Are Electric Blankets Safe? Here's What Experts Have to ...

Are Electric Blankets Safe? Here's What Experts Have to Say

ARE ELECTRIC BLANKETS SAFE? HERE'S WHAT EXPERTS HAVE TO SAY
January 29, 2019 | Safety | Winter, bedroom, living room, electrical, appliances, pets

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Since the first automatic electric blanket debuted in 1936, these cozy companions have undergone significant advancements. But even with modern innovations, can you safely use an electric blanket at night? Here’s our comprehensive breakdown based on expert opinions.

Types of Electric Blankets: A Crucial Comparison

First, it's essential to understand the two kinds of electric blankets available: under blankets and over blankets. Under blankets, similar to heating pads, rest directly on your mattress, while over blankets function like traditional covers. A critical safety warning: never use both simultaneously, as this combination can present a severe fire risk. Always opt for one or the other.

Addressing Common Safety Concerns

While anything plugged into a wall outlet warrants caution, electric blankets often carry a somewhat exaggerated reputation. Data shows that electric blankets account for just 0.04 percent of the approximately 360,000 annual home fires. While even this small risk shouldn't be ignored, you can mitigate it by adhering to recommended guidelines.

Best Practices for Electric Blanket Safety

Here are key safety tips for using electric blankets:

1. Avoid using electric blankets with infants, young children, or individuals unable to operate the controls themselves. Elderly users should also be cautious.
2. Keep pets away from electric blankets to prevent overheating or accidental damage to the wiring.
3. Never buy a secondhand electric blanket. Older or potentially damaged blankets are major fire hazards, with those over 10 years old accounting for 99 percent of fires.
4. Do not use or have liquids around a wet electric blanket.
5. Run cords under the bed, ensuring they are free from kinks and friction damage. Never place cords between the mattress and box spring.
6. Avoid using electric blankets with adjustable furniture, such as recliners and mechanical beds, to prevent pinching of cords.
7. Refrain from using both a heating pad and an electric blanket together, and never use an electric blanket with a heated waterbed.
8. Electric blankets should lie flat; do not bunch or fold them.
9. Be cautious of hobbies around electric blankets that could puncture the wiring.
10. Avoid prolonged contact with any one part of your body or bare skin.
11. Carefully follow cleaning instructions, and do not iron or dry clean electric blankets.
12. Monitor the blanket's condition; discontinue use and contact the manufacturer if any issues arise.

Additional Expert Recommendations

You can request a home inspection service from a National Property Inspections (NPI) inspector to ensure your home's electrical systems are safe, including how you use electric blankets. NPI inspectors offer comprehensive home assessments with detailed reports and high-quality photos. Contact a local inspector to secure peace of mind and ensure a safe investment.

Understanding the Heating Efficiency of Electric Blankets

If you're tired of using hot water bottles to stay warm during winter, electric blankets might be your best bet. But how effective are these heated blankets in providing warmth?

Time Required for Electric Blankets to Heat Up

Using an electric blanket can save you from the unpleasant shock of slipping into cold sheets. For optimum comfort, preheat your blanket before bedtime. High-quality electric blankets can reach desired temperatures in 20 to 30 minutes, although some might take up to an hour.

Settings on the controller, usually offering low, medium, and high options, determine how quickly the blanket heats up. Adjust the settings according to your preferences, but remember that different settings require varying heating times.

Mechanism Behind Electric Blankets

Electric blankets generate heat via interconnected wires coated with protective materials. These wires, attached to a temperature controller and plug, regulate the blanket's heat level once connected to an electrical source. For more details, read our guide on using electric blankets.

Reasons Why Your Electric Blanket Isn’t Heating Properly

Over time, you may notice your electric blanket isn't as warm as it used to be. Here are some potential causes:

Faulty or Loose Connections

A malfunctioning or loose connection can disrupt your electric blanket's heating efficiency. To diagnose, disconnect the blanket and examine the plug, temperature controller, and cord connectors. If any faults are found, consider replacing your blanket.

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Improper Usage

Electric blankets come in different types: under blankets, over blankets, and heated throws. Proper use is crucial to ensuring they heat efficiently. Incorrect usage, like having the blanket bunched up, can affect its internal wiring and heating capabilities. Proper maintenance, including following manufacturer guidelines for washing and cleaning, is vital.

Physical Damage

Damage can result from improper washing or not allowing the blanket to dry fully before use. Always detach cords and connectors before cleaning and ensure the blanket is completely dry before reusing it. Plugging in a damp blanket can cause damage.

Age of the Blanket

Electric blankets generally have a lifespan of around 10 years. Proper care can extend this period, but even well-maintained blankets eventually need replacement. Adhering to manufacturer instructions can maximize their longevity.

Built-in Safety Timers

If your blanket ceases to warm up, it could have a built-in timer. Many modern electric blankets automatically shut off to prevent overheating, which may be why it isn’t as warm as expected.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is It Safe to Leave an Electric Blanket on All Night?

Leaving an electric blanket on throughout the night isn’t recommended. Modern blankets often include automatic timers that switch off the device after a set duration. Temperature regulators and overheat protection add extra layers of safety. Preheat your blanket before bed, but turn it off before sleeping.

Can Electric Blankets Heat the Entire Bed?

Electric blankets generally heat the surface area they cover but are designed shorter than the mattress length for safety reasons. Some models include dual controls, allowing you to heat specific sections, which is handy when sharing with a partner.

What Are the Risks of Sleeping with an Electric Blanket On?

Using an electric blanket while sleeping can pose health risks, such as overheating or excessive sweating. This is particularly concerning for individuals with diabetes or other medical conditions. Alternatives like hot water bottles may provide safer, consistent warmth throughout the night.

Explore a Wide Range of Electric Blankets and Heated Bedding

If you need a new electric blanket, consider exploring the extensive selection of Slumberdown and Snuggledown electric blankets at Sleepseeker. We offer a diverse range of bedding solutions, including duvets, pillows, and mattress toppers.

As a reputable electric heating pad for neck and shoulders supplier, our knowledgeable staff are ready to assist you in finding the perfect product to meet your needs. Visit our website for more information.