With the onset of winter and the noticeable drop in temperatures, everyone seeks to combat the feeling of cold inside their homes. Among the many available means of heating, electric blankets stand out as an easy and relatively cheap option. However, some may feel anxious about using them, believing that they may pose multiple risks. Therefore, this article in        Dalili Medical will discuss the most important information you should know about electric blankets.

Is an electric blanket safe to use during pregnancy?

 

It is always best to consult a doctor before using an electric blanket during pregnancy to ensure safety. It is recommended to use the blanket only when necessary and for reasonable periods, while avoiding excessive heat. In general, there are no strong studies indicating that an electric blanket poses a significant risk to pregnant women if used moderately and safely, but it is always wise to take the necessary precautions and consult a doctor.

Who should avoid using a heated blanket?

- Infants

- Children

- People with disabilities or mobility impairments

- People with paralysis

- Quadriplegia

- Diabetics

- Anyone with poor heat sensitivity, such as those with circulatory problems

- Anyone who is unable to understand instructions or operate controls clearly

**What causes static electricity in a blanket?**

 

Static electricity is formed in a blanket as a result of several factors related to the type of materials and the physical interactions between the fabrics. Here are the most prominent reasons that may lead to the accumulation of electrical charges in the blanket:

- Friction of the fabrics with each other.

- Dry weather.

- Using synthetic materials in the manufacture of the blanket.

- Friction of the blanket with different surfaces or with human skin.

- Using a dryer.

**How ​​can I get rid of electrical charges in a blanket?**

 

Static charges can cause a tingling or discomfort when touching the blanket. Here are some effective ways to get rid of these charges:

- Use fabric softener when washing the blanket.

- Use a solution of white vinegar and water.

- Use an anti-static spray.

- Keep the air humid.

- Use metal surfaces.

- Make sure the blanket is clean.

- Check the wires and components.

What should I do if my pet chews the cord, if I lose my controller, or if the controller is not working properly?

 

Please stop using the heated product immediately. Contact our customer service for instructions.

Is the controller feeling warm to the touch a problem?

 

No, it is normal for the controller to feel warm to the touch when it is working properly.

My heated blanket is not heating properly?

 

You should know that your heated blanket is not like a heating pad. It will not feel warm to the touch if it is laid flat. You can perform the following folding test to make sure it is working properly:

1. Fold the heated blanket three times.

2. Make sure the control cord is connected to the unit, then plug the power cord into the electrical outlet.

3. Turn on the heated product, then set the control to the highest setting and wait for 5 to 7 minutes.

4. Place your hand between the folds and you will feel the blanket warm up.

How do I clean this electric blanket?

 

It should be hand washed only, and it is not recommended to use a washing machine.

How long is the recommended time to use the electric blanket?

 

It is best to use it for at least 8 hours a day.

How long should I charge the electric blanket before using it?

 

It should be charged for 3 hours before use.

How long can I use it daily?

 

It is best to use it for at least 8 hours a day. You can use it as long as you want, but please do not overuse it.

Can I use this electric blanket with other devices?

 

Yes, you can use them with other devices such as a TV and DVD player, but make sure the device’s output does not exceed 12V/1A.

Is it safe to sleep with an electric blanket?

 

Electric blankets are designed to provide warmth and comfort in bed, but they are not recommended for use throughout the night. They are safe for short periods of time, and while the risk of overheating is small, it can happen if used incorrectly or for long periods.

Do electric blankets consume a lot of energy?

 

In general, electric blankets, which distribute heat through built-in wires, consume a small amount of energy. On average, they cost about four cents per hour, while some heaters can cost about 15 cents per hour.

Are electric blankets machine washable?

 

Most modern electric blankets are machine washable, but most manufacturers do not recommend a full wash cycle. Most blankets only need to be washed for a few minutes on a “gentle” or “delicate” cycle, followed by a short rinse cycle.

Do heated blankets help relieve back pain?

 

Heated blankets help relieve back pain caused by muscle spasms, as they improve blood circulation, relax tense muscles, and reduce the accompanying pain.

Can you use an electric blanket on the couch?

 

Electric blankets are specifically designed for use in bed, but they are not recommended for use in other places. If you want to stay warm while sitting on the couch or in the living room, you will need a more versatile option. In this case, a heated throw blanket is the best option for heating.

Do electric blankets turn off automatically?

 

Generally speaking, yes. Most electric blankets on the market have an automatic shut-off feature, which means they will automatically turn off after a period of between two and 10 hours. Blankets that provide longer heating periods can be used during the night, but it is best to unplug them when not needed.How long can they be used?

