Price
A basic single electric blanket will cost from $30 and a queen-size starts around $60. Top-of-the-line fully featured blankets can top $500.
Overheat protection
Senses abnormal temperatures and switches off the blanket when it gets too hot. All blankets must have overheat protection to avoid the risk of heatstroke.
Settings
For warming the bed, a two- or three-heat model is all you need. But if you lie in bed with the blanket switched on, more heat settings help you get the right temperature.
Fitting
Fitted blankets are easier to set up and keep straight on the bed compared with tie-tape models. Throw blankets are for use over an armchair or bed and don’t have fitting attachments.
Features
Features can add to your convenience and comfort, but they do cost. Among the more useful options:
- Dual controls: allow you to control the temperature on your side of the bed independently.
- Fabric: fleecy blankets (wool or synthetic) are more luxurious.
- Extra heat foot zone: good for people with cold feet.
- Waterproof electric blankets: are suitable for children. They contain a waterproof membrane that stops moisture reaching the wires.
- Timers: allow you to set the blanket to warm up your bed at the same time every night. The more basic (and cheaper) models have "off" timers only.
- Removable controls: mean you can safely machine wash your electric blanket.
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