- We spent over 50 hours researching the top heated and weighted blankets on the market and consulting with sleep experts to compile our recommendations.
- Our testers evaluated over 13 different blankets from eight brands and recorded our findings to identify standout features, document issues with each product, and describe when we might recommend them to readers.
- We paid close attention to specific considerations for heated blankets, including price, features, number of heat settings, material, automatic shutoff, and sizes.
- Learn more about how we review the best heated blankets.
Key takeaways
- The most important features a heated blanket should have include a variety of size options, heat settings, and automatic shut off.
- The Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heated Blanket is our pick for the best heated blanket. It comes in four sizes, with dual-zone heating for queen and king sizes, ten heat settings, and a ten-hour automatic shut off.
- Heated blankets cost from around $70 to more than $200, depending on size and materials.
- When choosing a heated blanket, choose UL or ETL-certified products to ensure it has passed rigorous safety testing.
Quality sleep is closely related to our mental health. In fact, according to research published in the journal Sleep, people with insomnia are ten times more likely to experience depression and 17 times more likely to experience anxiety.
Studies have found that sleep problems are a common complaint among people with mental health diagnoses and that taking steps to improve sleep quality may help relieve some of the symptoms.
Research shows keeping your body at a balanced temperature, known as thermoregulation, helps your body to stay in a more restful state, with fewer interruptions, and can be heavily influenced by what you wear to bed and how you cover yourself.
This is where an electric, or heated blanket can help. Temperature controlled blankets help keep the body at a consistent temperature so that your body doesn’t have to use as much energy to keep itself warm. And for people with conditions that are worsened by cold, like arthritis, a heated blanket can help keep the joints warm and prevent painful spasms. It’s important to note that heated blankets alone aren’t guaranteed to improve sleep, and becoming too hot at night can also disrupt sleep. Your use of a heated blanket will depend on your own sleep preferences.
Quality varies across brands, and the quality of a heated blanket can have a big effect on your comfort. The best heated blankets include features like customizable temperature settings, soft, breathable fabrics, and automatic shut off. Read on to learn about six different heated blankets our Handbook Team has researched and mystery shopped.
6 best heated blankets of 2024
- Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heated Blanket: Best overall
- Sleep Number Warming Blanket: Best for couples
- BedJet 3 Dual Zone Climate Control Sleep System: Best for heating and cooling
- Pure Enrichment PureRadiance Luxury Heated Throw Blanket: Best throw
- Pure Enrichment PureRelief Plush Heated Throw Blanket: Best affordable
- Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth Weighted Throw Blanket with Heat: Best weighted
Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heated Blanket: Best heated blanket overall
Why the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heated Blanket is our pick for best heated blanket overall
The Pure Enrichment’s PureRelief Deluxe Heated Blanket stands out to our Handbook Team as the best heated blanket overall for several reasons. It features ultra-soft micromink (faux mink) fabric that’s reversible for versatility and coziness, its InstaHeat technology enables it to heat up quickly, it has ten customizable heat levels ranging from 87oF to 105oF, and it comes in four sizes: twin, full, queen, and king.
The twin and full sizes are a good option for children, and when combined with a quality children’s mattress, a heated blanket can help make for a more relaxed bedtime that your child can look forward to.
For people who share a bed, the queen- and king-sized blankets have a heating zone on each side—what they call dual heating zones— so that each user can choose their own heat setting. If the blanket is for you only, you can simply set the temperature the same for both sides. At $119.99 for a queen size, the PureRelief Deluxe is significantly less expensive than some of the other heated blankets with dual heating zones our team has researched. The trade-off is that it only comes in gray.
Another feature we like is that the PureRelief Deluxe is machine washable. It also features an extra long cord, making it much easier to reach outlets that are not next to the bed, or to take the blanket to other rooms.
The PureRelief Deluxe Blanket is certified by UL Solutions, meaning it has undergone rigorous safety testing, and comes with a 5-year warranty. Overall, we feel that the PureRelief Deluxe Heated Blanket is one of the best electric blankets available.
Who may want to use the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heated Blanket: People looking for a heated blanket with a wide range of sizes and heat settings.
Who may want to avoid the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heated Blanket: People who need a large blanket but don’t want dual heating zones, and people who would prefer a color other than gray.
You may want to consider
While the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heated Blanket is our pick for best heated blanket overall, if you’re looking for a wider variety of colors in a heated blanket with dual heating zones for two people, you may want to consider the Sleep Number Warming Blanket, which offers dual heating zones and comes in three colors.
