3 Best Heated Blankets, Tested by Bedding Experts
Here are the only ones worth buying this winter.
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When temperatures drop, a heated blanket can turn your couch or bed into the coziest spot in the house. We tested 21 electric blankets in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, using thermal cameras and temperature sensors to evaluate everything from heat distribution and heating speed to consistency and cold spots. I also assessed washability and ease of use, while at-home consumer testers shared feedback on comfort and overall performance.
Our top pick from Bedsure was the best performer across every category we evaluated. It heats quickly and evenly, feels especially plush and comfortable, and earned the Good Housekeeping Seal.
Our top picks:
✔️ Best overall: Bedsure GentleSoft Solid Flannel Heated Blanket
Heated the quickest and most evenly in our tests
✔️ Best value: Beautyrest Heated Electric Blanket
Offers up to 20 heat settings, a preheat option, and a 10-hour auto shut-off
✔️ Most stylish: Bedsure GentleSoft Ribbed Heated Blanket
A chic, reversible ribbed blanket that hides heated wires
Best Deal
Bedsure GentleSoft Solid Flannel Heated Blanket
Bedsure GentleSoft Solid Flannel Heated Blanket
Pros
- Top performer in tests
- Soft and cozy feel
- Dual heating for Queen and King sizes so each partner can control temperature
Cons
- One tester noted shedding before laundering
Why it’s our best overall heated blanket
This versatile, machine-washable blanket features two super comfy sides—a plush velvety top and a soft sherpa underside—and the attached control offers six heat levels and four time settings or dual controls with 10 heat levels and 10 time settings for larger Queen-size or King-size options. It was the top performer in our tests across every category and even earned the Good Housekeeping Seal.
The brand also sells a wearable blanket hoodie variation using the same fabric.
How it performed in our tests
✔️ In-Lab evaluations: I was impressed by how quickly the blanket heated up, as well as its even heat distribution. Compared to other styles, the fabric felt more plush and pliable, and the heating components didn't vary much in temperature (meaning no hot or cold spots). The wires were densely spread through most of the blanket (pictured), so every spot felt heated. After I washed it multiple times, I didn't notice any changes in heating ability or signs of wear.
✔️ Tester feedback: Our consumer testers loved its plush comfort: "I really love how soft both sides of this blanket feel. It definitely made me feel warm and cozy," said one. Another shared, "I like how quickly it heats up compared to other heated blankets I've owned." One noted some shedding before she washed the blanket, so we recommend washing it (according to the care label) before extensive use.
| Sizes | Throw, Throw XL, Twin, Full, Queen, King |
| Heating levels | 6 (Throw to Full) or 10 (Queen and King) |
| Auto shut-off | 3-hour (Throw to Full) or 8-hour (Queen and King) maximum |
Beautyrest Heated Electric Blanket
Beautyrest Heated Electric Blanket
Pros
- 20 adjustable heat settings
- Even heat distribution in tests
- Features preheat option
Cons
- Wires aren't as closely packed as other styles
What makes it a great value
Featuring more than 20 adjustable temperature settings, plus a one-hour preheating option, this electric blanket is a must-have for any bedroom. It’s available in various sizes from Twin to King and comes in a range of pretty colors. A 10-hour auto shut-off feature means that you can stay bundled up and warm on chilly nights without having to turn it off.
How it performed in our tests
✔️ In-Lab evaluations: This blanket also heated up fairly quickly (though slightly behind our best overall pick) and held a consistent temperature throughout, with minimal deviations. The heating components were spread throughout the entire blanket and offered the best coverage, though the wires weren't as close together on the Throw we tested.
