More than 11 million households in Britain are planning to buy at least one warming device this winter to combat soaring energy bills, according to a survey by Uswitch. The poll found that two-fifths of people will purchase items such as electric blankets, fleece-lined throws and thermal clothing, with one in ten specifically buying an electric blanket.
Electric blankets, which can cost as little as £14.99 and run for about 3p an hour, are being embraced by many as a cheap alternative to central heating. Around 30 per cent of households already use one, while 38 per cent rely on a weighted throw for warmth. Heated slippers have also proved “surprisingly popular”, with 30 per cent of households owning a pair.
Hot water bottles remain the top choice for staying cosy, owned by 61 per cent of households, followed by thermal clothing such as leggings, socks and base layers, owned by 48 per cent. Other gadgets include disposable hand warmers (17 per cent), electric or rechargeable hand warmers (16 per cent), and heated gloves (10 per cent).
The survey also highlighted other energy-saving measures: 40 per cent of homes have draught excluders, 30 per cent use thermal curtains, and 26 per cent employ radiator reflectors to bounce heat back into rooms. Uswitch energy spokesman Will Owen advised that staying warm doesn’t mean using central heating continuously, and urged people to consider fixed energy deals if worried about bills.
