As the evenings draw in and a familiar chill returns to the air, many of us in the UK are thinking about two things: staying warm and managing energy bills. Turning up the central heating for the whole house isn't always practical or affordable, especially when you just want some personal comfort. This is where an electric heated throw becomes an invaluable addition to your home.
An energy efficient heated throw provides targeted warmth exactly where you need it, whether you're working from home, relaxing on the sofa or adding an extra layer to your bed. This guide is designed to help you understand the key features to look for and to highlight some excellent options available this year.
Choosing the right heated throw involves more than just picking a nice colour. To find a reliable and practical option, consider these key points.
Peace of mind is paramount when using any electrical appliance. Look for a heated throw with auto shut off functionality. This feature automatically turns the power off after a set period, preventing overheating and providing an essential safety net if you happen to doze off.
Another crucial feature is washability. Spills and general use mean your throw will need cleaning. A machine washable electric blanket with a detachable controller makes maintenance simple. You can easily disconnect the power controls and pop the blanket itself in the washing machine, keeping it fresh and hygienic.
Heated throws come in various sizes. A large heated throw, typically around 160 x 120 cm, is ideal for draping over a sofa for two people to share or for full-body coverage on a bed. Smaller, personal-sized throws are perfect for wrapping around your shoulders at a desk or keeping your lap warm in an armchair.
The material directly impacts comfort. Most modern options are a type of fleece heated blanket, prized for its softness, light weight and excellent insulation. This fabric provides a wonderfully cosy blanket for sofa evenings, feeling luxurious even before you turn the heat on.
A primary benefit of an electric heated throw is its low running cost. Compared to heating an entire room, these throws use a minimal amount of electricity. Most models cost just a few pence per hour to run on a medium setting, making them a highly economical way to stay warm and potentially reduce your reliance on central heating.
We've looked at the market to identify throws that offer a great balance of features, safety and comfort. Here are our recommendations.
Why It Stands Out: This Morphy Richards heated throw combines practical warmth with a touch of style. The calming green striped pattern makes it a lovely decorative accent for a living room or bedroom, while its features deliver reliable performance.
Pros:
Who is it for? This throw is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a functional heated blanket that also enhances their home decor. It's perfect for couples on the sofa or for those who appreciate a larger, more luxurious feel.
Why It Stands Out: Offering the same great performance as the striped model, this version comes in a classic, solid mocha colour. Its neutral tone allows it to blend seamlessly into almost any interior design scheme, making it a versatile and practical option.
Pros:
Who is it for? Ideal for those seeking a reliable, no-fuss large heated throw. Its classic design and comprehensive features make it a solid all-rounder for families, couples or anyone wanting dependable warmth.
Why It Stands Out: This compact throw is designed for personal warmth. Its smaller size makes it perfect for one person, whether you're working at a chilly desk, reading in an armchair or need a targeted heat source without the bulk of a larger blanket.
Pros:
Who is it for? This is a great option for home workers, students or anyone who feels the cold and wants a personal, portable heat source. Its efficiency and smaller footprint make it a very practical choice.
While these three models from Morphy Richards offer excellent solutions for different needs, they are just a starting point. You may be looking for a different colour, material or size to suit your specific preferences.
To see a wider variety, explore our full collection of heated electric throw blankets and find the perfect match for your home.
1. How much does it cost to run an electric heated throw? Running costs are very low. A typical 150W throw used for three hours would consume 0.45 kWh of electricity. Based on average UK electricity prices, this often works out to just a few pence per hour, making it a very energy efficient heated throw solution.
2. Is it safe to use an electric heated throw all night? It is generally not recommended to sleep with a heated throw switched on all night. For safety, you should always look for a model with an auto shut-off timer. This feature ensures the blanket will turn itself off after a few hours, preventing continuous operation while you are asleep. Always follow the manufacturer's specific safety instructions.
3. How do you wash an electric heated throw? Most modern heated throws are designed to be machine washable. The process is straightforward: ensure the appliance is unplugged and cool, then detach the controller and power cord. The blanket portion can then be washed on a gentle, low-temperature cycle (usually 30°C). Never tumble dry; it should be line-dried or laid flat to air dry completely before reattaching the controller.