Sleep Number Warming Blanket: Best heated blanket for couples
Why the Sleep Number Warming Blanket is our pick for best heated blanket for couples
Like the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Blanket, the Sleep Number Warming Blanket has dual-zone controls so that you and your partner can set personalized temperature levels for each side of the bed. This ability to customize your sleep experience ensures that you both can sleep comfortably at your ideal sleeping temperature throughout the night. Combine the Sleep Number blanket with one of our picks for the best mattress for couples, and you may find you and your partner can sleep more deeply and peacefully.
The Sleep Number Warming Blanket’s ultra-soft microfleece material gives it a plush feel without making the blanket feel too heavy, making it a good option for people who prefer lightweight bedding. We also like that the Sleep Number has safety features. It has been tested and certified by Intertek’s Electrical Testing Laboratories (ETL) to meet safety and quality standards, and it includes an automatic shut off after 10 hours, which can help provide peace of mind.
Sleep Number offers a 100-night trial, so if it turns out that you and your partner are not getting the benefits you’d hoped for, you can return or exchange it.
Who may want to use the Sleep Number Warming Blanket: Couples who have different temperature needs.
Who may want to avoid the Sleep Number Warming Blanket: People who want a blanket with programming options, or who are looking for a less expensive electric blanket.
You may want to consider
While the Sleep Number Warming Blanket is our pick for the best heated blanket for couples, if you want a heated blanket with dual-zone heating for a lower price, you may want to consider the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heated Blanket, which is available in queen size for nearly half the price.
BedJet 3 Dual Zone Climate Control Sleep System: Best for heating and cooling
Why the BedJet 3 Dual Zone Climate Control Sleep System is our pick for best for heating and cooling
The BedJet 3 Dual Zone Climate Control Sleep System is a good blanket to consider for people who would love to have both heating and cooling capabilities in their bedding. Unlike traditional electric blankets, the BedJet 3 Dual Zone uses small under-bed machines to regulate bed temperature by circulating cooled or heated air into the air-flow chamber of the included “Cloud Sheet.”
The device fits under beds with only six inches of clearance and can be set up without tools.
One standout feature of the BedJet 3 is its biorhythm sleep technology, which allows you to program the machine to automatically make temperature changes throughout the night based on your body’s needs, and reduces the need to wake up and manually adjust your blanket’s temperature settings.
The BedJet 3 Dual Zone bundle for couples comes with two BedJet machines, two remote controls with color screens, and one Cloud Sheet with two interior air-flow chambers so that each person can set their half of the bed to their desired temperature. Temperature can be set anywhere between 66oF and 104oF.
You can also use your remote control to program your individual biorhythm sleep temperatures, adjust the air-flow settings, and change the auto-shutoff time. A smartphone app that links to the machine to control the BedJet 3 settings is also available,
BedJet also sells a single zone system, the BedJet 3 Climate Comfort Sleep System, for $599.
Who may want to use the BedJet 3 Dual Zone Climate Control Sleep System: People looking for a product that’s capable of both cooling and heating the bed.
Who may want to avoid the BedJet 3 Dual Zone Climate Control Sleep System: People on a tight budget and people who don’t have the floor space for an under-bed machine.
Pure Enrichment PureRadiance Luxury Heated Throw Blanket: Best heated throw blanket
Why the Pure Enrichment PureRadiance Luxury Heated Throw Blanket is our pick for best heated throw blanket
The Pure Enrichment PureRadiance Luxury Heated Throw Blanket features ultra-soft fabrics like faux fur and sherpa to make you feel comfortable in any room.
Measuring 50” by 60”, the PureRadiance Throw Blanket’s size makes it versatile enough to use on your bed, couch, or chair. The blanket includes an LED controller with six heat settings and is designed with InstaHeat technology, which enables it to heat up quickly and evenly so you won’t have to wait to warm up.
Additionally, this electric blanket comes with a two-hour automatic shut off for safety and energy conservation. One of our favorite features of this blanket is that once you detach the controller, it is machine-washable, making it easy to care for and maintain. Machine washability is not always a given with electric blankets or faux fur materials. Finally, it’s UL-certified for safety.
Who may want to use the Pure Enrichment PureRadiance Luxury Heated Throw Blanket: People looking for a luxurious throw blanket that is cozy and stylish, and can be used in any room of the house.
