Yet even in these larger models, the Cozy Feet only uses one power cord, which isn’t true of all heated blankets this size. When selecting blankets to test, I extensively studied online ratings and reviews. I considered heated blankets at a variety of price points and only chose products with an auto shut-off feature and warranty.
This is why you should not use any of these blankets while you’re lounging on the couch—for that purpose, many manufacturers sell smaller heated throws meant to go across your lap. In addition, we eliminated mattress pads that had no internal padding sunbeam heated blankets (“fill”) because this feature is necessary to mask the feel of the wires. Combine chilly temperatures with a drafty house, and you could end up with high utility bills. But using electric bedding to heat your bed costs just pennies a night.
Serta’s 100-watt heated throw blanket is perfect for cozying up and staying warm during the winter months. The ultra-soft material is made from brushed microplush that reverses to a plush sherpa lining that looks good and feels good. The 50-by-60-inch size is ideal for a single user, but two can squeeze in and share the warmth. The easy-to-use controller has two buttons — Power and Heat — with five heat settings, making it easy to adjust and maintain your perfect comfort level. (During testing, we found that four was the magic number.) For added safety, the blanket comes with a four-hour automatic shut-off feature, giving you peace of mind as you relax — day or night.
The other finalists we reviewed allowed for partial machine drying, but only SoftHeat and Serta were able to machine dry from start to finish. All you have to do is remove the interior heating unit before tossing it in the washing machine and dryer with the rest of your bedding. For first-time heated blanket users, the Sunbeam Microplush Heated Throw is worth the price.
The Velvetloft bottom layer is designed with ribbing that, according to the brand, helps channel the flow of heat. That feature is really attractive to look at and stands out from any of the other sunbeam electric blanket blankets I tested. The instructions don’t specify whether you need to have the ribbing facing out on top, so I followed the images on the brand’s website and placed the blanket smooth side up.
My kids gravitated toward it because of its plush, warm feel and cute polka dot pattern. Care instructions say it’s machine-washable on warm in the gentle cycle but that hand-washing is the best for the longevity of the blanket. I was able to get it out with mild soap and water and a few rinses under my faucet. I Iet the corner air-dry, which took about 2 days—a good illustration of just how thick it is. I spot cleaned this blanket after spilling coffee on it and was able to quickly and easily wash the stain out, then I hung it to dry. It has a 5-year limited warranty, and an entire page in the instruction manual explains the details of it.
The heat can be adjusted to three different levels, and it can be enjoyed for up to three hours. Additionally, it has an auto-off feature that prevents it from overheating and keeps you safe if you fall asleep while using it. After climbing underneath this electric blanket, I felt that the Sunbeam was not very warm, and I have tried much hotter electric blankets. In terms of heat distribution, I felt a few colds spots because the wires are not very close together and they are able to move around a bit in their channels, which can lead to some colder areas. Those who like a fluffy blanket with a good amount of body might not love the Sunbeam.