There's nothing better than getting into a warm and cosy bed - it's often the key to having a restful night's sleep. Our quality range of electric blankets is the perfect way to keep yourself warm without having to heat the whole room.

We've put together a handy guide to help you choose the best electric blanket for your family, from waterproof styles to platinum Australian wool options. We've even got portable heated blankets for when you're lounging around. If you're considering buying an electric blanket for the first time or replacing your old one, then here is everything you need to know!

Quick Links

• What Is an Electric Blanket?
  • How does an electric blanket work?
  • How much power does an electric blanket use?
  • How to put an electric blanket on a bed
  • Important tips for using an electric blanket
  • What to look out for in an electric blanket
• Are Electric Blankets Safe?
• Main Benefits Of Using Heated Blankets

What Is an Electric Blanket?

Electric blankets, also called heated blankets, have evolved over the years and are now considered one of the most efficient ways to keep you warm at night. Safe for both kids and adults, electric blankets sit snugly on top of your mattress, much like a fitted sheet.

They're designed to give you warmth when you need it, with most heated blankets offering timers and auto-off settings. Our premium range of electric blankets is perfect for couples, allowing each person to have individual temperature zones and settings - resolving many debates at bedtime.

How does an electric blanket work?

Your electric blanket keeps your bed toasty and warm using safe, controlled heating elements. It'll sit snugly over the top of your mattress (between your fitted sheet and your mattress protector or mattress topper) and have insulated wires inside it. When activated, the elements heat your blanket to the desired temperature for as long as you need, with an auto-off function for overnight use.

It's a safe, fast and simple way to warm up your bed in the cooler months. They're also very energy efficient compared to room heaters. Take a look at our top tips to update your home in winter, and make sure your entire home is kept cosy and warm by exploring our heating and cooling range.

How much power does an electric blanket use?

Aside from keeping you warm, electric blankets can also save you money. They're efficient to run, with single bed heated blankets costing an average of only $20 per season to run, including the time it takes to pre-heat it over the course of three months. When you're using an electric blanket to stay warm, you'll find you don't have to heat the whole room. This can help you reduce expensive heating costs. Take a look at our top tips to keep yourself warm in winter for some more helpful tips.

Are electric blankets the same as a heated throw blanket?

While many people consider them the same product, there are some slight differences between heated blankets and heated throw blankets.

Electric blankets are designed specifically for your bed. They'll hug your mattress and should be laid flat in place while in use. Premium brands will often have different heating zones and temperature settings with auto-off timers lasting up to nine hours overnight.

Heated throw blankets are portable heated blankets, perfect for lounging around. They usually have an auto-off time limit of three to four hours and aren't designed to be left on overnight. These throw blankets are great to have in the living room or while you're working from home, as they save you from having to turn on the heater.

How to put an electric blanket on a bed

Always read the instructions before fitting your new electric blanket, but depending on which model you are using, here are some quick steps on how to put a heated blanket onto your bed:

• Start by removing the flat or fitted sheet from your mattress.
• Fully open up the heated blanket and lay it over the mattress with the label side facing up. Also, make sure that it is fully flat and not bunched up.
• Arrange the blanket so that the cords are at the pillow end of the bed.
• Make sure it is placed below the pillows.
• Tightly secure the electric blanket to the mattress using the elasticated straps.
• Once the heated blanket is fitted securely in place, test the blanket by connecting the cord to the blanket and plugging it into an outlet.

Important tips for using an electric blanket

To ensure there are no issues and that you are safely using your electric blanket, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Never leave your electric blanket turned on throughout the entire night.
• Make sure the switch and electric cord are always outside of the bedding.
• During cold nights, never use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket as it may leak.
• Only wash your electric blanket if specifically recommended by the manufacturer.
• Your electric blanket should never be wider than the mattress you are using it on.
• To avoid localised overheating, never turn on an electric blanket when an item such as a pillow, book or clothing is on the blanket or if it is folded.
• Always read the label before using, as some electric blankets are not suitable to be used on water beds, futons, under-mattress protectors or foam mattresses.
• It's recommended to get your electric blanket inspected by a professional once every three years to ensure there are no faults or safety issues.
• For safety reasons, never use your electric blanket for a person who is insensitive to heat, an immobile person or an infant.
• When not in use, always remember to turn the electric blanket off and unplug it from an outlet.