Electric blankets are very efficient heating devices, so we usually need to run them for 10 to 30 minutes on a medium setting before turning them off. Since warm air collects under the duvet, we need to keep ourselves warm throughout the night, and we may not need to use an additional heater. Many electric blankets come with timers that can be set in advance to turn them off. It is not recommended to leave an electric blanket on all night, even if it is in night mode. Heated blankets, which distribute heat through built-in wires, generally consume very little energy. On average, they cost around five cents per hour. Therefore, the cost of running an electric blanket for a single bed can be around 20 euros per season.

Can you use a heated blanket while sleeping?

 

Although the risk of fires caused by electric blankets is low, with only 0.04% of all house fires each year being caused by these blankets, they still pose a risk. The delicate wires that heat the blanket require special care, as they are easily bent and can overheat, spark, and start a fire. Insurance agencies consider electric blankets a fire hazard. There are other health concerns as well; some studies have shown that prolonged exposure to electromagnetic waves generated by operating a blanket may have carcinogenic effects. Additionally, there are potential links between the use of these blankets and decreased fertility in men and problems getting pregnant in women. If the blanket gets too hot, the temperature can affect sleep quality and disrupt the circadian rhythm.

**Benefits of Electric Blankets**

Electric blankets should be used with caution to avoid potential risks such as burns or malfunctions, and adhere to the safety instructions provided by the manufacturer. Electric blankets offer many benefits that make them a convenient and practical option in some cases. The most prominent advantages of using them are:

1. **Improving sleep quality** Sleep quality is affected by several factors, including body temperature. Large changes in temperature can negatively affect sleep, leading to difficulties in falling asleep. Also, a decrease in body temperature during sleep can cause sleep disturbances and wakefulness, affecting its quality. Therefore, using an electric blanket can be useful in improving sleep during the winter by keeping the body warm continuously.

2- Boosting mood in cold weather**When the body is exposed to cold, it needs to consume a large amount of energy to maintain its temperature, which can lead to feelings of fatigue and exhaustion. Therefore, using electric blankets can be an effective way to reduce the energy the body needs to generate heat. This helps send signals to the brain that enhance the feeling of warmth and comfort, which contributes to achieving relaxation and happiness, thus improving mood during long and cold winter nights.

3- Reducing the feeling of some pain** Heat often plays an important role in relieving some body pain, such as joint or back pain. Therefore, using electric blankets can be useful in these cases. In addition, keeping the body warm helps improve blood circulation, which contributes to a relative reduction in pain.

4- Lower cost than central heating** Electric blankets can be considered more energy efficient than central heating systems. They provide heating when needed in a specific area only, making them less expensive compared to using electric air conditioners or heaters that run on natural gas or diesel.

5- Easy temperature control** Electric blankets usually feature temperature control buttons, allowing you to adjust the level of warmth to suit your personal needs. They can be used in various parts of the house, such as the bedroom, living room, etc. Electric blankets are also easy to use and convenient, as they can be easily turned on and off according to time and need.

**Danger of using electric blankets during pregnancy**

 

Electric blankets can be used provided that the temperature is low. The core body temperature should remain below 38 degrees Celsius, as exceeding this limit for more than ten minutes may lead to overheating and increase the risk of dehydration and miscarriage. Prolonged use of electric blankets may slightly increase the risk of neural tube defects in the fetus, but this needs further study. Electric blankets also emit low-frequency electromagnetic fields, which may expose the fetus to these fields.

It is advisable to avoid using electric blankets in early pregnancy, when the risk of miscarriage is high, as well as in the last weeks of pregnancy (or the end of the third trimester) due to the possibility of the water bag rupturing at any moment. Their use may also increase the risk of electric shock.

The temperature settings should be kept low throughout pregnancy to reduce the risk of overheating and exposure to electromagnetic fields. It is best to use it to heat the bed rather than sleeping under it. If it is necessary to use it while sleeping, it is preferable to turn it off after a while.

**Check the condition of the heating blanket**

 

There are steps that can be taken to reduce the risks of using a heating blanket. It should be remembered that it is an electrical device, so it is advisable to conduct a thorough check of it before use. Here are some tips to ensure the safety of your electric blanket:

- Look for a label stating that the blanket has been tested and certified by a nationally recognized independent testing body.

- Avoid buying an electric blanketUsed blankets may be damaged and cause burns or electric shocks.

- Beware of blankets that show obvious signs of wear, such as tears, discoloration, burn marks, damaged cords, or faulty temperature controls.

- Do not use an electric blanket with inappropriate cords or attachments.

- Hold the blanket up to the light. If you notice damaged or tangled cables, do not use the blanket.

**Potential risks of using an electric blanket during pregnancy**

 

An increased risk of pregnancy loss (miscarriage) when using an electric blanket during pregnancy.

