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We Tested the 7 Best Heated Blankets for Cozy Recovery Days at Home

Curl up on the couch with these editor-approved picks

By
Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT
Jessica Murtaugh

Jessica Murtaugh, CPT, CNC, is a digital marketing and branding consultant living in Los Angeles, CA. A personal trainer and nutrition coach, she is passionate about life-long, balanced wellness.

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and
Ravi Davda
Ravi Davda

Ravi Davda is a certified personal trainer with nearly 10 years of experience in the fitness and wellness industry. Ravi has worked with a range of personal training clients both in-person and online.

Learn about our editorial process
Updated on December 27, 2023
Medically reviewed
Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by board-certified physicians and nutrition and exercise healthcare professionals. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more.
by
Dr. Kathleen Gassner, DPT
Kathleen Gassner, PT, DPT
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kathleen Gassner, DPT

Kathleen Gassner is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and certified RRCA run coach. She has over 10 years of experience working in hospital ICUs, orthopedic outpatient settings, and pediatric clinics.

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Rich Scherr
Rich Scherr
Fact checked by Rich Scherr

Rich Scherr is a seasoned journalist who has covered technology, finance, sports, and lifestyle.

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Best Heated Blankets

Verywell Fit / Brian Kopinski

Your post-workout recovery toolkit may already include a sturdy foam roller and an ice pack—but what about a heated blanket? Research shows that heat (like the warmth from an electric blanket) can help improve your blood circulation, speeding up your recovery after a tough workout. For busy people or anyone living in a small space, a soft, cozy blanket that doubles as a smart way to rest up is a serious win-win.

The best heated blankets are comfortable, safe to use, and easy to care for. To find the top options, we first consulted fitness and medical professionals for advice on which key features to look for. Then, we tested 27 expert-approved heated blankets from top, trusted brands. Eight of our favorites received high scores for quality, feel, effectiveness, heat, durability, ease of use, and overall value. A certified physical therapist from our Review Board also reviewed this article for accuracy and how to use a heated blanket safely.

Are Heated Blankets Safe to Use?

Electric blankets emit extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMFs). Most people are exposed to ELF-EMFs daily through common objects like electrical wiring, electric shavers, and hair dryers. Studies have found a link between exposure to high levels of EMF and childhood leukemia, but this exposure typically comes from residential power lines (not heated blankets). Generally, ELF-EMF levels are so low at home that they are not a cause for concern.

Avoid using a heated blanket if you have neuropathy from diabetes or other nerve or circulatory conditions, says board-certified physical therapist Lindy Royer, PT, NCPT. You should not use a heated blanket over an acute injury that's swollen (like a sprained knee or ankle), adds physical therapist Kathleen Gassner, DPT. People who are pregnant should stick to low or medium settings to avoid overheating. When shopping, make sure to purchase your electric blanket brand-new (not second-hand) from a reputable brand. Also, check for an ETL Listed Mark or a UL Certification Mark—these signal that your blanket has been certified safe by a nationally recognized third-party testing agency.

Pros
  • Two heating zones and remotes

  • Extra-long cord

  • Remembers your settings from last time

Cons
  • Can be hard to remove stains

Key Specs

Sizes: 66 x 85 inches (twin) to 108 x 90 inches (king) | Material: Polyester | Heat Settings: 10 | Power Source: 17-foot cord | Machine-Washable: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5

Who It’s For

Best for anyone who’s had problems overheating while using heated blankets in the past. 

Why We Love It

After testing 27 heated blankets, Shavel Home Products’ Micro Flannel Heated Blanket is our favorite for restorative recovery after a tough workout. Made from quilted micro flannel and shearling, it features a hypoallergenic down-alternative fiber, an impressive 10 heat settings, and a quick heat function that reaches the maximum temperature in just 30 minutes. There’s even a memory function that recalls your last temperature and duration settings, so you can spend less time fiddling with the controls and more time relaxing.

While testing this blanket, we were surprised by how breathable it felt. Our tester, who tends to overheat while using electric blankets, noticed she could use this blanket for long periods of time on the lower settings and still feel comfortable. We also appreciate the 17-foot power cord, which is long enough to reach most outlets from a bed or couch. 

