**The Ultimate Guide to the Best Heated Blankets: Features, Reviews, and Tips for Safe Use**
As temperatures drop and the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping yourself in the comforting warmth of a heated blanket. Whether you're watching your favorite show on the couch, working from home, or snuggling into bed, a heated blanket can provide an unparalleled level of cozy comfort that traditional blankets just can’t match. If you’ve thought about upgrading your bedding or simply want to prepare for the next cold snap, now is an excellent time to explore the best electric blankets currently available.
**What to Look for in a Heated Blanket**
Before making your purchase, it’s important to understand the features and factors that separate a quality heated blanket from the rest. Here are the key aspects to consider:
**Material:** The fabric of your heated blanket greatly influences its comfort and warmth. Popular materials include polyester, fleece, flannel, sherpa, and faux fur. These materials are not only soft to the touch but also retain heat efficiently, ensuring you stay warm without feeling weighed down.
**Heat Settings:** Flexibility is crucial when it comes to temperature control. The best electric blankets offer multiple heat settings, allowing you to adjust the warmth to your personal preference. Generally, the more heat settings available, the more customizable your comfort.
**Machine-Washable:** Spills and stains are inevitable, so it’s important to choose a heated blanket that’s easy to clean. Look for blankets that can be safely machine-washed once the electrical components are removed.
**Safety Features:** Safety should always be a top priority with any electrical bedding. An automatic shut-off feature is essential, particularly if you’re prone to forgetting to turn things off. Most quality blankets offer auto shut-off after a set period, reducing the risk of overheating or fire.
**Size:** Heated blankets come in various sizes, from small throws to full-size bed blankets (twin, full, queen, king). Consider where and how you plan to use your blanket before deciding on the size.
Below, we review some of the top-rated electric blankets, breaking down their features, pros, and potential drawbacks.
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**1. Serta Fleece to Sherpa Heated Throw Blanket**
Serta is a respected name in bedding, and their heated throw blanket lives up to the brand’s reputation for comfort. This model measures approximately 50 by 60 inches, making it ideal for use as a couch or chair throw. One side features soft fleece, while the other is lined with plush faux sherpa, creating a luxurious texture that’s cozy and inviting. It’s available in six attractive colors to match your decor.
The Serta throw comes with a controller offering five heat settings, so you can easily find your ideal temperature. It also features a three-hour automatic shut-off for added safety. The controller cord is a generous six feet long, providing flexibility in placement. Maintenance is straightforward—simply unplug the controller and machine-wash the blanket on a gentle, warm cycle, then tumble dry on low. Serta backs this product with a three-year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind.
**Key Features:**
- Soft fleece and faux sherpa materials - Five heat settings - Three-hour auto shut-off - Machine-washable - Six-foot cord - Three-year limited warranty
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**2. Beautyrest Wearable Heated Wrap**
For those who want warmth without sacrificing mobility, Beautyrest offers a unique wearable wrap. Slightly larger than a standard throw (measuring about 50 by 64 inches), this innovative blanket features a ‘U’ shape that drapes comfortably over your shoulders, allowing for free arm movement. This makes it perfect for working at a desk, reading, or simply moving around the house while staying warm. The wrap is made with sherpa on one side and fleece on the other, and it comes in nine stylish patterns.
The Beautyrest wrap includes three heat levels and a two-hour automatic shut-off. The controller cord is three feet long, with an additional six-foot power cord, ensuring you can use it comfortably near most outlets. Like most modern electric blankets, it’s machine-washable after the cords are removed. Beautyrest provides a five-year limited warranty, making this a reliable choice for those seeking both function and style.
**Key Features:**
- Wearable ‘U’ shape for mobility - Sherpa and fleece construction - Three heat settings