Electric blankets are a type of blanket which is heated using electricity. The blankets are made in various soft materials such as fleece and cotton. On the inside of an electric blanket is heating wires, which attach to an electric cord that can be plugged into an outlet to generate warmth. Most electric blankets have controls which allow the user to adjust the warmth settings of the blanket to the desired temperature.
In addition to being extremely comfortable and cozy, electric blankets are also energy efficient. Because an electric blanket provides so much warmth, the more expensive central heating in the house can be turned down at night. This nightly reduction in the use of central heating saves on energy costs. Electric blankets have many positive benefits, but before you buy one, it is important to be aware of the safety measures involved with using these blankets and of how to properly care for the blanket.
Electric blankets are sold in the various standard bedding sizes. To keep the blanket in good condition, it is recommended that the size of the electric blanket corresponds with the size of the bed it is used on. An electric blanket which is too large and hangs off of the bed can get stuck in between walls, which can fold up the blanket and damage the heating wires inside the blanket.
Each electric blanket comes with different washing instructions, so it is important to read the manufacturers instructions before washing. If the instructions are not followed, the blanket could get damaged. Almost every electric blanket is not compatible with dry cleaning, as the chemicals used in dry cleaning can deteriorate the protective insulation around the wires, increasing the risk of fire.
To further reduce the risk of fire, the blanket should not have extra blankets or excessive pillows and stuffed animals on top of it which can trap heat. The blanket is meant to insulate the body, but if the heated blanket is insulated with other materials it can over heat and become a fire hazard.
It is also important to be safe and protect yourself from any potential harm when using an electric blanket. Electric blankets are safe to use if they are the only thing on the bed which is electrically heated. If electric blankets are used in combination with heating pads, the combined heat of the two can cause serious burns.
Because of the responsibilities involved, electric blankets are better suited for the use of adults rather than children. It is of utmost importance that an electric blanket is turned off upon getting out of bed, because if it is left on for too long it becomes a fire hazard. While adults may have an easier time remembering to do this, it is still easy to forget, especially for a child.