The different controllers (some are figure-8 style, others are rectangular blocks that look like clock radios) could be because of the different sizes of blankets, or even colors. This blanket is available in twin, full, queen, and king sizes, and are offered in garnet, mushroom, slate, and walnut colors. Speaking purely in terms of popularity, the Sunbeam brand has been at the top for quite some time and, out of its catalog, the Sunbeam Quilted Fleece Heated Blanket is one of the best sellers.
Long or too-hot drying cycles could damage the wiring; in particular, manufacturers don’t recommend using commercial dryers, which are often hotter than residential dryers. This blanket has better controls than others we tested, and it requires only a single outlet. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced the recall of 43,000 heated blankets.
Our key metrics in this study were safety, cost efficiency, and comfort. The Soft Heat Ultra Micro-Plush electric blanket tied with the Serta brand in all three categories, at a lower price. On its highest setting), but you do experience warmth once you are wrapped up in its cozy softness. Again, not required by the standard, but that’s a nice feature to look for, and that usually is advertised. The Warmee comes in a cute, thoughtfully designed box that directs you to scan the QR code for instructions and to download the free Warmee app, which is where you control the blanket’s settings. While the instructions weren’t intuitive and I had some issues pairing the blanket with my network, I was able to call customer service for help.
In fact, sleep experts suggest that a colder ambient temperature is an ideal temperature for getting a good night’s rest. But there are many reasons why you may seek extra warmth at night. If so, our research and testing found that in most cases you’re better off using a heated mattress pad, rather than an electric blanket. Pads are better at masking the heating wires, and your body and the rest of your bedding insulate the warmth.
Since you’re most likely to use an electric blanket during the winter, finding a place to hang-dry a full-size or larger blanket could be a bit cumbersome. The other finalists we reviewed allowed for partial machine drying, but only SoftHeat and Serta were able to machine dry from start to finish. Even though this blanket doesn’t have as many sunbeam electric blanket heat settings as some more expensive models or blankets designed for overnight bed use, a throw doesn’t need to offer as many settings. Low, medium, and high were more than enough for my family and me. I didn’t need more than the low setting, even though I tried them all and discovered that the high setting made me uncomfortably warm.
We think most people will be happiest with a heated mattress pad, which traps heat a bit better. The Sunbeam Zoned Heated Mattress Pad allows you to adjust the heat of three different areas along the pad , and it also adds plush comfort to your bed, with less noticeable wiring than other models. If heated mattress pads are sold out, or you want the ease of a blanket, we recommend the Sunbeam Velvet Plush Heated Blanket. The blanket is ETL-listed and is both machine-washable and dryer safe on a low setting, according to the brand. If you’re looking for a thicker option with more heat settings, Sunbeam also offers this highly rated blanket.
The plush is thick enough on both sides so the heating wires, spaced at 3.25″ apart, are barely noticeable to the touch. The Tefici has a generous 10-foot power cord, which allows you to move around without feeling tied sunbeam electric blanket down to one position. The cord has only three settings and is lighted for easy use in the dark. With a shorter power cord at six feet, this is again designed for use in a couch or reclining chair close to an outlet.
VICE may receive a commission if you buy products through the links on our site. Join our newsletter to get notified of the best products available for your home. Making smarter and more informed decisions about how you heat your home can save you a significant amount of money. Because we loved our former runner-up, the discontinued Serta – Luxe Plush, we had high hopes for the Serta – Reversible Sherpa Throw. This throw measures exactly the same as the Veohaut and came with the exact same instructions, so we’re presuming that both are made by the same manufacturer and rebranded.
The Sunbeam slapped that nonsense right out of me—staying warm should be not just an elusive goal, but a given. I could pass out on their couch and need nothing but a lumpy pillow and the unwavering embrace of the Sunbeam. It’s time for the electric blanket to have its renaissance as the best, warmest winter home necessity. Another great choice is the Tefici – Electric Heated Throw, which has a long power cord for easy maneuverability and can keep you warmed at a nice toasty temperature on a chilly night. The SoftHeat Ultra Micro-Plush remains our top pick for 2022 because of its low-voltage technology, built-in over-temperature protection, and cost efficiency at only $3.50 annually. With its undetectable wires and incredible “soft heat” sensation throughout the blanket, the SoftHeat was easily the leader in comfort.