PennyPerHourHow much does an electric blanket cost to run?
A double electric blanket uses roughly 100 watts on its highest setting, costing about 2.6p an hour at 26.32p/kWh. Warming the bed for 30 minutes before you get in costs around 1.3p.
Electricity 26.32p/kWh, gas 7.97p/kWh (Ofgem cap, 1 October to 31 December 2026). Typical figures.
Electric blanket costs by type
| Appliance | 30 min | 1 hour | 8 hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single underblanket (60W) | 0.8p | 1.6p | 13p |
| Double underblanket (100W) | 1.3p | 2.6p | 21p |
| King / dual-control (150W) | 2.0p | 3.9p | 32p |
| Heated throw (120W) | 1.6p | 3.2p | 25p |
Based on 26.32p/kWh, the Ofgem price cap for 1 October to 31 December 2026.
On lower settings most blankets draw a fraction of their maximum. If you leave one on low all night (around 30–40W for a double), eight hours costs roughly 7.4p.
Electric blanket vs heater vs central heating
The reason electric blankets are so cheap is that they heat you, not the air in the room.
- Double electric blanket, 1 hour on high: 2.6p
- 2kW fan heater, 1 hour: 53p
- Gas central heating: depends on your home, but a typical home burns around 6kWh of gas per hour of heating on average, about 48p an hour for the whole house.
An electric blanket won't replace heating the house, especially if anyone in your home is vulnerable to the cold. But it can let you turn the thermostat down at night or keep the heating off in the bedroom.
Safety checklist
- Check it has overheat protection and an auto-off timer.
- Don't use one that's worn, scorched or has loose wires. Fire services generally advise replacing blankets that are around 10 years old.
- Store it rolled, not tightly folded, to protect the wires.
- Don't use an underblanket and a hot water bottle together.
Work out the cost for your electric blanket
Change the wattage or hours to match yours.
Default price is the Ofgem cap for 1 October to 31 December 2026. Check your bill for your exact unit rate. Figures exclude standing charges.
What to buy: our picks by need
We recommend types of product based on running costs and features, not specific brands we have tested.
A blanket that is specifically rated for all-night use on its low setting, with auto-off.
See options on Amazon →A heated throw with a timer. It lets you keep the heating lower while you watch TV.
See options on Amazon →Shopping for one? Compare current models, prices and wattages before you buy.
Browse electric blankets on Amazon →Affiliate link: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
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Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to use an electric blanket than heating?
Yes, by a long way for keeping one person warm in bed. A double blanket costs about 2.6p an hour on high, while a 2kW heater costs 53p.
Is it safe to sleep with an electric blanket on?
Only if the manufacturer says it is designed for all-night use. Many are made to pre-warm the bed and should be switched off or set to a low, all-night setting.
How many watts does an electric blanket use?
Usually 60W for a single and 100 to 150W for a double or king size on the highest setting.