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The 7 Best Electric Blankets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Safe and cozy options that'll warm up chilly nights

CureCure Heated Blanket draped over a sofa

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Chilly weather–and year-round cold sleepers–calls for curling up in layers of blankets, and if you’re someone who runs cold, an electric blanket is a must-have. Ideal for those who want to warm up their beds or stay comfortable without cranking up the thermostat, these heated blankets allow you to set the temperature and get extra cozy at home.

However, electric blankets are a bit more complex than your typical throw blanket, as they feature electric heating elements. To ensure you purchase a safe electric blanket, Daniel Majano, program manager for the Electrical Safety Foundation International, recommends 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. 

We put nearly 30 electric blankets to the test in The Lab and at home to find the best options for warming up without leaving bed or getting off the couch. After researching and testing these blankets, we chose our favorites based on the material, size, features, temperature options, and certifications. All of the below electric blankets are UL- or ETL-tested and certified, both of which are recognized as an NRTL in the US.

Editor's Note

In light of the November 2023 recall, we do not recommend any Berkshire Heated Throws or L.L. Bean Wicked Cozy Heated Blankets. We will continue to monitor and update our recommendations accordingly.

Testing Stats
Products Tested  27 
Hours Spent Testing  12 
Tests Performed 
Unique Testers  11 
Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Shavel Home Products Micro Flannel Heated Blanket

A woman in a bedroom measuring a Shavel Micro Flannel Sherpa Electric Blanket draped on a bed

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Feel
    5/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
  • Heat
    5/5
  • Durability
    4/5
What We Like
  • Machine washable

  • Comes in eight colors

  • Dual controllers for larger sizes

  • Five-year warranty

What We Don't Like
  • Can be hard to remove stains

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.

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.

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.

Material: Polyester cover, 100% down alternative fill, sherpa, micro flannel fabric | Size: Twin, full, queen, king | Timer: 10-hour auto shutoff | Heat Settings: 10

Best Budget

CureCure Heated Blanket

A woman's foot peeking out from underneath a CureCure Heated Throw Blanket

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    3.5/5
  • Feel
    4/5
  • Effectiveness
    4/5
  • Heat
    5/5
  • Durability
    4/5
What We Like
  • Consistent and quick heating

  • Long power chord

  • Machine-washable

What We Don't Like
  • No advanced controls

Available at about half the price of the average electric blanket, the CURECURE Heated Blanket is a prime throw-style 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.

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.

Material: Polyester, cotton | Size: 50 x 60 inches, 62 x 84, 72 x 84 | Timer: 3-hour auto shutoff | Heat Settings: 4

Best with Foot Pockets

Degrees of Comfort Micro-Plush Heated Blanket

A person leaning over a bed holding a controller for a Micro-Plush Heated Blanket with Foot Pocket

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    4/5
  • Feel
    4/5
  • Effectiveness
    5/5
  • Heat
    5/5
  • Durability
    4/5
What We Like
  • Foot pocket

  • Machine-washable

  • Five-year warranty

What We Don't Like
  • Shuts off after two hours

  • Cord connection point is bulky

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.

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!).

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!

How It Performed Long Term

After six months of testing, we were pleased to discover this electric blanket continued working well. It performed consistently, and it heated up extremely well at the six-month mark, just as it did right out of the packaging. We particularly liked its softness and size, which was ideal for cuddling up in bed or on the couch with another person. Our only complaint over the course of our long-term testing was we didn't wash this blanket regularly, as its care instructions called for air drying, a feat we found difficult due to its large size. Otherwise, we found it to be wonderfully consistent–and nicely warm with every use.

Material: Microplush polyester | Size: 50 x 62 inches | Timer: 2-hour auto shutoff | Heat Settings: 3

Best Color Options

Shavel Micro Flannel Electric Blanket

Woman's hand pressing down on a Shavel micro flannel quilted electric blanket

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    4/5
  • Feel
    4/5
  • Effectiveness
    4.5/5
  • Heat
    4/5
  • Durability
    5/5
What We Like
  • Attractive color and pattern options

  • Thick, soft flannel material

  • Dual controls

What We Don't Like
  • Controller has a learning curve

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.