We like that this blanket shuts off automatically after 10 hours of use, for peace of mind. Dual controllers in the king and queen sizes allow you and a friend or spouse to control the settings on each side of the blanket separately. Machine-washable and ETL-tested, this heated blanket also comes with a five-year warranty to protect your investment. Six months later, we found that it stayed soft to the touch and stain-free, earning a permanent place on our couches and beds. 

Potential Flaws

  • During testing, we noticed that small stains were difficult to remove while spot-cleaning. But we did find that this blanket comes completely clean in the washing machine.

Most Valuable Insight

“I work the night shift, and sleep is hard to come by during the day. This blanket allowed me to settle in, calm down, and relax quickly.” —Tiffany Ivanovich, Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Unnoticeable wiring

  • Consistent heat

  • Controller is easy to read

Cons
  • No advanced controls

  • Small size

Key Specs

Sizes: 50 x 60 inches | Material: Cotton flannel | Heat Settings: 4 | Power Source: 6-foot cord | Machine-Washable: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.6/5

Who It’s For

Best for curling up in a chair or on the sofa, especially if you like a straightforward remote.

Why We Love It

CureCure’s Heated Blanket is our top budget-friendly pick, providing consistent heat at a fraction of the cost of other blankets on our list. During testing, we liked that the velour and sherpa fabrics felt soft and comfortable, covering unnoticeable wiring that evenly distributed four levels of heat. The six-foot power cord can reach an outlet wherever you recline, and we also appreciate that the controller is easy to use and read.

This ETL-tested blanket heats up quickly and maintains its temperature for six hours before shutting off automatically. We also love that it’s machine-washable and spot cleans easily, so you can indulge in your favorite recovery foods and drinks worry-free. Two months after initially testing it, we’re still curling up underneath CureCure’s blanket—even our dogs love it! 

Potential Flaws

  • The controller is easy to use, but it feels a little flimsy. We also wish it had more settings. 
  • We wish this blanket was slightly larger, to accommodate taller users. 

Most Valuable Insight

“It heats up really well and is so soft and cozy! I can hardly feel the heating cords—it’s not at all like the heating blankets I remember when I was growing up.” —Ashley Craiger, Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Cordless

  • Heated hand pockets

  • Two built-in USB ports

Cons
  • Short battery life on high settings

Key Specs

Sizes: 60 x 60 inches | Material: Polyester | Heat Settings: 3 | Power Source: Battery | Machine-Washable: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5

Who It’s For

Best for bundling up outdoors during overnight camping trips or cold-weather sporting events. 

Why We Love It

With an all-weather exterior and a velvety, micro plush interior, Cozee’s Portable Battery Powered Heated Blanket is our top pick for staying warm on the sidelines or keeping your muscles in top shape for hiking during camping trips. Powered by a lithium battery park that has received a UL Certification Mark, this travel-friendly blanket warms up in just five minutes to keep you cozy for up to four hours on the lowest setting. Best of all, the corners have heated hand pockets, and there are two USB ports for charging your devices.

During testing, we noticed that this blanket evenly distributes heat without any uncomfortable or visible wires. Plus, it has a Mylar thermal shell inside that keeps the heat inside in cool weather. When you’re finished using it, stash it in the included carrying case and recharge the battery pack using a wall outlet or Cozee’s car charger. Given all of its impressive features, we think this blanket is definitely worth the investment—especially for athletes or travelers who are always on the go. 

Potential Flaws

  • On higher settings, the battery only lasts around three hours. But we like that the car charger allows you to quickly recharge when you need to. 

Most Valuable Insight

“The inside is a soft, velvety material, and the wires aren't noticeable at all. Being able to charge the blanket with your car is ridiculously helpful.” —Savanna Bous, Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Two heating zones and knobs

  • Consistent, warm heat

  • Durable design

Cons
  • Instructions are slightly complicated

Key Specs

Sizes: 84 x 90 inches | Material: Polyester | Heat Settings: 10 | Power Source: Cord | Machine-Washable: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5

Who It’s For

Best for soothing aches and pains, with a maximum temperature of 87.5 degrees F. 

