What is the difference between a heated throw and a heated blanket?

Author: Berniece Ullrich  |  Last update: Monday, July 14, 2025

Functionality: Heated throws are portable and versatile, ideal for lounging. Electric blankets are tailored for bed use, providing consistent warmth for sleeping. Size: Throws are smaller and typically fit one person, while electric blankets come in sizes to match your bed—single, double, king, you name it.

Which is better, a heated blanket or a heated throw?

Heated blankets are very economical to run

Because they concentrate heat in one area rather than heating an entire room, they're the best way to stay warm on a budget during winter! A heated throw is perfect for use on the couch.

Can you use an electric throw as an electric blanket?

Heated throws are for snuggling under on the sofa or in your favourite armchair – although you can use them as a blanket on your bed too.

Can you sleep on a heated throw?

Choosing the Right Electric Blanket or Heated Throw for You

If you're planning to use your electric blanket overnight, choose one with essential safety features, like an auto shut-off and adjustable heat settings. A soft, breathable fabric and multiple temperature options can also make a big difference in comfort.

How warm does a heated throw get?

Most blankets will have variable heat settings that will generally range from 18 to 56 degrees.

Cost To Run An Electric Throw Mia and Coco Electric Blanket How Much Electricity October 2022

Does a heated throw use a lot of electricity?

Heated throws are a little less efficient as they don't have a duvet to help them retain heat, so they have to use a little more energy to reach their target temperature. However, they're usually made of thicker, cosier material to compensate for this, so you should still be able to run one for less than 1p per hour.

What is the warmest type of throw?

When it comes to keeping toasty, the warmest material for a throw has to be wool — merino wool, lambswool, mohair, and pure new wool all top the textiles list for their natural insulation and breathability. Wool throws keep you warm without making you overheat, so they're perfect for layering up in winter.

Is it safe to sit on a heated throw?

We would not recommend you to sit on top of the heated throw as this may damage the heating elements. This can be placed over the top of you when you are seated for additional warmth.

Are heated throws a fire hazard?

Electric blankets account for thousands of fires a year in homes and you can prevent these by taking some simple steps. Read more on the Electrical Safety First website.

Can you lie on top of a heated throw?

Can you fall sleep with a heated blanket? Thanks to the automatic turn off timers, you can safely doze off with your electric throw over you. Depending on the setting, your blanket will switch off after a set period of time and you can doze on. All our heated throws also have built-in overheating protection.

Can you wash a heated throw?

You can machine-wash your electric blanket as long as the care tag indicates that it is safe. Washing an electric blanket may require a gentle, short cycle on a low-speed spin with minimum agitation and specific water temperature that differs from a normal wash. Due to the heating element, extra care may be necessary.

Do heated throws turn themselves off?

Over-heating protection - This is a must on any electric blanket and makes sure the blanket automatically turns off if any overheating occurs.

Can you wrap a heated throw around you?

A: Hi, yes that's fine it is a throw and not an electric blanket for a bed so wrapping it round yourself would be fine.

What is the best heated throw blankets?

Our Top Picks
  • Best Overall: Dalos Outdoor Heating Blanket at Amazon $130. ...
  • Best Value: Westinghouse Heated Throw Blanket at Amazon $60. ...
  • Best Throw: Bedsure Heated Blanket at Amazon $40. ...
  • Best Splurge: Cozee Battery Powered Heated Blanket at Amazon $350. ...
  • Best for Road Trips: ...
  • Best Fleece: ...
  • Best Size Options:

Can I put a comforter on top of an electric blanket?

Layer Strategically: Place the heated blanket as the top layer directly under a lightweight, breathable duvet or comforter. This configuration allows for better heat control while still providing extra warmth. Heated Mattress Pads: As an alternative, consider using a heated mattress pad under your bedsheet.

Can you use a heated blanket on a couch?

Fitted electric blankets are perfect for use in bed, but you can't use them anywhere else. If you want to keep cosy on the sofa or in your living room, you'll need something that's a bit more versatile. In this case, a heated throw is the best way to keep warm.

Is it safe to sleep with a heated throw?

Never tuck an electric blanket around the mattress either. Upgrade to one with auto-shutoff. If your blanket doesn't have a timer, turn it off before going to sleep. Electric blanks are not safe to leave on all night while sleeping.

What is the difference between a heated blanket and a heated throw?

Electric blankets are used on beds, commonly attached to the mattress, throws can be used on sofas and chairs (and over beds), and pads are applied directly to various parts of the body such as the feet, back, or neck.

Can you plug a heated throw into a power strip?

DO keep heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, including papers, clothing, and rugs. DON'T use electric blankets while sleeping or as a mattress pad. DO plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord or power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire.

How long can you leave a heated throw on for?

General Safety: If the blanket has an automatic shutoff, it is generally safe to use overnight. However, it is advisable to use the lowest effective setting to maintain comfort without excessive heat. Precautions: Ensure the blanket lays flat and is spread evenly on the bed.

Can you put heated throw in dryer?

Whether you realized it before or not, many newer electric blankets can go right into the washing machine without harming the electrical components; however, you should always air-dry the heated blanket laying flat and avoid using the dryer to protect the electrical elements.

Can I use a heated throw for my dog?

The ideal blanket for your pet should be lightweight, breathable, and not too large for the space that they are in. It's important to consider the materials used in a blanket before giving it to your pet. Never give your pet a weighted blanket, and don't ever leave them alone with a heated one.

What are the 4 types of throws?

The four standard throwing events — shot put, discus, hammer, and javelin — all involve the use of implements of various weights and shapes that are hurled for distance.

How warm should a heated throw be?

Electric blankets vary as to how hot they become and will usually include changeable heat settings to allow you to select different temperatures. The lowest heat generally starts between 18 and 25 degrees Celsius, rising to between 48 and 56 degrees Celsius.

How to stay warm in bed at night?

Staying warm at night

Bedding: Staying warm in bed is vital for us all in winter. Use extra blankets, or buy flannel or fleece bedding if you can. These materials are the warmest bedding options, as they trap body heat and are better insulators than cotton. Using thicker tog duvets will also provide additional warmth.

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