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, and it does take some time to learn the controls, we love this blanket for its aesthetically pleasing, yet effective design.

Material: Sherpa, velvet and microfiber | Size: 90 x 72 inches | Timer: 10 hours auto shutoff | Heat Settings: 10

Shavel Micro Flannel Quilted Electric Blanket draped over a couch

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Best Wearable

Beautyrest Reversible Sherpa to Fleece Electric Wrap

Beautyrest 100% Polyester PV Fur to Plush Heated Wrap

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

What We Like
  • Can use hands-free

  • Evenly distributed heat

  • Suitable for adults and kids

What We Don't Like
  • Plug and control panel can be bulky

  • Temperature does cycle and vary

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.

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 cord 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.

Material: Sherpa, fleece | Size: 64 x 50 inches | Timer: 2 hours auto shutoff | Heat Settings: 3

Best Dual-Control

Perfect Fit SoftHeat Electric Blanket

Person wrapped in Perfect Fit SoftHeat Luxury Micro-Fleece Heated Electric Warming Blanket while lying on bed

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    5/5
  • Feel
    4/5
  • Effectiveness
    4/5
  • Heat
    4/5
  • Durability
    4/5
What We Like
  • Mild, consistent heat

  • Well-hidden wires

  • Soft, plush fabric

What We Don't Like
  • Heavier than other options

  • Heat increased by single degrees

If you’re searching for an electric blanket that’s shareable and yet allows everyone to choose their own warmth level, the Perfect Fit SoftHeat Electric Blanket is a great option. With easy-to-use dual controls that lit up, we had no issue adjusting the temperature–or seeing which buttons we were pressing–as needed. Each side of the blanket could be controlled by a different user, a perk that’s particularly great if you’re sharing it on the couch or in a queen-size bed.

We liked the consistent, mild level of heat offered by this electric blanket, but be warned: If you’re someone who really wants to get toasty, the temperature here likely won’t meet your needs. While there are 10 heat settings, each setting appeared to only increase the temperature by one degree. Additionally, it is a weightier blanket, which makes it a bit trickier to lift and maneuver. 

How It Performed Long-Term

After six months of use, this electric blanket continued to perform as expected. It lived up to our standards, delivering mild to moderate levels of heat consistently and never getting too hot for our liking. The only detail we weren’t happy with after six months was the weight of the blanket. As one of the heavier options on our list, we found it to be noticeably heavy to lift and wrap up in as we put it to use regularly and consistently. However, if you don’t mind a weighted option, we think it’s still a worthwhile buy.

Material: Fleece | Size: 84 x 90 inches | Timer: 10-hour auto shut-off | Heat Settings: 10

Best Outdoor

Eddie Bauer Portable Heated Blanket

Eddie Bauer Portable Heated Electric Throw Blanket

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Our Ratings
  • Quality
    4/5
  • Feel
    4/5
  • Effectiveness
    4/5
  • Heat
    5/5
  • Durability
    1.5/5
What We Like
  • Durable nylon on one side

  • Battery powered

  • Heats up quickly

What We Don’t Like
  • Takes some time to learn controls

  • Difficult to turn on post-wash

Eddie Bauer’s Portable Heated Electric Blanket offers the best of both worlds, as we discovered in our testing: It heats up fast in cold temperatures, and it doesn’t require you to stay plugged in at home. This is a blanket designed for outdoor adventures, from staying warm during fall football nights to curling up under the stars while camping. With a plush, soft polyester fabric on one side and a weather-resistant, durable nylon on the other, it can handle just about anything.

We particularly like the speediness with which this electric blanket heats up. When we put it to the test, it warmed up in seconds and was relatively easy to control. We did have to examine the controls a bit to understand which light referred to which of the three heat settings, but after a couple uses we got the hang of its features and functionality. 