Why We Love It

Perfect Fit’s SoftHeat Electric Blanket is shareable and extra-cozy, thanks to its large size and dual controls that efficiently cover any queen- or king-sized bed. The brushed polyester fleece feels plush and luxurious, proving to be the softest heated blanket we tested. We appreciate its durable design—the reinforced hems, undetectable wires, and pill-resistant fabric feel built to last. 

One of the largest and warmest blankets on our list, the highest settings can reach up to 87.5 degrees F. We also like that each side can be controlled separately using simple knobs, whether you’re sharing with a partner or a pet. A UL Certification Mark, automatic shut-off feature that kicks in after 10 hours of use, and machine-washable fabric make this blanket a solid buy. It’s also covered by a five-year warranty to protect your initial investment.

Potential Flaws

  • We noticed during testing that the instructions are a little complicated. Even so, the blanket’s knobs are fairly intuitive and easy to use.

Most Valuable Insight

“This blanket was very easy to plug in and turn on. It’s lightweight and looks great on my bed!” —Sonja Carmon, Verywell Fit product tester 

Pros
  • Durable, waterproof outer

  • Heats up quickly

  • Heated hand pocket

Cons
  • Recommend spot-treating only

Key Specs

Sizes: 40 x 50 inches | Material: Polyester, nylon | Heat Settings: 3 | Power Source: Battery | Machine-Washable: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.3/5

Who It’s For

Best for gathering around a campfire or spending long hours outdoors in chilly weather. 

Why We Love It

Huddled up at a track meet? Eddie Bauer’s Heated Throw Blanket goes where you go, with a convenient battery-powered design. Built for the outdoors, this reversible blanket is made from water-resistant nylon on one side and weather-treated fleece on the other. We also love that the kangaroo pocket where the battery lives doubles as a hand warmer in cooler temperatures. 

During testing, we loved that this blanket warms up quickly and lasts up to six hours, depending on which setting you’re using. The battery is easy to charge using the included adapter and even has a USB port for juicing up your phone in a pinch. And with a three-year warranty, you can rest easy. 

Potential Flaws

  • After we tossed this blanket in the washing machine, we were disappointed to find that the controller didn’t work as well. We recommend spot-cleaning only to get the most out of your purchase.

Most Valuable Insight

“I love that it’s weather-resistant—everyone should have one.” —Polly Rodberg, Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Thick, soft material

  • Two heating zones and controllers

  • Wide range of sizes and colors

Cons
  • Wires aren’t as hidden

Key Specs

Sizes: 89 x 89 inches | Material: Polyester | Heat Settings: 8 | Power Source: 17-foot cord | Machine-Washable: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.2/5

Who It’s For

Best for pairs, especially if someone’s always hot and someone’s always cold. 

Why We Love It

Never fight over the thermostat again with Shavel Home Products’ Micro Flannel Heated Blanket. The king and queen sizes feature separate heating zones and controls, so you can pick and choose your favorite settings. When we tested the queen size, we found that it distributed heat evenly and had an intuitive controller, with up and down arrow buttons that control the temperature and a handy timer. 

Made from velvety micro flannel and trimmed with a satin border, this thick quilt comes in a wide range of colors and sizes for different beds and couches. We especially like that if one person forgets to turn their side off, the blanket will automatically shut off after 10 hours. Well-constructed, ETL-tested, and covered by a five-year warranty, this blanket is also safe to use and easy to care for.

Potential Flaws

  • The wires are more noticeable in this blanket than in others we tested.

Most Valuable Insight

“Pro tip: Turn it on at a low temperature while you get ready for bed. That way, when you get into bed, you won't be sliding into cold sheets. I did this several times and it felt so cozy and luxurious!” —Brandi Fuller, Verywell Fit product tester

Pros
  • Budget-friendly

  • Heats up quickly

  • Long power and controller cords

Cons
  • Shuts off after two hours

  • Cord connection is bulky and difficult to release

Key Specs

Sizes: 50 x 62 inches or 60 x 70 inches | Material: Polyester | Heat Settings: 3 | Power Source: 6-foot cord | Machine-Washable: Yes | Our Overall Rating: 4.4/5

Who It’s For

Best for keeping your feet warm after walking or running in cold weather.

