With energy costs continuing to rise throughout winter, finding affordable ways to stay warm is increasingly important. According to energy experts, electric blankets offer a cost-effective alternative to turning up the central heating, running for just pennies per hour.
Uswitch energy expert Ben Gallizzi notes that most electric blankets use 100W on average, costing only 3p per hour to run under current energy prices. The running cost depends on the blanket's power rating, usage time, and heat setting. For example, a 40W blanket running for eight hours a day at maximum setting costs 9p per day (approximately £33 a year), while a 250W blanket costs 56p per day (approximately £202 a year), based on the January 2026 energy price cap.
To maximise savings, experts recommend pre-warming the bed on a high setting for 30 minutes rather than running the blanket all night on a lower setting. Using a timer and layering with duvets or throws can also reduce energy consumption. AO's small appliances expert Katie Lillywight advises combining the blanket with other bedding to retain heat, allowing lower settings.
The type of electric blanket also affects costs. Underblankets, mattress protectors, and overblankets typically have an energy rating of 200–250Wh, costing about 7p per hour. Heated throws have a higher rating of 300Wh, costing around 8p per hour. Electric blankets take five to 10 minutes to warm up and may have automatic temperature adjustment to save energy.
Safety is paramount; the London Fire Brigade advises against using a hot water bottle simultaneously with an electric blanket and to replace the blanket if worn or the cord is damaged. Older blankets may be less efficient, so upgrading can improve both safety and running costs.
