blankets without permanent damage.

Once our lab-based testers evaluated how the blankets worked and felt when in use, we continued to test some of the products over a long period of time at our tester’s homes to see how they performed in the real world. During the at-home testing process, our testers evaluated how each blanket performed on a daily basis, utilizing different features and functionality like automatic shut-off, dual temperature controls, and memory settings to offer a deeper dive into the performance, durability, and overall capability of the products. Our writer’s research and testers’ notes ultimately helped compile this final list.

What to Look for in an Electric Blanket

Material

If your heated blanket is warm but scratchy, you may not enjoy using it as much. Fortunately, many heated blankets on the market now are made with soft microfiber fabrics that feel cozy to the touch or sherpa-style blankets that are fuzzy and warm. In addition to the comfort, the big upside to these polyester microfiber blankets is that most are machine-washable for easy care.

Size

Consider whether you want an electric blanket for your bed or just for lounging around the house. A comforter-size electric blanket, though practical for sleeping, may overwhelm your couch or sitting space while also being less energy efficient. There are many heated blankets the size of your average throw available. On the other hand, if you want an electric blanket to warm your whole bed, there’s every size from twin to king on the market.

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Automatic Shutoff

A majority of the heated blankets you can buy today have an automatic shutoff feature. This means that if you forget to power it down, it’ll automatically turn off after a period. Some electric blankets turn off after two or three hours, but for those designed for sleeping, it’s usually closer to 10 hours.

According to Daniel Majano, Program Manager for the Electrical Safety Foundation International, “Heating appliances should never be left unattended or used while sleeping.” This automatic shutoff feature ensures your blanket remains safe, even through the night.

Safety Certifications

“Make sure it includes labels from Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or another recognized national testing laboratory,” says H. Landis “Lanny” Floyd, a professional engineer, certified safety professional, and adjunct professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. “The label is an assurance the blanket complies with product safety standards. A standard safety feature is a control on the power cord that allows the user to adjust the temperature setting and turn the blanket off without unplugging the power cord.”

FAQ

• Can you wash an electric blanket?

  Most electric blankets on the market today are machine-washable—just make sure you detach the power cord before throwing it in the wash. Some can be dried in a dryer, though others are designed to be air-dried. Read the directions thoroughly before washing an electric blanket, and always follow the manufacturer’s care recommendations.

• Are electric blankets safe?

  “Electric blankets are safe to use at home,” Floyd tells The Spruce, “but an electric blanket is an electrical appliance.” For this reason, he urges you to always read the manual before using one, as it will explain how to identify damage and prevent potential hazards.

  Additionally, Floyd advises against buying a used electric blanket. “You do not know how the blanket has been cared for, and there may be hidden damage. An old blanket may not include the latest safety features required by current product safety standards.”

  Additionally, Majano states that electric blankets are safe as long as they are used properly. “Do not allow anything on top of a heating pad or electric blanket when it is in use. When covered by anything, including other blankets or pets, electric blankets may overheat. Do not plug electric blankets into an extension cord or power strip as they could overheat and cause a fire. Any devices that generate heat, like electric blankets or space heaters, should be plugged directly into an outlet,” he says.

  He also warns against folding electric blankets when in use. Most unsafe electric blankets are more than 10 years old, he shares. “Be sure to properly maintain the blanket and its electrical cord. Look for dark, charred, or frayed spots or one where the electric cord is cracked or frayed. Replace any worn or old heating pad or electric blanket,” he recommends.

• How much energy does an electric blanket use?

  Generally speaking, electric blankets don’t use up very much energy. They tend to consume about 100 watts on average, which would run you somewhere around $0.011 in electrical costs per hour of use. Lots of folks use heated blankets during the winter months as a way to stay warm and keep their energy bill at a minimum. Majano shares that the wattage will usually be shared on the packaging of your electric blanket.

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Why Trust The Spruce?

Theresa Holland is a seasoned commerce writer specializing in textiles, lifestyle, and home design. For this roundup, she personally tested 13 electric blankets from various brands and retailers, combed through user reviews, and researched the key features and specifications before making her final selections. Each product on this list earned high scores in multiple categories, including quality, design, fabric, heat levels, effectiveness, and durability.

For further insight, Theresa also spoke with certified safety professionals H. Landis “Lanny” Floyd and Daniel Majano, Program Manager for the Electrical Safety Foundation International, on key safety features to consider when making your selection.

The Spruce’s Julia Fields and Lily Sperry contributed additional research and updates.

What is Spruce Approved?

Here at The Spruce we want to ensure we fully stand behind every product we recommend, and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all these products ourselves, though occasionally we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut. We also pride ourselves on transparency and will always let you know if we received a product for free.