Who may want to avoid the Pure Enrichment PureRadiance Luxury Heated Throw Blanket: People looking for a heated blanket that’s large enough to fit a bed or large enough for two people. People who want a color other than gray.
Pure Enrichment PureRelief Plush Heated Throw Blanket: Best affordable heated throw blanket
Why the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Plush Heated Throw Blanket is our pick for best affordable heated throw blanket
Pure Enrichment’s PureRelief Plush Heated Throw Blanket is made from ultra-soft micromink and sherpa materials, which adds to the cozy feel. Like the PureRadiance Luxury Throw, the PureRelief Plush features InstaHeat technology, which heats the blanket quickly so you don’t have to wait to feel warm and a two-hour automatic shut off to conserve energy and prevent overheating.
The PureRelief Plush has four heat settings ranging from 90oF to 105oF and an extra-long 9-foot detachable power cord, making it easy to use in most rooms of the house. The cord is removable to allow for machine washing, making care and maintenance easy. A storage bag comes with the PureRelief Plush (and the PureRadiance Luxury) so you can store the blanket away neatly or travel with it.
Like Pure Enrichment’s other blankets, the PureRelief Plush has undergone rigorous safety testing and is UL-certified. Finally, it includes a 5-year warranty, so you can be confident in the blanket’s durability and performance over time.
Who may want to use the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Plush Heated Throw Blanket: People looking for a basic, heated throw blanket at an affordable price.
Who may want to avoid the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Plush Heated Throw Blanket: People looking for a heated blanket with more temperature customization options and color choices. People looking for a heated blanket that’s large enough to fit a bed or large enough for two people to use.
Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth Weighted Throw Blanket with Heat: Best weighted and heated blanket
Why the Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth Weighted Throw Blanket with Heat is our pick for best weighted and heated blanket
Pure Enrichment’s WeightedWarmth Weighted Throw Blanket with Heat is one of the best heating blankets for people who are seeking the benefits of an electric blanket but also want the calming effects of a weighted blanket. Like the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Plush Heated Throw, the WeightedWarmth Throw is made with soft micromink and sherpa materials to give the blanket a luxurious feel.
The WeightedWarmth Blanket’s stand-out feature is its 2-in-1 design, which blends relaxing heat with the pressure of a weighted blanket, making it a good option for heat therapy for helping to relieve pain and promote relaxation. Research has found that weighted blankets can measurably improve the perception of pain for people who experience chronic pain and may even help lessen pain-related anxiety. The WeightedWarmth Blanket applies gentle pressure with 13 pounds of evenly distributed, non-toxic glass beads.
This blanket has InstaHeat technology for quick warming, and four heat settings ranging from 90oF to 105oF so you can customize the warmth to your comfort. It also has an automatic shut off feature to prevent overheating and conserve energy, and it’s UL-certified for safety.
Who may want to use the Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth Weighted Throw Blanket with Heat: People who want the combined benefits of heat and a weighted blanket.
Who may want to avoid the Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth Weighted Throw Blanket with Heat: People who would prefer a heated blanket that is machine washable. People looking for a heated blanket that’s large enough to fit a bed.
How we research and choose the best heated blankets
To create our list of the best blankets, both heated and weighted, our team spent more than 50 hours researching eight popular brands and identified 13 blankets to compare and review. Here are the factors we used to compare the best heated blankets:
Cost
We looked for blankets with a range of prices, including more affordable options and those with the most advanced features for a higher price. The heated blankets in our review range in price from $70–$1,389.
Heat settings
It’s important that heated blankets offer more than one temperature so each user can find the most comfortable setting for them. We looked for products with at least four heat settings or a wide temperature range. For larger heated blankets meant for multiple people, we looked for blankets that offer dual heating zones so each person can set their own temperature.
Material
The best heated blankets also need to be soft and comfortable. We reviewed options made from materials like micromink, sherpa, faux fur, cotton, microfleece, and velvet.
Automatic shutoff
This is an important safety feature of modern heated blankets. It can help prevent you from getting burned or overheated if you forget to turn the blanket off before falling asleep, and it can save energy if you leave the blanket on when you leave the house.
Cleaning and care
The majority of the blankets on our list are machine washable to make them easy to care for and clean. We were surprised that this is an available option for heated blankets, given the electric components inside them, but it can make the blankets more appealing. The only spot-clean only option on our list is the heated and weighted blanket.
Safety certifications
We look for heated blankets that are either UL-certified or ETL-certified. These standards indicate that the product has undergone thorough testing for electrical safety.
