Electric blankets may not be safe to use during pregnancy because they generate non-ionizing radiation. With this symptom, the altered sensation may mean they cannot feel the actual heat level of an electric blanket, leading to overheating or skin burns. New electric blankets include safety features, such as a rheostat control, that reduce the risk of fire and burns. The fire hazard risk is minimal if you're using a new electric blanket. It is one of those smart choices that most people keep railing on about and are particularly effective when it comes to cutting down the biting cold when you curl into your heated blanket. If nothing above resolves the issue, then, you will have to replace the blanket with a new one. Remove the under blanket after preheating and then cover yourself with a regular multilayered blanket. The elderly, people with diabetes, pregnant women, young children, and pets are most vulnerable using these items, so if you fall into one of these categories, consider using a space heater instead. It has three heat control settings and the blanket shuts off automatically after three hours. Sources and References: George Crowley, 80, Developer Of the Modern Electric Blanket - nytimes.com Jill Zwarensteyn Heres how to make one. There will be a day when you need to replace it. Learn More: What's the Best Temperature For Sleep? 1 If your bedroom dips below that, you can warm things up a bit without turning on the central heat by using a space heater. This model falls into their second categoryExtra Softso it's not the best on the market. Doctors may advise certain people to avoid electric blankets because of safety risks. The 9 Best Electric Blankets of 2023, According to Our Tests. It's easy to wash in the machine (just be sure to wash on cold and tumble dry on low heat). A complication of diabetes for some people is neuropathy (nerve damage). Do not dry clean or wash the electric blanket. Electromagnetic fields and cancer. A 12 volt 6-12 amp battery charger. Wash it using cool water and detergent (no bleach or fabric softeners, which could damage the fibers), and select the gentlest cycle possible to prevent excess force on the wiring inside. If using the blanket becomes a necessity, then it should be monitored carefully and should only be used for a short duration. Best for lounging: Sunbeam Reversible Heated Throw. However, these blankets should adhere to current safety standards and have a shut-off mechanism to prevent overheating or fires. Quinn Gawronski. We also encourage you to read about how we may research and/or test Products here. This is to prevent overheating and a potential fire. [7]. When plugged in and . To avoid accidentally turning it on, avoid plugging it into an outlet controlled by a wall switch. For this reason, doctors may advise against using an electric blanket or other forms of heating pads. $44.95. It can be used as a heating blanket or weighted blanket. Best electric blanket Monogram by Beurer Komfort 2 in 1 Fleecy Heated Mattress Topper and Electric Blanket 79 at Amazon 2 Best electric throw Beurer Cosy HD75 Heating Blanket 70 at. Hold on, there might be a few things that you can do to try and mitigate these issues. We'll tell, Electric shocks can range from mild to severe. Pet chewing or clawing may damage the parts, resulting in functioning failure. Electric blankets have come a long way since they were first introduced, and they're safer and more stylish . There are absolutely things you can do to decrease your risks of harm or injury when using these forms of electric heating to stay warm, decrease your heating bill or even to relax your muscles. At this point, it's going to be nice and warm! If you're still cold, keep piling on the blankets until you're completely warm. Our soft and breathable 250TC 100% cotton mattress cover comes with 2 . Are Electric Blankets Safe? You need to unplug the cord (the blanket, actually) and see that all the parts of the plug are intact and tightly fitted. The researchers believe, Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. As loose connections cause an improper flow in the electric current, you need to make sure that the device is plugged in accordingly. Hypothetically, electromagnetic waves radiated by different electric and electronic gadgets can cause damage when exposed to long periods, which can lead to the generation of malignant cells. You put the battery in the box, connect the charger and pigtail to it, and put the lid on. For the past few decades, electric blankets are a boon during those cold wintery nights when even the slightest amount of heat can make you feel like you are in heaven. New electric blankets are a minimal safety risk, but old, damaged, or improperly used electric blankets can pose a risk for fire or burns. The electric blanket and cancer connection, berkeleywellness.com/self-care/over-counter-products/article/electric-blankets, mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/expert-answers/diabetes/faq-20057786, fairfaxva.gov/government/code-administration/fire-life-safety-education/home-safety/electric-blanket-safety, cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/radiation/electromagnetic-fields-fact-sheet, blogs.extension.iastate.edu/answerline/2018/12/06/electric-blanket-safety/, goaskalice.columbia.edu/answered-questions/heating-blanket-safety-0, cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/radiation-exposure/extremely-low-frequency-radiation.html, who.int/peh-emf/about/WhatisEMF/en/index1.html, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, Eating Over 6 Teaspoons of Sugar Daily May Raise Your Risk of These 45 Health Conditions, 5 Food and Drink Types to Limit If You Have Prediabetes or