Guide to buying the best electric blanket and heated throw

Most blankets are energy efficient, costing very little to run. Simply prep your bed for a few minutes before you call it a day and you'll be set for the night. Using an electric blanket or a heated throw can also reduce your heating bills because you're not having to heat the whole house.

Close proximity to heat allows blood flow to increase around sore areas, which can alleviate pain associated with arthritis, backache and muscle soreness. Some allergy sufferers also benefit as the heat reduces moisture in your bed, lessening the likelihood of dust mites.

An electric blanket or underblanket would go over your mattress protector and under the fitted sheets. This ensures that the mattress is always protected and there is enough layering for heat protection between you and the electric blanket.

While electric blanket is a general term for heated blankets, an underblanket is a specific type of electric blanket used on top of a bed for consistent warmth as opposed to a over-blanket which you can drape over yourself.

Yes, when used correctly. Here are some safety tips:

• Carefully roll blankets up for storage to avoid damaging wiring.
• Check your blanket regularly for wear and tear, such as fraying fabric, damp patches or loose connections.
• Don't use while wet or damp and don't turn on your blanket to dry it.
• Don't use an electric blanket and hot water bottle together.

Read more on electric blanket safety here.

Yes, but it's important that you follow all manufacturers' instructions when washing or tumble drying your blanket, but generally you should wash and dry on gentle, cold settings. If you don't have a dryer, you can air dry your blanket but make sure not to place clothes pegs on wired sections.

As a rule of thumb, electric blankets should not be left unattended when they are on. Most of the electric blanket brands do not recommend sleeping with an electric blanket or a heated throw all night or for a longer duration. You should use a thermostatic control or timer if you want to keep the blanket on all night. Make sure to read all the instructions thoroughly before you use your electric blanket, to prevent any hazards.