Are electric blankets safe?

Electric blankets, heated throws and heated mattress pads can make a cold room feel more comfortable. Because they contain electrical heating elements, it’s important to inspect and use them carefully to help reduce fire risk.

Electric blanket safety checklist

Before using an electric blanket, check the following items for damage, recalls and other safety concerns.

Stop using the blanket if it has been recalled or shows signs of electrical, fabric or controller damage.

What to check before using an electric blanket

Read the label and instructions

Start with the product’s label and manual. Check the label and manual for information about: 

• Intended use: confirm whether the product is an over-blanket, heated throw, mattress pad or another type of heated bedding.
• Bed compatibility: check whether it can be used with an adjustable bed, sofa bed, recliner, waterbed or another movable sleep surface.
• Overnight use: find out whether the blanket is designed to remain on while someone sleeps.
• Cleaning instructions: follow the listed washing and drying method.
• Safety features: review the heat settings, timer and automatic shutoff.

If you no longer have the instructions, look for the manufacturer’s manual using the model number on the label. When the intended use can’t be confirmed, consider replacing the product rather than guessing.

Check for electric blanket recalls

Search the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall database using the manufacturer, brand and model number.If the blanket has been recalled, follow the remedy provided in the recall notice. Don’t continue using, selling or donating a recalled product unless the notice specifically says it has been repaired or otherwise made safe.

Inspect the blanket, cord and controller

Before each season and periodically during use, look for:

• Fabric damage: check for tears, frayed areas, scorch marks or discoloration.
• Exposed components: stop using the blanket if wiring or heating elements can be seen or felt through damaged fabric.
• Cord damage: look for cracking, fraying, bent prongs or loose connections.
• Controller damage: check for melting, cracks, discoloration or controls that don’t respond correctly.
• Uneven heating: pay attention to unusually hot areas, cold sections or changes in how the blanket heats.
• Unusual smells or sounds: unplug the blanket if you notice a burning odor, smoke, sparking or buzzing.

Don’t try to repair internal wiring or electrical controls yourself.

How to use an electric blanket safely

Use these steps each time you turn on heated bedding:

• Keep it flat: folds and bunched areas may trap heat. Don’t tuck an electric blanket tightly under a mattress.
• Use the correct side: follow the label showing which side should face the person or mattress.
• Plug it into a wall outlet: don’t use an extension cord or power strip.
• Keep cords visible: don’t run a cord under a mattress, rug or furniture where it could become pinched or damaged.
• Use one heated bedding product: don’t combine an electric blanket with a heating pad or heated mattress pad unless the manufacturer specifically permits it.
• Avoid trapped heat: follow the product instructions about layering bedding, and do not place heavy or folded items on the blanket while it is heating.
• Keep it dry: don’t use heated bedding when it, the cord or the person using it is wet.
• Turn it off after use: unplug it when it isn’t being used or when you leave the home.

Don’t sit or lie directly on top of a heated throw or over-blanket unless the product is designed for that purpose. Pressure may damage the internal heating elements.

Can you sleep with an electric blanket?

Some electric blankets are designed for overnight use while others are intended only to preheat a bed or provide warmth for a limited time. Follow the product label and manufacturer’s instructions.

Before using one overnight:

• Confirm that overnight use is permitted.
• Test the heat settings and automatic shutoff while you’re awake.
• Use the lowest comfortable setting.
• Keep the blanket flat.
• Ensure the controller and cord aren’t under a pillow, mattress or person.
• Stop using it if the controller becomes unusually hot or the blanket heats unevenly.

When the instructions are missing or unclear, use the blanket to preheat the bed and turn it off before going to sleep.

When to stop using or replace an electric blanket

There isn’t one replacement age that applies to every electric blanket. Its condition, safety features, usage history and manufacturer’s guidance may be more useful than age alone. The table below lists warning signs and possible next steps.

An older blanket that has been folded tightly, stored under heavy items or used with damaged controls may need to be replaced even when the fabric looks acceptable.

Who may need extra precautions

A heated blanket may not be appropriate for someone who can’t reliably sense temperature changes, move away from excessive heat or operate the controls independently.

Additional precautions may be appropriate for:

• Young children
• Some older adults
• People with reduced heat sensitivity
• People with limited mobility
• Anyone who may have difficulty waking, communicating discomfort or turning the blanket off

A caregiver or health care professional can help determine whether heated bedding is appropriate for an individual’s circumstances.

Electric blanket safety around pets

Claws and chewing can damage fabric, cords and internal wiring, making electric blankets a potential household hazard for pets. A pet lying on top of a heated blanket may also create pressure or trap heat. Don’t use a human electric blanket as a pet bed. When a pet needs supplemental warmth, consider a product designed for that animal and follow its instructions closely.

How to wash an electric blanket

Cleaning instructions vary by product. Some electric blankets are machine washable after the controller and cord are removed, while others require a different method.

Before cleaning:

1. Unplug the blanket from the wall.
2. Disconnect the controller if the instructions say it can be removed.
3. Inspect the blanket and cord for damage.
4. Follow the care label’s water temperature, cycle and drying instructions.
5. Don’t reconnect the controls until the blanket and connections are completely dry.

Don’t wash a damaged blanket. Avoid dry cleaning, ironing or using high heat unless the care label specifically permits it.

How to store an electric blanket

Careful storage may help protect the internal wiring. Here are some tips to help preserve it:

• Unplug and disconnect it: remove the controller and detachable cords according to the instructions.
• Ensure it’s clean and dry: allow the blanket to cool and dry completely before storage.
• Roll or fold it loosely: avoid sharp creases and tight folds.
• Protect the controls: store the controller and cord where they won’t be crushed.
• Keep weight off the blanket: don’t stack heavy items on top of it.
• Inspect it again: check the blanket, cord and controller before using it next season.

Electric blanket FAQs

Are newer electric blankets safer?

Newer products may include features such as timers, adjustable heat settings and automatic shutoff. Those features don’t replace proper inspection and use. Check the safety certification, recall status and condition of any blanket, regardless of when it was purchased.

Can an electric blanket be used on an adjustable bed?

Only use it on an adjustable bed if the manufacturer says the product is compatible. Moving parts can pinch or damage heating wires and cords.

Can you put another blanket over an electric blanket?

Follow the product instructions. Heavy bedding, pillows or other objects may trap heat. Don’t place items on top of the heated blanket unless the manufacturer says that arrangement is permitted.

Can you use an electric blanket with a heated mattress pad?

Use one heated bedding product at a time unless both manufacturers specifically state that the products can be combined.

Should you unplug an electric blanket when it isn’t being used?

Turn it off and unplug it when it isn’t in use. Pull from the plug rather than the cord to avoid damaging the connection.

Using, cleaning and storing an electric blanket according to the manufacturer’s instructions may help reduce the risk of damage, injury and fire. For more home safety information, review details about common home safety equipment, home lightning protection tips and how to create a home fire escape plan.