Why We Love It

We didn’t know we needed a heated blanket with a foot pocket until we tried some—and Degrees of Comfort’s Micro-Plush Heated Blanket quickly became our favorite. In testing this oversized, UL-certified throw, we found it warmed quickly to 82.9 degrees F on the highest setting. Plus, its lightweight fabric hides the wires inside well and feels soft to the touch.

Once we kicked up our cold, tired feet, we appreciated how quickly we could get comfortable with this blanket’s long power and controller cords. The straightforward, ergonomic remote is easy to use and can be removed when it’s time to toss the blanket in the washing machine. We also love that it’s budget-friendly, costing seven times less than some of our other top picks. After using this blanket for two months, we (and our cats) are still happily reaching for it on chilly nights. 

Potential Flaws

  • Most heated blankets on our list automatically shut off after six to 10 hours of use. But this one shuts off after two hours, which we found to be a little inconvenient. 
  • During testing, we noticed it was difficult to release the heating element plug from the blanket. However, this does ensure a secure, safe connection.

Most Valuable Insight

“This heated blanket is incredible for its generous size, genius foot pocket, and heating abilities. My cat loved this blanket too, even when it was off—this is the only blanket she's ever snuggled up under.” —Amina Abdelrahman, Verywell Fit product tester

Heated Blankets We Also Tested

Through our rigorous testing process, we’ve tried dozens of heated blankets—but they can’t all make our list of favorites. While these blankets impressed us in some ways, they ultimately missed the mark: 

Where We Stand

After testing 27 heated blankets, Shavel Home Products’ Micro Flannel Heated Blanket is our clear winner for its long-lasting heat and impressive memory function. We continue to test all of these heated blankets at home, and we’ll update our recommendations if we notice anything new that we haven’t already mentioned here. 

What to Look for When Shopping for Heated Blankets

  • Heat Settings: Heated blankets may have anywhere from three to 20 different heat settings. The more, the better, according to Royer—she says variety creates a more comfortable experience. If you’re planning on sharing the blanket with others, consider a larger option with multiple heating zones, like Shavel Home Products’ Micro Flannel Heated Blanket. This can minimize disagreements and promote a restful night’s sleep for all, says Emeka Aludogbu, DC, CCN, CSCS, a chiropractic and sports medicine doctor. 
  • Materials: Physical therapist Lalitha McSorley, BS, MS, PT, recommends looking for heated blankets made from polyester because they’re soft, durable, easy to wash, and fire-resistant. Microfiber is another great option that feels even cozier, rarely pills, and can also go in the washing machine, she adds. 
  • Size: Heated blanket sizes start at throws (perfect for lounging on a chair or sofa) and go all the way up to California king (ideal for sharing with significant others and pets). Deciding where you’ll be using your blanket and how many others you’ll be sharing it with can help you choose the right size.
  • Features: Every blanket on our list has at least one remote control that adjusts its heat settings and an automatic shut-off safety function. Some have an LED screen that’s easy to read in the dark or a programmable timer. When it comes to design, you may want to look for pockets to stash cold feet, smartphones, or remotes. 
  • Safety: “All new electric blankets are required to have safety features, like a rheostat control. A rheostat control is used to control the amount of current flowing in a circuit. Drastic changes in current are what usually causes fire and burns,” McSorley says. To ensure your heated blanket is safe to use, Royer and board-certified family medicine physician Laura Purdy, MD, MBA, agree that it should be purchased new—never second-hand. Also, check that it has an up-to-date warranty and a third-party certification. 
  • Third-Party Certifications: According to Royer, Purdy, and McSorley, it’s important to buy a heated blanket that is certified safe by a nationally recognized testing agency. Check for an ETL Listed Mark or a UL Certification Mark. These symbols are a signal that the heated blanket you’re purchasing is safe to use. 
  • Care and Maintenance: Look for a heated blanket that can be washed regularly, and always launder it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Most blankets on our list are machine-washable—but if your coffee or tea takes a tumble, you should use a damp cloth and some dish soap to spot-clean it.