What to look out for in an electric blanket

Not all electric blankets and throws are the same. We're proud to stock some of Australia's favourite brands at Harris Scarfe, many of which include the following features:

• Overheating protection: This feature detects any abnormal variations in temperature, and once detected, it will simply turn off if the electric blanket becomes too hot.
• Fast heating: This feature allows you to skip the time it usually takes for a heated blanket or throw to pre-heat, letting you jump straight into a warm and snug bed!
• Waterproof: As a stress-free solution for families with kids, waterproof electric blankets are ideal for heating up your little one's beds without worrying about bedwetting or any spilt drinks.
• Temperature control and auto-off timers: This allows you to easily control the temperature to ensure you are always resting at the right temperature for you, and auto-off timers mean you don't have to lean over to turn off your heated blanket.
• Machine washable: This is a great feature as it makes cleaning your electric blanket easy and simple. However, it's crucial to always check manufacturer instructions first before purchasing.
• Wi-Fi controls: By downloading an app onto your smartphone, you can easily control your heated blanket without fiddling around with a remote (great for couples).
• Anti-allergy benefits: Featuring anti-microbial treatment, these types of electric blankets prevent the growth of bacteria, dust mites and mould, ensuring that people suffering from allergies get a comfortable and uninterrupted night's sleep.
• Fleecy underlay: This will provide you with extra comfort during your sleep, adding an additional layer of warmth and softness to your bed.
• Foot zones: Can't get to sleep due to cold feet? Then opt for a heated blanket with built-in warm foot zones that will keep your feet nice and toasty throughout the night. If you're getting cold feet in bed, then consider an electric blanket with a built-in foot zone.

Explore our full range of electric blankets online or in-store to find the one that suits your needs. Our friendly team are always happy to help with any questions you may have.

Are Electric Blankets Safe?

Yes, they are. When choosing your electric blanket, it's essential to ensure it's been quality-checked and approved by Standards Australia. All of the heated blankets and throws we sell at Harris Scarfe are compliant with Australian regulations and requirements. It's also highly recommended to test your electric blanket before using it.

How to test a heated blanket

To test your electric blanket, first lay it down over your bed, turn it on and leave it running for about five minutes. While it's on, make sure to also feel and inspect the wires of the heated blanket, ensuring that there is no damage and that everything is operating correctly.

How to clean an electric blanket

Washing an electric blanket might seem like a challenge considering the wires and plugs inside of it, especially if you haven't owned one before. They aren't that hard to wash, but you must always check the label or instructions before attempting to clean your heated blanket.

If your model of electric blanket can't be machine-washed, then you can clean it by hand. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your heated blanket stays fresh and clean:

• Firstly, make sure your heated throw or blanket is switched off and that the cord from the blanket is completely disconnected.
• Once all the cords have been disconnected, fill up a tub with enough lukewarm water for your blanket to freely move around (depending on the size of your blanket).
• Now add in some mild laundry detergent and then mix it into the water.
• When the water is full of suds, add in the electric blanket and allow it to soak in the tub for around 15 minutes.
• Once the blanket has soaked enough, lift it out of the water and gently squeeze it.
• To dry your electric blanket, place it in a dryer and make sure it is set to the lowest setting. If it gets too hot then it can damage the wiring inside the blanket.
• Let it tumble dry (on the lowest setting) for up to 10 minutes.
• Once done, take it out and hang the electric blanket out to dry. If you don't have a dryer, you can simply hang it out to dry, it will just take longer.
• REMEMBER: don't use your heated blanket until it has completely dried out, otherwise, you may cause damage to the wiring inside the blanket.

Main Benefits Of Using Heated Blankets

You may not realise, but there are some impressive benefits to using heated blankets that can not only provide additional comfort but also improve your quality of sleep:

Sleep better

Industry experts tell us that having the right temperature in bed can give us a better night's sleep - and a sudden temperature change can pull you out of deep sleep. By ensuring you are sleeping at a consistent temperature throughout the night, heated blankets allow you to sleep better. Keeping your bed warmer in the cooler seasons will optimise your sleep patterns, helping you feel well-rested each day.

More economical than central heating

When it gets chilly during the colder months, it can be hard not to turn on the central heating - but why spend all that money heating up the entire house when you can stay warm and cosy with an electric blanket instead? Due to their efficient design, an electric blanket will ensure you are kept warm for a fraction of the price that you would normally spend on central heating, whether sleeping in bed or snuggled up on the couch watching TV.

Increase in mood

When we sleep, our body uses a lot of energy to keep us warm during the night. As electric blankets do most of the heavy lifting when it comes to sleeping at the right temperature, our bodies use less energy while we sleep. Because of this, our brain receives contented signals that make us feel more relaxed, happier and wake up with more energy. Much like having a relaxing warm bath, electric blankets allow you to wake up feeling refreshed.

Can help with aches and pains

Heat is good for muscle pain, which also makes heated blankets a great pain relief solution for people who suffer from aches and pains during the night. Applying heat to the source of pain enables your body's heat receptors to block the pain signals that are sent to your brain. Electric blankets are also good for increasing blood circulation, helping your body to stay flexible. This means sleeping with an electric blanket can help you stop waking up feeling stiff in the morning.

Are You Ready To Keep Cosy & Warm In Bed?

We've chosen the safest brands and quality products so that you can buy with confidence. It's time to warm up your space and enjoy the comforts of a cosy bedroom today. Take a look at our full range of heated blankets online or shop in-store today!

It's important to consider the thickness of your bedding underlay, blankets and quilts, as these will all affect how warm your bed is. Our guide to the best winter bedding accessories will give you some ideas for your space, including bed linen options as well.

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