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Heated Blankets

A heated blanket is the same thing is as an electric blanket. It provides heat and warmth to the user during the warm winter months and can have therapeutic properties. Heated blankets can either be draped over the person, or used to simply heat up the bed. They save on energy costs, and keep you warm without the excess bulk of quilts.

There are 4.5 million heated blankets sold annually, with a wide range of styles, designs, and models. Some have 10 hour shut-off timers in case you forget to turn them off in the morning. Detachable electrical cords allow you to unplug the cord and send the blanket through the washing machine. There are also large blankets that have 2 separate controllers-one for each side of the blanket. Instead of fighting over how warm or cold to set the temperature, each person can select their own heat setting.

When using a heated blanket, keep in mind that you have to actually lie underneath the blanket to feel any warmth. Simply placing your hand on the blanket isn't a determinant for how warm it is. They are designed to use a low wattage and a low level of heat all night, so they keep you warm without burning the skin. A good heated blanket should last 5-10 years, so the price is fairly irrelevant since it will provide comfort and warmth for years.

For travelling or camping there are smaller 12 volt blankets that either plug into the cigarette lighter or run on battery power. It's advised that you don't use them while driving, as the cords can become tangled in the brake or accelerator pedals, and they don't offer any protection against overheating. A good heated blanket should conform to the standards of the underwriter's laboratories code 964 (UL964). UL964 listed the electric bedding safety standards and regulations. A blanket that follows their guidelines will not only be safer, but it will last longer and work better.

There has been some confusion over electromagnetic fields (EMF's) and electric blankets recently. Many people are concerned that close proximity to flowing electricity can cause cancer. In the 1990's the FDA looked into the matter and determined that there is no conclusive evidence to suggest that the use of an electric blanket causes cancer. In 1992, electric blankets began being made with new technology that allowed the electrical current to flow in opposite directions, thus cancelling out any potential electromagnetic fields. Since then, electric blankets are more commonly referred to as "heated blankets" so as to disassociate them with the older models.

Heated blankets are perfect for individuals who are frequently cold. They provide lasting comfort and warmth and can even relieve stress and arthritis pain. Since they come in a variety of sizes and styles, it's very easy to find a heated blanket that provides that extra needed warmth while still matching the interior décor of the room.

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