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Electric Blankets and Heated Throws: Buying, Using and Storing Them Safely, According to Electrical Safety First and UK Fire Services

Posted on by Just Relax Store

An electric blanket or heated throw is a cost-effective way to warm the bed or sofa before settling down, and it fits neatly into a wind-down routine. It is also an electrical appliance that spends hours in contact with bedding, so a few checks matter. This guide draws on Electrical Safety First, a UK charity, and on advice from London Fire Brigade and Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.

The main types

Electrical Safety First explains that electric blankets come in several types. The most common are under-blankets, which sit flat on top of the mattress, usually held in place with elasticated straps, and over-blankets, which lie on top of the user and should be kept flat and uncreased. Heated throws are more portable and can be used for extra warmth in bed or elsewhere, and heated mattress protectors are similar to under-blankets. The charity recommends not using under-blankets with an adjustable bed.

Buying one

Electrical Safety First’s buying advice includes:

  • buy from a reputable retailer rather than a third-party seller online, as the latter may not have passed all necessary safety checks;
  • make sure the blanket has the UKCA or CE marks, while not relying on them alone, because unscrupulous sellers may use these marks fraudulently;
  • avoid second-hand electric blankets, as their history is unknown; and
  • register the blanket with the manufacturer so that the owner can be contacted quickly if there is a safety recall, which also makes returns and repairs easier.

Both fire services echo the point about second-hand purchases: London Fire Brigade says not to buy second-hand electric blankets, and Merseyside says second-hand blankets may not meet current safety standards. Electrical Safety First adds that all electric blankets must be fitted with a UK 3-pin plug.

Using it safely

When first purchased, Electrical Safety First recommends inspecting the blanket to make sure it is intact, and checking the blanket and its cable for damage before plugging in, especially after summer storage. Signs of rodent damage, frayed wires or scorch marks mean it needs replacing immediately. It advises reading the manufacturer’s instructions, using the blanket only as intended, and avoiding using it while folded, rucked or creased. It also says not to use pins to hold the blanket in place.

Unplug before bed, unless it is designed to stay on

London Fire Brigade’s advice is to unplug blankets before getting into bed, unless the blanket has a thermostat control for safe all-night use. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service gives the same advice. Electrical Safety First likewise recommends unplugging when getting into bed, and says that if a blanket is left on overnight it should have temperature control settings and safety features such as automatic shut-off and overheat protection.

Water, hot water bottles and drinks

Electrical Safety First says that water and electricity do not mix, so a hot water bottle should not be used while using an electric blanket, and the blanket should never be touched with wet hands or feet. It also advises drying off fully after a bath or shower. London Fire Brigade also says never to use a hot water bottle at the same time as an electric blanket, and Merseyside adds that liquids and electric blankets do not mix, so drinks should not be brought nearby while it is in use. The site’s guide to hot water bottles and microwaveable warmers covers that alternative, to be used instead of an electric blanket rather than alongside it.

When to replace it

Electrical Safety First says a blanket should be replaced if it is more than ten years old, if the fabric is worn or frayed, if there are scorch marks or discolouration, if wires are visible or poking through, if the flexible cord is damaged, if the control buzzes or gives off a smell, or if the connector is damaged or over-heating. London Fire Brigade’s list is similar and adds that the blanket should be checked regularly for wear and tear and replaced at least every 10 years.

Storing it

London Fire Brigade and Merseyside advise storing electric blankets flat, rolled up or loosely folded to prevent damaging the internal wiring. Electrical Safety First adds that it should be stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions, that moth-proofing chemicals should not be used on it, that heavy items should not be placed on top of it, and that it can be left on the bed all year round, unplugged, or loosely folded in a cool, dry place. It says to check the manufacturer’s instructions before washing.

Disposal

Electrical Safety First states that old electric blankets should not be put in the general household waste. They should be taken to a recycling facility that accepts electrical and electronic appliances, and the local council can advise on the nearest one.

Frequently asked questions

Can I leave an electric blanket on all night? Fire services advise unplugging before getting into bed unless the blanket has a thermostat control for safe all-night use. Electrical Safety First adds that overnight blankets should have temperature control, automatic shut-off and overheat protection.

How old is too old? Electrical Safety First and London Fire Brigade both point to ten years as the replacement point.

Are heated throws covered by the same advice? Electrical Safety First lists heated throws among the types of electric blanket and gives one set of advice for buying, using, storing and disposing of them.

The bottom line

An electric blanket or heated throw is a safe comfort when bought new from a reputable retailer, checked before each winter, used flat, unplugged before bed unless designed for overnight use and kept away from water and hot water bottles. Electrical Safety First and London Fire Brigade both say to replace it after ten years, or sooner at the first sign of scorching, fraying or exposed wires.

Sources

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