Available sizes
We like heated blankets that come in multiple sizes. This gives users the option of more than just a personal heated blanket, including blankets that can cover a full bed for two people.
Learn more about our sleep product testing and review methodology.
Pros and cons of heated blankets
Jeoffrey Drobot, NMD, one of the founders and medical directors of the American Center for Biological Medicine (ACBM) in Scottsdale, Arizona, explains that heated blankets can be a key strategy in managing symptoms of chronic pain. “I often tell my patients with chronic pain or muscle stiffness to try using a heated blanket to see if it helps with their symptoms,” he says.
According to Dr. Drobot, heated blankets can help relax the body, soothe stiff joints, reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and decrease pain levels. “The benefits [of heated blankets] include relieving muscle tension, improving blood flow, and reducing pain,” says Dr. Drobot. He typically recommends using a heated blanket in conjunction with other treatments, such as physical therapy or medication.
Although there is no current published research on the therapeutic benefits of heated blankets for stiff joints or pain, the application of heat to areas of the body experiencing pain or stiffness has long been used as a treatment option in combination with other therapies. Research on localized heat treatment has found that patients experienced a measurable increase in range of motion, a decrease in tissue stiffness, and positive effects on pain and quality of life.
However, as with any treatment, there are also some risks to using heated blankets, says Dr. Drobot. “There can be some risks associated with prolonged or overnight use of heated blankets,” he explains. These can include skin burns and overheating. For this reason he recommends using a blanket that has automatic shut off to prevent overheating or leaving the blanket on for too long. If you’re using a heated blanket that does not have automatic shut off, try setting an alarm to remind you to adjust the heat or turn the blanket off.
With any electric blanket, read the user manual carefully and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use, and never leave a heated blanket unattended.
Following our discussion with Dr. Drobot, we summarized his advice.
Here are the some of the pros of heated blankets:
- Relieves muscle tension.
- Improves blood flow.
- Reduces pain.
- Soothes stiff joints.
- Reduces inflammation.
Here are some of the cons of heated blankets:
- Potential burns.
- Overheating.
- May interfere with certain medical devices.
How to choose a heated blanket
Choosing the right heated blanket for your needs involves balancing comfort, safety, and functionality. From different heat levels to automatic shut off features, many factors come into play when deciding on a heated blanket. Here are some of the most important features to keep in mind when choosing a heated blanket.
Auto shut-off features
An automatic shut off feature is an essential safety component in any heated blanket. This function automatically turns the heat off after a set amount of time, usually between two to 10 hours. This not only prevents overheating but also saves on electricity costs. For anyone prone to falling asleep with their heated blanket turned on, this feature will reduce the risk of overheating and skin burns. Regardless of how you plan to use your heated blanket, an automatic shut off feature should be a required safety feature.
Blanket material
While you may think the type of material used in your heated blanket is just for coziness or aesthetics, it actually plays a key role in heat distribution. Look for soft, breathable fabrics like fleece, micromink, or sherpa to efficiently trap heat and provide maximum comfort. Micromink and sherpa offer a plush feel while promoting evenly distributed warmth to ensure your whole body stays cozy. Breathability is equally important. Good materials ensure that the blanket doesn’t overheat or make you feel sweaty.
Like any bedding, electric blankets can absorb body oils and scents and gather dust over time. The best blankets are made with machine-washable materials for easy care.
Safety certifications
When it comes to electric products like heated blankets, UL (Underwriters Laboratories) certification is a key indicator of safety. This certification ensures that the blanket has undergone rigorous testing for electrical safety and performance. Always look for this certification to confirm that your heated blanket meets the highest safety standards.
Another type of certification is ETL certification. It is similar to UL certification and ensures that the product has passed rigorous testing for electrical, fire, and mechanical safety.
Cost and warranties
Heated blankets come at a range of prices, with basic models starting at around $70 and higher-end options priced up to $1,389 or more, depending on sizes and materials. More expensive heated blankets typically offer extra features like premium knits, dual-zone heating, and a wider range of heat settings and programming options.
It’s also important to check for trial periods and warranties. If this is your first time getting a heated blanket, a generous trial period can make a big difference if you find that heated blankets are not for you (or you just don’t like that particular blanket).
A good warranty typically covers one to five years, which protects you from manufacturing defects. Even if it’s slightly more expensive than another brand, investing in a blanket with a solid warranty may save you money in the long run.
