Is A Heated Blanket Better Than An Electric Throw For Saving Energy

As winter temperatures drop, many households turn to electric heating solutions to stay warm without cranking up the thermostat. Two popular options—electric blankets and heated throws—are often used interchangeably, but they differ significantly in design, function, and energy consumption. While both provide direct warmth, their impact on your electricity bill and overall home heating strategy can vary widely. Understanding these differences is key to making an energy-efficient choice that keeps you comfortable without unnecessary costs.

Unlike central heating systems that warm entire rooms, electric blankets and throws offer localized heat. This targeted approach has the potential to reduce energy use by allowing lower thermostat settings while maintaining personal comfort. However, not all personal heating devices are created equal. The question isn't just about which feels warmer—it's about which delivers the most warmth per watt of electricity consumed.

Understanding Electric Blankets vs. Heated Throws

An electric blanket is typically designed to cover the entire bed, integrating heating elements throughout its surface. These are meant for prolonged, full-body warmth during sleep and usually come with multiple heat settings and automatic shut-off features. They are engineered for safety during extended use and often feature dual controls for couples.

In contrast, a heated throw is smaller, more portable, and designed for use over a chair, couch, or lap. It’s intended for shorter durations—like watching TV or reading—and generally covers only part of the body. While convenient, this design means users may need to increase the setting or duration to achieve the same level of warmth as a full electric blanket.

The fundamental difference lies in coverage and insulation. A heated blanket traps body heat under layers of bedding, creating a microclimate that retains warmth efficiently. A throw, used over clothing and in open spaces, loses more heat to the surrounding air. This affects how much energy each device must consume to maintain perceived comfort.

“Personal heating devices can cut heating costs by allowing homeowners to lower their thermostats by 5 to 10 degrees without sacrificing comfort.” — Dr. Laura Simmons, Energy Efficiency Researcher at the National Home Energy Lab

Energy Consumption: How Do They Compare?

To evaluate energy efficiency, it’s essential to look beyond wattage alone. While both devices operate on similar electrical principles, their actual power draw depends on size, material, control system, and user behavior.

On average:

• Electric blankets consume between 60 and 100 watts on medium settings.
• Heated throws typically range from 75 to 150 watts, depending on model and heat level.

At first glance, the numbers seem comparable. But efficiency isn’t just about input—it’s about output relative to need. Because electric blankets warm the entire sleeping area and benefit from insulation (sheets, duvets, mattress), they maintain warmth with less continuous energy input. Many models also include timers that reduce runtime after a set period.

Throws, being used in cooler environments like living rooms, require higher or longer operation to compensate for heat loss. Without the insulating effect of bedding, they must work harder to deliver sustained warmth. This often leads to extended use at high settings, increasing total kilowatt-hours consumed.

Tip: Always unplug your heated throw when not in use—even in standby mode, some models draw phantom power.

Comparative Analysis: Performance vs. Efficiency

Feature	Electric Blanket	Heated Throw
Average Wattage	60–100W	75–150W
Typical Use Duration	4–8 hours (bedtime)	1–3 hours (evening relaxation)
Insulation Benefit	High (under bedding)	Low (over clothing, open air)
Thermal Retention	Excellent	Moderate to Poor
Auto Shut-off Standard?	Yes (usually 10-hour max)	Sometimes (varies by brand)
Estimated Monthly kWh* (daily use)	15–24 kWh	22–67 kWh

*Based on 6 hours/night for blankets, 2 hours/day for throws, medium setting, 30-day month.

The data shows that while a heated throw might have a slightly higher peak wattage, the real difference emerges in cumulative usage. Because throws are less efficient at retaining heat, users tend to run them longer or hotter, leading to greater overall energy consumption. Additionally, electric blankets contribute to passive heating—warming the bed before sleep allows users to turn off the device early, relying on residual warmth.

Real-World Usage Patterns and Hidden Costs

Consider Sarah, a remote worker in Minnesota who uses a heated throw on her sofa during evening hours. She runs it for three hours each night at the highest setting because the living room stays cool even with the thermostat at 68°F. Over a winter month, her throw consumes nearly 45 kWh—equivalent to running a refrigerator for two weeks.

In contrast, her partner uses an electric blanket on low for six hours nightly. The bed warms quickly and retains heat due to layered bedding. After two hours, the blanket maintains comfort passively, and the auto-shutoff prevents overuse. His monthly consumption? Just 18 kWh.