After giving this blanket a wash (it’s machine-washable, per the manufacturer’s instructions), we noticed the power switch became a bit trickier to use. It was more difficult to turn the heat on and off–but we were still able to use its controls effectively. While the switch may not be the most durable, we were impressed overall by the warmth, speedy heating, and the weather-resistant nature of the blanket itself.

Material: Polyester, nylon | Size: 40 x 50 inches | Timer: None | Heat Settings: 3

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.

Person sitting on a bed and holding up an electric blanket

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 electric blanket is warm but uncomfortably scratchy, you may not enjoy using it. Fortunately, many heated blankets are made with soft microfiber fabrics that feel cozy to the touch, ranging from velvety-soft plush material to fuzzy and warm sherpa-style options. Many of the options on our list, from our Best Overall pick–Shavel's Micro Flannel Sherpa Electric Blanket– to our Best Dual-Control pick, the Perfect Fit SoftHeat Luxury Micro-Fleece Heated Electric Warming Blanket, are plush, soft, and meant to feel sumptuously cozy.

If you're searching for something that's more durable than soft, however, you can also find options that feature other materials. For example, electric blankets can also include weather- and water-resistant options, though, like our Best Outdoor pick, the Eddie Bauer Portable Heated Electric Throw Blanket.

Here’s another reason to take a close look at the material of any electric blanket: Many polyester microfiber blankets are machine-washable for easy care. If you're concerned about regular washing and don't want to work with more complex care needs, you'll want to choose a blanket made from a material that's easy to toss into your home washing machine. Our Best Budget pick, CureCure's Heated Throw Blanket, and our Best with Foot Pockets pick, Degrees of Comfort's Micro-Plush Heated Blanket, are two great examples of simple, straightforward options you can wash.

Size

Electric blankets come in a variety of sizes. You can opt for heated throw blankets, which are ideal for lounging or using on the couch. Or, you can add one to your bed for warmth while sleeping, with options available in common bedding sizes from Twin to King.

Here's how to find the right size for your needs: Consider whether you want an electric blanket for your bed or just for lounging. 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.

Hand holding a controller for an electric blanket

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.

Hand holding a tag on the Eddie Bauer Portable Heated Throw Blanket

The Spruce / Dera Burreson

The Checkout Counter

Still feeling cold? We've got a few more product recommendations to help keep you warm throughout the year.

  1. Black+Decker Indoor Space Heater: For less than $50, we recommend this powerful little heater (just over 2 pounds) for small spaces like your office or bedroom.
  2. Zadro Towel Warmer: If you find yourself chilled as soon as you step out of the shower, a towel warmer will stop the cold in its tracks. Toss in your towel or robe (or even your pajamas) into this bucket for 15 minutes and then enjoy the warm embrace post-wash.
  3. Bliss Casa Flannel Sheet Set: A set of flannel sheets paired with an electric blanket is a match made in heat heaven. We love the old-school patterns on these sheets that get softer the more we wash them.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Theresa Holland is a seasoned writer specializing in textiles, lifestyle, and home design who’s been writing for The Spruce since 2019. For this roundup, she personally tested a number of electric blankets from various brands and retailers, combed through user reviews, and researched the key features and specifications. She also utilized insights and experiences gathered during the lab and at-home testing processes, using the firsthand research conducted by The Spruce’s testers to create this list. Each product highlighted here earned high scores in multiple categories, including quality, design, fabric, heat levels, effectiveness, and durability.

Our Experts:

  • H. Landis "Lanny" Floyd, professional engineer, certified safety professional, and adjunct professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • Daniel Majano, Program Manager for the Electrical Safety Foundation International
  • Lily Sperry, former lifestyle writer and editor for The Spruce
  • Heather Adams, senior editor for The Spruce
Updated by
Julia Fields
Julia Fields
Julia is the Associate Commerce Editor at The Spruce, covering all things toys, gifts, holidays, and seasonal content. She's on a constant hunt to find the perfect gift for everyone in your life, from new dads to 5-year-old girls, through extensive research and testing as a product reviewer.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. OSHA's Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) Program. Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

  2. Can I Save on my Heating Bills by Using an Electric Blanket? Consumer Reports.