WINTER is quickly approaching, and with that many will be looking for ways to stay warm without using too much electricity.
Electric blankets can be a handy tool for this, with a single size cover just using between 40 to 60 watts.
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That means a smaller 40-watt electric blanket would cost just 8p to run a night or £30 a year, according to figures by Uswitch based on July’s energy price cap.
Larger blankets, which would cover a double or king size bed, may use more electricity but still cost only pennies to run, when compared to your central heating.
If you are in the market for an electric blanket, choosing the right one for you can be an overwhelming experience.
But we have drafted in the help of experts to help you pick the perfect one this winter.
Key features to have
A good electric blanket will have a few functions that separate it from the norm, Isabella Forgione, small appliance expert at AO.com, tells The Sun.
You should ensure your blanket has three or more settings you can adjust, she said.
This is so you can control how much you want the blanket to heat your bed.
She added: “Similarly, a timer function can be a lifesaver – letting you set to switch it off after a certain time, saving your electricity and adding peace of mind.”
Another tip the expert shares is ensuring that the blanket you are eyeing up is “washing machine friendly”.
In most cases, washing machine friendly electric blankets should have detachable controllers.
This allows you to safely pop your blanket in your washing machine.
It is important to note that if your blanket is not safe to go in the washing machine you should avoid doing this.
This is to prevent it from breaking and avoid any hazards.
Make your blanket last longer
The average electric blanket can cost anywhere between £15 to £150, so it is important to look after it so it lasts.
Isabella recommends households to avoid folding the blanket tightly.
Folding along the same crease repeatedly can damage the wires inside.
How to use your electric blanket safely
GIUSEPPE Capanna, product safety engineer at Electrical Safety First, shares some safety basics when using an electric blanket.
Electric blankets are a cheap and effective way to keep warm in the colder months, but only if you use them safely.
Safety starts with where you shop, so always buy from a reputable high-street retailer you know and trust.
Before plugging it in, check the blanket and its cable for damage, especially if it’s been in storage over the summer.
Signs like rodent damage, frayed wires or scorch marks mean it needs replacing immediately.
If you’re using one overnight, either switch it off before bed or make sure it has an automatic shut-off.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and cleaning.
Don’t use an electric blanket while it’s folded or creased, as this can cause it to overheat, and never pair it with a hot water bottle, as you could be at risk of electric shock if water comes into contact with it. Don’t risk a shock this winter.
Instead, it is recommended to try to roll or loosely fold when storing it away over the winter.
She also said it is a “good idea” to inspect the cord, controller and blanket itself for wear and tear before you get it out for winter.
“If you see any fraying, dark marks or smell burning – switch it off immediately and it’s time to hunt for a replacement,” she added.
How to get the best deal
When on the hunt for an electric blanket it is important to shop around to avoid paying more than you need to.
Websites like PriceSpy UK let you compare prices on products across all the major chains to see if you’re getting the best deal.
Better yet, keep an eye out for deals this Black Friday, which takes place on November 28.
This is an event where shops and retailers lower some of their prices temporarily to encourage shoppers to buy more products.
Another hack is shopping for an electric blanket in the spring and summer months.
Retailers may lower their prices when the weather is warmer and the product is in less demand.
How to bag a bargain
SUN Savers Editor Lana Clements explains how to find a cut-price item and bag a bargain…
Sign up to loyalty schemes of the brands that you regularly shop with.
Big names regularly offer discounts or special lower prices for members, among other perks.
Sales are when you can pick up a real steal.
Retailers usually have periodic promotions that tie into payday at the end of the month or Bank Holiday weekends, so keep a lookout and shop when these deals are on.
Sign up to mailing lists and you’ll also be first to know of special offers. It can be worth following retailers on social media too.
When buying online, always do a search for money off codes or vouchers that you can use vouchercodes.co.uk and myvouchercodes.co.uk are just two sites that round up promotions by retailer.
Scanner apps are useful to have on your phone. Trolley.co.uk app has a scanner that you can use to compare prices on branded items when out shopping.
Bargain hunters can also use B&M’s scanner in the app to find discounts in-store before staff have marked them out.
And always check if you can get cashback before paying which in effect means you’ll get some of your money back or a discount on the item.