Prolonged use of an electric blanket may slightly increase the risk of neural tube defects in the fetus, although this needs further study.

**Beware of exposing the fetus to electromagnetic fields**

 

Electric blankets emit low-frequency electromagnetic fields (EMFs), which may expose the fetus to these fields. These fields have been shown to increase the risk of congenital malformations of the urinary tract (CUTAs), and this has been observed especially in women with a history of subfertility (delayed pregnancy). There is a link between exposure to low-frequency electromagnetic fields and some brain tumors in children, but this is often the result of occupational exposure to these fields.

So, an electric blanket may not always be the cause of such effects.

**Risks of electric blankets**

Despite the many benefits of electric blankets, you should be aware of some of the risks associated with their use. Here are the most prominent of these risks:

1- **Fire hazard** Electric blankets cause about 5,000 fires annually in the country. The electrical wires in the blanket can cause sparks, which can lead to a fire, especially if the wires are damaged. Therefore, it is advisable to buy high-quality electric blankets and ensure that the wire insulation is intact, in addition to using them carefully and taking care of them, and replacing them with new ones every 10 years.

**2- Dehydration** Using electric blankets while sleeping can lead to dehydration of the body, as the high body temperature and the resulting sweating lead to the loss of large amounts of fluids. High temperatures also cause blood vessels to expand and the skin to dry out. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that you drink sufficient amounts of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration, which can be very dangerous for some people.

**3- High body temperature** In some cases, electric blankets may cause the body temperature to rise excessively instead of just warming it. Some diabetics and dementia patients may lose the sense of heat, making them unaware of the high temperature of their bodies when using an electric blanket. In rare cases, this may lead to burns. Also, a body temperature above 39 degrees Celsius due to electric blankets can have a negative effect on the fetus, especially during the first three months of pregnancy.

4- Exposure to an electromagnetic field** An electromagnetic field is produced by any electrically powered device, and this is clearly evident in electric blankets. Frequent and prolonged use of these blankets exposes the body to large amounts of low-frequency electromagnetic waves, which may negatively affect health. Excessive exposure to these waves may also lead to health problems for fetuses in pregnant women. There are some claims about a relationship between exposure to these waves and an increased risk of cancer, but there is no conclusive scientific evidence to prove this relationship.

5- Health risks for some individuals** Individuals with certain health conditions, such as diabetes or circulatory problems, should be careful when using electric blankets, as excessive heat can have negative effects on the skin or blood circulation. Pregnant women and people with specific health problems are also advised to consult a doctor before using an electric blanket.

***Safer Alternatives***

If we are concerned about the safety of electric blankets, there are safer options that we can consider. Here are some alternatives that we can explore.

**Traditional Blankets** You can try traditional, non-electric blankets to provide warmth to your muscles. Some of the warmest materials that can be used in blankets are wool, cotton, and cashmere. We can enhance the warmth by ensuring that the covers are also made of these warm materials. If one blanket provides warmth, then using two blankets will undoubtedly increase the feeling of warmth. If we are still feeling muscle pressure, we can continue to add more blankets until we feel the desired comfort and warmth.

**Water Heated Blanket** There are cooling and heating blankets that weigh around 7 kilograms and are powered by hydraulic energy. Water has natural thermal properties that make the adjustable temperature blanket very effective in heating and cooling. The benefits of a heating blanket are not limited to providing the comfort of a weighted blanket, but it also heats using water. It circulates water channels to neutralize the ambient temperature, which ranges from 13 to 46 degrees Celsius. It combines the advantages of a weighted blanket and a thermal blanket.

**Hot Water Bottles** Despite its age, a hot water bottle is still an effective method. However, keeping a plastic container of boiling water next to your bed carries some risks. In addition to the risks associated with using this traditional method (such as “accidents” resulting from the old bottle leaking), there is also a limited time period for its effectiveness. The heat is lost with every minute that the hot water bottle passes according to the laws of thermodynamics.Thermal. But don't worry about setting the alarm, as soon as the temperature drops, the cold will make us feel it.

How to clean it?

 

If the washing machine is not enough to hold the blanket, we can wash it by hand in the bathtub. We will use cold water with a small amount of detergent, and squeeze it gently without rubbing the blanket or pillow.

Dry cleaning of electric blankets or heated mattress pads should be avoided, as the chemicals used may damage the insulation of the wires. Electric furnishings should also not be placed in a commercial dryer operating at high temperatures, as this may also damage the wires.

Modern electric blankets can be washed, as the heating element is surrounded by fire-resistant and water-resistant insulation, but they must be handled with care (such as not squeezing it too hard) to keep the heating network intact and safe.