✔️ Tester feedback: Testers told us that the plush microfiber felt velvet-y smooth and liked how simple it was to operate the throw size. Online reviewers who used other sizes appreciated the 20 heat levels—which is the most we've seen on a heated blanket—and highlighted the preheat setting.
| Sizes | Throw (60 in. by 70 in.), Twin, Full, Queen, King |
| Heating levels | 3 (Throw) or 20 (Twin to King) |
| Auto shut-off | 2-hour (Throw) or 10-hour (Twin to King) maximum |
Bedsure GentleSoft Ribbed Heated Blanket
Bedsure GentleSoft Ribbed Heated Blanket
Pros
- Quickly heated up in tests
- Can't see wires on the ribbed side
- Heating elements fully cover the entire bed
Cons
- Some testers disliked feeling the wires, especially since they couldn't see them
Why it stands out for its good looks
The ribbed design of this reversible electric blanket is ingenious: The wires remain hidden within the ribbed channels and earned praise from our testers for appearance. Like our other pick from Bedsure, the heating levels and time settings vary with size.
How it performed in our tests
✔️ In-Lab evaluations: This blanket performed similarly to the other Bedsure option we recommend, though the heating wasn't as consistent on high with some variance over time. The ribbed design looked great on a bed and generously hung over the edges. I was impressed that the heating elements in the Queen-size model covered the entire surface of the bed.
✔️ Tester feedback: Testers loved using it both as a blanket and a heated blanket. One even described it as “perfect for taking a nap.” Several also commented on the ribbed design: "I like the ribbed look. It sets it apart from other heated blankets you see online nowadays," said one. Testers were divided on whether they could feel the wires when using the blanket; some swore they couldn't, while others didn't like that they did.
| Sizes | Throw, Throw XL, Twin, Full, Queen, King |
| Heating levels | 6 (Throw to Full) or 10 (Queen and King) |
| Auto shut-off | 2-hour (Throw) or 10-hour (Twin to King) maximum |
Other heated blankets we've tested
There are dozens of heated blankets on the market, but not every style we tried made our best-tested list. Here's what we thought about some notable options:
Tobjob's Ergoboo Electric Heated Blanket felt luxuriously soft, and we loved the look and feel of the bubble faux-fur texture, but it heated up very slowly in our tests, taking over 20 minutes to reach its peak on high. Still, we liked that we couldn't see the wires through the fabric, though we could still feel them.
Sunbeam's Royal Mink Sherpa didn't perform as well compared to newer models we've tested. Though the heat distribution was good and it heated up relatively quickly, the heating component only covered half of the area we saw in similar blankets, and the fabric wasn't as soft.
Sunbeam's Royal Ultra Blanket felt notably thin compared to competitors. While testers liked that it didn't feel as bulky, they found it less soft than other heated blankets they've owned.
Sealy's Heated Blanket felt soft, but didn't maintain a consistent temperature once heated, and it fluctuated.
Serta's Heated Blanket wasn't as soft as we'd like and earned lower scores from consumer testers for comfort. The heating wasn't notably good or bad.
Other options that performed well in our tests but have been discontinued: Lovesac's Radiant Footsac Blanket, L.L.Bean's Wicked Cozy Electric Blanket, Perfect Fit's Ultra Soft Plush Electric Blanket, and Warmee's Smart Heated Throw (this was the only heated blanket we couldn't feel the wires in)
How we test the best heated blankets
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab, we've been evaluating home products for 125 years, including electric blankets. The picks above include products that performed well in the Lab and with consumer testers.
As with other bedding, we test heated blankets both in the Lab and in the homes of dozens of consumer testers. In our most recent Lab tests, we made sure to evaluate everything from the time needed to heat up, heat retention, heat distribution, washability, and ease of use using standardized testing methodology and specialized lab equipment, such as thermal cameras, thermocouples (sensors), and related software. Consumer testers also provided feedback on ease of use, softness, and appearance.
Here's what we look at, along with details on how we test each aspect:
✔️ Design & construction: We inspect each comforter's construction, from fiber content and style to how the wires are stored. Our analysts also consider the length of electrical cords and the different features of the controller, including heat levels and auto-timers. At-home consumer testers also comment on the comfort of the blanket, from the feel of the fabric to the heating element, plus they share any thoughts on appearance.
✔️ Ease of use: We compare the settings on various controls across different heated blankets in the Lab. Consumer testers also share how intuitive it was to operate each blanket.