Diabetes, Everyone Over 35 Should Be Screened for Type 2 Diabetes, Say Researchers, A Daily Coffee May Reduce Your Type 2 Diabetes Risk. If used improperly, however, electric blankets can be unsafe and even dangerous. Spontaneous abortion and exposure to electric blankets and heated water beds. A 2006 study revealed several fatal heatstroke cases involving the use of an electric blanket. Heating and cooling blankets can help sleepers maintain a comfortable temperature, potentially improving sleep quality. There are other concerns as well. Read on for more information on how to shop for and maintain an electric blanket. Best Overall: Serta Heated Throw Blanket. If the blanket still does not come on after ensuring that it's plugged in, try a different electrical outlet to make sure that the problem isn't with the outlet itself. Sleeping difficulties can negatively impact a persons health. At any time, if you are still concerned, it's best to unplug the blanket. Another concern is a child who is still bed wetting they should avoid electric blankets. In some cases though, if the problem is larger and is beyond your ability to repair, or the repair may be expensive, then you may need to dispose of it and rather get a fresh one. According to Dr. Desiderio Avila at Phoenixs Ironwood Urology, radiation from electric blankets can possibly damage a womans eggs as well as a mans sperm. The following people should avoid using electric blankets. The Zonli Heated Weighted Blanket combines the calming effect of weighted compression with the coziness of electric heat. The study showed that the miscarriage rate in the people in the high exposure group was twice that of those in the low exposure group. So, when in bed, your body heat is trapped, and the pockets help retain it. Our Final Opinion About the Zircon Electric Blanket Heated Throw Flannel . Therefore, the best way out is to get a little exposure to these blankets as possible. Additionally, those with mobility issues may bend or break the blankets internal wires, which could potentially cause the blanket to short out and catch fire. She is enthusiastic about providing helpful and engaging information on all things sleep and wellness. But if you think about its affordable price tag you realize it's the perfect compromise. Twenty-eight percent of people love wearing socks when they go to bed while 44% mentioned they hate going to bed with them on. Best Luxury Heated Blanket. The victims had body temperatures of at least 105 degrees fahrenheit. Repairing some common problems in your Electric Blanket, Keep this in the back of your Mind as you Cuddle In your Heated Blanket, Best Queen Electric Blanket Single Control. Never have anything placed on top that can damage the wires and crush the blanket. Look for a tag indicating that the blanket has been tested and approved by a nationally recognized independent testing agency, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars. Individuals with diabetes are uniquely endangered since they often suffer from neuropathy and damage to the nerves. Did You Know: Even though you arent in your bed, the pockets continue to retain the warm air. If too much tripping has damaged the outlet, then repair and change it. Avoid using both a hot water bottle and an electric blanket at the same time. Individuals should also avoid using electric blankets on: Researchers have speculated the connection between electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and cancer. Double-check that the controller is turned to the On position. Electric blankets can be a factor in overheating for pregnant women, and many health organizations recommend discontinuing use during pregnancy. Skin temperature and sleep-onset latency: changes with age and insomnia. Electric blanket controller repair can resolve the issue with your blanket. Another concern is that these products could become a fire hazard, especially if they are older or poorly maintained. You can remove the cable completely and then insert it again after removing the dirt carefully. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Electric blanket safety. [6] Raymann, R. J., Swaab, D. F., & Van Someren, E. J. Learn how to identify the underlying causes and explore effective ways to stay cool and comfortable while sleeping. View Study. To avoid accidental switching on, dont plug your blanket into an electrical outlet thats controlled by a light switch. All rights reserved. Pick your ideal temperature range from a total of 10 heat settings. You can remove the plug from the external outlet and reinsert it to see that the blanket is starting to heat up again. Check thoroughly to ensure that there are no metallic objects attached to the blanket, as this may cause an electric shock. Preheat the bed using the under blanket. If there are no instructions, choose cold water and soak your blanket for 10 minutes. This can occur by creating a continuously heated environment, interfering with our body's sleep cycles. (2016). The Science Behind Sleeping with Socks On. Correct usage and storage should reduce the risk of overheating, burns, and fires. that need hot air or hot water bag treatments can be relieved with these heated blankets in a much more comfortable and convenient way. In the morning you plug the batter charger into the wall to recharge the battery. A . While dealing with electrical devices and repairing them, taking precautions is of utmost importance. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you have diabetes and want to use an electric blanket, consider using it to warm up your bed before bedtime and then turn off the blanket or remove it before getting into the bed. 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