How Much Does an Electric Blanket Cost to Run?

When the nights turn cooler and you’re craving that extra layer of cosy comfort, an electric blanket can feel like a dream come true. But before you snuggle in, you might be wondering: how much does an electric blanket actually cost to run?

At Bensons, we believe comfort should come with peace of mind — so here’s your clear, no-nonsense guide.

Are electric blankets expensive to run?

Good news: electric blankets are one of the most cost-efficient ways to stay warm.

Most models use between 40–100 watts of power, which is far less than a space heater, fan heater or even many household appliances.

To give you a practical example:

If your electric blanket uses 60 watts (0.06 kW) and you use it for 8 hours overnight at an average electricity rate of around 30p per kWh (UK typical), it costs roughly 14p per night.

That’s less than the price of a cup of tea, and far cheaper than heating your whole bedroom with central heating.

What affects electric blanket running costs?

Every electric blanket is a little different, but a few things influence the cost:

• Wattage: Higher heat settings tend to use more power — but even then, running costs stay reassuringly low.
• Usage: Most people use their electric blankets for 30 minutes before bed, to warm the mattress or 8 hours overnight at a low setting. The lower the setting, the less energy used and the less it will cost.
• Timer & auto-shutoff: Many newer electric blankets include smart timers and safety shut-off features that help to reduce unnecessary energy use.
• Type of blanket: Electric underblankets (fitted to your mattress) are usually the most efficient. Throws and overblankets tend to draw slightly more power but still remain a cost-effective choice.

Electric blanket vs heating the whole room

If you’re looking to reduce your energy bills during colder months, an electric blanket can help you heat the person rather than the room.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Heater Type	Typical Cost Per Hour	What it Heats
Electric blanket	2-5p	You
Oil-filled radiator	30-50p	The whole room
Fan heater	40-70p	The whole room (quickly)
Central heating	60p-£1.20+	Entire home

 

For those chilly evenings, an electric blanket gives you targeted warmth without the big bill, making it a great choice for busy homes with tight budgets.

Are electric blankets safe?

Absolutely—when used as directed. Most modern blankets include:

• Overheat protection
• Auto switch-off timers
• Even heat distribution

If yours is 8-10 years old (or older), it’s worth upgrading for both safety and energy and cost efficiency.

So, is it worth it?

In our view: yes.

Electric blankets offer unbeatable comfort with incredibly low running costs. For anyone who wants to stay warm through the night without cranking up the heating, they're an energy-saving, purse-friendly solution — perfect for creating that cosy winter sleep sanctuary you’ve been daydreaming about.

If you’d like help choosing the right electric blanket for your bed or sleeping style, we’re always here to guide you. After all, at Bensons, we believe everyone deserves a night’s sleep that feels effortlessly warm and wonderfully comforting.