✔️ Heat distribution: We used a thermal camera to identify where heating components were located within each blanket, pinpointing any hot spots. We note how far the wires were spread out and how much of the total blanket was covered by the heating components.
✔️ Heating over time: Using thermocouples (a.k.a. sensors), we recorded the temperature of different areas on each blanket. We started the blankets on high and monitored to see how long it took the wires to heat up, how consistent the heat was, and how much different areas varied (including any cold spots). All tests were performed in a temperature-controlled room, but we also recorded the ambient temperature at the time of testing.
You can see a few examples of the results of our heated blanket tests below.
Examples of heated blanket test results
Some blankets provide fluctuating temperatures (top, left) or vary greatly in temperature by location (top, right or bottom, right), while others are a bit more stable (bottom, left) in comparison.
✔️ Washability: For each model, we followed laundering instructions for several washes and noted any changes in appearance. We also checked for cold spots and other notable impacts on heating with our thermal camera and sensors. At-home consumer testers also shared their personal experiences caring for the blanket.
What to look for when shopping for heated blankets
Here are a few tips for deciding which electric blanket is worth purchasing.
✔️ Fabric: Most electric blankets are either made of microfiber (a type of polyester) or acrylic. In our tests, we found that consumers preferred the softness of microfiber over acrylic but could often feel the wiring through the microfiber fabrics. Testers didn’t tend to feel the wires through the acrylic blankets.
✔️ Size: Many electric blankets are throw blanket size, but some options come in Queen and King sizes, so decide whether you're looking for something to snuggle up with on the couch or something that will cover your entire bed. Some larger blankets provide dual heating so you and your partner can opt for different levels of warmth.
✔️ Automatic shutdown timer: Heated blankets often have an automatic timer for safety reasons that will shut off the blanket after a predetermined amount of time. It can range anywhere from 2 to 12 hours, so consider whether you truly need a blanket that will stay warm through the entire night.
✔️ Washability: Most heated blankets are washable, though many may need to be laundered separately on a gentle and cold cycle and laid flat to dry (not put in the dryer!). We recommend consulting the care label to adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines.
How do heated blankets work?
Heated blankets plug into an electrical socket (or use a battery pack) to use electricity to heat the blanket. They feature insulated wires that are safely kept in place between the fabric layers of the blanket. The wires warm up to heat the entire blanket—quite quickly, too!
Are heated blankets safe?
Generally, yes. Most electric blankets on the market feature auto shut-off, meaning they will automatically turn off after 2 to 12 hours. We recommend following all manufacturer instructions, especially when it comes to safety: Heated blankets should only be used overnight if specified in the manual.
Before purchasing, check that the blanket has a third-party safety certification like those from UL or Intertek.
Do electric blankets raise your heating bill?
Using a heated blanket is often cheaper than cranking up the heat in your house. If your blanket uses 200 watts (the watt usage should be listed in the manual), leaving it on for 10 hours corresponds to 2 kilowatt-hours. For reference, in 2025, the average cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour in the United States ranged from 18 to 19 cents, so 2 kilowatt-hours would cost, on average between 36 to 38 cents, though specifics will vary.
If using an electric blanket allows you to turn the heat down at night, then it can actually be a money-saving investment.
How do I care for an electric blanket?
We highly recommend that you follow all care and use instructions that are included in your electric blanket's manual for the sake of safety. Aim to keep your electric blanket spread out evenly and not bunched up in a ball, which can create hot spots or damage the wires. When not in use, unplug and fold the blanket for easy organizing.
If you notice any brown spots on your blanket, stop using it immediately and purchase a replacement: The brown spots likely mean it has overheated, causing burnt areas.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Senior Textiles Analyst Grace Wu oversaw all recent electric blanket testing. She has evaluated all kinds of heated gear, from heated socks and heated gloves to heated vests and jackets.
Wu holds a Master of Engineering in materials science & engineering and a Bachelor of Science in fiber science from Cornell University. She also has a background in wearable technology, smart clothing, and electronic textiles from her time in academic laboratories.