This example illustrates a critical point: behavioral factors heavily influence energy outcomes. A device’s efficiency is only as good as how it’s used. Electric blankets encourage energy-saving habits—pre-warming then shutting off—while throws often promote continuous operation due to their lower thermal retention.

Tip: Use your electric blanket to preheat the bed, then turn it off before sleeping. Your body heat will maintain warmth under layers.

Strategies for Maximizing Energy Savings

Regardless of which device you own, optimizing usage can significantly reduce energy consumption. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting the most warmth for the least wattage:

1. Preheat, Don’t Constantly Heat: Turn on your blanket or throw 15–30 minutes before use, then lower or turn off once the area feels warm.
2. Layer Wisely: Combine the device with flannel sheets, down comforters, or wool throws to trap heat and reduce runtime.
3. Use Lower Settings: Medium or low settings often provide sufficient warmth and use up to 40% less energy than high.
4. Leverage Timers: Set automatic shutoffs to avoid overnight or all-day operation.
5. Unplug When Idle: Even devices with “off” switches may draw small amounts of standby power.
6. Maintain the Device: Clean regularly and check for damaged wires to ensure optimal performance and safety.

These steps apply to both types, but they’re more effective with electric blankets due to their integration with bedding systems. For throws, pairing with a cozy robe or sitting under a light quilt can mimic the insulating benefits of a fully made bed.

Checklist: Choosing the Most Energy-Efficient Option

• ✅ Does the device have adjustable heat settings?
• ✅ Is there an automatic shut-off feature (3–10 hour timer)?
• ✅ Is it large enough to cover your core body area without gaps?
• ✅ Is it used in a well-insulated space (e.g., bedroom vs. drafty living room)?
• ✅ Can it be combined with other insulating materials (blankets, pajamas)?
• ✅ Is it unplugged or powered down when not in active use?
• ✅ Does it carry an energy certification (e.g., ETL, UL, Energy Star if applicable)?

If most answers are “yes,” you’re likely maximizing efficiency. But if you're using a throw frequently in an unheated room, you may be spending more energy than necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can using a heated blanket really save on heating bills?

Yes. By allowing you to lower your home’s thermostat by 5–10°F while staying comfortable, a heated blanket can reduce central heating use significantly. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that each degree lowered can save about 1% on heating costs. Over a winter, this can amount to $50–$150 in savings, far outweighing the minimal electricity cost of the blanket itself.

Are heated throws safe to leave on for long periods?

Most modern throws include overheat protection, but prolonged use increases fire risk and energy waste. Unlike electric blankets, which are tested for all-night safety, throws are not designed for uninterrupted operation. Always follow manufacturer guidelines and never leave a throw unattended while powered.

Which is better for people who get cold easily?

For chronic cold sensitivity, an electric blanket is generally more effective. It provides consistent, full-body warmth in a controlled environment. Throws may require frequent readjustment and still leave areas exposed. Medical professionals often recommend electric blankets for individuals with poor circulation or conditions like Raynaud’s syndrome.

Final Verdict: Which Is More Energy-Efficient?

When comparing apples to apples, the electric blanket is the more energy-efficient option for sustained warmth. Its design promotes heat retention, encourages shorter runtime through preheating, and integrates seamlessly into bedtime routines that support energy conservation. Heated throws, while convenient and versatile, are inherently less efficient due to their exposure to ambient air and typical usage patterns.

That said, the best choice depends on context. If you need spot warmth while working or relaxing, a throw makes sense. But if your goal is to reduce overall heating energy—especially at night—an electric blanket is superior. Pair it with good insulation practices, and you create a micro-heating solution that minimizes environmental impact and maximizes comfort.

“The future of home heating isn’t bigger furnaces—it’s smarter, localized solutions that heat people, not spaces.” — Mark Tran, Senior Engineer at the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE)

Take Action Today

Instead of defaulting to turning up the thermostat, consider how personal heating devices fit into your energy strategy. Audit your current usage: Are you leaving throws on too long? Could you switch to a preheat-and-shut-off routine? Small changes add up. Start tonight by lowering your bedroom temperature by two degrees and using your electric blanket strategically. Monitor your comfort and your next utility bill—you might be surprised at the difference.

💬 Have you switched from a heated throw to an electric blanket—or vice versa—for energy savings? Share your experience and tips in the comments below!