Exactly how much it costs to use an electric blanket following Ofgem's energy price cap

With nearly half of the older population set to lose out on winter fuel payments, research has revealed that using an electric blanket to stay warm is 60 times cheaper than central heating

Searches for electric blankets have surged by 46 per cent in the past month but just how much more cost-effective is using one compared to central heating?

The bedding boffins at Opera Beds have delved into the data to find out, and they've also weighed in on the difference between electric blankets and heated throws.

"An electric blanket generates heat by running electricity through wires in the fabric," said lead product advisor Chelsea Brown. "Each electric blanket has different power ratings, and the overall cost will depend on the rating on your blanket's label and its size and setting."

As of October 2024, the Ofgem cost per kilowatt hour (kWh) of electricity will be on average 24.5p. Using the most common power for an electric blanket of 100W, the experts have calculated that running this for one hour would cost 2.5p, meaning an eight-hour night would cost 20p.

They estimate someone with an average boiler will pay about £1.50 an hour for central heating, making electric blankets 60 times cheaper. This applies to heated throws too, with Chelsea explaining the difference.

"An electric blanket is specifically made to be laid on a bed and used while sleeping," she said. "It is typically placed over a mattress and under the sheets to provide consistent warmth throughout the night.

"In contrast, a heated throw is a versatile, smaller blanket designed for relaxing on a sofa or chair. Heated throws are generally more portable and are not necessarily intended for overnight use."

Heated throws are ideal for providing direct warmth without the need to turn on central heating and waste energy heating entire rooms. Electric blankets can be laid on top of or under your bed sheets and helps pre-warm the bed before you sleep, or it can be kept on at a low setting throughout the night to maintain a comfortable temperature.

"Electric blankets can improve your overall sleep quality by helping maintain body temperature between sleep cycles," said Chelsea.

"They have varied shut-off times ranging from 6 to 12 hours and by finding your preferred timing you can keep your body warm and stay in a deep sleep cycle for longer. The heat will stay in the bed even after the blanket has been turned off."

Can you sleep on a heated throw? "It's not recommended to sleep on a heated throw, as they are not designed for that purpose," added the expert.

"Heated throws are generally meant for draping over yourself while you relax and may not have the same safety features or heat distribution capabilities as electric blankets, which are specifically designed for prolonged use in bed. Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for safe usage."