1. Heated Mattress Pad vs. Heated Blanket
When colder temperatures roll in and sweaters are hung out, it can be a harsh shock to
climb into a frigid bed at the end of a long day. Turning the thermostat up might seem like a
reasonable answer, but this solution’s appeal dims when the electric bill arrives the next month.
Instead of paying to heat your entire house when all you care about is heating your bed, consider
investing in a heated mattress pad or a heated blanket. Using a heated blanket or a heated
mattress pad can actually save you money by lowering your heating costs. One of these options
is sure to deliver a warm and cozy resting environment.
Heated Blanket
Traditionally, heated blankets have been a popular choice for people looking to get warm.
You can purchase heated blankets in a variety of styles and fabrics, including fleece, microplush,
and microfiber. Heated blankets come with a control unit that allows you to control the
temperature and most have the added function of a timer that turns the
blanket off after a certain amount of time. Of course, as with any
product, heated blankets have their pros and cons.
Heated blankets are extremely convenient. You can use one anywhere and anytime you
need a little extra warmth. Although some models require you to plug the blanket in to an outlet,
there are many battery-operated models available. It’s also easy to remove a heated blanket once
you are warm enough. If you get too hot, simply turn off the blanket and put it aside. Heated
blankets are also quite affordable and you can find models that fit practically any budget.
Of course, you will need to wait a couple of minutes for the blanket to heat up before use.
Heated blankets also radiate their heat upward and away from your body, so some of the heat is

2. wasted. You also need to be careful not to ball up your heated blanket while it is turned on as this
can lead to over-heating and, in some cases, scorches or even fires. Finally, since these are
blankets, you can expect the usual wear and tear associated with using any kind of linen.
Overall, heated blankets are a convenient and cost-effective way to keep warm in cooler
temperatures. With proper use and care, they provide a simple alternative to turning up the
thermostat.
Heated Mattress Pads
Another great solution to the problem of cold bed linens is to purchase a heated mattress
pad. Heated mattress pads fit snugly over your mattress. You then top them with your usual fitted
sheet. These mattress pads allow you to control the temperature and the amount of time you want
the pad to stay turned on. Some models even allow you to set different temperatures for each side
of the bed.
With a heated mattress pad, you can turn the pad on as
you’re getting ready for bed and have a comfortably heated bed
waiting for you by the time you’re done. Although both heated
blankets and heated mattress pads will save you money on your
heating bill, heated mattress pads are actually more efficient. Because the pad lies underneath
you and your fitted sheet, the heat generated is contained by your body and whatever sheets or
comforters you choose to cover your body on the top. This means that less heat is lost than when
you use a heated blanket. Heated mattress pads are also inherently safer. Since they are spread
flat against your mattress, there is little risk for over-heating or scorching. Another advantage to
their flat and fitted design is that there is very little wear and tear, making them very durable. A

3. final plus to heated mattress pads is that they do not become an eye sore. Once the pad is fitted
over your mattress, you are free to choose whatever sheets and comforters appeal to your design
sensibility.
There are some minor cons associated with using a heated mattress pad. One issue is that
it is limited to bed use. If you want to get warm while sitting in another area of your home or
while out and about, you might want to consider purchasing a heated blanket instead. Some
people also complain that they can feel the heating coils in the mattress pad underneath them
while they are sleeping. However, there are many heated mattress pads available with ultra-thin
wiring and mattress pad designs are constantly improving. Once you’ve covered the pad with
your fitted sheet, these pads should not provide any discomfort while you rest.
If you’re looking to get warm, but no increase your heating bills, consider a heated
blanket or a heated mattress pad. Either option will have you cozy and saving money in no time.
Josh Chalofsky is the co-owner of The Comfort Outlet. The Comfort Outlet offers a
whole line of products that allow people to navigate their everyday lives at an optimum comfort
level. For more information, please visit http://thecomfortoutlet.com/.