How We Selected and Tested the Heated Blankets

To find the best heated blankets, we’ve tested 11 expert-recommended options from top brands. During testing, we evaluate each product based on the following key criteria:

  • Quality: When we first unbox each blanket, we consider how it looks and feels. Are there crooked seams and loose threads? Can we see or feel the cords inside, or are they well-hidden? We also check to see if the blanket has an ETL Listed Mark or a UL Certification Mark.
  • Feel: As we test the blanket, we assess how it feels. Is it soft and smooth to the touch, or is the material thin and scratchy? If the blanket has two different sides, are they both pleasant to use? Is it still soft at the end of the testing period, after multiple washes and spot-cleaning sessions? 
  • Effectiveness: To earn a perfect score in this category, a blanket has to heat up quickly and evenly. If the blanket has any additional features, we also test those and note how well they work. 
  • Heat: The best heated blankets have lots of heat settings that all work correctly. Some are automatic, while others require the user to control the heat level. If a blanket has multiple heating zones or other features, we make sure to test those, too. Do all heat settings match the manufacturer’s claims and specifications?
  • Durability: As we use the blankets, we note how easy they are to clean. After weeks of regular use, does the blanket still look and feel brand new? Do the controls still work?
  • Ease of Use: We make sure each heated blanket has settings and controls that are easy to use. Is the display easy to read? Can we work the remote without consulting the blanket’s instruction manual? Do we find ourselves continually reaching for it, or is there something that keeps the blanket from becoming a regular part of our routines? 
  • Overall Value: To accurately rate each heated blanket’s value, we don’t look at its price until the end of each testing period, after we’ve evaluated it in every other category. How much would we pay for the blanket, based on its performance? Heated blankets with a high value score are often worth less than what we’d consider paying for them.

Our Experts

We consulted experts at every stage while researching and reporting this story. Some, like Royer, helped us determine how to use heated blankets safely. Others provided guidance on how using a heated blanket can improve your daily routine. We choose products independently, but input from experts helps us tailor our selections.

  • Lindy Royer, PT, NCPT, a physical therapist, Pilates teacher, and Balanced Body Master Instructor in Centennial, CO
  • Laura Purdy, MD, MBA, a board-certified family medicine physician in Miami, FL
  • Lalitha McSorley, BS, MS, PT, a physical therapist and owner of Brentwood Physiotherapy Clinic in Calgary, AB, Canada
  • Emeka Aludogbu, DC, CCN, CSCS, a chiropractic and sports medicine doctor in Dallas, TX
  • Kathleen Gassner, DPT, a physical therapist and running coach

Frequently Asked Questions

Are heated blankets worth it?

Using a heated blanket to apply heat to sore muscles can help relieve tightness, soothe chronic pain or aches, and improve blood circulation, says Purdy. A heated blanket can also help your body maintain a consistent temperature on cold days and nights, making it a valuable investment for many people. 

How much does a high-quality heated blanket cost?

You can expect to spend between $40 and $350 on a high-quality heated blanket. Our top overall pick, Shavel Home Products’ Micro Flannel Heated Blanket, cost up to $200 when we published this list (depending on the size).

Is it okay to sleep with a heated blanket?

It’s fine to use a heated blanket in bed, but experts don’t recommend leaving yours turned on all night long. Royer and Aludogbu recommend manually turning your blanket off before falling asleep (even if it has an automatic shut-off feature) to prevent overheating or injury. 

Why Trust Verywell Fit

Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, is a certified personal trainer and fitness enthusiast who researches and reviews fitness products. As a runner from the Midwest, she knows how helpful it can be to curl up with a heated blanket for rest and recovery after a cold outing. Jessica is dedicated to reporting authentic content to her readers.

Additional reporting by Ravi Davda

As a certified personal trainer and health and fitness writer, Ravi Davda understands how important quality product recommendations can be. He recommends products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.

3 Sources
Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
  1. Petrofsky J, Berk L, Bains G, et al. Moist heat or dry heat for delayed onset muscle soreness. J Clin Med Res. 2013;5(6):416-425. doi:10.4021/jocmr1521w

  2. National Institutes of Health National Cancer Institute. Electromagnetic fields and cancer.

  3. Maqbool M. An Introduction to Non-Ionizing Radiation. Bentham Science Publishers; 2023. doi:10.2174/97898151368901230101

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