Our final verdict
Our overall pick for the best heated blanket is the Pure Enrichment PureRelief Deluxe Heated Blanket because it is available in a range of sizes, has 10 heat settings and an automatic shut-off feature, and is machine washable. It starts at $89.99 for a twin size and up to $129.99 for a king size. The queen and king sizes feature dual-zone heating, which can be ideal for couples who sleep together and prefer different sleeping temperatures.
When choosing a heated blanket, it’s important to consider safety and comfort features. Look for automatic shut-off functionality for safety, UL or ETL certification to ensure the blanket has undergone extensive safety testing, and fabrics like fleece or sherpa for comfort and even heat distribution. Finally, consider cost, trial periods, and warranty options. Investing in a blanket with a longer warranty can ensure coverage if anything in the blanket stops working or the quality of the materials don’t hold up under normal use.
Compare the best heated blankets of 2024
| Price | $89.99–$129.99 | $229.99–$259.99 | $1,329–$1,389 | $89.99 | $69.99 | $119.99 |
| Number of heat settings | 10 | 10 | Any temperature between 66oF and 104oF | 6 | 4 | 4 |
| Material | Micromink velvet | Microfleece | Cotton | Faux fur and sherpa | Micromink and sherpa | Micromink and sherpa |
| Auto-shutoff feature | Yes (10 hours) | Yes (10 hours) | Yes (programmable) | Yes (2 hours) | Yes (2 hours) | Yes (2 hours) |
| Maintenance | Machine washable | Machine washable | Machine washable | Machine washable | Machine washable | Spot clean only (not machine washable) |
| Best for | Best overall | Couples | Heating and cooling capabilities | Throw blanket | Those on a budget | Weighted blanket |
Frequently asked questions
A heated blanket may be worth the investment depending on your needs and preferences. They have many benefits, such as providing extra warmth during the winter months, helping to reduce energy bills by allowing you to lower your home’s thermostat, and offering targeted relief of muscle pain and tension while also promoting relaxation.
While the upfront cost of a high-quality heated blanket is typically higher than a regular blanket, many models have additional features like auto shut-off and machine-washable designs, and the best blankets have long warranties to cover any defects. If you value comfort, warmth, and energy savings, a heated blanket could be a worthwhile investment.
According to Dr. Drobot, there are some risks associated with prolonged or overnight use of heated blankets, such as skin burns and overheating. He suggests using a blanket with an automatic shut-off feature to prevent overheating or leaving the blanket on for too long.
Most heated blankets have a warranty of between one and five years, which indicates that many electric blankets have a potential life expectancy of at least five years.
To maximize the life of your heated blanket, it’s important to read your blanket’s user manual carefully and follow the care and use instructions provided by the manufacturer, such as avoiding excessive machine washing and storing the blanket properly when not in use.
- Taylor, D.J., Lichstein, K.L., Durrence, H.H., Reidel, B.W., & Bush, A.J. (2005, November). Epidemiology of Insomnia, Depression, and Anxiety. Sleep, 28(11): 1457–1464. Link
- Freeman, D., Sheaves, B., Goodwin, G.M., Yu, L.M., Nickless, A., Harrison, P.J., et al. (2017, October). The effects of improving sleep on mental health (OASIS): a randomised controlled trial with mediation analysis. The Lancet Psychiatry, 4(10): 749-758. Link
- Okamoto-Mizuno, K., Mizuno, K. (2012, May 31). Effects of thermal environment on sleep and circadian rhythm. Journal of Physiological Anthropology, 31. Link
- Yousef, H., Ahangar, E.R., Varacallo, M. (2023, May 1). Physiology, Thermal Regulation. StatPearls. Link
- Dunkin, M.A. (2022, October 11). Cold Weather Checklist for People With Arthritis. Arthritis Foundation. Link
- Baumgartner, J.N., Quintana, D., Leija, L., Schuster, N.M., Bruno, K.A., Castellanos, J.P., Case, L.K. (2022, January). Widespread Pressure Delivered by a Weighted Blanket Reduces Chronic Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial. The Journal of Pain, 23(1): 156–174. Link
- Clijsen, R., Stoop, R., Hohenauer, E., Aerenhouts, D., Clarys, P., Deflorin, C., Taeymans, J. (2022, March). Local Heat Applications as a Treatment of Physical and Functional Parameters in Acute and Chronic Musculoskeletal Disorders or Pain. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 103(3):505–522. Link
- Qi, J. (2023, Dec. 11) Dermatologist Explains How to Cope with Toasted Skin Syndrome. Kaiser Permanente. Link