Electric Blanket v Heated Throw?

PositiveBalance

Hello everyone,

I'm not sure if this is the place to put this question, so apologies if it is not - feel free to move it to the most appropriate place, Admins.

My electric blanket gave up the ghost earlier this year (RIP lovely blanket -  you have me 20 years good service!) and I am looking to replace it, but heated throws have come onto the market and I am wondering which is best?

Has anyone tried both and could give a recommendation as to which they prefer or a list of pros and cons?

Thanks in advance. 😊

PB

lisyloo

I would get both - both for comfort and economy. Throws are great for daytime as you can throw them on and off. For night time I think heat from under the body is better.

I have throws downstairs for lounge and office.
on the bed we have dual controller mattress protectors which are an elasticated fitted sheet. I would personally not like one with straps (I think the fitted ones are better) and you need to pay attention to timing options (I think there’s value in say 1 hour whilst you fall asleep). Cheaper ones are not necessarily the best long term economic option as they may have a less sophisticated timer.
A winter duvet might also be a worthwhile investment.

Sky_

If you can only afford one, I'd say that a heated throw is more versatile because you can use it when sitting on sofas or chairs, as well as on the bed (possibly in-between a top sheet and a warm duvet). 

I have both types, but only because I already had a traditional over-mattress electric blanket for bed, but I also need to keep warm whilst working from home and/or when relaxing on the sofa, without using the central heating or stove too much, so I bought a heated throw.

linz

I have an electric blanket that I put on about 20 minutes before I go to bed. Not started using it yet but that's what I do when it's colder. I've just bought a 2nd hand heated throw off FB marketplace for use downstairs while watching tv in the evenings. I'd agree with others above, if you can you could get one of each. I saw electric blankets in my local BHF furniture shop not too long ago, and have seen plenty 2nd hand on FB marketplace too.

PositiveBalance

Thank you both for the advice. 😊

I have ordered a new electric blanket and I'm on the lookout for an heated throw.

I'm happy to accept any recommendations that people have.

PB

linz

I got this one 2nd hand off FB. First time using it tonight actually and it's lovely and cosy

 https://www.amazon.co.uk/Warmer-Electric-160x120cm-Controller-Settings/dp/B07XLSHWP5/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=warmer+heated+throw&qid=1664220163&sr=8-5&th=1

blondali

Omg I can categorically say a heated throw is amazing!!! This is literally my best purchase of 2022! I’ve been using mine in the office and on the sofa! I’ve not switched the heating on once yet and don’t plan to for ages yet! This will definitely help! I live with chronic pain, fibromyalgia, silent migraines and Raynauds, so I can’t cope with cold conditions - this is honestly an absolute god send!! 😍😍😍

https://amzn.to/3LOoQiY

timehastoldme

Currently under mums heated throw on her sofa and it's absolutely wonderful. Post covid jab side effects have been worse than having covid, so a warm afternoon lie down is the best thing right now. 

marycanary

I've never been able to get on with an electric blanket, perhaps I was put off by sleeping on my Granny's electric blanket 50 years ago. The wire in the blanket felt like sleeping on twin and earth cable. I can definitely recommend a heated throw, I love mine. In fact, I'm under it now feeling nice and toasty while the rain lashes down. 

littlemoney

I have an heated fitted under blanket. I have just ordered an over blanket as I want something I can wrap around me when I  feel cold in bed. An under blanket only warms the part of the body in contact with it.

littlemoney

I also have a heated throw  for many years. It's a heavy faux fur on that is warm without switching on. Means I can turn the heating on when I get home and sit under the throw waiting for things to warm up and turn the heating off early evening.