If we want to treat a stain on the blanket quickly, we must follow the instructions specific to the type of stain. But cleaning stains from an electric blanket is easy. First, we disconnect the blanket from the power source. Next, we use a towel to dry the affected area, then use a butter knife, an old credit card, or even our fingernails to remove any food, drink, or other residue stuck to the fabric. Next, we apply a little bit of mild laundry detergent to the stain to loosen and lift it. We remove the detergent with a clean, damp cloth until we are sure it is completely rinsed out. Finally, we allow the blanket to dry completely before using it again.

**How ​​to Store an Electric Blanket Safely?**

 

When you are not using an electric blanket, it is important to store it properly to ensure that it maintains its lifespan and good condition. Here are the steps to store the blanket properly:

1. Avoid folding your new electric blanket when storing it.

2. Instead, roll it loosely. Rolling it loosely helps protect the heating elements from damage.

3. Do not place any objects on top of the blanket, as this could damage the cables or crush the blanket.

4. It is preferable to put the electrical cables and blanket in a bag to protect them from dirt and dust and to avoid any damage.

**Important Safety Instructions**

**Warnings and Warranties**Please read all instructions and product labels carefully before using the heated blanket. Failure to follow the instructions may result in overheating, fire, or injury.

Do not use this heated blanket on infants, children, persons with disabilities, paraplegics or quadriplegics, diabetics, or anyone sensitive to heat such as those with poor circulation, or anyone unable to understand the instructions or operate the controls.

Avoid routing electrical cords between the mattress and box spring, and do not allow the cords to be pinched.

Do not use the blanket if the cords are damaged, as faulty cords can cause a fire. Do not insert, trap, fold, or pinch cords between bed slats, mattress, or box springs, or against the wall, footboard, or bed frame.

Do not dry or clean this heated product. Cleaning fluids may damage the insulation of the heating element, and improper washing may cause problems with the heating wire, which may cause a fire.

Avoid bending, pinching, or rubbing the heating wire, as damage to the wire may cause overheating.

Turn off the controller or disconnect it from the heated blanket when not in use.

Avoid wrapping the cord around the controller, as this may damage the cord. It is best to leave the loop loose when storing.

The controller is not waterproof, so do not immerse it in water.

Keep the controller away from areas that may be exposed to drafts or moisture, such as open windows.

Do not use staples, as they can damage electrical wires.

Make sure this blanket is used only on 110-120V AC circuits. Do not use with an extension cord or power strip.

The blanket may become overheated in areas where it is folded or bunched during use.

Keep all dogs, cats and other pets away from this heated blanket, as it is an electrical device that could damage or cause injury.

Do not use the blanket on a waterbed, sofa, bunk bed or mechanically adjustable bed.

Avoid using another electrical heating device with your heated blanket, such as a heated mattress pad.

Choose the blanket that is appropriate for your bed size. For example, use a double-sized heated blanket on a double bed.

**Electric Blanket Care and Cleaning**

 

We recommend washing the blanket before using it for the first time.

Before washing or storing the electric blanket, unplug the power cord from the power source, then unplug the control unit from the blanket.

Make sure that no wires are connected and that they are not frayed due to friction with the fabric.

Please follow all washing instructions carefully, as failure to do so may result in shrinkage of the blanket or even fire.

Avoid submerging the control unit in water.

Do not use a dryer to dry the electric blanket. Dry cleaning solvents may damage the wires.

Do not use bleach or cleaning fluids.

Do not iron the electric blanket.

Avoid using mothballs or any sprays.

Do not reconnect the blanket or use it until it is completely dry.

Do not wash the power cord or any of the product’s wires or place them in water.

Do not use painkillers with the electric blanket.

Caring for your electric blanket is easy and safe if you follow a few simple steps.

**Drying the blanket**

**WARNING:** Do not use commercial dryers or dryers found at local laundromats, as they can overheat and damage the blanket’s wires.

1. Preheat the dryer to aLow for 2 minutes.

2. Place blanket in dryer and let dry for 10 minutes on low.

3. Remove blanket while still slightly damp, then gently stretch to original size.

4. Hang hot item over clothesline or shower rod, avoiding clothespins.

5. Make sure blanket is completely dry before plugging in power or control plug.

**Hand Dry**

1. Gently stretch blanket to original size.

2. Hang hot item over clothesline or shower rod, avoiding clothespins.

3. Make sure blanket is completely dry before plugging in power or control plug.

**Machine Wash**

Soak blanket in mild soap and cold water for 15 minutes before washing.

Wash it with mild soap and cold water on the "delicate" or "gentle" cycle in the washing machine for 2 minutes. Remember to avoid using bleach.

After that, rinse it with cold water.

You can dry it in the washing machine, then gently stretch it to its original size.