Are you looking for a comfortable alternative to conventional heating systems? The use of an electric blanket could provide you with all of the extra heating you might need on a cold winter night, are excellent at warming up a bed, and they can also be used for therapeutic purposes as well. Electric blankets are sold in many different shapes, styles, and sizes, so you can easily find one that will match the specifications of your bedroom decor. If you would like to purchase an electric blanket for your bed, here is a guide to electric blankets that you should find useful.
History of the Electric Blanket
The first electric blanket prototype was designed in 1912 by Sidney I. Russell. This physician invented a type of electrically-heated mattress pad or under-blanket that heated the bed area from below. Further down the line in 1937, blankets that were used in the top position were introduced in America. As time progressed, the standard electric blanket has undergone a wide number of changes, enhancements, and developments. Modern heated blankets are much more reliable than their older counterparts, and are less likely to be deemed fire risks.
Different Types of Electric Blankets
There are two basic types of electrically-heated blankets currently available on the market. These include over-position electric blankets and mattress pad-type blankets. The difference between these two models lies mainly in the way they are designed. Electric blankets designed for top position heat from above while mattress pad blankets heat from below. Both types of blankets typically feature a wide range of configurations, controls and adjustment capabilities. You will usually be able to adjust the temperature that the blanket is able to produce with a hand-held remote control that is connected to the blanket's system via an electrical cord. Both types of blankets are offered in various styles, designs, and colors.
Like many other bedding items, an electric throw blanket, lap blanket or bed blanket is available in all common sizes such as queen, king and twin. There are a few different colors, designs and styles that electric blankets are commonly available in (such as the popular fleece material), but not to the extent of other bedding like comforters. A perfect fit electric blanket will go a long way to improving the comfort of your bed, but like anything you should be looking for the best value for money when choosing.
The Benefits of Electrical Blankets
Electrical blankets can be used to produce an ideal heating level within your bed. This is especially useful during the winter season where temperature regulation is important to help you get a good night of rest. However, electric blankets offer plenty of other advantages and benefits that are unrelated to seasonal heating.
1. Therapeutic benefits
Many people swear by the therapeutic benefits provided by electric blankets. One defining feature of the electric blanket is its ability to produce direct warmth while in contact with the human body. As such, the heat produced by these blankets can help to increase blood flow to different muscles in the body, helping to relieve soreness and tension often caused by fibromyalgia and arthritis. In general, people who suffer from back pain or have poor circulation often find that the use of a heated blanket can help to relieve painful symptoms and sleep more comfortably.
2. Indirect health benefits
Aside from the obvious therapeutic benefits that can be enjoyed through the use of an electric blanket, there are other health conditions that can be affected positively as well. Certain sinus conditions and allergies can be produced as a result of hot, dry air and high temperatures. The use of an electrical blanket instead of the regular household heating system can help to lower the chances that these conditions could develop, as they allow you to sleep with the overall environment at a lower temperature during cold weather. Additionally, the electric blankets can kill off a large slice of dust mite populations that tend to grow in these conditions. The heat produced eliminates moisture within the bedding, helping to keep your sheets and mattress safe and dry for extended use.
Notable Safety Concerns
The best electric blankets should not only perform well and provide warmth and comfort, but also be safe. Several decades ago, the electric blanket was considered to be a notable fire risk. This is because older blankets relied primarily on a 110/240 volt system that was risky and sometimes caused fires. This was especially the case with blankets that were getting older or had developed cracks and creases within their surfaces. Modern blankets, on the other hand, characteristically feature a 24 volt system that is much safer. The lower voltage helps to ensure that the blanket remains relatively unlikely to catch fire.
In conclusion, there are plenty of reasons to consider purchasing an electric blanket. Take some time to browse through a number of different online stores and read reviews before making any decisions, as this will help to ensure that you make a well-informed choice.
This website will feature some of the best blankets available to buy in our extensive electric blanket reviews, and also discuss the effectiveness of cheap blankets that are for sale and whether they're worth the price. Brands such as Sunbeam, Biddeford, Sealy, Martex, Beautyrest and many more are covered, in addition to information on the types and sizes of electric blankets on the market. Our reviews and ratings will guide you on many electric blanket models and also where to buy online.